It is a little glimmer of hope that Americans maybe waking up to what this mess in Washington is all about. They now see that the only real way to change the system is to do it from within. VOTE

What is it about the 2008 election that’s generating record turnouts around the country?

The removal of Newt Gangritch’s Neo-Cons

Young adults now of voting age see that this country is in dire need of leadership change. They heard Senator Obama and got involved. Some may have moved to Hillary’s side, but it was Obama that provided the message people tuned into and turned out for.

At last an easy one, Jack. Obama.

What’s generating all of the excitement is a new face (Barack Obama) He is a person that can bring people of all races, and backgrounds together. The establishment is trying to stop this movement because it is disrupting the “status quo” People are tired and want change!

The voters want to make sure Bush does not get re-appointed by the Supreme Court.

Obama’s honesty versus Bush and Hillary’s deceptions

Jack,

Silly question - we want change. Problem with us Dem’s is we can’t decide which change we like best. Change for the sake of change, better known as anything new will do (Barack Obama), or change that is well thought out and is realistic (Hillary Clinton).

I hope the voters do get to decide, rather than allowing it to be decided by the media, the analysts, and those who would have us believe letting this thing play out is the wrong way to go.

Hang tough Hillary - your supporters are strong, and we know you are the right person for the job.

Jack,
It’s not so much Obama having a great format, Hillary uniting women to vote, it’s all out of hate for Bush.”It will be in the history books that way. Bush draws record voter turnout and isn’t running as a presidental canadate.

“the Hillbilly Hooser”

Jack; We have had enough of W.I think every body is just plain BUSH-ED!

I believe the country is taking it’s mind back from talk radio. Today’s example of the arrogance of talk radio. I listened to Laura Ingraham encouraging her listeners (she also referenced Rush Limbaugh) to vote for Hillary Clinton.

If the elections in Texas and Ohio are close that should be reason enough to swing super delegates into the Obama column. The democratic candidate should not be determined by conservative talk radio.

A couple of reasons, Jack..

1. The future of the country looks increasingly dire. There is a sense that we have to do something, but we are not quite sure what that something is. We each pick our favorite cause and promote it.

2. Barack Obama is fresh, new and unsullied by the Washinton insiders. He connects with the youth of America. He doesn’t have that Washington “Experience” that some see as so vital to the campaign.

Mark my word, If Obama fails to win the nomination, the enthusiam will wane and another generation of young Americans will become cynical of Washington.

Harry

I forgot to mention that many people, myself included want our central government to be more accountable, smaller and more effective.

The only way to make these changes are to get involved and vote.

Welcome to the Responsible Citizen revival and the beginning of the end for the Consumer American.

After being blindsided by the supreme clowns in 2000 then being too stupid and lazy to think of the ramifications of letting a warmongering president who is determined to send our last decent job overseas and plunge us so deeply into debt our great grandchildren will still be digging out, maybe the American voter has woken up this time and decided that the right wing lunatics have to be stopped. What they don’t know is that it’s too late, we can’t turn it around any more.

One reason only: George W. Bush Jr.

The election turnout is being affected by the war, but more importantly is the fact that Middle Class American Workers wages and jobs are being hurt by our trade practices and the pro-illegal immigrant stance taken by both political parties. It would be nice to see the political parties care as much about the plight of American Workers

Voter turnout and participation this year is directly attributable to Barack Obama. He has inspired people to get involved and take action on his behalf. He has inspired people to Hope that things can improve. For those who say he can’t make the changes he talks about . . . look around you, he’s already changed politics for the better just by running.
Debbie McCoy
Martensdale, IA

FRUSTRATION, INSPIRATION and PROUD OF NATION.

Apparently the American people are thinking that by voting they are going to change something. In reality voting only changes the name of President and Vice president it does not guarantee you anything. The president of the United states has very little power and is at the mercy of the two branches of government to make change. Unfortunately the current politicians that hold these offices have been there for 30 or 40 years and have no desire to change anything and they won’t. Change starts from the ground up not the top down. Without a good foundation no structure can stand for very long and will crumble in upon itself. We have a crumbly old political system with crumbly old politicians running it and nothing is going to change until they are all gone. The sooner the better.

..why the record turnouts around the country? That’s an easy answer Jack.

Bewilderment at the poor economy

Utter disappointment of foreign affair relations

Sick of the war in Iraq

Horrible special interest groups controlling Washington

(notice what the first letters in each sentence?)

CNN reports that voting in a heavily Republican area of Dallas is predominately in the Democratic (!) primary. Has anyone looked into this unusual trend which also occurred in Virginia.

Jack, The republican race has hardly been the firestorm that the democratic race has been. Come November the republicans will turn out in droves, just as any other voting year.

New Orleans,LA

Well, this is not the first election between Bush and Clinton, so we know it’s not either of them.

It sure as hell isn’t John McCain or Mike Huckabee.

Hmmm. Who else could it be? What about that Obama fellow - the one who’s amazingly charismatic, eloquent, not to mention good looking? The one with a consistent positive message that resonates with virtually all demographics and party affiliations?

Naaah! It couldn’t be. It must be you, Jack!

Women has been turning for Hillary because she’s a woman and African Americans have turning out for Barack Hussein Obama because he’s an African American instead of voting for the issues.

