It tells me that 80% of Americans are gravely concerned over the present condition of this nation and its future. The U.S. is no longer exercising leadership here at home or abroad. I worry for the future generations of Americans — they will never know the country that so many of us have known and loved.

It says Louisiana voteing has gone national. To get that number to vote means electronic ballots have no safeguards. 80% wouldn’t show up to get free money. If it reaches 55% turnout I would be amazed.

It would say to me that Obama had alot to do with it as he is the person who inspired the young college kids to get out and vote. That’s one of the reasons he is going to be President.

Jack,

It says that it takes a really, really bad president to make people care about the future. George W. Bush’s greatest success has been only to put partisan politics front and center in the United States, and now the GOP is harvesting the political fallout. I have a hint for you - the high turnout is not going to be for the Republicans.

Brian
Idaho

Jack, it says that the American people are finally awake and boy are they mad. Not only are they mad they’re not going to take it anymore. We’ve had an autocratic government for the past 8 years. Its time to put the government back in the hands of the people, not delegates, not super delegates, nor an electoral college. Lets elect leaders based on the people’s vote and not the previously mentioned bought and paid for cronies of a two party system that was flawed from the beginning. Brian, in Fairfield Ohio

It says Americans are looking at the past eight years saying enough is enough is enough.

A turnout as high as 80% means that the country is fed up with the current administration. And all the bickering between the Democrats will hand the election to John McCain. And the cycle continues….

-Efren
Phoenix

It does not speak to the importance of the election. Every election is important. It says Americans are disturbed by the Direction the country is going in and want to help steer the ship of state back in the right direction. It Says Americans want real leadership, not the weak crap we’ve had for 7+ years. This is the hour of our discontent. High voter turnout says “WE’RE MAD AS HELL AND WE’RE NOT GONNA TAKE IT ANYMORE”

Mike, From Staten Island, New York

it means we need a new goverment an a new direction an no republicans an we are tired of the same old people doing the same old thing

It says the American people have had more than their fill of the selfish,greedy,Republicans and that we want them OUT!!

It means 2 things: 1. We know better than to elect another Republican for President, or: 2. It means that McCain has succeeded in playing the fear card & we will have a “McBush” presidency in our future. I know I am going to vote the Democrat even if it is Hillary because I just can’t stand another Republican President.

It is good for democracy. When I was young I was gund ho , I went door to door urging evryone to vote whether they agreed with my canidate or not. Then I faced reality - a lot of the people who agreed with me did so for reasons that would have driven me to he other side. A high percentage is really only as good as the undrstanding of an informed electorate..

That we the people are tired of being ignored by the current regime in the White House and want change, accountability which is lacking and an end to George W. Bush war of vendetta against the people of Iraq for Saddam Hussian trying to kill Bush’s daddy. We are just tired of incompetent Republicans casting their lot with the worst president in American history, tired of them blocking important legislation that could help a lot of people with their constant partisan games. I hope the people wake up and realize if they support John McCain, it’s just more of same lies and nonsense we have endured under this “unelected regime”. Vote Democrat this year. Sylvania Ohio

It says that the people have risen to the call for change. Win or loose, Obama has done something that he should be very proud of forever. His clarion call for change was heeded by groups that never considered voting important, and his superb organization has been galvanizing people to register and vote. This is novel and should be a blue print for motivating Americans in all spheres. Above all, this is an indication that this may be the most important election of all times because it will produce the most supported president. I just hope that the bikerings and side shows do not rub off on this innovation.

It says people are absolutely sick of the way things been run by the current crop of Bozos in washington in general and in the Whitehouse particularly

It says move over Billary, move over McBush
A hope for a new direction the voters will push
The economy is a mess, a hundred year war?
Obama’s, the candidate we’ve all been waiting for

Gene
Jacksonville, Florida

This is a critical election. The country is in bad shape on all fronts.
We have to give credit to Obama for getting out the youth vote. I am 20 and this is the first time I have a chance to vote. I am so concerned that I will have trouble getting a good job, buying a house etc

I am very interested in hearing what each candidate has to say but so far I am supporting Obama. I don’t like the negative attacks lately and I am starting to tune out but i do plan to vote in Nov.
For 2 months my room mates and i were glued to cable news to watch Obama and Clinton makes speeches but now all we hear are stupid pointless attacks that have nothing to do with their positions or solutions.
Ever since the Clintons announced they were desperate and they were going to throw the kitchen sink at Obama this has gone down hill.
I loved Obama’s speech on race and hi speech on the war. I think he is the best person to be our new leader.

I hope all the candidates can stop all this trash talk and go back to talking about what matters for the people. I think Bill Clinton should get out of the picture ,he is the main instigator here!!
The media needs to step up here and give us news that matters and stop with the supporters and preachers, they are not running for Pres Hillary , Barrack and McCain are .
Dee

It suddenly seems fashionable to be a “Voter”! Well, to say you are one. We’ll see in November. But, it is without a doubt, the American people have had enough of Bush. Not enough to march on Washington and demand impeachment for the criminal, but enough for a few keystrokes.

There will probably be a large turnout in November, and then, maybe not. The News Media just doesn’t seem to have a grasp of how bad these gas prices are really affecting people. It was bad enough gas was high but the way it drives up prices of food and everything else, we’ve only seen the beginning of this nightmare!

History here and elsewhere does have some insight. People will only take so much! When government stops listening to the people, the people will act. I’m not holding my breath for better days, the total incompetence of the Bush Administration and then Pelosi taking Impeachment off the table has only snowballed the problem.

