CNN

accept my sympathy jack on your wife. we in texas are suffering and Mccain is saying our economy is good as early as today. go obama, go biden.....no way no how no mccain no palin

Obviously Obama is. McSame has already admitted he knows little or nothing about the economy – thinks we’re doing just fine. Obama, not my first choice, is still based much closer to reality and with him, at least ordinary people may have a chance at improving their lives. I don’t think he will work against us with determination as does Bush/McBush.

Senator McCain is,You don't raise taxes on any one when the economy is bad.Any economist knows that.

In my view it is Obama. McCain already came out and said that he really does not know anything about the economy. How can I trust a person who admits that he does not know about the economy! The dems are just better at numbers!

I think it is pretty clear that if nothing else, McCain is the worse of the two candidates. Obama at least has a vision and what seems to be a rather intelligent take on economics as where McCain just doesn't seem to know. That doesn't mean that Obama is our savior, but McCain gives me no confidence that he will be able to handle it.

This is like asking a 6 year old what 2+2 equals? McCain openly admitted that he doesn't know much about the economy or economics!! Can someone please explain to me why we should trust this crisis to someone who has absolutely no clue?

Furthermore, to all you out there who support McCain – can you please explain what it is you support? I have heard that he is more experienced and is a reformer, but with all due respect, all evidence to the contrary. How can you still sit there and openly support a candidate that is blatantly lying about so many things? Also, will McCain please get off his whining soap box and stop claiming that if Obama had agreed to the town haul forums that McCain wouldn't have had to go this way with his campaign. If that doesn't sound like my 4 year old who wines that his sister took the toy he was playing with and now he is upset because she is faster than him and he can't catch her to get it back. Grow up you immature piece of ___________(fill in the blank)!

If you look at history, Wall Street and the economy in general always fare better under Democrats. We need Obama's intelligence in straightening out this terrible economy. I don't think McCain/Palin have a clue other than to continue helping out the rich in this country. A McCain/Palin win would be another 4 more years of the same disasters as those of the Bush Administration.

OBAMA!!! A president that doesn't even know how many houses he owns or walks around in $500 dollar shoes tells me he doesn't know much about finance, not to mention create or balance a budget. When you marry into wealth you tend to lack those key skills. Typical Americans such as myself would do a better job, as we at least have had to manage our household finances. Electing him to office would mean more of the same.

Rachel, Atlanta

If even McCain admitted that he doesn't know much of economy, this question is pretty easy.... OBAMA

With McCain being a part of the problem Obama is the only candidate equipped to solve the problem. Jack it's like McCain is asking us for another chance! Fool us once shame on you, fool us twice shame on us!!

Obama has run a groundbreaking and successful campaign against all odds.McCain has said he does not understand the economy. This is a no-brainer – OBAMA.

No brainer, Sen. Obama and Sen. Biden. McCain has stated that he knows nothing about the economy, that's pretty obvious when he said it was a sound economy and, viola', down goes Lehman Brothers and Merril Lynch. Gov. Palin? She can't even negotiate a simple sale of a jet on E-Bay. (I'm still stuck on a "jet on E-Bay"). These two "straight talkers" will see too it that we're trading peanut shells and rocks for commodities while hunting moose for food.

Barack Obama is better able to handle the economy. John McCain himself has admitted that he "doesn't know as much about the economy as I should". Obama has a plan to cut taxes for the middle class, invest in alternative energy technology, make college more affordable, make health insurance affordable for everyone and rebuild our infrastructure. McCain wants to continue the tax policies of George Bush which favor the wealthy and expects enough of that to trickle down and help the rest of us.

If History is any guide, then Obama would be the better candidate. Hoover was responsible for the Great Depression and FDR fixed it. Bush is responsible for this financial crisis and I don't think McCain will fix it.