Americans are turning out in record numbers because we’ve seen the consequences of our apathy. How many decades will it take to repair the damage caused by the Bush years?

I believe that the record number of voters is attributed to voters who are tired of how things are run in Washington. We are excited and inspired by Barrack Obama. This is an exciting time for our country. It too bad that Hillary has to rain on his parade. If she becomes the nominee, I can be sure that voter turnout will not be so strong for her.

You have such a massive voter turnout because there are people who have never voted, who think they can make difference that never felt that way before. You have a lot of young people, blacks, women, some elderly, and more importantly black men voting who have never voted before, especially in a primary. And I don’t believe it’s just because Barack Obama is black. The majority of African American’s, especially educated African American’s would not vote for a candidate on the basis of them being black. Obama actually has these believing their situations will change, both personally, and nationally. More American’s are becoming more Media/politically savvy, and are begining to understand how who represents them politically affects their daily lives. This is why I was so disgusted when I went to vote this morning. I discovered inadequate staffing for my district, inadequate technology for my district, and all in what will become hazardous road conditions. Only to go home, read the paper and discover which counties were affected by these circumstances. And whle the entire state is on weather watch; the counties effected by the former would probably be Obama supporters. The more rural counties have touch-screen voting systems, and in proportion adequately staffed polls, because they have less people that urban areas. This is dissapointing, because circumstances like these give these new “hopefull” voters doubt and pessismistic view points.

Barack Obama is responsible for the record turnout.Since Hillary Clinton`s “cute” answer on the muslim accusation and this canadian fiasco, I`m voting for whoever is running against her. She is a ruthless B—- and doesn`t care what happens to anybody as long as she gets in office. I think the press should find out what happened in canada and tell us the truth!!! Now!

Can’t speak for anyone else, but for me, it’s a combination of wanting to end 7 1/2 horrific years of Dubya and his cronies (McCain will simply be more of the same - regardless of what he says)… plus, I found a candidate I could personally get excited over.

America Doesn’t Like what it’s seen from it’s politicians the last few years, and are hell bent on changing it. When things are going fine, no one wants change, and less people come out to vote.

With the Economy falling apart and that Bungling buffoon of a president on the outs, people see this as a Chance to Change up all the things that have gone so horribly wrong the past 7 years.

People are interested for a change; and we do need (actual, sincere) change!

George Bush, his senior executives and the rubber stamping mess created by the former republican congress.

Jack
The American people are desperate, they are groping to find a leader to fix this mess we are in. People are scrambling around trying to pay their bills, put food on the table and gas in their cars, and George looks out the window at the white house and says we are not in a recession. Voters are more concerned now than ever before and want to be involved in picking the right person to lead this country.

Hopefully the Independents & real thinking Republicans have come to the same conclusion that the Democrats have: ANYBODY BUT A REPUBLICAN AS PRESIDENT!!!!

America Doesn’t Like what it’s seen from it’s politicians the last few years, and are hell bent on changing it. When things are going fine, no one wants change, and less people come out to vote. Things are less then fine, so, Higher Turnout. Simple.

The Economy is falling apart and that Bungling buffoon of a president on the outs, so people see this as a Chance to Change up all the things that have gone so horribly wrong the past 7 years.

Mike From Staten Island, New York

The reason voters are turning out in such large numbers Jack is that we are “Mad as hell and are not going to take this anymore!” All brought on by the feckless Bush administration and an ignoble congress. It’s time for changes Jack. Major changes! This election is the first step to make those changes.

The answer is simple Jack - voters are fed up with the fear mongering, they are disgusted with Republicans, they’ve been lied to by a failing administration that promised the world and produced nothing, but mostly people want a fresh start, and to regain control of the country so it is not left in the reckless hands of the Republicans. I spoke to a guy who has never voted Democrat in his life and is for Obama. What does that tell you?

One word: Obamania

The record turnout is coming from Hillary Clinton voters making sure people like you do not influence these primaries with your Pro-Obama rhetoric. How do you like you candidate now, Cafferty?

Hillary for President

“W.”

Barack Obama has done more to get out the voter than any other canidate.

This is the opportunity to set this country in the right direction, and it’s needed right now. I’m a life-long Republican who’s cast an early vote in the Democratic primary in Texas and will attend the caucus tonight.

Massive dissatisfaction with the way things are going and lack o responseness of Bush & the Congress..

Possibly the same cause that is generating record attendance to One –and just to that One — candidate’s rallies.

One letter - W.

We’ve had enough.

Long Island, NY

Because the Bush administration has been reprehensible and irresponsible, and MAYBE we finally have a chance to do something about it, since no one in government had the balls to impeach him.

This is about the beltway insider vs. the outsiders.
This is about lobbyist vs. people.
This time people think they can win,
so there is such a turnout.

After 9/11 Americans woke up. Then we fell back to sleep. Looks like the Sleeping Giant heard the final alarm clock ring.

Enough of the fighting and name calling. Americans want leaders who may actually get something done for the good of the country.

Maybe the rush to vote and have a voice actually will wake our politicians up forcing them to work for us.

It is about time.

The record turnout? I guess everyone wants to play a role in the on-going soap opera!

I’ve never voted in a primary before this one, but then again I’ve never been this jazzed about a candidate. I have both Obama Fever and Clintonitis. I see this as a chance to take power out of the hands of the lobbysits and put it back in the hands of the people.