Our Government is killing us. How long till we’ve had enough, Jack? You see, Jack, no matter how big the turnout, we’re still voting for the lesser of three evils! extreme Liberal in Obama, or Hillary who is in the Center politically? McCain hasn’t got a chance!

Well it means more are getting involved in politics and are hoping our votes make a difference. Most americans are tired of the same old stuff and we are working harder and getting less.

Austin Texas
Obama 08

It means Americans are hurting and they want someone to fix the mess we are in. We can’t afford gas, our home values are plummeting, groceries are going up, health care costs are out of sight, etc. However, it REALLY says Americans are divided and, Jack, I’ll bet you dinner that Clinton supporters won’t vote for Obama and vice versa so maybe the GOP gets their way, again. Doesn’t matter though because the next four years will be rougher that the last seven. Bush and Company did exactly what they set out to do: line the pockets of their buddies!

It speaks poorly of us. Many third world countries, including Iraq, have a higher voter turnout. We’re too busy watching no-talent celebrities self destruct, betting illegally on college and professional athletes, and ignoring the real heroes of the current generations.

I have been voting for 50 years and think this is the most important one since the US situation is at its worst. However, I might have a problem—whether to vote for the war monger (McCain) or the hate monger (Obama). He certainly is not a uniter of people.

Just hope that Senator Hillary Clinton’s name is on the ballot.

With three hundred million citizens here, just wish there was A CANDIDATE FOR ALL THE PEOPLE.

You better believe the voters are all ears. A lot is at stake in this election. With an unpopular war, a bad economy, and the fact that the USA’s reputation stinks around the world, somethings got to give. We bank roll this government with taxes and want our voice back!

Florida

I think this question is also related to the Beijing Olympics question Jack: Clearly Americans need to feel pain before they will act to change the political system. I believe that it also says that younger voters are sick and tired of being able to give a speech more eloquently than our president, it is just sad.

Jona Falencki
Burlington, Vermont

That would mean CHANGE….that would mean OBAMA will be president.

It would mean that the “sleeping giant” is actually the American voters. It would mean we have finally waken up from the slumber of apathy. It is time to elect a candidate who is not indebted to lobbyists and special interest so that we can take our government back. Politicians are supposed to represent the people.

It indicates that America is ready for “change.” America is suffering from a dissatisfaction with a self- felt void or need; an urge to change….to fill the void or need and a dedication to the process of growth and change and the willful act of making the change do something other than the status quo..

It means that a lot of people are suffering and they need relief.

Nuwan from Houston, TX

Not a chance unless Clinton, and Obama have been overthrown, and a new candidate emerges. The way it is now, either way the nomination pans out, the other side will stay home, or put their fortunes into electing more Democrat senators, and representatives, and that might just draw a larger croud then expected.

Jack,
It say’s that American’s are more concerned than at any other time in our countries history about the direction George Bush and the republicans have taken us. The younger generation has woken up and we will settle for nothing less than a complete 180. More importantly it show’s how good Obama is at getting people to come together and stand as one rather than be divided by disagreement. No candidate in history has ever pulled in as many people to a campaign rally as Obama and that say it all.

Given the tremendous number of new voters and the participation of independants in the dem. primary, an 80% turnout would mean that Obama would swamp McCain. If Clinton got the nomination, it would mean that a huge number of registered or those who voted dem in the primary would switch to the rep. candidate in protest. Think about it, which candidate should be credited with bringing out first time voters and getting the to register and participate!!! OBAMA!!!

Jack, I hope that after years, of voter apathy, it means Americans are finally paying attention, to the damage our pandering and feckless congress has done, to our nation and our economy. I hope voters have enough sense, to follow through, by throwing the bums out and refusing, to vote, for any incumbant candidated.

Won’t happen. Will not happen. I will eat my hat if it does. We’ll be lucky if half of the Americans who are qualified to vote do so. It especially will not happen if Obama, after inspiring a new generation of voters and garnishing a substantial delegate lead is not at the top of a Democratic ticket.

Either way there are going to be a lot of people: conservatives, liberals and moderates who will stay home on November 4th simply because their candidate isn’t on the ticket. It doesn’t matter that there are two wars in the Middle East, serious economic woes at home and abroad, a tarnished US image abroad and a very real threat of people who want to hurt us as much as possible. People will care more this year about who isn’t there than abou the people who are there and what they stand for. Eighty percent? That’s just plain laughable.

Jack, all the credit goes to Obama. Isn’t it great to finally see a presidential candidate who can kindle the voters’ imagination.

It says that you are in a fantasy world even asking such a question. By November, voters will be so sick of the whole thing (which started a YEAR ago!) that it might be the lowest turnout on record.

If the choice is indeed between McCain and Obama many millions wil not vote for president at all, myself included (for the first time since I first voted in 1972). Why would anyone want either of them? The economy will likely be THE issue in November, and neither of them has exactly demonstrated any authority in that subject. Hillary as president would have the benefit of advice from her husband, who presided over an outstanding economic recovery in the 90s, but, oh no, we musn’t have her - the media have told us to not even think about that!

It’s very simple : it means the other 20% are the ones who agree with George Bush’s current administration.

Every election IS important! This election is more important than most because our entire way of life is at stake. Economy faltering, homes being lost, war being waged, porous borders, jobs going overseas, education, and health care costs JUST to name a few. If the next 4 years do not put us “back on the path” it may be time to throw all of D.C. out of office and START OVER!

Jack, This country is so hungry for change I expect the turn out to set a record which will last for decades. The politics of personal destruction and partisan politics need to end right now…whether you’re a Democrat or Republican it does not matter…The American people are going to change things in Nov.08.

God Bless America…Change you can believe in!

Chicopee, Mass.