Dear Jack,
My husband and I are retired, middle-class, white, Catholic Iowans. We feel in our heart of hearts that IF the Democrats DO NOT win this election, the middle-class will no longer exist! Obama is our only hope! People tend to forget what really is at stake this election, especially for the middle-class. No, not at 5 million dollars! This president will seat members of the Supreme Court. McCain has said he supports the conservative judges. Gore/Bush was decided by the Supreme Court with no conscience even after 8 years of failed policies. Higher taxes, privatizing social security, cutting entitlements (Social Security is an entitlement, my friends!), Totally favoring the Republicans in Congress. How can people forget ALL of the lies, deceict, and corruption under this administration? Four more years of the same with MCCAIN? Yes, people, yes........................
We are thinking and praying for you Jack. We have lost a son and granddaughter in a tragic auto accident 7 years ago. The hole in one's heart is there forever. There are no words just tears to send our sincere thoughts..............................

If you are amongst the richest one percent, go with McCain. He's much more likely to keep you there while the other 99 percent wait for the "trickle down" to take place. Obama has shown much more empathy and understanding of the average American's financial struggle. It's time to give the other party a chance. The 1990's were a whole lot more prosperous for most of us.

Paulson on the Economy, what has John McCain said to his pal Dubya about giving the past CEO's of these banking institutions $20 million plus severance packages. Where is the MSM on this, so to answer you question Jack, Barach Obama because he has lived with less and understands what it like.

Hi Jack,
I think Obama is the best chance for real "change"! Bush has created a real financial mess in this country and McCain, just today, said "our economy is fundementally sound". Palin's whining about change actually frightens me... We no longer need old ideas and bridges to nowhere! Now is the time to renew our dreams, with a new fresh outlook! I believe that Obama is the man to get us back on track!

John, Deltona, FL.

I believe Obama is better able to work with this financial crisis. He has the intelligence to surround himself with experienced advisors as did FDR and Lincoln as was stated in Sunday's Parade magazine. McCain cannot solve these new problems with old tactics.

How could any reasonable person argue for the Republican nominee, given his self-acknowledged ignorance on the subject and the Enron to Lehman debacles of the last 8 years? Will it take another Great Depression before the public votes in a party better able to serve its needs. I despair to think what can happen if they win again. Then again, as the old saying goes, the people get the government they deserve.

I honestly don't know. I do think that Obama has a more realistic idea, actually, personal knowledge of not being able to save, or pay bills or get ahead. McCain has no personal history of being in touch with this. His family was wealthy and he married into wealth, so he has not had to care – and he doesn't.

Well, McCain didn't learn anything from his involvement in the Savings and Loan Crisis, so i'm going to say Obama. He only wants limited government involvement in regulating business to prevent tangling taxpayers in bailing out companies like this. He'd rather incentivize smart solutions than give no-bid contracts to well connected companies. The Republicans just want to throw more of my money at the problem.

Without a doubt it is Senator Barack Obama. I heard Senator McCain say this morning that the econony was fundamentally sound! It may be for he & Cindy and those who are rich, but for your everday average citizen – times are hard. Remember, he said back in the primaries that he was going to have to read Greenspan's book – maybe he hasn't read it or did not understand it. In addition , Greenspan said on yesterday that McCain's tax cuts would be bad for the country.

Obama is the clear choice in this situation for two reasons. First he has never said he doesn't know much about the economy and second his economic advisors are some of the most successful individuals in the United States eg W Buffet.
Ugo Richmond, VA

jack,
if track records are anything to go by, i would suggest that our only hope for america's future, is a democratic landslide in 2008. FDR got us out of the mess caused by the g.o.p. i'll take my chances and pin my hopes on the democratic party; besides, should not the politicans who caused this economic upheavel, be held accountable!?

Obama will be able to fix the problems because he has been such a short time in washington and not harden by the experience as much as mccain has been harden and thinking only for the rich and elite in this country such as he and his wife were raised. Obama has eaten from food stamps and understands us the people better than anyone else could he feels our pain better than clinton could have ever.