Call me crazy, but that gets me out to the polls.

The pundits have been saying that the huge turnout among Democrats in the primaries bode badly for the Republicans in the general election. However, isn’t it possible that given the tight race between the Democrats, that whichever candidate wins, the voters for the losing side may be disenchanted when November comes around?

Hi Jack!
I live in Canada and usually don’t follow my own country politic battles. From an “outsider” point of view I find the democratic race very entertaining. Here too in Canada we love the Clintons, but I do have to say that even in the great white north we feel the wind of change coming from the south and Barak Obama. No matter who wins, as long as the democrats gets back in power in the fall is the ultimate goal.

Patrick
Canada

The record turnout is due to the miserable handling of the government for the last 7 years by the Bush administration. The only positive piece of his legacy is that he made it possible for a black man or a woman to be viable candiates!

It is because America wants to keep it’s money at home - from the war to NAFTA - all our money is long gone!

Americans are exhausted, in a stupor, completely wiped out after a numbing 8 years of wholesale, pathological government incompetence. Climbing out of our sickbeds, we’re trampling each other on the way to the polls. 3 people who don’t seem THAT bad — McCain, Clinton, Obama– are offering us ANYTHING but a repeat of the last 8 years!!!!!! WE WANT SOME OF THAT!!!!

What is generating record turnouts in primaries across the country? White male Republicans have all but destroyed this country so now we desperately need someone other than a white male Republican to come in and clean up the mess.

Signed,

A White Male Democrat
Tacoma, WA.

Jack:

Record turnout on the Demnocratic side is due to Obama. Look at it this way, if Hillary were running against another Washington establishment candidate, the Democratic constituenecy would be as lackluster as the Republicans. Clinton is not any more inspiting than McCain. Obama IS and inspires people to come out and vote and, in turn, that has mobilized Clinton’s backers. It’s really all Obama’s doing, whether you’re for him or aginst him, he has done an incredible job!!!!

Eight pathetic years of “W”!

It’s not the candidates themselves, although I am sure Obama would love to say he is the reason. Bush is the reason. I think the people in the US are waking up and realizing they need to get their votes registered to make change happen. They want to make a point to whoever the winner is. That point is that they are gonna be expecting big change for the better or don’t expect your party to get a vote next time around. I hope more of my fellow Canadians wake up and realize that their vote can change the direction of our country too.

Jack,
Come on, the reason is strikingly obvious. George W. Bush has trounced on civil rights, he has ignored almost unanimous warnings on global warming, he has done practically nothing to steer the economy away from recession, he has mired us in the immoral Iraq war based on lies and deceit , and he has sullied our country’s reputation around the world. If not for a few hundred votes in Florida, the course of history would be drastically different. I still have hope for this country when I see my teenage sons talking patiently about national politics and staking strong opinions for the (Democratic) candidate of their choice. God Bless America!

Princeton, NJ

It’s simple Jack, everyone is voting in record numbers in the Democratic primaries because they are tired of George W. Bush and the stubborness of the G.O.P to listen to the concerns of the American people. The Republicans have no real solutions other than continue Bush’s failed policies in Iraq and domestically. We have moved way past the arrogant “cowboy diplomacy” or the my way or the highway way of doing things. Thank goodness so many people are finally waking up and voting. Sylvania Ohio.

Cleveland, Ohio

I have a feeling the heavy “democratic” turnout, in part, has something to do with Republicans declaring themselves Democrats in order to vote against Hillary Clinton. My boss and several others at my company did just that today when they voted, however, they will then vote Republican in November. To some, this is a silly game.

In my opinion the record number of Democrats turning out to vote is a sign that people want to ensure change actually happens. Elections recently have been won/lost by razor thin margins and people realize in some way their vote does actually count.

The uniqueness of the candidates… the competitiveness of the races… the absence of an incumbent… the importance of the issues at stake… the length of the campaigns… the availability of early voting… the internet…

All of these reasons are tied for second. The #1 reason for the turnout is Barack Obama.

Seth in Los Angeles

record lack of faith in government, due to record defecits, perpetual war, crumbling dollar. pity the cnn poll gives only 4 candidates to choose from while ignoring the 5th who has been warning us of these exact things for some time and has reasonable solutions to them.

What a year - that no matter the end result we have a war hero, a woman and a man of color as the finalists to be president. This says a lot about the fact there is hope ahead…rather than the days of old “white” presidents who avoided fighting their own wars. Oh, and the fact that we can really send Bush out with a bang does not hurt either.

I believe 2 of the reasons for the large turnout are:

the failings of the Bush administration

the promise of an Obama administration

The facts are that for the first time in our history we will have either a woman or an african american as president of our country.George W and his cronies put us in the gutter, who wants 4 more years of lies,imconpetence,etc,etc?

Ray

people, are finally waking up after being asleep at the wheel for the past 2 elections, and through this administration. they’re realizing how this president completely stole this country, and turned it into his personal little board game. even after we get rid of this idiot we will be paying for all his mistakes for a long time to come. unfortunately, this kind of a mess will take a good while to clean up.

