Jack, I like Barack Obama more and more as time has gone by. I used to be a big fan of President Clinton but not that much any more. The Clintons have gone a long way in possibly causing the Democrats to lose the election in November by the dragging on of the primary season and they have told some outright lies. I just hope Barack can pull it out and soon!

Considering Senator Clinton’s latest remarks on Fox: “Rich People, God Bless Us.” and the video circulating of her campaign adviser calling the people of Indiana S***, I am fairly certain that I will not be voting for her in November should she steal the nomination.

No, my perception hasn’t changed. Clinton is still as deceptive as ever and Obama is a man on a mission.

Jack,
I don’t believe it has. I still don’t like Hillary any better than I did. I still won’t vote for her. I’d rather vote for Mickey Mouse than her. I could vote for Barack if he was the Democrats choice but if Hillary is I would have to buck up and vote for McCain which I do not want to do.
All this hype about Pastor Wright is stupid. Why doesn’t the media dig into Hillary’s past and inform the public of the relationship between the Clinton’s and Pastor Wright. Also, the finance fraud case in California that both Clinton’s are involved in. It seem as though Hillary is off limits but Barack isn’t– Why is that? Your buddy Wolf never says anything against Hillary — is it because he was working in the White House when Billy boy was President. He isn’t being unbiased as he should be so I quite watching the show.
Liz Western NY

Jack, for me, Obama has morphed from a motivational speaker to an ambitious politician who keeps very worrisome company

Not really. I find Obama as a real person with conviction.Hillary’s behavior in this entire campaign only reinforced my perception of her as that of a little girl who’ll insist on getting what she wants,irregardless of the everything else.Goldilocks isn’t the perfect adjective that I would describe her but I digress.McCain on the other hand, only consistently shows that he’s your typical Grumpy Old Man with a Stepford wife on the side.Both he and Hillary are typical polticians.

yes jack it has. at first i thought barack obama was just unqualified for the job. now however, i believe he is potentially dangerous. lack of experience, nasty secrets popping out all over, and a determination to buy the election add up to bad news for the american people. i would pick clinton or mccain over this junior senator any day.

Hillary - I didn’t like her from the start and even less now. She CANNOT be trusted. Not now, not ever.

Obama - Offered hope and change and I still beleive in him. I just don’t know how much everyone else does. If he can do what I think he is telling me he wantsto we could actually change how Washington works.

McCain - He is confusing. I think he could be all right. His message is more in touch with reality, than the others promise are but people love promises and don’t want to hear about reality.

Paul - ? Is he still here?

Gore I don’t care how great you think he would be… He is not running, period

Yes, my perception has changed. I’m more nauseous than ever now.

The canidates haven’t changed as much as the media has. On that note I want to suggest that Jack Cafferty get his own hour show. These daily questions are far more interesting and entertaining than 3 hours of Wolf.
I am getting tired of Lou Dobbs complaining about everything in government over and over every day the same while hiding behind his “independent” party. Get us an independent canidate and change the government Lou, or stop your bellyaching.

Jack,

I was a McCain supporter in 2000 but his straight talk has turned into the same old pandering political nonsense that frustrates me as an American. I never liked Clinton much but I have grown to loath her more than any politician I’ve ever loathed (including king George which is saying something). I had my doubts about Obama but was hopeful that he was going to be the real deal. He has turned my hopes for him into a real hope for the future of this country - a hope I haven’t had since Bobby Kennedy was assasinated. I believe Obama is the ONLY hope for any POSITIVE change in the way Washington governs. Also, while it shouldn’t make a difference, I am a white, middle aged, middle class white man. Sadly it seems to be of some importance to those of you in the media.

Yes Jack my preception has changed. I used to like both Hillary and Obama, but now I the more I learn about HIllary and her strenght and stance on the issues the more I like her. The more I learn about Obama the less I like and/or trust the guy. I didn’t know him at first and he gave a good speech, but now that I know him better I really hope he doesn’t get the nomination. I hope the rest of the democrates can see past a good speech, and vote for the BEST candatate, which is Hillary.

Changed greatly! I used to respect and support Hillary, but now I despise her and support Obama. Also, before this election I would’ve never guessed that I would agree with a Republican, but I feel Ron Paul is the best presidential candidate right now… unfortunately he has no chance of winning.

John from CA

My perceptions have not changed but were reinforced. Mc Cain is Bush light… but not as light as I thought. He is now Bush junior. Hillary proved that she will say anything to get elected, and Obama has proven to be a real leader

I gain more respect for Barack Obama every day because he is not into mud slinging.

Yes my perceotion has changed
The more I listen and watch Obama, the more I know he is the Man of the hour, God’s choice, not because he’s perfect,be because he is willing and humbling he follows his heart.(intergity)

McCain the more i see him the sicker I get, too old, boring, the worst at speeches, and he is a criminal.(Keating 5)(no intergity)and a wife that’s a recovering addict, not a good mix.

Hillary. I 1st thought a women would be great, but she’s a lair, and to cut-throat.she’s willing to take a man down at any coast.(no intergity)

The more we learn what Obama is about, the more he is becomming a flawed candidate. He has no chance in November. He criticized the tax break on gas, but has no answers of his own. And to the Obams supporters, Clinton is not going to steal the nomination, Obama is going to loose it. Clinton is the stronger of the two, and after next Tuesday, the super delegates will be moving her way. The Wright ing is on the wall, and the far left liberal news pundints are going to look even more foolish than they already look now.

I never liked any of these candidates as much as I like John Edwards. All that has really changed is how MUCH I dislike them!

My opinion of Obama was that he was too young and inexperienced but it has changed. His inspirational speeches and fresh approach have made me a believer. Hillary has gone in the other direction. She has become a mean spirited shrew. She sounds more like Karl Rove than Karl Rove.

Absolutely, Senator Obama cannot even keep his own 20 year relationship with his pastor together why should we believe he can bring America together?

Jack,

Over time, I have observed and listened to these three:

McCain - The questionis moot. No more of the GOP and this economy digging deeper into my very shallow pockets.

Hillary - I had my doubts about her and I have watched the video circulating on youtube. All I could do after that was ‘clutch my pearls’. But I’m sure they were mispeaking as well. That seems common in the Clinton camp.

Obama - He is very impressive and appears to be on the right (that’s right with an r and not a wr) track. Let’s HOPE he can CHANGE things in this country. He started off a little relaxed, but after taking a few blows, I see him standing strong.