Barack Obama is the one who is talking about it and seems to care about it in much specific terms

Val – Irving, TX

The only person ready to handle this is Warren Buffet, but he's not running for anything.

After hearing McCain say this morning that the "fundamentals of our economy are [still strong]" in light of the news about Merrill Lynch, Lehman Bros. and AIG, I can honestly say that he would be no better at helping us out of this crisis than President Bush. WAKE UP, AMERICA!!!!!!!!! We need a new vision, a new plan and a fresh face in the White House. We need someone who truly wants to change this country for the better: Barack Obama.

Chris

Hendersonville, NC

It doesn't matter. Neither will be president in 2029, when it has been a century since the last "once in a century" financial crisis, Jack. Honestly, though, neither candidate has what it takes, because neither one has a financial background. They don't know what will fix the market, just what their respective parties say will fix the market. Get a non-partisan market analyst in there, and it'll be fine. There is a big difference between financial dreaming and financial work.

After hearing McCain prattle off "our economy is strong", I'd have to say Obama is better equipped. If for no other reason than he's at least residing in the same universe as the rest of us.

Bill D.
Champaign, IL

John McCain in his own words says he doesn't know much about the economy. With this country in a canyon of trouble we can't afford to have someone who doesn't know much about the economy. That is enough for me to make the easy choice of Senator Obama.
Vote wisely America!

He said it with clear and loud tone during the primary that Economy is not his expertise, and obviously he is right he said today "The economy is strong." And his computer skill does not help him to make such an extensive research and get the financial data he needs in order to provide advise and make decisions as president.

gee, let's see... McCain has said outright that he doesn't know much about economic matters.....seems like his comments this morning confirm that beyond any doubt.

on the other hand......Obama has consistently built solid, successful organizations...first for his local community and most recently for his Presidential campaign. he is now running THE most successful grass roots campaingin American history, one that has brought in and effectively spent 100's of millions of dollars!!

this is a no brainer – Obama all the way!!

Obama. McSame isn't able to handle a 'once in an hour' crisis without assistance from McRove and McBush and his new show-off, McBarbie. Too bad Galbraith has been discredited. Too bad that 'trickle down' didn't work; won't work; can't work. I don't think that the bush-like reincarnation of Hoobert Heever is what we need. Too bad for us if we continue this farce, pretending that rich is great.

Neither impress me as masters of economics or finance, so it would come down to the competancy of their advisers, and how much they are heeded. This is yet another time it would be helpful to have Bill Clinton back as President – business is only one of the subjects that he thoroughly understands.

It won't be an easy job for either candidate, but considering McCain's statement that he knows nothing about the economy, I'd pick Obama. In addition, McCain's economic adviser, Mr. "We're a Nation of Whiners" Gramm, shares a good chunk of responsibility for this mess since he was involved in deregulating the mortgage industry crooks. As for Palin, she left East Overshoe millions and millions of dollars in debt when her mayoral term expired. She needs to return to what she's good at: moose hunting.

Obama and Biden of course. Thinking that McCain, whose party got the U.S. into this mess to handle it, is like asking the wolf to handle the hen house.

John McCain doesn't know how many houses he has and Barack Obama got a sweetheart deal on adjoining property to his home from a friend whose hands are dirty.

I think neither one has shown financial saavy so it's looks as though we're going to hell in a handbasket whoever is president.

Bush has made some great contacts with the principal Chinese banks so McCain is the obvious choice.

Easy one Jack, Obama acknowledges the problems Americans are facing and would bring in the best talent he could to help solve it. McCain thinks (like Bush) that your economy is basically sound. Besides wasn't McCain around for the last big financial crisis?

Jack,

Simple..............Obama............we need new and innovative solutions. McCain still lives in the 19th century.

Emporium, PA

Jack,

Welcome back.