This is an easy one, Jack. The public is irritated over the current state of political affairs. George Bush is the most in competent president in recent history, and has NOTHING in his background that suggests that he would make a worthy president – and he did not disappoint! He has contributed to trashing this country in so may ways I do not know where to begin – blatant favoritism to big business, assaults on our Constitutional Rights, gross over-spending, a needless war that was sold to congress and the public that was based on LIES – NOT “MISTAKES”. He needs to be either impeached or brought to trial for his crimes.

well Jack, it is simply because we are tired of politicians, and in many cases the media as well, speaking FOR US! In the case of Democrats, it will be interesting to see if the “superdelegates” will continue to support Hillary if Obama fairs well in Ohio and Texas. If he does well and the superdelegates continue their support for Hillary or if Hillary just refuses to concede… I will probably never support the Democratic Party again. So, for me, this is the MOST important election I have ever participated in.

People are voting against Hillary

I believe the record turnouts are due to American citizens truly believing they have a say in who is elected this November. Most have researched the candidates and having chosen one are doing everything they can to make sure their pick gets elected.

Also, with an African American candidate and a woman candidate for President many people see a change occuring and the hope that such a change happens has propelled many into action.

it is a shame that the true count of votes doesn’t make a difference - it is up to the delegate layouts.. it is time to get rid of the delegates and go with the ‘real’ vote.. !!

They are Hillary lovers and haters.

Obama is the reason why…..but Jack also there is nothing new on TV for couch potatoes but more politics which this year has been more interesting than a combination of Lost and America Idol…

BTW one candidate is the America Idol and the other is Lost in an everchanging message and campaign tactics!! The third and final candidate is an old person who reminds us of Homer Simpson in real life with flip flopping ,,,,,,

What can be more interesting than this..TV in real life, that is why we are out to vote Jack!

Louisville KY

I haven’t voted in 16 years. With Obama this is the first time I feel “we the people” are the electors and not the Party establishment that usually decides who they want and then we choose someone from their pre-selection.

However, it looks like the party establishment, in the form of super delegates, could take the vote away from us anyway if it goes to the convention. If that happens, people like me, will go back to not voting, albeit with even more cynicism then before.

Jack,

I think people are finally so fed up with the current administration’s blunderings in almost every area of policy that they are motivated to go out and turn this country around. The vast numbers of people who are turning out to vote for Mr. Obama shows just how hungry this nation is for change, and to leave behind the same tired politics that have morally bankrupted this country on both sides of the isle.

Michael
Rocky Hill, CT

It is the Bush-Obama syndrome. People are so fed-up with the current administration that they want to have their say in who represents them next. Ironically, Bush will leave office doing the nation a favor! Obama, for his part, has galvanised the twenty-somethings to take some responsibility, and his message of unity is very appealing. Thanks to Barack, we will agian be one nation…!

Jack,

Its obvious that most Americans as well as myself have never felt so let down and discouraged by their government, in particular Mr. Bush. The record numbers for this election display the sense of urgency that this country is headed down the drain and fast. We as Americans who care about our country and its reputation know whats going on and want it stopped in November before it’s too late.

The record turnouts are the result of the slumbering masses finally fed up enough with the way this country has been run for the last seven years that they have decided to make their voices heard. You’ll notice, of course, that the turnouts are much higher on the Democratic side. That is no accident. Democrats that usually don’t participate are doing so this time around because they can’t stomach the thought of four more years of Bush/Cheney policies via John McCain.

Everyone, on both sides, hates George W. Bush.

Everyone likes a good underdog story, and voting for a candidate making a comeback is exciting. McCain was nearly down and out before his resurgence against big money candidates like Romney and Giuliani, and Obama was seen as the underdog to Hillary Clinton. Now that Obama has become (at least in the media) the front-runner, Hillary’s supporters are turning out in hopes of giving her the next great comeback story of this primary season. On top of that, Al Gore and John Kerry were great candidates on paper but lacked the dynamic to really excite people, while both Obama and Clinton have proven that they can excite voters in a big way with their charisma.

After 219 years of exclusively white male rule, we finally have a chance to vote for someone who looks like us! I know this is confusing for white men, but when you have been denied the vote, denied access to public places, denied education, denied the ability to attain certain positions in business, government, and society, and FINALLY you get a chance to do something so profound as cast a ballot in favor of anybody who is not white or male, it is simply too important to let it pass. It is far more important than the election or the next President. This is about vindication. I hope both Senators Obama and Clinton stick around until every last one of us gets an opportunity to cast our ballot. Of course it matters who wins, but not as much as getting to say we got to vote for our person.

Simple Answer: Eight years of mafia style government.

This has been the most exciting election in years. Mostly because of Obama. It has not been more of the same and people are genuinely excited about the opportunity for real change in Washington.

Also, there is a real backlash against the “entitlement” of HRC to be the nominee, I seriously think there are a lot of people like me who feel that we never promised her anything, even though the DNC might have, and we have a say in this election with a valid choice.

I just hope it ends tonight and we can be released from the misery of having to watch or hear HRC any longer. I personally never liked her when her husband was President, felt that she carpetbagged her way into the Senate with vacant promises for NY, and feels that she is owed for sticking by her man when he disgraced the presidency.

Well, we don’t owe her and we need to consider what is best for the country and not her ego.

I think Americans are fed up with Bush and Congress not listening to them, being more concerned with big business than with the middle class that voted them in. Jobs are disappearing, wages are stagnant, illegals continue to sneak over the border, and in 8 years “W” has done nothing about it.