My admiration for Senator Obama has increased and my reservations about Senator Clinton has deepened. At times, Barack Obama seems to struggle to find words to express himself and at times he speaks very eloquently. Hillary Clinton, on the other hand seems like a very calculating individual who uses deception to achieve what she wants. I trust her less and less. I also have more respect for John McCain although I disagree with his position on many issues. He tells us of his positions without regard to polls and appears like the “straight shooter” he says he is.

When the campaign started I was for Hillary. I have always had great respect for Bill Clinton. My daughter talked to me and told me I should listen to Sen. Obama and then make up my mind. I did and I new after listening to him he was just what this country needs. Young, honest, Smart, and able to make the RIGHT call on tough decisions. I have never got involved in a presidential campaign before but I am this time this is the first campaign I have ever donated to. Sen. Obama gives me such hope not just for me but for the two little grandsons I hold so dear.

Jack,

At the onset of this race, I was a staunch supporter of the Clintons. However, after seen so many different faces of Hillary Clinton, I had no choice but to switch to the Obama camp. It became clear to me that the Clintons would do anything to win this contest including rapturing the vein of the democratic party. In addition, I found it appalling when Bill Clinton subliminally introduced race into the campaign in an attempt to swaye white voters looking for a reason to vote against Obama.

My perception of Hillary has changed dramatically. I used to admire her for sticking with her husband through thick and thin, but now I think there was a method to her madness. What better asset for a politically motivated woman than a husband who is a former president?

At first I was thinking Hillary was pretty cool, then I heard more of Obama(after my primary,so I missed voting for him) I have been leaning towards the O man, till maybe 2 weeks ago.I see him in a different light now I do not think he is ready yet I think McCain will trump is hope and change theme with experience. As time has passed I have found myself being content with Hillary. One question for you though Jake..Is it even possible to be content with any politician?…

yes it has changed, but that really doesnt matter since the media has already made my decision for me, or so it seems. however, it is hard to make a fair decision since the media seems to think that Obama “walks on water” and the other canidates are thrown to the back of the pack. where’s Ross Perot when we really need him ?

Not a bit with Obama - from the beginnning I knew without a doubt that he would ruin it for us this year, that is, he would possibly get the nomination then lose the general election like Dukakis or Mondale. I knew that revelations about him and gaffes would proliferate as the campaigns dragged on, and here we are. I knew there would be skeletons in his closet like Wright, but not specifically which. Who knows what is still out there? (Not to worry: the republicans will find them!)

Hillary has impressed me the most: she is a fighter, she gives it all she has, and has withstood the unfounded and outrageous demonization that the media and others have hit her with. If she can handle that she can handle anything the republicans throw at her in the Fall. Obama has proven the opposite in that regard.

McCain is just McCain. But make no mistake, he is regarded as a war hero, and that will go a very long way among swing (Reagan Dem) voters. He will NOT be a pushover!

Jack
I was an Obama supporter but gow he looks more and more like a say-anything politician. His message of hope seems like a line right out of George Bush being a compassionate conservative who does not believe in foreign nation building. Fool me once…. and as for Hillary I have become an admirerer of her “testicular fortitude”

Reading the comments I see someone wants you to get your own show. I think that would be wonderful. I always thought a good reporter never let you know who they like and who they support. Wolf and Lou Dobbs are two old codgers, stuck in their old ways. Old politics. .What was the question? Oh yes, at the start my family was all voting for Clinton, now that she has shown us her Sybil side, we are all for Obama.

Hillary is a fighter who won’t quit,obama is arrogant and feels like he is destined to be President and McCain is old and clueless. That pretty much sums up what I feel about these three unqualified candidates. It should have been Kucinich!

My perception has changed significantly………

At first sight, I though Obama to be young and perhaps not so prepared to handle the mess in Washington. After having to withstand the tactics of the Clinton campaign and all the negative press, especially it’s obsession over Rev. Wright, I am more convinced that he is indeed a candidate of conviction and strength.

As far Sen. Clinton….. I was prepared to vote for her in the beginning should she somehow “manipulate” the superdelegates into turning over the will/voice of the people. However, since observing her shrewed, disrespectful and nasty campaign tactics, there’s no way I’d vote for her. I’d simply stay home. By the way, there are tons of Dems who feel the exact same way. God help us all!!

A year ago, I was an Edwards supporter. When he dropped out of the race, I was forced to closely examine the remaining candidates. Hillary was this amazing woman with strong convictions. Barack was the newbie, but a helluva speaker with the ability to captivate an audience. Through the primary process, I have lost so much respect for Team Clinton due to their negative campaigning and their inability to keep a lid on Bill. If they can’t control him now, what happens in the White House?

Team Obama has showed that nothing, not even Jeremiah Wright, can stop him. For a relative unknown a year ago, he has become a superstar. He’s not all talk, the man’s policy ideas have the potential to accomplish something. That’s a first!

On the Republican side, I went from admiring John McCain for his years of military and public service (eventhough I strongly disagree with almost all of his positions) to thinking he’s just another of Bush’s cronies. This guy has no backbone!

Long story short, it’s Team Obama for me. I never thought he’d be the candidate I’d be backing, but I’m proud to be a convert!

Jack, I have always thought that Bill Clinton was a lair , now I believe Mrs. Clinton is a lair also. I was not going to vote until I listened more to Obama. I believe everything the Clinton campaign has thrown at him and how he has handled it is amazing. How stupid is people to think that the holiday gas tax can be passed by Memorial Day. So this is another lie by Hillary to make Obama look bad.I am still sadden as a white person to think there are people who would not vote for a black man , who is trying to stay above the gutter that the Clinton’s operate in and would rather vote for someone who lies like Bush/Cheney, is deceptive like Bush/Cheney.
I believe if people are that stupid they get what they deserve.

Connie from Logansport,In

I live in Canada so my opinion doesn’t matter but then neither, it seems, do the voters in Michigan and Florida seem to matter . Hillary Clinton’s supporters , especially don’t seem to matter to you and they comprise at least half of the democrats who will vote in November. So why do you bother to ask ?

This will , no doubt, be filed under ‘Your comment is awaiting moderation’ as have my previous messages. Yet you continue to publish and thereby condone and encourage some of the nastiest, most negative and almost libellous messages which are the standard contribution from Obama supporters.