Definitely Obama! The only way McCain can handle the economy is if Cindy backs him with a guaranty of beer money. McCain already thinks the economy is just fine, but we don't have all those trust funds that he has from Cindy either.

Barack Obama. Palin- McCain, oh I mean McCain-Palin are full of lies and lobbyist who will run Washington. Obama got rid of his lobbyist because he would rather have the American people help him fix the economy. McCain does not understand the economy and he probably has never had to balance a checkbook. This failing economy and wall street it a warning of what is to come with four more years of Bush policies. Americans, you have been warned.

John McCain has surrounded himself with the people who brought us this disaster, by encouraging greed and shortsightedness. A crisis like this requires visionary leadership and intelligence if we are to have any chance of rebuilding from this economic hurricane.

Since John McCain said as recently as this morning that "the fundamentals of our economy are strong", I'd have to say that his grasp of economics is weak and he is too far out of touch to handle the crisis.

I hope you really post this my message on your file. I am writing from Europe. It is very interesting to see how America people will vote this forthcoming presidential election. The way the American economic is going with this present republican administration, i am afraid we don't have flow of American immigrate to Europe or even Africa very soon.I hope not.

McCain Admits he doesn't know much about economy, that answers it.
We need economy distribution, it you give money back to more people 80% under Obama that will revive economy. You give million to Millionaire he/she will not spent entire money vs giving million to 1000 people, Simple. Pass to McCain hopefully he will Understand.

By the way Jack you are courageous man and sorry to her you Wife dead, my prayer our with you. God bless you.
Amy-Texas

Jack, welcome back.
In times like these the last captain we need at the helm of this ship of state is one (McCain), who even yet surrounds himself with those very same first mates who assisted in steering this ship toward these treacherous financial shoals in the first place. And, given his choice of co-pilot, have mercy upon us if the pilot is lost at sea. You may not want to have a beer or go bowling with Obama, but at least I believe he will think long, deeply, and hard about how and who can help get us from up this polluted tributary without proper propulsion. Enough of the for me and mind, nothing but the best and to hell with all y’all rest crowd.

Anybody but McCain and Palin, they might even destroy the nation more than the "Texas Idiot", if that is possible.
But then I did not think King George could even do the damage he has done to this once great nation.

This is a "duh" question, Jack. John McCain and his loyal lobbyist friend, Phil Graham, say there is no problem. We are "whiners".

Barack has lived from pay check to pay check in his lifetime, experienced food stamps, hearing no when there was no money. You have to understand there is a problem before you can address it and Barack has answers. People need to get off their collected duffs and pay attention to what the candidates are saying. Three debates coming up–hope we are voting for the man who understands the economy and that is Sen. Obama. Even Alan Greenspan said John McCain's tax policy will bankrupt the country!

Knoxville, TN

There's no comparison with Hillary Clinton.Palin has her daughter pregnant and not married.What can palin speak on this topic? Oh,i know look at the American people and tell them do what i say but don't do what i am doing.

Mc'Cain graduate from college 50 years ago and a lot has changed
since then.

Ismael

well first you have to realize there is a problem. mcaiin thinks our economy is fundamentaly strong. i guess if i owned 7 homes i wouldnt care what the middle class was going thru. i believe obama is the only choice, but it isnt gonna be easy.

doug in arkansas

in the words of gulliani... NADA! NONE! they barely understand the problem and their solutions is to screw it up more and then they say that they fixed it. how about you and lou go up to washington and do it for us. i think that between the two of you we would be so much better off.

Obviously, not the candidate that keeps saying the fundamentals of our economy are strong. McCain is either in denial or completely out of touch with reality. In these very difficult times, we need answers and plans, not soft soap rhetoric. How can he fix it if he doesn’t think it’s broke?

By Senator McCain’s own assessment , he does not understand economics. That explains his adherence to the Bush policies of tax breaks only for the rich. If Senator McCain understood that the fundamentals of the economy were terrifying, he might realize Bush had the economy wrong just like he had everything else.