Isn’t going to happen. If Obama’s NOT the nominee, all those voters who are his fans will stay home. If he IS, they’ll be the presumption that he’s going to win big anyway, and voters in places like Florida will be upset.

This is the greatest primary contest in my long lifetime, based as much on race and gender considerations as anything else. The general election will be anothe exercise in apathy.

Jack,
Isn’t it wonderful that his could happen!! 80% would go down in
history.
It tells me that voters are listening, concerned and scared.
Our country is in a terrible mess in every aspect. People are
worried about their childrens, grandchildrens, great
grandchildrens survival of the burdens that have been placed
on their shoulders, ie, national debt, the economy, skyrocketing
costs for health care, education etc and world unrest.
It tells me voters realize how important their vote is for
change.
Thank You for giving the viewers the opportunities to comment.
katie

It says quite clearly that the American voters want change in the way the United States is being goverened. I hope that all of the states will be able to handle the increase by November.

It means they want to celebrate W’s departure. After being ignored for seven years, they think they finally have a say in their future.

Jack, If this Country has 80% turn out in Nov. It says, people are wanting CHANGE—–CHANGE– and it would be great and OBAMA will get in HILLERY does not repersent Change at all, she will not bring our TROOPS home! She has never been poor like OBAMA ! McCAIN also has never had to want for material things growing up, I give him get courage for what he went thur, but he was not alone, others survived also, Thank God!
I think the Dems. are already in dire trouble with not letting Fl. and Michigan vote as when I went to vote in Jan. I was turned away and told ”IF YOU ARE VOTEING DEM., YOU CAN VOTE AT THIS TIME!” I was quite angry, but the DEM. made this rule so they are to blame!
barb from FLORIDA!

Jack:

Where are the other 20%? Shame on the 20% for not getting involved, especially inlight of the current issues occuring and facing our nation.

There is no excuse not to vote this November and there are two many important issues; the war, health care, education, and our global image, which has been tarnished by George Bush.

Maybe it means the American people are coming to the realization that if you don’t vote you have no right to complain about the outcome.

It is not just our right or priviledge, it is our obligation as citizens.

Jack

Silly you, 100 Million votes won’t count because 528 Electoral Voters,
who nobody knows, will elect a new President.

Jerry
Roselle, Illinois

It merely proves that W need not worry further about what his legacy will be….. He has surely driven American voters to re-engage and Barack hasn’t hurt that effort either..

BARACK ON!!

Does it matter whether you have 1 fool on your side or 5000?Isn’t this the same electorate that voted for Bush twice?What makes you think they are any smarter to evaluate the current candidates?

Jack the old saying goes you’ve got no right to***complain if you didn’t vote. After eight years of incompetance and dishonesty and arrogance at the hands of George cheney and Dick bush er ah well you know who I mean, The voters in this country are ready to post their complaint at the ballot box and reserve their right to complain about the next administration too. If there is a legacy for this evil bunch to grasp ahold of it’s that the citizens of this country are paying attention now and as the rock band “the who” put it so eloquently. WE WON’T BE FOOLED AGAIN!

It tells me that, through all the bickering and backstabbing among the candidates, the democratic process is actually working. For the first time in my lifetime, everyone is tuned into the process, good or bad.
If that’s not democracy, then I don’t know what is.

Jack it means the Republican have got us into war which there is no end. They have over a period four administration broke the country. It start with deregulation beginning with Regan, Regan said he cut taxes that a joke he revised the tax code and actual raised Taxes. But he was a big spender like Bush under Regan we went from owing no foreign country’s to a debt er nation. Next came Herbert Walker Bush he increased the homeless in our nation. Then came George W. Bush he help make all of us homeless.

It says that 4000 dead, $4 gas, and losing your house in a bad loan still isn’t enough to get at least 20% of our population out to vote.

Unfortunately, it wouldn’t mean that America is voting for change, because a good half of us will still vote to protect the incumbent party, and only the other half will really want change. So once again we will be at odds against one another, and only because this administration has succeeded in polarizing this country like never before. We’ll just have to wait and see the outcome of the election to know what 80% turnout really means.

This election is no more important than those in the past! Still antiquated voting machine dominate most ,or all precincts (Was/Were a problem in 2000,Now/Still a problem in 2008!) in the country? Don’t mean to sound cynnical, but 80% voter turnout when “Pig’s Fly”, and if you bag one ,cut off an ear for me! Sincerly the Neo-Dem?

To me it means that the great majority of “we the people,” are not happy with the machinations of either Bush or the NeoCons. We the people want our country back. We do not want any one borrowing from the Chinese. We the people do not want a national debt that makes us the largest debtor nation in the world. We the people do not want to pay billions to rebuild the worlds finest military and its equipment. Folks, I’ve learned my lesson! If you do not vote then you get the government you deserve.

That would be fantastic. It means a lot of young people were motivated to go out and vote. There is no way 80% voter turnout will happen without the young person’s vote. God Bless Our Future!!

It means, 80% of those states does not agree with Bush and Cheney and want change.

I think it would suggest that the American population is finally fed up with the present Government. Don’t you think that is a pretty good indication Jack??

An 80% turnout would mean, people are beginning to pay attention to Politics.
People also needs to pay attention to AIPAC and JINSA.

James in North Carolina

It means the American people want their country back and we will vote to take it back from the Washington Bozos.

It tells me that Americans have awaken from their apathy! They are now seeing an exciting candidate in Barack Obama and they want to be part of the action!

Jack I think is says that people don’t want 4 more years of a Republican President. It also shows how well Obama’s campaign has done to unite people and getting them to register to vote.