Sen. McCain has proven time and time again that he is either flipflopping or senile. Sen. Clinton has shown that she will stop at nothing to be Queen…UH I mean President. And Sen. Obama has shown dignity, calm, honesty and strength thru all of the kitchen appliances that have been thrown at him. He’s not looking elitest, he’s looking PRESIDENTAL.

I used to look back at the Clinton years with great fondness. After 8 years with Bush, who wouldn’t. But seeing him again campaigning for Hillary and wagging that finger, I am brought back to a time when truth was not in residence at the White House, so while I supported Hillary originally, I think that she has no problem bending the truth and my support dwindled.

I have great confidence in the truthfulness of Barack Obama and his wish to bring us all together for the common good. Rev. Wright has not changed my mind about Barack. In all the comments by the pundits, they always start with, “I don’t think for one minute that Barack feels like he does.” Well, if he doesn’t feel the way Rev. Wright feels, than what does it matter if he sat there for 20 years or 40 years? Maybe hearing the comments of Rev. Wright for all those years has made him want to bridge that gap in a positive way.

Margie
Pembroke Pines, Florida

No, I never liked John McCain or the Republicans in the beginning since they are the reason this country is in turmoil. John McCain is an tired old man that panders to right wing extremists, corporate interests, and the various war criminals and thugs in the Bush Regime. Jack, this country has suffered eight years under the incompetence of George W. Bush and his Republican thugs. Everyone is starting to wake up and realize that the Republicans don’t care about anyone but themselves. If the people of this country are wise and don’t want an repeat of the nonsense we have endured for eight years. Then they should vote Democrat and maybe this country will finally be on the right track.

Jack, I love your blogs. I read them everyday and respond to most of them, but now I have a question for you. Why is the media not hitting Hillary hard like it has been with Obama? No one is bringing up the Paul vs. Clinton trial along with the other baggage she carries. The more I read about her the more I distrust and dislike her. If Obama was the typical politician and hit her equally, he would have won the nomination long ago. The more I read about Obama the more I admire his honesty and his social responsibility. McCain only presents to me 4 more years of everything we have suffered from in the last 8 years.

Jack, My perception of McCain has not changed. He is my second choice. My perception of Obama changed about a month ago. What he had going for him was his calm presence and speeches that made it okay to ignore his lack of experience. But now that he has had some of his skeletons exposed (Rev. Wright, Rezko, Ayers, the religion and gun remarks, etc.) and it has added up in my mind, so I am very shaky on Obama. Clinton has moved up to my top choice because I pretty much know where she stands on issues and she has the necessary experience I believe to do the job. Quite frankly she is relentless, and I want that in my corner in the protection of my liberties and security.

I’m happy to say it has, Jack.

We’ve all run into our own versions of Rev Wright etal, and it’s finally HONEST to see a candidate actually DEAL with it instead of spinning it. By God Jack, I’m almost convinced Washington can be saved. Maybe we can turn our lawmakers into a government for the people instead of fleece the people.

Jack, I’m a Democrat who started last year as a Clinton supporter. I’ve come to believe that Obama is the last best hope for this nation and I’ve seen him mature into a person with the stature to provide the leadership and healing our country so desparately needs, while Hillary has morphed into a whining divisive bitch! (edit that as you see fit!)

My perception has not changed at all. I still see the Tin Man, the Scare Crow and the Cowardly Lion all looking for OZ so that they may become the Wizard. Sad part is that Dorothy and Toto got so frustrated with this trio they are now doing guest appearances on network talk shows. Oprah loves them!

Tin Man McCain
Scare Crow Clinton
Cowardly Lion Obama

Yes, my perception has changed. At one time I thought Hillary Clinton was someone I would consider as a candidate. But the more she raved and ranted and slung mud–well that went out the window. Who wants a president who is “out of control”.

Sen. Obama was new to me so I spent many hours listening to him and his approach to Washington. He is absolutely right–if the Washington politics remain the “wheel and deal” of Clinton and McCain–we are in for a rough haul.

Sen. McCain was behind in my opinion because he is another Bush in his politics but I was willing to listen. Man does he have a short fuse and that is in addition to his bad policies. Who wants someone with that kind of a temper pulling the switch for us!!!

Carol
Knoxville, TN

Jack,
I’m a McCain supporter, and my opinion of him hasn’t changed. My opinion of Hillary (Mistress of Evil) has modified some. Even though she’s wrong on most issues, she’d be at least competent. i used to think Obama was just inexperienced. i now feel that his values and judgement need to be questioned because of how he has handled, or mishandled his campaign.

My perception of McCain has lessoned as he draws closer to persons like Hagee and Bush. I like Obama’s Preacher better than Obama and I am not a black Liberation person. My respect for Hillary has grown and I believe that she would make a great leader but the Blacks have pushed her and Bill aside to promote their losing cause.

Has my perception of the candidates changed? Yes Jack, I no longer like Sen. Clinton.

No. Mrs. Clinton is still a scary and disappointing candidate. Obama still offers us hope, integrity, change and leadership. John McCain is still a true, blue Republican who is a replay of Bush. What has changed is that we have seen Clinton and Obama in challenging cicrcumstances and we’ve seen Obama accept the challenges in a n active and positive manner. And Mrs. Clinton has faced challenges that she has created by her own actions with fake tears, fake laughter and fake integrity. It looks like more and more people accept a fake rather than active response to challenges. If this trend continues, I see the US in a continuing sad state of affairs with either Clinton or McCain ineptly dealing with challenges that must be straightforwardly met.

Hi,

Sorry I didn’t say that I am a Canadian and was writing from Ontario, Canada. I am very interested in your election because I have relatives and friends who live in the US and also because what happens to you affects us and the rest of the world. Unfortunately, for several years now your reputation around the world has really been battered and it’s time for some good PR and a fresh outlook. Good Luck. Joan

At first Obama was totally unkown - which fit welll in a year ovoter disgust. Now that more is know, the bloom is gone. He may not be electable, but if he is elected - it would be a crap shoot, we have no real idea of where he is coming from..

Not at all when it comes to Obama. I saw thru him from the get go—he is an ordinary politician with the gift of eloquence. Unfortunately, our country needs a leader not a spin doctor.

Yes. Every time the Clinton campaign looked slimy I figured it was Mark Penn or one of the old school professional campaigners who were behind it and not Hillary.