What is it about the 2008 election that’s generating record turnouts around the country?

In three words - George Walker Bush! He is the best advertisement that this country needs to be changed. It’s just too bad that the American People have taken 8 years to see it and to start to respond to the nations call to get rid of the trash in Washington.

Nancy
Charleston, SC

Is it any wonder the Democrats are experiencing record turnout after 8 years of incompetence and the steady erosion of our liberties and way of life? Lifelong Democrats are being joined at the polls by new comers and independents alike in selecting who each feels is the best person to change the course of this country. They are not participating in the Republican contest, as all the choices on that ballot equate to more of the same failed policies of the last 8 years.

Well DUH! Jack… Could the record turnout possibly be because we have “the first serious female candidate, the first serious African-American candidate, [and] record-shattering fund-raising…” ???

I have always felt that iI had to choose between the lesser of two evils.I am an African American Male and, in my 60 plus years I have never had the opportunity to vote for a serious presidential candidate that looks like me.

Jack,

What we have here is the exact opposite of 2000. It’s amazing how fast the world changes in 8 years. Why the turn out? The squeaky wheel gets the greese.

This may not necessarily be a good sign for Democrats. It may simply be a sign of the polity being sick and tired of business as usual in DC.

In short, If I were part of the status quo, I would fear the next election regardless of political party.

Perhaps, this is about taking back our republic from the arrogance of power and privilege personified by the current crop of politicians.

The answer is simple. The American people are pissed off. Let’s see them try to steal this election! There is a whiff of REVOLUTION in the air.

come on jack even your smart enough to know people are tired of
bush, the economy and iraq its time for a president either clinton or
obama who care about average americans and not the oil industry

A desire to have a real alternative to failed Republican policies and outlook is driving the democratic turnout. It would be unconscienable to have a US Presidential Election in 2008 in which both candidates will have voted six years ago in favor of the failed Iraq war.

The biggest issue for the US today is foreign policy and the last thing we need are Republican and Democratic proposals on Middle East that are about as distinguishable as Coke from Pepsi.

2 things….8 years of George W. Bush in office, and 2 very strong Democrats competing with each other. Its a first for many people, having something hopeful to look forward to, and worthwhile candidates that inspire you to get registered and go out and vote.

People seem more aware than their politicians that the country is in a lot of trouble and is headed in the wrong direction. Bush has largely ignored the country for seven years then just woke up and decided he should worry abut his legacy so he’s pushing for peace in the middle east. They want some one in office that cares about the people of the country and not the middle east and corporate America. We can’t take another 4 to 8 years of bleeding this country dry and the people seem to know it even if Washington doesn’t.

Inspiration to get out there and do something to make things better. Barack Obama has inspired me to do this. I am 55 years old and have not been inspired since Robert F. Kennedy ran in 1968.

I believe Barack’s nomination will make America truly the place of dreams where anyone can aspire to be anything. Americans are a fair people and their choice will be heard.

Inspiration is what makes us do the impossible. We need to hear the eloquent speeches because that is what makes us move humanity to that shining city on the hill.

I will be so disappointed if Barack doesn’t get a chance to show the world that America is trully the greatest country on earth.

Desperation for change..

Well, let’s see…could it be that we have for the first time a woman who has a REAL chance of being President or could it be that we have a black American who has a REAL chance of being President? OR maybe it’s just the fact that people are so sick and tired of our current President that they would crawl to the polls to get something different in Washington!

Jack,

It means that the American People are so fed up with Bush that they are coming out in droves to vote for the person they feel will get us out of this awful rut.

Unfortunately for the Democrats, they are beating each other up and incurring bad blood amoung followers. Many Obama supporters wont support Hilliary in the General Election and vice versa. It would indeed be sad if all this new, exciting energy went for nothing.

Is it any wonder the Democrats are experiencing record turnout after 8 years of incompetence and the steady erosion of our liberties and way of life? Lifelong Democrats are being joined at the polls by new comers and independents alike in selecting who each feels is the best person to change the course of this country. They are not participating in the Republican contest, as all the choices on that ballot equate to more of the same failed policies of the last 8 years.

David Pillars, Yuma AZ

Americans are fed up with the failed policies of the Republican adminstration under George Bush, especially the debacle in Iraq, and do not want an additional four years of the same. This is resulting in record numbers of Democrats and Independants showing up at the polls to register their disgust. The special interest groups such as MoveOn.org, etc. are also contributing to the record turnout by reaching people through their vast electronic networks.

Obama has excited the dis-enfranchised voter, they, we won’t be showing up in November if its McCain vs Clinton.

We want health care, not war.

The people are turning out in record numbers because they are fed up with the way things have gone over the past 8 yrs and they want a change.Obama has given the vast majority of Americans hope.People who have never voted(and may not if Hillary and McCain are the nominees) feel that their voice can make a difference.Obama is the American dream, the if he can do it why can’t I, or my kids.All we have had from Washington over the yrs, has been the same old same old don’t hope,don’t believe,be afraid,nothing will change but he says hope,believe cast off your fears and change will come.I hope Americans don’t go for the same old plan when the crunch comes because change now or wait 40 more yrs for a chance.

Simple: Because they all stink!

Jack,

Back in 2004, you liberals weren’t so encouraged about our Democracy when a record number of voters came to the polls and elected George W. Bush. Hopefully election night 2008 will end better for you and your network than election night 2000 and 2004. Nevertheless, keep up your fight, you are working harder than ever to push your agenda.