I think it points to two factors: First, people realize how much the country has declined and are clamoring for an opportunity to take part in setting things right. Second, there is a single candidate who is bringing out scores of voters who previously had no interest in the process or considered it a case of voting for the lesser of two evils. Give people a bad current president and the opportunity to vote for the type of candidate that only comes along once in a few generations and the result is record voter turnout.

People have seen the price of being apathetic about government. The question remains whether they will throw their support behind the candidate they beleive in, or one who is simply “electable”.

It says John McBush is “toast.”

That the American people filly realize that are government is not a democracy but a republic and you need to elect good men to represent not only your district in both the state and federal level but lead the nation.

Howard
Joshua Tree

It says a lot of people without jobs have nothing better to do then vote. Look, there is no magic bullet to kill these evil problems hurting the economy nor is there any quick solution to the war. These candidates can claim change and hope and anything else they want to claim. It won’t change much and not anytime soon. The government is not the answer to peoples problems. People need to curb bad habits and start thinking smarter. We are a wasteful society and we spend more then we have on the hopes we can pay for it. The high gasoline prices are more then an omen of things to come. As the world population grows the demand for oil grows with it. That drives prices up. If we do not change our habits and modify our behavior ourselves we will continue to get poorer. Anything the government does will be with OUR tax dollars not theirs. There is no quick fix and anyone that thinks there is only needs to look in a mirror to see what a fool looks like.

The energizing of this election was purely Obama’s doing. There was once, a zillion Republicans running, and a zillion Democrats running. Obama wasn’t even on the radar. Obama really did rise out of the crowd, like a rockstar. Doesn’t matter if people see that as good or bad, it is what it is.

At this point it should be Obama vs McCain, if not for Clinton’s stubborness. Obama continues to register new voters. Clinton is doing the same, only because she knows she needs to keep up with Obama. But if it wasn’t for him, she wouldn’t be doing it.

It means absolutely nothing if every person in America votes because so many of them are either un- or il- informed. As long as people go to the polls with the intent to vote for someone based on their color, personality, looks, what they heard from some media personality, or any other reason than the issues it won’t matter. Only an educated, well-informed electorate that understands the issues and researches candidates solutions will make a difference. Persons can be intelligent, but people are generally sheep and are willing to follow pipers like you and Rush right off the cliff.

Jack,

It says that when it the enconomy is this bad and your friends, family and company feel the pain deeply, Americans will wait hours for CHANGE!

What does it say about the importance of this election if voter turnout in November could be as high as 80% in some states?

It says that people want to be “the people, in we the people” and not be led by some special interest, but be represented by those we elect.

Smaller Federal Government!
More control by states!
Less interference by Feds and taxation!
More focus on local projects!
Think globally vote locally!
Elect people who represent us!
Remove from office people that represent special interests!

It means the registrars everywhere better have enough ballots ready. No excuses. In spite of the fact that the media reported record voter turn out everywhere else, when it came to the Virginia primary, a handful of registrars didn’t pay attention and didn’t have enough ballots. Many citizens were denied the right to vote or had their votes tossed out because their votes were written on scrap paper. The winds of change are blowing hot and angry this election season. Better to have extra, unused ballots post election than to go backwards to the days when a select few denied many their rights to vote.

Unfortunately, it still says that 1-in-5 would be voters aren’t paying attention. We see how important an demoracy is when people proudly hold up an ink-stained finger or, as in South Africa, stand in line for days to vote. To the 20% who wouldn’t be voting, please quit b*%#(ing about the problem when you aren’t willing to be part of the solution.
Frank
Connellsville, PA

It says that Americans are tired of forclosure housing problems, weak economic problems, insane gas prices, and a war that the republicans would like to wage for the next 50 to 100 years in Iraq. Plain and simple Americans want a change in the way our government functions, Americans want their country back, because it seems the only way we are going to correct these problems is to do it ourselves with the people we put in office.

I worked for a time taking political surveys over the phone. The girl sitting next to me said: “We shouldn’t be asking these people these questions. They don’t have a clue!”
I said: “Right. And these are the same people that are going into that booth to vote.”
Her jaw dropped and she said: “Oh my God! We’re in trouble!”
I just smiled and nodded.
I see nothing different eight years later.

It tells me that Obama has tapped into the psyche of the electorate. But the enthusiasm we see today, could easily shift into malaise and cynicism if the current campaign continues down this path of personal destruction. The scorched earth, kitchen sink strategy may have consequences it never intended!

Michelle
KY

Jack
There are so many issues that George Bush has created that need to be resolved the voters are more involved now more than ever before they want to make sure the right person gets the big chair so we can get away from being called a third world nation.

It will take very little for certain tough talking, supposed champions of civil rights and democracy to boycott the Beijing Olympics. Doing so will be much easier for politicians than actually achieving something difficult and positive like standing up to the global corporate fascists, ending America’s neo-imperialistic attempts to conquer the Middle East, or stopping Clinton and Obama from destroying the Democratic Party with all of their childish, dirty innuendos and other slime ball Republican tactics.

If voter turnout in November get as high as 80% in some states, it will speak loud and clear that we have a democracy! That is, if it is not corrupted by the Rush Limbaugh’s of the world. I heard that over 14,000 voters are under investigation for voter fraud because they decided to corrupt our election system by voting on both sides, which was suggested by Rush Limbaugh. I hope Rush is thrown in jail for voter fraud himself for his contempt of our country. And he has the nerve to call himself a patriot.

Finally there’s a candidate who actually understands that our greatest and most valuable natural resource is our young and he’s engaged them the way no other has. No one speaks about Barack Obama’s young people’s grass roots campaign. It’s phoenominal. I, for one, would love to see a woman president. It is my hope that she’s out there stomping for Obama paving the way for her time. Right now, it’s his. I’d hate to see our young people and their energy disposed of because of closed minds, hatefulness, and the mean-spiritedness of women voters unwilling to wait for a female Barack. Give our youth the chance to organize their future. Isn’t that our greatest hope?