Now I believe the line that it is Senator Clinton who is driving her campaign. I am not impressed, and from all of the defections of her campaign staff I have to think even hardened veterans feel disillusioned with her.

I had no perception of Clinton other than her being first lady of a very scandalous president. I remember Whitewater, her failed healthcare program, her bad reputation within the press, the infamous cookie quote, and the questionable wardrobe. There was nothing uplifting or any real accomplishments that left any positive impression. She really just did not stand out as being a great first lady. Now, all that stands out with her is her divisiveness and dirty campaign.

America should seriously ask themselves if they really want someone like her to be their leader in extremely hard times.

My perceptions haven’t changed one bit. My principles and values have not changed just becuase of some wacky pastor or bitter comments. I guess if my principles and values were flippity floppity like McCain support for tax cuts when he first said he was against them or Hillary flourishes of sniper fire or her and her husbands dubious racial comments, I guess I’d be easily swayed to vote for either of those two jokes. But I know what I believe in and so my principles and values remain intact so Obama I will continue to support!

Yes. I once found Hillary annoying but competent Democrat. Now I just think she is a Republican.

jack, with all the news coverage, I have not experienced any changes in my perceptions of the candidates; only validations of my original opinions. Obama is the only real hope we have of getting this country out of its deep hole. McCain might make minor progress in improving our countries numerous plights; but Hillary will lead us to an absolute corruption of all that we hold dear. She is a chameleon who will do/say anything to get what she wants. Obama offers an opportunity of hope that has not been seen in the USA for a long time. Electing Hillary as a representative of Truth, Justice, and the American Way of Life would be similar to appointing Al Capone as head of the Federal Reserve Bank. Go Barrack!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Absolutely! Start with McCain, I thought he was one-dimensional,all military,but he turns out to be well-informed and can articulate on many issues. Clinton,I thought was popular and respected,but the Clinton Haters,especially those that are regular commentators on national TV,really came out of the closet in a big way.I really admire her for the way she has fought this garbage in an open way,and not ran and hid like so many were demanding she did.Obama,I thought was a fresh,different and unique voice.But he has been exposed as a 180 degree opposite.He is deceptive,the best actor amongst the three,has a hidden agenda and a fake.

It definitely has. I voted for Clinton in the California primary, based on brand name alone. I mailed in my absentee ballot when I got it, about a month before the real election. By election day a wanted to go to City Hall and see if I could change it. For me Obama is the best bet. McCain, is McCain, is McCain. Four more years of GWB is not an option.

Jack,
My perception of the candidates has changed from the definite Democratic nominee Obama’s being able to handily beat McCain in November to worrying that whichever decision the superdelegates make will grievously divide the party. Many online blogs are suggesting that the superdelegates could actually reject Cinton and Obama and choose someone like Al Gore as the nominee. I haven’t heard any of the best political team members discussing this. Is the possibility a mere pipedream or misperception of the Gore supporters or could such an unexpected twist occur if the convention is rife with non-capitulators?

Hi Jack,

My perception hasn’t changed. I made up my mind a long time ago to support Obama. I look at how people say they have lost respect for Hillary. To be honest, I never had respect for her even when Bill Clinton was president. I’ll always like Bill, but Hillary just doesn’t come across the same way.

Lesa from Tennessee

As a white woman Hillary’s age, in the beginning, she was my candidate. I would like to see a woman President. That changed during the New Hamshire debate.

Barack was unknown, so I didn’t know him at first, thought some of his speeches were too lofty. Now, after research, and feeling that we need someone with integrity and honesty in the white house, he is the only one left standing to meet that objective.

McCain was too old, and too Bush in the beginning, and is even older now and is still too Bush.

Oh, by the way, I’m a Republican.

I am appalled by the judgement of Barack Obama. His friends are a reflection of who he really is. What a fraud. Go Hillary!

Nope, I still think Clinton is a lier who is saying whatever she has to to become the President and I still think Obama is the best choice for this country.

Prior to the start of the campaign season I had a much more favorable view of Clinton. I also had a favorable view of McCain. I did not know much about Obama and was therefore Neutral about him. Since then, I have been increasingly disappointed in McCain, disturbed by Clinton, and excited about Obama.

Jack,

My perception hasn’t changed much. I’ve always been an Obama supporter and not one day has my suppot faltered. The increasing negative attacks on Senator Obama has only shown that he can take the heat. The Reverend Wright saga only showed to prove to Americans and the world at large what a wonderful president he will become.

Yeah, my perception of Hillary has changed. I thought she was one bright woman - and after listening to all of PA primary stuff - Hillary’s from Scranton, PA, her roots, the summers learning to shoot, yada, yada, yada - now she says she’s from Indiana, her roots, what??? God, next she’ll be from Puerto Rico!

That poor woman really has a memory problem doesn’t she?

Is she getting tired again and embellishing? We’ll need to ask Bill is she has “misspoken” again.

Since I am from Indiana I have been watching things a bit. The biggest change I think has been the shift from the war to the economy. This gives us all a chance to see how each candidate reacts to a changing landscape. I have been impressed with Clinton’s plans and ideas. Obama seems to merely copy Hillary’s suggestions and then tweeks them a bit and calls them his own. McCain seems totally lost in economic discussions. So yeah my perspectives have changed. I think Clinton would be the best because she has shown an ability to change direction must better than the other two.

Dick from Indiana

Most definately!!!

I know this comment will never be aired on your show, but I thought your readers, especially those in Indiana, should know about a video that shows just how nasty the people are that surround the Clintons..

Go to Youtube and search for the video under “Clinton Advisor calls Indiana voters”. It is truly unbelievable, as 3 people are calling Indiana voters “s–t” and “white n—–s”.

Now I understand why Hillary is so nasty. Both she and Bill Clinton run with a pretty rough pack. After watching this video I will never believe her again.

Yes it has changed. As an Independent I was ready to support, work, and vote for any one the Democrats put on the ballot in 08 - I have enough of Bush/Cheney. Then the ‘kitchen sink’ appeared, then - during a Democratic primary - McCain was more experienced to lead our nation than the Dems front-runner, then the Rules of the DNC are questioned and caucus states no longer count, the I hear “obliterate Iran!”. If Clinton is the Dems choice, I will vote for “myself” - cannot vote for McCain and will never vote for the Clinton Machine again in my life time.