I would have to say Obama. McCain has been in Washington for 26 years and still admits that he knows nothing about the economy. I'm afraid that in the McCain administration,he will just bring back the same people that are there now.

This one is easy, Jack.

Senator Obama is a cum laude graduate of Harvard and understands first-hand what the economy is like for the middle-class and "lower." Senator Obama will help us, the people who desperately need change now.

Senator McCain is a near-the-last-of-the-class graduate of the Naval Academy and lives in a world (multi-millionaire, 9 homes we know of, etc.) that few of us can even imagine (sometimes marriage has its economic benefits). He is out of touch with the majority.

Senator Obama looks to the future with new ideas to fix the disaster that is the last 8 years; Senator McCain (who himself acknowledges he is no economy expert) will just keep us on the same dismal path we have been on the last 8 years.

Whoever has the best economic advisers.

Obiviously, Barack Obama and the Democrats. John McCain said he knows nothing about the economy and it shows. He still believes the economy is strong. McCain's ex economic brain Phil Gramm thinks we're in a mental recession and that we're all a bunch of whiners. Thanks for nothing! Trickle down economics doesn't work. Bottom up not top down. I get a $1200 stimulus check and turn around and give it to the oil company. Record profits for the oil companies feasts on Economic Woes.

I think we stand a better chance with Obama. When I hear statements coming from McCain's campaign like people being called a bunch of whiners and McCain saying the economy isn't that bad off, only reinforces my believe that we're about to get four more years like the last eight years if McCain becomes president.

Jack,

As of right now Obama is better than McCain simply because McCain will continue the same road as Bush and it hasn't got us anywhere in 8 years.

Obama is far better informed. McCain doesn't know how many homes are in the family, so he obviously wouldn't know where they all are. Not exactly the normal American household. The Obama's don't have $100 million like the McCains. John and Cindy McCain, "WHEN did this finanical crisis happen? Check the Dom Perignon inventory."

Are you kidding Jack I have a fifteen year old who is better equipped to handle finances than John McCain. He has to work for his money and budget what he makes to buy what he wants whereas all John McCain ever had to do was ask Cindy for an allowance and spend it anyway he sees fit knowing there will always be more where that came from.

McCain has to keep the troops in Iraq so the Republican corporate allies can continue making exhorbitant profits and you have to be childish to expect borrowing more money from China to keep this endeavour financed will cure the current financial crisis.

Jack thats easy!

--–Barack Obama!

Since the Republicans have been in power for the last 8 years and they have put us in this position, I find it hard to believe that they will be able to get us out of it. I think it'e time to give the Democrats a chance to see if they can fix this mess. I sure don't want to reward the republicans with 4 more years, when their policies have caused this financial crisis.

The one that best understands that a completely unfettered "free market" leads to abuse when Adam Smith's "guiding hand" becomes a raised middle finger. If we, the taxpayers, are going to have to bail them out, then we, the taxpayers, should be regulating these businesses for our own protection.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

Jack: Well one thing for sure......it isn't the Bush Administration.....and far as Obama and McCain........neither one will be able to turn chicken sh** into chicken salad overnight......Good question......I wish I had a confident answer.

It sure appears to be Barak Obama ... since John McCain still thinks the economy is "fundamentally strong".

McCain has admitted that the economy is not one of his strengths. When my aging Dad realized that handling the family finances was getting too complicated for him ... he gracefully (and willingly) handed the responsibility off to my capable (and, yes, younger) Mom. If John McCain decides to hand-off the economy to Sarah Palin ... I definitely fear for all Americans.