I think it means those twenty-something Republicans on the Hill who are not seeking re-election or are retiring this year will be replaced with Democrats along with more that will be retired involuntarily. Of course we will always have a few Trent Lott’s and John Boehners to remind us of the Republican immorality called family values and Republican corruption.called good business practices. The Bushites have dug the Republican Party’s grave in all three branches so “good riddance”.

Hey Jack I live in Arizona ! Actually I will be one of the people in the statistics of young voters being that I turn 18 in May. It is good to see that people are actually voting for once and my home state is one of those places people are voting in. It is obvious why people are voting. This is the most interesting election in years. The candidates in the 2008 election are the ones people actually want to see as President. Also I am not suprised that there are more voters coming out of Arizona being that John McCain is our hometown man.

Dan
Goodyear, Arizona

This is what it looks like from the outside. The problem now is that people are listenig, but too many seem to be listening to the wrong things. Now we see have everyone making this electon about race, lies and deception. Name calling and bickering over things that have no relation to the real issues, is now the center of America’s attention. What people should be trying to figure out is who will be the best person to repair the seemingly insurmountable damages left by the Bush administration. Are people looking to just change the name of the president and stick to the same old politics, or are they trying to make their votes count in making an absolute change in Washington? Unless people wake up and face reality and leave politics to politicians and start focusing on the issues, then we will be talking about the same things come next election. Remember we are now living in a global community and we have to realize that no nation can stand on its own. America needs a leader who will approach foreign policy with a new perspective rather than the old way of trying to bully everyone else. Obama is that person and its now or never people. WAKE UP!!!!

Jack to quote a famous movie line: ‘I’M AS MAD AS HELL, AND I’M NOT GOING TO TAKE THIS ANYMORE!’ I want you to get up right now, sit up, go to your windows, open them and stick your head out and yell - ‘I’m as mad as hell and I’m not going to take this anymore!’ Things have got to change. But first, you’ve gotta get mad!… You’ve got to say, ‘I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!’ Then we’ll figure out what to do about the depression and the inflation and the oil crisis. But first get up out of your chairs, open the window, stick your head out, and yell, and say it:” That’s what the high voter turn out says.

All ears? The problem is they dont seem to be collectively connected to the “Brain”. We seem to be listening…but we do not seem to be learning. That Rev Wright thing is a perfect example. This kind of rhetoric should be sending chills thru the Black community… not endorsements. What type of seminary schools do these pastors attend ? It sure aint Presbyterian! What are those Musilim schools called that preach hate? Tell me whats the difference.

It says that we the people are tired of the do nothing congress that holds silly hearings about baseball while gas prices surge into the realm of unaffordable. We the people are fed up with the bickering and one upmanship that have led to political gridlock. We the people are furious about our lives and liberties being treated with contempt by a bumbling and possibly psychotic president. We the people intend to make sure this ends as soon as possible by reminding the yahoos in D.C. that we the people are the ones who put these people in office and we the people can make them go away.

The huge turnouts are indicative of how bad things are for average Americans. We are hurting, and we know things can not keep on going as they are.

I just wish we had a free and impartial media that wasn’t bought and paid for by corporate America, that would give voters the facts without twisting them to suit their own purposes.

It is hard to determine the motivation for the huge registration and potential turnout.

Part of me wishes to say that americans are wanting to take back their country and restore it to it’s previous glory.

But, after reading the comments on this board, it would appear that a lot of people want to have somebody to blame for their financial predicament and/or want someone else to bail them out of a jam they created for themselves.

I always heard that acknowleding the problem was 50% of getting it fixed. Evidently, we as a nation are NOT half way there, yet, as we still think it is “someone elses fault”!

Let the Canadians vote and you would have an even higher turnout!!

Dear Jack,

What is important is that a high turnout rate means that more people believe in the democratic process and hope to change who is in charge of their government. There is too much bickering in local, state, and federal politics over trivial issues while the major topics that affect EVERYONE aren’t spoken of and sidelined until the next election cycle comes around.

I just hope people will pay attention to their local, state, and federal candidates, and that voters not vote against the person they hate the most, but for the person they think is best suited for the job.

-Griffin
SA, TX

Jack,

The single cause of the increase in voter turnout is George W. Bush. Finally Bush has managed to deliver on his promise of being the great uniter. He has united the country against him and his policies and that will result in a massive increase in voter turnout this November.

it means that people are sick of the corruption and want the “CONSTITUTION” restored as the key stone to the republic!

Jack, it’s more than the war or the economy. For the first time in history Americans (other than white males) see themselves in the candidates. Those who led the Women’s movement in the 60s and 70s see Hilary as the culmination of their efforts; Obama’s presidency would profoundly change our perception of race in this country. And just when you hear the National Anthem being hummed in the background, let us not forget that the most corrupt administration in out collective lifetime has taught us all theimportance of just one vote!

I expect some may even rise from the grave to vote in this election.

Fianally, people are waking up to the reality that if we don’t get involved we will enjoy another four years of an ill fated war and more tax cuts to the rich let alone Social Security in the pit. It would be wonderful. It has been my privlege to vote in 9 Presidential elections and this may the most important one of all. I hope all people start taking it seriously.

Good God almighty! We finally have something we can praise George Bush for - eliminating voter apathy and creating the largest voter turnout on record. Everyone wins — including poor Georgie, who finally gets something for his “legacy!”