Jack,

At first, I assumed Senator Obama would lack the ruthlessness it takes to beat the system. I had expected him to be too fresh and green, this rookie in the face of dynasties. I counted him out in the first round. After all, how could his naïve message of hope, unity and change fare in the game of Karl Rove style politics and sound-bite punditry. But as he persisted, I noticed that people listened, people turned out, people donated and people cheered. Me too. I realized it’s not ruthlessness that wins; it’s resolve. And hope, I have found, can be awfully contagious. Moreover, he has proven quite resilient against both the Bush and Clinton elite.

It was Senator Obama’s March 18th speech on race that cemented my conviction that we have in our midst a great leader His speech was nuanced, daring, intelligent, frank, deeply moving, and urgently overdue, and it defied all my expectations. Mostly, it possessed a refreshing eloquence not heard in Washington these past 8 years. Words really do matter, and they’re been too many ugly ones lately.

Hillary is a better actor than I realized. Obama is more vulnerable than I realized. Other than that, no. I’ll take character, constancy and vision over acting and deception any day.

Boise

Jack, My perception has changed to all politician are not the same. I think McCain who, I use to admire as a maverick has shown that he is more of the same old politics. I also had always thought that Hillary Clinton would be a good president, but she also has shown more so then McCain that she is only out for her best interest and I do not trust her. She recently stated that she would have left Obama’s church, Does that mean all us Catholics should leave our church because of some priest? She just stated in an interview “Rich People , God Bless Us” , Where does that leave the rest of us? As far as Obama, I am very impressed with his integrity, He has run on change and it has to be tough to not follow the others into the same old political smear campaign. They say he’s not tough enough. Look how many punches he has taken and still he sticks to his message of real change. I wanted McCain as VP for Kerry , I wanted Clinton as our next President . Obama can start to change this country and possibly the world for the better, Just the thought of this gives me hope. I have to vote for Obama. This man is history in the making.

Clinton: Have never trusted her, and the past few months of hypocrisy haven’t helped

Obama: Never even knew he existed, but his sudden emergence reminds me a lot of Nicolae Carpathia from the Left Behind series…

McCain: Yeah he’s old, but the smartest man I’ve ever known was my grandfather at age 75. I think he’s finally showing people that you can be successful in your party without being ultra-conservative/liberal

I was very excited about the Democratic primary at first, but now it just reminds me of bickering children - I’m voting for John McCain in November no matter which snot-nosed Democrat gets nominated. I’m confident that, at least, even if he croaks before he finishes his term, he’ll try to do it respectably…

I still feel the same as I felt from day-one! Hillary is totally prepared to lead our country back to a better place than it was, when Bill Clinton left office, and the inexperienced Obama could never convince me ,he has good judgement, etc., and Mr. McCain, (good man all his life), but a continuation of the Bush-bunch! There will be a Democrat, elected in NOV. ,and for the good of all of us, that Democrat better be Hillary Clinton! We are looking a lot smarter, in NC. today, and I send my thoughts, your way, with a smile.

Yes it has.

1. I got to know more about Senator Obama’s integrity and stance on the issues during the primary and will cast my vote for him in the general.

2. I did not have a problem with Clinton before the Primary, but now I see her as dishonest, divisive, and cut throat and wouldn’t vote for her under any circumstances.

3. My opinion of McCain has not changed. I started disliking McCain during the 2004 election for his support of Bush policy and I still dislike him. Wouldn’t vote for him either under any circumstances.

Jack,
Being an old gezeer: One year from now a new president will have been office for a few months, result - unemployment still bad, more home foreclosure, more bankruptcy, food shortage, still in Irag with more DEAD troops. We’ll most likely be hearding into 1929 Part TWO. No bright future on the horizon, the oncoming train won’t have any head lights-they burned out, made in China. Same politics, different day.
John Hovland,MN

No. The war with Iraq is one of the nation’s biggest foreign policy blunders. Hillary Clinton voted for it. Sen. McCain voted for it and still insists it was not a mistake. Of the three, only Obama opposed the invasion and history has proven he was correct to do so.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

McCain - He is out of touch with the people and what needs to be done. So no change there.

Hillary - I really thought she had more class than the way she has acted. All this cackling about fighting, who is she fighting? Is she a war monger like the Bush bunch? The fact that she outright lies to the people and says with a smile that she remembered it wrong. How do you remember being shot at by snipers wrong??

Obama - He’s got even more class than I thought he had. Stabbed in the back by people he loved and trusted and he stayed cool. Bullied by the press and media and still showed class and style. The American people aren’t seeing the chance they have with him, shame.

Yes Jack they have changed. I still respect John McCain for his years of military service to our country. At one time I thought he was different from Bush and the right of the party. I now think he has sold his straight talk just to get elected and that he likes the qualifications because he now supports the Bush ideas and no longer disagrees with them.

I am a Democrat and have been for Hillary up until the events of Penn and the Tuzla snipper lie. I will now support Obama because he has held firm with his ideas and doesn’t change them to gain points. We have had almost 8 years of being lied to and I don’t want more lies.

Jack,
Nothing’s changed for me. I still like Obama. He’s the fighter I thought he was. He’s fighting the Media, Hillary, Bill,McCain and Chelsea. And, people say that Hillary and McCain are fighters.

Moses
Ca.

My perception has changed. I have developed a healthy dislike of Hillary.

my perception has never changed from day one. I have always supported barack obama and always will. to me and others i talk with feel that he is a second john f kennedy.. only better !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
when i see hilary on television it turns my stomach… i cannot believe that so much garbage spews out of her mouth.
her campaign is a total disaster… she lies and makes up stories to try and polorize the people here in indiana. i guess she thinks since she is talking about the low income, uneducated, blue collar workers we will just vote for her… ha ha– man she has a big surprise coming from this voter and many more like me…. we might be uneducated, and low income, but we know a liar when we hear and see one….
now i hear she is one the front cover of globe.. all indiana voters should get a copy of it and read who hilary really is and what she really does behind the scenes.
after i read the full story about her , i thought to myself, another scandal and she is not even within a thousand miles of the white house..

Just like the switching of Super Delegates. Which one goes from Hillary to Obama, the sum total is two votes. With each inuendo or rumor or dirty trick Ms. Clinton pulls, she loses a point on my chart, and Obama gains one. With each lie she tells she loses two points. So, if she shut up right now, on my chart she’s a loses. If she keeps talking, she’s digging a deeper hole.