The record turn out in the primaries is because for the first time in many years we have a person who lifts our spirits and gives us hope of real change. Not the kind of change we saw between the Clintons and the Bushs but change that says it is better to talk to people unlike ourselves than bomb them.

Barak Obama is inspiring and that is beautiful compared to the smirks of George W. Bush and the “who me” looks of Bill Clinton.

I am sick and tired of being sick and tired of Washington “what’s in it for me” politics. I want change.

Joel Baker
Bellingham, WA

People want back their respect and recognition.

As a Texan since 1982, this is the first year that my vote might actually make a difference in who gets picked. Why are the two parties so hell-bent on finishing before the conventions? Why shouldnt we get the opportunity to hear more about views before we pick the two who then duke it out? The exitement so far has been generated precisely because we HAVE A CHOICE!!!!

People are sick and tired of being brazenly lied to by the Corporate-run politicians. They are desperate for change.

Charleston, SC

Probably the fact that ppl are fed up with the current regime and its turning a blind eye to public opinion. There is that fear that if people don’t vote, then we will just end up with another conservative Republican following in line with Bush. Of course, on the other hand, the Democrats are giving us the most promising candidates either!

Barack Obama is the reason for the record turnout. There is no other reason.

OBAMA 08

If I were a Republican I would not be much concerned by the lackluster Republican turnout in the primary season. Unlike the Democrats, where a lot of people are inspired by Obama and Clinton to a more or less equal degree, noone really liked any of the Republican challengers. Plus turnout has only really dropped since Super Tuesday. Since then, it’s only a matter of time until John McCain wins the nomination. Doesn’t turnout always drop once a nominee has been decided?

Record turnouts have occured due to a record number of citizens in dire need of change in Washington!

George Bush.

Because we have a bloody mess in this country thanks much to current administration and some people that actually want the job and appear to have some ideas.

Anything is better than what we have now. Easter Bunny, maybe.

All of us are fed up with what we got 7 an half years ago, and those of us who did not vote can only blame themselves. Not that our choices are spectacular this time around, just that we all want to be part of the process.

People finally realize that “they get what they vote for”, so are finally voting.

OBAMA

I think it’s the Obama/Clinton combination. Obama is energizing and motivating America’s young people and getting them involved by the thousands. Clinton is energizing those who lover her and those who hate her, creating the perfect storm of political primaries. And who benefits the most? The media! People are actually watching primary coverage daily, hourly and minute-to minute!

At late, something positive we can credit George Bush with.

Ron Paul is the reason I registered to vote for the very first time, and maybe the last. But I don’t see him on the CNN poll. Perhaps this hero who could save our country is simply a figment of my imagination. I am a dreamer, after all.

Jack, the voting public is now turning out in record numbers for the primaries. It think they’e had enough nonsense from the village idiot to see that there may be some hope out there or, at least, a possibility that elected leaders can have some intelligence and actually show some concern for what’s happening to all the rest of us.

Why the heavy turnout of voters. After 8 years of Geroge W. Bush, aren’t you angry enough to want to be heard?

Phoenix, AZ

My answer: Fear of more of the same.

Hello Jack!

In response to your question, I’ll offer this small bit. This year was the first year that I *ever* attended a caucus, and I did so for the following reasons:
1. I personally feel that for the first time, I’ve got somebody (Obama) that I can stand behind and really support.

2. It has been so powerfully disturbing what George Bush has been allowed to do, that if I didn’t get involved somehow to help repair the damage, well, how could I even look myself in the mirror anymore?

3. I’m absolutely terrified of what McCain will do and I’m so tired of the Clintons…

4. The fact that Obama (and Edwards) told special interests to go get bent was great.

5. Finally, somebody actually gets that people thrive in an environment of hope, not negativity. Fear-mongering and negativity will only bring you down in the end.

Hope this helps!

Jack,
It’s the same reason we sing ‘My Country Tis of Thee’ to the tune of ‘God Save the Queen’. This is what happens when those in power insist they know what’s in my best interest better than I do.

Remember “It’s the economy stupid?” Well this time It’s George Bush! People are so fed up with what our current President has done to this country, they realize they can’t afford to sit on their hands and risk having another idiot win the White House in 2008. You’re right, the Rethuglicans should be shaking under their beds!

Jack, the people are tired of an administration that turned its back on them and their problems here at home. They look to the Democrats, Obama in particular, to give them the changes they need in their lives.

The reason behind record turnouts???? Are you serious??? GEORGE W. BUSH! Thank GOD his bumbling of our government is almost over!!!! Let’s hope the damage he has done to this country isn’t reversable.

I am seeing more and more people in my area deciding they want a change in their government, a change that seems impossible for traditional candidates to provide. Obama lacks experience compared to the other candidates, but experience is precisely what voters dislike in this election. Newness. Hope. Those are the great concepts for this election. Bush destroyed our dreams and we want them back. Certainly Clinton can claim experience, but experience in a system the electorate has come to loathe. Today will have a tremendous impact on America’s future, and I dearly hope that all of us who can vote do so to express our beliefs and dreams.