Jack, The huge turnout youv’e seen by Democrats, 2 to 1 compared to the Republicans, has been the result of Americans wanting a change from the arrogance and contempt of the Bush Administration. Now that Hilary and Obama are on a collision course that could destroy the Democratic Party, Al Gore may be the country’s only hope.

Robert
Forest, Virginia

Jack I think it means that the American public will accept an inept leader, a damaged foreign image, an illegal war, and a dis-functional government for eight years BUT, money out of the average citizens’ pockets along with the inability to drive their “dream” down to the local Wal-Mart tells John Q. Public that something might be wrong.

I hope that 80% percent of us make the right choice. It was embarrassing enough that half of us in 2004 voted for Bush making us the laughingstock of the world press. You can’t fool all of the people all of the time!

It would mean an awful lot of people are really sorry they voted for Bush.

We would finally know where all the outrage is!

BJ Smith in Seminole

It means that we are a civilized country and we will use our votes instead of pitchforks and torches. The arrogant self-serving reign of King Louis XVI ended at the guillotine. The arrogant self-serving reign of King George II will end on CNN at about 8 PM on the first Tuesday in November.

It says to me, that citizens are tired of the contest being over before it is really over. It says to me that the record number of voters turning out in the later primaries means that citizens FINALLY feel that their vote will be significant, instead of letting the EARLY primaries make the decission and then the rest of the contests being expected to RUBBER STAMP that decission. It says to me that we despirately need ELECTION reform in our country so that their are not cases of disenfranchisement, like FLORIDA and MICHIGAN. It says to me, Jack, that the media should STOP attempting to influence, control, or determine the results of ANY election before it is COMPLETED.

Hey Jack,
If Rambo steals this nomination from Obama it will be a record turnout in 08! Unfortunately Mr. Bomb Iran will reap the rewards!
It would be a real shame if the Clinton’s ego would cost the dem’s the election just so she could try again in 2012.

Ray,Florida

Jack, I hope it means the voters are really listening and will vote for change. I’ve voted in every election since I was twenty-one and I’m sixty-three now, I’ve always wondered why people didn’t exercise this right. Lack of voter turn-out has given us George Bush and yes even Bill Clinton. It wold be refreshing to see the next President elected by the real will of the people or at least more of them than have voted in the last few elections.

Jack, it means tha th voters want to have their say in booting out our current administration and replacing it with one that listens to us.

It says that this could be the most important election of our lives, and only being 17, I wont get to vote in it…kinda bums me out..

Obama 08?

as if I counted…

If by “all ears” you mean for Obama, then yeah, count me in!

Boise, Idaho

This is just something that you media types have thought up to fill your time. The American people don’t think or care about anything except themselves and American Idol.

It shows that we are taking our country back! Everyone is so fed up with the Bush adminiistration that people have decided that enough is enough. This is the only good thing that Bush has accomplished in his 8 sorry years. This will be his big contribution to the history books!

Jack, it means that the voters want to have their say in booting out our current administration which ignores our needs at home while miring us in unnecessary wars overseas, and replacing it with one that listens to and acts on what is truly important right here.

bush/cheney, made me give up all hope. Barak, has given me hope again. billary and mcush scare me as two who would keep the same old same old. I say that 80% is not unreasonable. 60% percent will want change while the other twenty percent will want the same old same old of billary and mcbush.

Jack,
It means the people of this country want a Government of the people and BY THE PEOPLE, NOT A FEW JUDGES…

C.I., New York

dear Jack: it says the american people have had enough and they are in revolutionary mode. better watch out Jack, the media will probably be next. the american press dropped the ball covering the iraq war and the events leading up to it. people haven’t forgotten and they feel as betrayed by their so-called free press as they do by their president.

sandra
edmonton,alberta

I will be a great day when voting hits 80%…but we still have 8 months to screw it up.

I SAY ITS ABOUT TIME!!! Think of all we, as a country, could have avoided and accomplished in the last 8 years if the country wasn’t a bunch of sleepwalkers and complainers! Its time to make the election process actually be about the collective voices of the people. If enough of us speak now and refuse to sleep on decisions being made without our input, there won’t be a Florida (2000) or Ohio (2004) to complain about!

Marrissa
Burlington, NC

Uncle Sam wants you! That was the slogan in WWI and WWII. Now we are in a war bigger than the big one. This war is our survival as a Nation, a Super Power. Yes the alarm has sounded and Americans are becoming a nation of voters. They are ready to take back their country from those who are doing us harm either out of ignorance, arrogance, or some other form of “ance”.

It mostly means that people are worried. Who wins the election does not change the fact that we are ten trillion in debt, spend a trillion a year in deficit, have an ongoing war with the wrong enemy, have a weakened defense posture, have a huge number of people about to qualify for entitlements, have a broken economy, no energy policy, a fractured government and a tanking currency destined to inflate to cover upcoming obligations. Who wins may influence the wisdom with which these problems are confronted, but we will confront them one way or the other, no matter who gets bragging rights to the office.

It means that people realize what a bad President or a bad Vice President with a “So What” attitude can do. For the first time, people are realizing the importance of their vote. It will take years to overcome the bad effects of the Bush Presidency. The next President will have to be very good at “Change”.

Jack,
It means that people are finally waking up and realizing they were hoodwinked with all the things Bush has done and now know they had the wool pulled over their eyes.

It means we finally found something that Bush can do right: motivate Americans to vote and vote carefully.

Despite what the polls may say right now, it just illustrates how sick this country is of Republicans, especially George Bush and Dick Cheney. They have just about ruined this country and many young lives have been lost or changed forever because of their Iraq War disaster. They stole the Election of 2000 and have lied to and cheated the American people for almost 8 years now. I look forward to the day when they are history. I was especially appalled at Cheney’s sarcastic and uncaring comments in his interview with ABC News–he obviously doesn’t care what Americans think and doesn’t appreciate the sacrifice of our troops.