I like Hillary even less than the little I liked her last year. Obama has somehow evolved into more politician than a man destined to change America—that’s not a good thing. McCain?…I am not sure what to make of him anymore.

I see Hillary as a candidate with a very good fighting spirit and no give up attitude. I see Obama as a person who have failed to handle certain issue and as a very soft candidate. I don’t follow McCain that much because we don’t need another republican in the White House again.

Nuwan from Houston, TX

Jack
Once the musical chair game stopped and we were down to our present choice of the three amigos, I took a long hard look and we really dont have a good choice. All three have some serious short comings which will prevent me from chosing any of them.

never changed

respect and thank McCain for his service but no thank you not my cup of tea to have another old man in the white house with bushism.

Hillary hated her for her part in Bill’s mess and shame of Monica and the cookies she couldn’t be bothered to bake for her daughter

Obama love him from the start and pray for him everyday to return us to camlot and the orginal vision of this great country to be called into responsibile action.

Yes, my perceptions have changed. I no longer like either Hillary Clinton or John McCain, since both of them have been disrespectful and manipulative. Hillary has been downright deceptive for most of the campaign. Obama, on the other hand, has proven to be thoughtful, steadfast, and honest. He has run a clean and sensible campaign and he has my strong support!!

Of course! I find judgement to be a serious issue and Obama’s poor judgement staying in a church which preached hate goes to character. I had always known if my candidate didn’t win the nomination, I would throw my support behind the other. I can no longer say that and it truly saddens me. I also think Obama’s comments about blue collar workers in PA were as serious and has caused irreparable damage. . Obama is finally being held to the same standard as Hillary Clinton has and he doesn’t seem to like it or cope with it very well. I unsubscribed from his web site yesterday and I will not change my mind.

After all Hillary’s hypocritical talk about a gas tax holiday and all her other cynical playing up to the public, we may have to change the Democratic symbol if she wins the nomination. I propose replacing the donkey with a panda.

In some regards yes and others no.

McCain is too old, too out of touch and his time has passed. Hillary brings too many negatives, but she is one tough fighter, which is admirable. I just think that if she is elected, we will have more of the nonsense from the right we had in the 90’s, ie shutting down the country, the bogus contract with America and the blue dress and Starr ridiculati.

Obama has impressed me, being from Illinois, I have met him and always thought he would go farther. However, he did have the opportunity to make change here in Illinois, especially within the corrupt Chicago Democratic and Cook County organizations, but he still towed the political Illinois Combine line, whcih makes me think he could be more of the same old same old.

However, I have seen a quality of intelligence, steadfastness, common sense and integrity come out and I believe he is our best hope to turn this country around and take it back from the likes of Bush, Cheney and their other lapel pin wearing “friends.”

Hell no. McBush represents my grandfathers ideals, just damn old. Billary just a nagging mother. Obama a big bro that still makes more sense than any of the mindless taking heads babbling on the celebrity news networks.

Jack,

I had so much hope for our nation at the beginning of this election because I believed that we had two very impressive candidates on the Democratic side and one on the Republican side that I could even see myself supporting. Throughout the race however, I have seen Senator Clinton’s true colors. She is a lying, cheating and opportunistic politician, plain and simple. One who cannot manage her campaign funding or keep supporters at that. Senator McCain now seems like another Bush (God forbid!!). Senator Obama is the only candidate in which I have yet to lose faith. He manages his campaign incredibly well and has handled the negativity hurled at him by his fellow party member with grace, dignity and honesty. These characteristics have been absent in the White House for far too long and I believe with all my heart that Senator Obama is the only one who can bring them back.

Jessica
Springfield, Illinois

my perception of Hillary Clinton has only been strengthened in recent months. Despite all attempts by the Obama camp and his supporters and some members of the media to get her out of the picture, she keeps winning. Whoa! She’s running ahead in Indiana and has closed his lead to single digits in North Carolina. Give credit where credit is due: Hillary’s the real deal.

Yes. November can’t come soon enough, so I can perceive something else!

Barack is disingenious. He wants it both ways. I wouldn’t vote for him because he tried to cover up Rev Wright’s hatred and racism………..

Perceptions? Obama better. Clinton worse. McCain unchanged.

I like Obama because for now he is wanting a change and not the same old song and dance that Clinton and McCain are singing. Obama will be bought eventually, the all do. Term limits is the only solution and so far neither party has the gonads to go through with it.

At first I was not keen on Hillary, but I thought I could live with her presidency, now I despise Hillary and pray that she will soon drop out of this race, her dirty tricks show me what kind of president she would make. McCain used to scare me a little, now he scares me a lot! Does he know anything? or is he going to just be a mouthpiece for the neocons. I have like Obama from the start and now I know more about him I like him more than ever! JS North Carolina

I started out liking Hillary and went to one of her events, but then I met Obama. What a breath of fresh air. I am so impressed!!! I went to 5 of his events and spoke personally with him at each of them and then worshipped with him at my church and we shared a hymnal. This man is truthful and intelligent and has such great ideas. I love his ideas about bringing this nation back together and healing the terrible divisions we have had and raising our image in the world. Obama can do this!! I can hardly wait for him to be the President of the United States!!

I counted down the days when the Clinton’s left the White House and celebrated their exit. Why can’t we get rid of these sell-out artists? They are untrustworthy. Obama reminds me of Slick Willie and his wife appears to be following in the steps of Hillary. Not good. That leaves the old war-horse. I would choose him to watch my back any day. Betrayal, dishonor, and lying are not in his resume`.

DRAMATICALLY! I started out as being a Hillary support, excited about the campaign of the first viable female presidential candidate. I then learned about Obama but could still have supported Clinton so I had two great candidates.

As this race has progressed and Hillary appeared to resort to tactics of personal destruction against Obama, I turned against her and now could never vote for her. She is putting her personal power over Party and it is sad to see.

Couldn’t even hold my nose to vote for her now! I would have to sit out the race if she were the nominee. BTW, my entire family is in agreement.

I am one whiter than white female whose vote she will never have.

Yes Jack it has. I always liked and supported Senator Obama and after what the Clinton machine has put him through, I like him even more.

As far as the Clintons go, the old “will say and do anything to get elected” still holds true and they are proving it everyday. I use to like Bill Clinton, I voted for him twice and stood up for him during the whole Monica scandal, but I see now that was a big mistake. The Clintons are the past, Obama is the future.