Beginning in Iowa, where Obama drew in more supporters than the top four Republicans combined, and continuing through states like South Carolina, where he outpolled McCain and Clinton combined, it has become apparent that the nation is tired of Bush’s policies, and that they similarly are hoping for a candidate who will reach beyond the partisan battles of the past.

Rush Limbaugh’s cries to vote for Hillary Clinton notwithstanding, Americans are looking for a leader who will represent more than just the people who vote for him or her. That is the essence of Obama’s campaign, and the essence of his record shattering support.

2 words: Barack Obama

Jack, The reason for the high turn out? It’s the Economy STUPID ! ! !
While in Texas Obama nor Hillary spoke about the failed NAFTA Agreement which has only made a few American’s Trillionaires. I thought the goal was to product jobs in poor countries, so the wouldn’t have to migrate here illegally. I voted for Obama, but I didn’t like the fact that he ahd Hill ducked the NAFTA question…… Jack, I just love your Straight Talk on most of the topics. . . Keep Given ‘em Hell Old Chapp! ! !

One day you could be answering that phone at the whitehouse at 3am in the morning. . . LOL

Michael - Arlington Texas

Record Turnouts because of the obvious 2 first–a woman and an African American–plus there are so many problems facing our country. I sincerely hope Clinton stays in the race whether she wins Ohio or Texas or not. So much is unknown about Sen. Obama and things are just now beginning to surface–his flip-flop on NAFTA, tyhe Rezko trial, his explantions being “misspoke” or just brushing off the serious questions, etc.
Tulsa, OK

That’s easy. Notice that the turnout is on the Democratic side of the aisle? This is because not only do the Dems have 2 candidates they’re very excited about, but the end of the era of King George of Crawford is finally coming to an end, and liberals everywhere are ready for the door to hit him on the rear end on way out while they recapture control again of the White House after this long, hard period for the country.

I am a woman over 60 and I would like to have the opportunity to vote for a woman for president, especially Hillary Clinton who is most qualified.

The increased turnout is due to the complete frustration on the results of the last two general elections. Why else would the number of voters be so much more for the Democratic Primaries? And I do not believe it is because the Republican decision is so much clearer. The numbers were like this right from the beginning in December…

Hi Jack,
The real high point of this election cycle is the reenergized young voters. The eighteen to twenty somethings that have notoriously sat out the last dozen election cycles have suddenly figured out that politics is important in their lives.

I suspect seven years of the Bush Administration helped convince them. Then there’s the fact a woman and African-American with a real shot at the White House are running neck and neck. That energizes all demographic groups.

It’s a proud moment in American politics and folks want to be part of it.

Jack the record turnout is driven by none other than George W. Bush. Americans are so sick of him they can’t wait to throw him out and all those that that have backed him for the last eight years. John McCain has as much of a chance at winning in November as the proverbial snowball in hell.

The record turnout is a result of Barak Obama’s ability to use the media to turn the Democratic primary into a part of popular culture. He’s become a rock star, and this presence has inspired Obama lovers and Clinton lovers alike to come out in droves.

Are you Kidding ? The incompetence of the current bush administration has finally awoken the American public. Time to take our government back from the special interest groups and the Christian right.

My idealist self would like to think the last 7 years of a government that was for anything but “of the people, by the people and for the people” has the people out using their voices/votes to take back their government. But reality sets in and the motivation for voters may simply be paying $3.00/gallon for gas and other economic woes hitting our pocketbooks.

Joan, Lincoln, Nebraska

Indianapolis, IN - Perhaps the record turnout arises from people’s assumption that the last two elections were stolen, that there really is regret that the Repug’s have had four more years, and that the Democrats are attempting to ensure their votes overwhelm anything the other side pulls this go round!

Jack,

You’ll never convince me the record turnout is because of Hillary Clinton and John McCain. This is about Barack Obama! Simply, the man has motivated people to vote like no one I’ve ever seen…I mean people that really never cared before. Why? He understands and connects with people like no one I’ve ever seen. I think his message is very believable, and the cynics just can’t stand it!

Marion, IA

Nothing good on tv.

That’s easy. Notice that the turnout is on the Democratic side of the aisle? This is because not only do the Dems have 2 candidates they’re very excited about, but the era of King George of Crawford is finally coming to an end, and liberals everywhere are ready for the door to hit him on the rear end on way out while they recapture control again of the White House after this long, hard period for the country.

George Bush has been such an incredible disaster as US President that people JUST CAN’T WAIT to vote for a democratic replacement. Isn’t it obvious?

In past elections I’ve always found myself voting for the person I thought would do the least damage to our country, instead of the best person for the job. It was always the lesser of two evils. I’m a registered independent, and try to vote for the right person. In those past elections, voter turnout was generally pretty bad.

In this election, at least on the Democratic side, we have two excellent candidates, either of whom will do great things if they get elected. This is the first primary in a long time where the candidates are so good, that their “fans” really, seriously home for them to win and carry us forward. It is the first election in a long time where the candidates continue to run neck-and-neck. It is American politics operating as the founding fathers intended. Americans are responding. There is new excitement and new hope, and the political system doesn’t seem quite so rotten these days. We are stoked!

Hey Jack - I’d say it’s probably due to a couple of reasons. One being that, as you mentioned earlier, the diversity of the candidates is quite broad and that makes for some interest in the whole affair. Beyond that, I would say it’s because the country wants to make sure that we don’t go through what we’ve been through for the past two Presidential terms. If Bush did anything in his two terms, I think he made sure more Americans take part in the democratic process… I guess being a somewhat questionable President did have at least one good outcome.