Voter turnout may be much lower than you think, Jack. Florida and Michigan Democrats may boycott the election if there is no resolution of their delegates. If Clinton keeps poisoning the water or Obama has more cooks in the closet many would-be voters will be turned off. There may already be factions that are so against either candidate that they won’t vote or may vote for McCain instead. And then there are the McCain supporters who may have “senior moments” and forget about the election all together.

It means Obama is turning out the people who are sick of the Clintons and want a change.

Jack: As a construction worker out of work i decided to apply for an opening as a brain surgeon but on the first schelduled surgery the attending surgeon figured out my resume was inacurate needless to say i lost my higher paying job which icant understand as i told them that i had only misspoke about my credentials they called it a lie. I dont understand misspoke/lied which is it .Americans with 5th grade education know an outright lie vs a mispoken statement especially when it is repeated on several occasions. The only thing the democrats have to do in november is put anyone on the ballot as the republican party doesn”thave any hope at least untill the next generation turns 18 and can vote. The name BUSH will leave a bad taste in in everyone on this planets mouth for years to come.

That’s a good question Jack. I know I am one of those Americans. I am 44 and have never voted in my entire life, or even registered. I know that is considered ignorant but I grew up in a very political family with congresswomen and lawyers. I chose engineering and a more finite science. Politics has nothing to do with science. But things change as one gets older. For instance, I don’t have a job for the first time in my life. My house is in foreclosure. I know people who can’t afford groceries because of gas prices. So for the first time in my life I will vote. Not because I am not cozy in my perfect life, but because I think besides this election being historic. There happens to be one candidate who has the ability to inspire and encourage. Although I have never voted I love history and I have read so many things about our countries great presidents. Most of these men died before I was born in 1963 but I have always thought someday there would be another. That time is now. So I choose to vote.

John

Jack, of course this is going to be an important election. We’re going to vote on if we like how things are or if we want to change for the better. Those who like where we are will come out in droves to defend it, and those who want change will come out in droves to change it. It’s an arms race for votes, Jack, and to be honest, this is one I’m going to be glad to be a part of.

It says Obama has done a great job to open the Americans eyes. Also shows The Republicans have did a great job of making our country safe and secure.

Not much. You still do not have anybody who is a leader running. You still have a candidate more poorly qualified than George W. was. You still have George W. the III running. You still have a candidate hated and trashed by the press because of her husband’s wrongs (not hers). And you still have a bunch of 9th grade educated people doing the voting who are poorly informed, easily misled, and think their voting for class president. And you still have the Republican Party ready to swift-boat anybody in the name of power and greed. Rick, Yakima, Wa

Jack-

It shows the Republicans days in control are numbered, as long as the Democrats can be organized.

Wait, can the Democratic party be organized?

jack
this would be great for the Dem,but just wont work because they will lose if Hillary is on top at the end the hispanic and black community would stay home,after the way they have run their camp and after talking bad about Richardson.

It means that those who have been sitting out the last few elections regret not voting for Gore in 2000 or Kerry in 2004. It also means that people are finally seeing the importance of political voice.

It means that finally enough of us have had our cages rattled loud enough to be afraid of what might happen if we remain as complacent as we have been for the last couple of decades.

It means that Obama should be proud that he got the young people of age to vote involved. It goes to show that he is ready to lead on day one. That’s more than Billary can say!!!!

It obviously means it takes a total collapse in every way shape and form for America to realize that politics aren’t simply something that snobby, self-important, self-proclaimed intellectuals — THEY ACTUALLY MATTER. Politics isn’t a hobby, it’s how the government affects all of our lives. Unfortunately, things had to get this bad before people woke up, and if the next administration does a good job, chances are, sadly, America will stop paying attention again. But for now, one thing it means for certain is that the Republicans are in trouble! We want change!

Jack, I would love to say it is the immense amount of interest provoked by you and your colleagues, or maybe the charisma of Barack, the ultra feminine charm of Hillary. Hang on…I know…could it be that people are fed up to the back teeth with good old George? Is it true, as I was told by a wise old man, that Mr Bush junior has the worst rating in popularity of any recent President? And, is it true on the other hand, that there are some people who like him so much that they may vote for somebody who wants to retain some of his failed policies and grind the country deeper into the ground?
What fun is politics, YUCK! Yours, in confusion.

Everyone needs to fully open their eyes and vote for a person with desire and experience to lead our nation. I believe the vast interest in this election is due to the horrible past seven years that we have had under George Bush! It takes a Clinton to clean up after a Bush. Hillary Clinton will be a that leader!

It says that this election is very damn important.
We are fed up with egotistic, dictator-like-leaders, and a Congress that licks their boots.
This election is a virtual revolt against the past 8 years of a creeping (and creepy) fascism.

It will say that the younger generation is coming into being. Thank goodness — we need some new blood. Plus, hopefully, this generation will actually research the issues and candidates so they don’t just vote according to the party line. I fear that we have many voters who just vote whatever party they belong to at the time.

We’re as mad as hell and we aren’t going to take it anymore! I think even McCain can hear that!

It says it is super important and everyone is fed up with current policies both foreign and domestic. Another fine mess you’ve gotten into Georgy!!!

It is simple. People are sick and tired of the Bush/Cheney administration. They are tired of their “SO” mentality when it comes to the people they are supposed to represent.