Jack, No. I feel the same about the Clintons as I did 10 years ago.
There should be a law FORBIDDING an impeached President or any of his family members from ever occupying the White House again.

Yes, I said a few months ago the only way I would vote for Hillary would be if the GOP nominated Lucifer to run against her. But unless McCain comes up with a conservative for his VP there’s not that much difference between the two. I might be willing to her a shot.

Hickory NC

No. My support for Senator Obama has not waivered. Why has the media not been reporting on the Paul vs. Clinton fraud case?

Diane in S. C.

Up until Bill gave his “talk” in South Carolina, I had the highest respect for him and Hillary. I though (and said many times) that Bill can do no wrong. In the 2006, I considered writing to Hillary to ask her to save us from Bush. I couldn’t figure out why so many people had so many negative things to say about her. Now, I know. I was feeling sorry for her……. now, I just think SHE is sorry. I am not to wild about Bill anymore either. The way they put Barack Obama down is disgraceful.

Yes, I at one time liked the Clinton’s they have cured that with their campaigning. I still say that most people don’t like to be lied to like NAFTA and Bosnia. Pus some of the dirty tricks they have tried. I would not vote for either Hillary or Bill. If Hillary keeps this thing going and damages the party guess she have to do like Lieberman and switch parties.

Jack, after reading Bill Clinton’s book about his colorful life story followed by Hillary’s less memorable book about her life, I was all set to vote for this accomplished woman. Finally a woman President! As a 66-year-old white woman, I rejoiced!

Then I read Barack Obama’s books and listened carefully to the campaign messages of both candidates. Although I prefered Obama’s health care plan, not a whole lot distinguished them from each other. He has had two terms in the Illinois Senate, and one term in the U.S Senate. While in the U.S. Senate, he’s passed ethics reform legislation, and proved he can work across the aisles.

The one thing that matters distinguishing these two candidates is the issue of integrity. Hillary can’t hold a candle to Obama in this regard. Honesty and integrity should be of paramount importance in an American President. Let’s hope voters think of this when they go to the polls Tuesday.

Marion from Cedar Falls, IA

As a retired high school teacher of over twenty years, it was my observation that it was that rare truly gifted charismatic as well as easily brilliant teacher or administrator who was excellent from day 1. The average, less gifted types remained that way throughout their long careers. Think of Cheney or Rumsfeld.

Jack,

I’m a republican and here is how my perceptions changed.

McCain - I thought he would be more versed on the issues, economy, security, the war. He seems at sea with all of it. He’s out of the mix for me.

Clinton - Did everything you, myself and Wolf Blizter did but did it better. Pandering ad Nauseum. Out of the mix.

Obama - New, inexperienced, maybe, but the kind of experience the other 2 have we don’t need. Kitchen sink notwithstanding, he gets my vote.

Jim Buffalo, N.Y.

As a republican, I like McCain even less when all I hear is the same line over and over. I have never liked Clinton because I never liked Slick Willy either. I could vote for Obama only if ….. I wished Pat Paulsen was running.

You have a good show, keep it up. Bill

Jack, I remember the past 20 years of politics, so i’m sticking by Obama. The worst he could do is ended up being like Clinton or McCain.

I knew that the campaign season would be long, but I had no idea that I would be as sick of, and bored with the process! No matter what happens, I know that Hillary is undeserving of the honor, and, thus, is out of the equation. As for the other two…I don’t care, anymore.

My perception of Obama has improved. He is fighting a two-front battle, and to be able to stay competitive amidst constant distraction and deflection by the Clinton campaign speaks measures about his electability. While Clinton damages the Democratic party by engaging in an all-out offensive on Obama’s character, he has continued to campaign with the principles he promises to lead the country with. We don’t need a fighter - we need a peacemaker, and Obama fits that bill.

Well, my perception of Hillary has went from bad to worse but my perception of the news media is that it is piss poor. The fact that they focus on gossip and not on the real issues like Iraq and the economy is more frightening then my perception of the candidates. The media dropped the ball on the lead up to the Iraq invasion now it looks as though they will drop the ball on getting out of Iraq. Instead they focus on what the former associates of both candidates have said and are saying.

Last fall, I didn’t hate Hillary.

Boise, Idaho

My perception of them has not changed. However, my perception of stalwart news outlets has. This race began over a year ago. Even though we have learned much about all 3 candidates’ policies, perspectives, and weaknesses, there is nothing more obvious than the media’s power in framing the narrative of each candidate and the race. It’s not the candidates who’ve changed but rather the reporting and decision making about what constitutes an election year issue.

I knew Obama was a “slick politician” from the beginning and the more that comes out;; the less I like him. Too many unknowns, bad judgment in choosing associates, inexperienced, and as far as change, what kind of change? The press, news media, etc., have had a field day trashing Senator Clinton and people just believe them, just as they did when they trashed Gore and chose bush; and just look what we got. The republicans will “swift boat” Obama out if he is the nominee and the Democrats always have a way of “shooting themselves in the foot.”

Jack,

My perception of McCain has not changed much. I’ve always regarded him as an out-of-touch Bush-wannabe war-monger.

My perception of Hillary has changed dramatically. I started out as a Hillary-supporter, but as this contest has dragged on, I like what I see less and less. She truly comes across as a Republican is Democrat’s clothing and will stop at nothing to satisify her own political ambitions, even if it means destroying the very party she claims to represent.

My perception of Obama started out as neutral, but the more I heard about his vision and concrete plans for our problems, the more I like him. I will be voted for him in the primary and I’ll be voting for him in November because I vote on the issues. Not on all the side-show nonsence that the media has been reporting.

Definitely I have lost what little respect for Bill Clinton I had.Hillary went from bad to detestable.The list of questionable and shady characters the pair have been involved with since his presidency really brings their integrity and philanthropic motives into doubt.

Yes, when the campaign began I planned to vote for Hillary. After seeing the dirty campaign she has run my vote is going to Obama. If Obama doesn’t win the nomination I am voting for McCain. Hillary’s statement that she would ‘obliterate’ Iran was undefensible. It demonstrates her idea of foreign policy and it scares me.

Jack,

Sadly, the candidate I have learned the most about has been Hillary Clinton. The scorched earth, intergrity-challenged campaign she has led has not only convinced me that she is not someone I want as my president…I now have to re-think whether I even want her as my senator.