Jack,

I think the last 8 years and the presence of some very attractive candidates are bringing people to the polls. No matter what their political conviction is, people are motivated to vote either to preserve the perceived gains of the past several years or to bring about some kind of change. As all the candidates are at some level promoting a change in direction many people feel there is much more at stake than ever.

The desire to see the back-side of Geo. W. Bush, and his pack of Constitution-quashing thugs who have played on the fears of the masses only to enrich themselves.

in PA

I always vote. It’s not just my right it’s my responsibility. Plus I can’t complain if I don’t participate.

I am SICK of not trusting the government. I have always been able to feel respect for the office of the president, regardless of who held the office. But not now. I am so sick of Bush getting away with criminal acts, with being just downright stupid, and so terribly detrimental to our country. I’m participating because it helps me feel like I’m working harder to get W out of there faster. He and his VP need to get out now!

Jack,

Simple: folks are extremely disappointed and tired of the last 8 yrs of this government. They want change and a new direction and it seems like the Democrats are playing to their ears. Obama has done a very good job of energizing the young crowd. Most seasoned politicians ignored this voting block as historically it’s one of the groups with least participation in general elections. Most middle-class folks feel that they are NOT better of today than 8 yrs ago. Gas prices have almost tripled, their housing equity is shrinking, the Iraq war is now 5 yrs long and still going, and the economy is in the doldrums. If that combination doesn’t get you stirred up, I don’t know what will.

It’s easy, Democrats aren’t taking any chances this time. Slim margins for the last few elections have prompted Democrats to realize that if they are going to win that they need to show up in huge numbers and make sure recounts are pointless.

Simple…because McCain pretty much sewed up the nomination quite a while ago. Republicans are now able to participate in Democratic primaries in order to support the candidate that’s easier to beat. This system needs to be fixed…. I’m all for democracy, but the democrats are choosing a candidate to represent them in November. Why would other parties be allowed to influence this decision?

after being uder a leadership that largely was negative and generally unresponsive to the majority of americans, it should be no suprise to anyone that something different is almost worshipped. no matter what happens we have an important first in america; two candidates(on the dem side) that would set a great record for us and i believe restore our image around the world. (we can only go up)
put an end to the ill-thought-out war in iraq and the “divine right” philosophy of the bush-cheney regime and the fellow far-righters of the senate and house.

The reason for the huge turnout in voters is simple: this country is in a deep economic funk. Factor in an inept foreign policy and you have the recipe for a revolt.

One factor that I believe plays into this a bit is that this is the first election since 1952 that neither party is running the sitting president or vice president. I think this has generated a lot of attention to the _whole_ process this year. It feels much more “open” than usual, and feels as though it will be somewhat less of a referendum on the current administration. There’s more of a sense (on both sides) that we’re going to go in some new direction, and I think this has a lot of people energized.

Record turnouts are due to this opportunity to “make history” since we have, for the first time, the opportunity to nominate a woman or an African-American for the highest office in the land. Hillary has energized women voters who might not otherwise have been out there, and Barack has energized not only the African-American community but also the youth of all races and genders. The result is record turnout now, and hopefully again in November.

Jack…The record turnout can be explained in one word: Dubya. After 8 years of reckless leadership from a President who was not legitimately elected in the first place and then sadly re-elected to a second term, people are anxious to assure that this insanity ends and that we don’t continue down the same disastrous path. We desperately need a fresh vision which will restore America’s credibility and former stature as leader of the free world.

Its simple Jack - 8 years of George Bush.

The last 8 years of W’s ruinous presidency have made obvious to many the costs of not paying attention to the election process.

Remember “It’s the economy stupid?” Well this time It’s George Bush! People are so fed up with what our current President has done to this country, they realize they can’t afford to sit on their hands and risk having another idiot win the White House in 2008. You’re right, the Rethuglicans should be shaking under their beds!

Doug T. Columbia, SC

It is the realization, by a large percentage of our population, that we need to change the course of our future. Many Americans are ashamed of our deeds during the past 7 years. We have forsaken diplomacy and have become the bully of the world. We start wars, torture prisoners, have secret prisons, refuse to abide by international agreements, belittle our allies, insult all those who disagree with us, and spy on our citizens. We value the rights of large corporations to make money, more than we value the lives of ordinary people. We know that if these things continue, there will be a lot more wars in our future.

Simple, the country is in a dire situation thanks to the incompetence of the Bush administration. If anyone wondered just what it would take to get the American electorate engaged they have their answer now - economic recession and endless war. Democrats are particularly engaged because there is a strong feeling that our nominee is a sure thing in the fall, so our primary is for all practical purposes the election that will determine the next president.

Houston, Texas. Voted early, caucusing tonight.

Jack,

For me and for many women, it is a chance to see a qualified, experienced, and intelligent woman like Hillary Clinton in the White House. I don’t see any time in the near future when we will have another chance like this. GO HILLARY 08!

Ann in Ohio

We are waking up and discovering that votes really do count! We want to take our country back from the incompetents that are running (?) it today. Only our laziness and inattention are to blame for what has happened these past 7+ years.

Judi Shade
Hilton Head Island SC

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