It means the people are sick and tired of being ignored so they will be coming out in droves to vote for someone they think will listen to them and represent them instead of their own interests. I also hope people don’t forget that other positions will be up as well. They need to let their voices be heard at all levels and get rid of all these fat cats and send everyone a message and that message is “This is our country, we are here to take it back, get ready for the revolution for the people and by the people to take our country back!”

Jack,

It confirms what I’ve thought all along … that this election is the most important of my adult life. We finally have an opportunity to make right this generation’s history of apathy and political laziness. If we get and stay involved, we might actually leave our children a legacy on which they can build the American Dream that we were to lazy and stupid to protect from people like Bush.

Jack people are desparately in need for change from the old politics. This is 21st century a lot of things have changed. The years of Clintons are now history because twenty years is a life time people have moved away from that era.

The only suitable candidate is Sen.Obama. Gore is busy with his globe warming. Sen. Obama can bring this country to where it used to be and has the experience to be the commander in Chief. He has good judgement,smart and young.
If Obama had forged three times his experience like Sen.Clinton, this was going to be a song which was not going to end. People should see beyond the horizon that Sen. Obama will be the nominee.

It means people are beginning to care about what they’re government does again.

Jack, I hope the turnout does approach the eighty percent mark for a change. That may cause some problems for local election clerks but that is a good problem. Most Americans are not very patient, this may cause a problem after the election, due to problems caused by the Bush/Cheney team, we expect immediate gratification and it may take longer than one four year term to resolve this mess we find ourself in.

It says that people want change,Hillary and McCain as well as the rest that voted for this war should start packing.

As a child of the 60’s it saddens me to see so much apathy in the general public these days. People used to stand for causes but now they only stand for cash. Hearing Barack Obama’s inspirational speaking and seeing the voting public finally wake up and mobilize gives me some hope. Our apathy allowed this mess to take place. If we’re not part of the solution then we are part of the problem. It’s time to awaken the American Spirit. VOTE!

It would say that Americans are tired of being screwed.

Pilot Point, TX

. . . .Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton, Bush , , , ,tired old politics. . . .scandals.
. . . .negativity. . . .NAFTA , , , Bad economy . . . .. . .free ourselves. . ..CHANGE.

VOTE FOR CHANGE!!!!
Obama 08.

I hate to say it, but thanks to Obama, looks like the younger voters will be going to the polls this time. This election should be very interesting.

The country has been slowly moving to the left. Over the last few years Bush and the Republicans have screwed up just about everything. It would be nice to see the Democratic Primary Debacle end so we can start talking about the exit of George W. Bush. That is why and when the people will come out in droves.

Jack, you already answered the question: high voter turnout in November will indicate that Americans are sick and tired of the politicians who have become way too “comfortable” (read “out of control” in our Nation’s capitol. I think it also shows that America is ready for “change”.

The relatively higher percentage in turnout is indicatively nigher agiotage in burnout. The importance of the elections is unrepresentative of the supportance of the sections. Elections importance usually has an unfluctuating significance. The current conditions and awareness levels are among the top direct contributors to the increase in turnout.

Jack, Doesn’t say much If they vote for Obama. If Obama wins the Hillary supporters will vote for McCain or not vote at all. The voters in Florida & Michigan might also vote for McCain or not vote because thier vote didn’t count in the primary election.

It says volumns about how scared the American voters are about a third term for the Republicans. And don’t forget Obama Mania. The American voter wants to be inspired and impressed with our leaders, instead of the constant stream of lies and failings of Bush/Cheney, which causes most people to turn off the TV when one of them speaks. Make no mistake about it. If Obama wasn’t in this race, we would never have had the record turn out.

Jack your question is one that I’m sure many Americans can answer quickly! WE NEED NEW LEADERS IN OUR GOVERNMENT! Not just a new President and Vice-President we need to literally clean house!
Americans are sick to death of elected officials that no one can trust. You can tell that most of them do not represent the very people that elected them.

I pray for 90% turn out for voting in this coming Presidential Election! Perhaps if we had better choices in this election this country could be turned around.

Jack,
It means that the truth may start to matter again. It means Clinton’s use of the Rove playbook and republican political strategy will eventually be her undoing. People are sick and tired of the idea that saying something enough times gives it merit. Unless of course all of those new voters are coming to support four more years of the current administration because they are doing such a great job. I somehow doubt that is the case.
Dion Gibson
Waynesville N.C.

Desperate times call for desperate measures, namely votin’. Th record turnout is partly due to Obama’s mobilizing and exciting message, and partly because people are fed up with the policies and incompetency of the Bush administration. One would think that would allow the democrats to win by a landslide, but somehow McCain seems to be splitting votes evenly with Obama and Hillary.

The importance of or interest in the upcoming presidential election reflects the dire straits our country’s leadership (since Carter administration) has gotten us into.

Some examples are:

Gas shortages and lines during the Carter admin - Carter stressed the importance of getting off dependence on foreign oil. Result - Detroit started building SUVs, huge pickup trucks, and Hummers. Wonder what the records would show regarding personal automobile purchases by members of Congress (or their family members). Bet every family has or had a large SUV. Guess they never expected China and India to start driving to work.

Bad trade agreements/business deals - Donald Trump says he has people who can make better deals (per interview at PGA Tour Puerto Rican Open). Wonder what import requirements a US auto manufacturer has to follow to sell cars in Japan (or China)?

Legacy of Vietnam - current admin lived through it but didn’t learn the lesson? Bad intelligence, exit strategy, etc.. When will the United States learn that sometimes people need to fight (and some may die) for their democracy instead of waiting for U.S. soldiers to obtain and hold it for them. What’s basic training in the military - 8 weeks? For such a violent land, they sure take a long time getting up to speed.

It goes on and on.