There is the saying that adversity does not build character, it demonstrates it. And I think we’ve seen the character of the candidates demonstrated by their reaction to challenges in their respective campaigns. When Hillary was down, she resorted to kitchen sink political attacks. When Obama was down, he _calmly_, confidently, quickly and boldly confronted the problem, pointed out where the differences in perception were and offered what can be done to fix the problem. I would ask you whom would you want as your leader, someone who calmly and intelligently addresses problems or someone who stubbornly relishes the fight?

No Jack, my perceptions on the candidates haven’t changed, but my perceptions of you and CNN have changed!!

GO HILLARY!!

Jack,
my stance on the candidates have not changed,

McCain would be another Bush as some say it would be Bush 3rd term,

Clinton, well how can anyone trust what she has to say, from the sniper fire, the hospital, and now the Paul v. Clinton case, she is someone that we DO NOT NEED in office. i would hate to see what this country would be like if she is president.

Obama, I have liked him from the start, sure he is not that experienced, but if you look back, either was bill Clinton.

the people who say that they want experience in the white house. but yet they gripe about the state of our country, how much gas is, how little jobs their are. if you want experience then don’t gripe at what you get. I believe that a change is in order. someone that isn’t experienced with the old washington values that have run our once great country into what it is today, alot of homeless, jobless people.

You bet my perception has changed. I voted for Obama in Ohio. I want my vote back. I was sold a false bill of goods.

Hillary lets give her a break, she is trying to win an election, timing not the greatest running against a black/white man!!!

Joe
Indiana

Yes and it helped me change my mind. I don’t want McSame or kitchen sink Billary.

Yes Jack, I used to like both McCain and Hillary Clinton but in the last month or so I have grown to dislike both of them. This latest gas tax holiday is dishonest and I perceive it to be a manipuation in an attempt to fool people just to get votes. They both know darn well that this tax holiday will not work but continue to push it anyway. This tells me they believe the American people are stupid.

No my opinions have not changed-

McCain should be put in a home.
Hillary & Bill should be put in jail.
&
Obama should be put in the White House.

Obama / Ron Paul ‘08

Jack:

No .. my perception about Candiates in general has not changed at all. John McCain is same. Aaha! But about Hillary Clinton it has changed a bit, I now believe that she will do anything to win a vote, does not matter what.

On “Obama’ also I have changed a bit. I know believe that he is not only honest, but truly a wise man. He is the one, not only ‘Democrats need him in the whtie house, he is the one, all ‘America’ need at a time like this in white house; when country is so much polarized.

I see him exactly as perhaps most of the people will see him in coming days.

A.M. Saqib
Houston, Texas

Although I don’t have a vote my desire to see our neigbours return to your former stature I initially was pulling for Hillary as the most capable of gettting this done. After watching the coverage on her campaigning I have been more and more disgusted by her pandering and talking to people like they are simple minded and/or gullible.

I feel sorry for McCain as he has to flip flop on so many issues in an effort to appeal to ordinary folk as well as keeping the right wing extemists on side. It’s almost like he was born on Wednesday looking both ways for Sunday!

Obama continually seems to prove he is the only logical choice as he seems to be coping well with the constant bashing from the media and is the only one intelligent enough not to publicly try and humiliate or threaten other nations regardless how they are portrayed by your current administration and medias. Making the statement like Hillary made, in private to Iran, is probably acceptable and likely advisable but shouting it to the world does absolutely nothing for your foreign policy and your country’s image world wide.

I voted for Bill twice… Proudly. I argued with my (Rep.) family for years defending his private actions. I was excited to see Hillary run for President.

Now… I’m disgusted with them BOTH!

Has anyone thought about what Bill will be doing while Hillary is “running” this country. Do you really think he’d take a back seat? 3 Terms makes me VERY uncomfortable.

Barack Obama has shown how he’d run this country. With Honestly, Integrity and Compassion.

We need Barack Obama!

Sen. Obama continually takes the high road, is thoughtful and handles himself in a presidential manner. Sen. Clinton is untrustworthy as ever, acts like a spoiled little rich girl that needs to be the center of the universe, and is power hungry. At the start of this thing I did accept Sen. Clinton as a Democrat. I must say Jack, considering her actions, words, and the low road that she continuously follows, I now see her as a closet Republican.

We like Hillary Clinton.

She is experienced, for the people, and a fighter.

Obama lacks experiece, and the question of Wright.

McCain……hope he does not become the president.

Hillary 08

Jack,

I think first of all they are all politicians. I am not a registerd dem or rep and really wish there were a new party that wholly represented the middle class. Every year it seems like the lesser of all the evils. I admittedly thought the muslim stuff about Obama was horrific and was happy to hear it corrected. However, the more I learn about him the more he does not represent me. I do find him to be arrogant, egocentric and completely dishonest. His flip flopping on Rev Wright apalls me and offends me and I believe it to be completely politically motivated.

Hillary has her set of issues with Bosnia and her husband’s overshadowing problems but she is an american through and through.

McCain to has his issues but again an american.

So yes, my opinion of Barack has ran the bell curve and is now completely cold.

I’ll take Hillary or McCain. NEVER BARACK

I don’t think my perceptions have changed much. In the beginning I liked John Edwards but since he’s not an option I studied all the candidates. My first choice is Obama. Hillary would never get my vote. I knew what she was long before she ever decided to run. John McCain will get my vote if Obama loses the nomination because of the bought and paid media hype.

Obama is the only candidate who’s campaign hasn’t fallen into a deficit or has had to change the campaign manager. Both Clinton and McCain have had to overhaul their campaign staff and both have run out of money. Only one campaign member has been dismissed over the comment about Hilary in the English press from the Obama campaign. The other 2 have had many more problems. All that being said, who is the best manager? Obama has proven he can plan, execute, and stay on track with his running of this 15 month ordeal. That is what you want in a President.

The other 2 are just your run of the mill Washington politicians. Obama is showing how it can and should be different in Washington.

First I was ambivalent. When this race started I was a registered republican, when I saw my choices I changed my registration to unaffilliated. Then I was uncommitted but was a fan of Hillary. Heck, I voted for Bill once because of her! I was leaning toward her, but then she crawled into a gutter and I realized that I could not in good conscience support her for ANY elected office. I was disheartened. Then there is Obama. I knew nothing about him except for the speech at the last DNC convention which was exhilirating, even to a republican! The more I listened to him and the more I got to know about him the more inspired I was by what he was offering to the American people. Now I am hopeful.