Since Senators McCain and Obama are responsible for getting us into this Great Depression #2, surely they know how to handle it. Don't they???
Brownwood, Texas

Barack Obama is better prepared to solve the economic mess that the republicans has left in but the media refuses to be honest and failed in their responsibilty to be fair and balanced.
I am well aware of the personality contest that is going on in this election. But what troubles me as an American citizen and a voter is that no one is talking about the issues. I am sick and tired of the media–side stepping real issues. You have combed through Senator Obama's closets and exposed everything that the right wing republicans have dictated that you do, but if this election is about personalities then I ask that you be fair and report about the Keating Five, Cindy McCain's drug usage and theft and you discuss in detail Sarah Palins fallings.

But if you want to grow some balls and discuss strictly issues, where we can really hear where both these candidates stand on issues that affect every working American (e.g. 47 million uninsured, highest unemployment in recent history, highest home foreclosures, bank failures, the war in Iraq costing Americans 10 billion per month, etc.). These are issues that must be focused on.

During the Clinton years employment high, balanced budget, highest rate of homeowners and a stable economy. What has happened during the past 7 years, 9 months and 15 days has devastated Americans and our economy is bleeding. So stop the tabloid reporting, grow some balls and report news that is unbiased!

John McCain....he even know's how many houses he has and thinks being wealthy is making more than 500,000!

Neither! Both are senators and not financial wizards. They spend other people's money. I love the fact that both of them use CHANGE as a banner, but both haven't changed anything in Washington. I see terrible days for America.

Wildwood Crest, NJ

Let's see. McCain things our economy is strong. Obama thinks we're going through crisis. Add this to the comments of most of Americans, on losing jobs, financial companies struggling to survive, housing, gas prices, minimum wages, high price of healthcare, and education. I'd say Obama gets it. By the way, is great to have you back Jack!

I have to say Sen. Obama has a much better understanding of the economy and the impact that it has on the average American. Sen Mccain still thinks that the ecomony is basically sound. Perhaps he was looking at his financial statement and financial security instead of the country's.

To solve a problem, you first have to acknowledge there is a problem. McCain has spent the last year telling us the economy's swell. Obama, like any non-comatose American, knows the only way to fix it is from the bottom up. Another four years of Republicans will give us another four years of trickle-down economics...a polite way of saying piss on the public. Obama, please, dear God, Obama. We can't take any more of the Republican "fix".

Obama and Biden of course. Thinking that McCain, whose party got the U.S. into this mess to handle it, is like asking the wolf to handle the hen house.

Frances
Hamilton, Ontario

none of them since congress has more responsibility for the current financial mess than the president. ergo the congress is going to have to cowboy up and fix the mess with more regulation and oversite and less handouts to their bff's on wall street.

Hands down Barack Obama. John Mccain has admitted he knows very little about the economy besides just today he said the economy was strong so we'd have to spend time convincing him there is a financial crisis.

FDR – but he's long gone. So are the days of American economic wealth and prosperity. Bush 2 wanted a legacy – I can't think of worse legacy to have.

Good to have you back Jack.

Jack,
Without any doubt, Obama is better prepared to aid us through an economic crisis. Obama has worked with people on a level that has allowed him to understand that the most prudent approach would be to fix this mess from the bottom up, not through "trickle down" economics. McCain's proposed solutions are the same as those that largely created this mess. History has proven that when the wealthy are given the option of creating jobs, versus shipping them out for cheap labor or cutting benefits, they will overwhelmingly choose the latter. It's called "GREED." When it becomes clear to the elite, that they will falter without their middle-class as a foundation of their success, they will be forced to enact the Obama style of mending our economy. Without the middle class dollar, the upper class will crumble.

Jack – It wont matter because we all know the Middle Class will have to pay for it! The Democrats deserve a chance since we went from a surplus under Clinton to a total melt down under the Republicans. John McCain is ,unfortunately ,tied to Bush Economics of give more to the rich and to hell with the poor. Is that 7 houses or 9 there John?

PALIN. SHE IS A GOV. OF A VERY LARGE STATE
SHE HAS BEEN A MAYOR.... I WOULD SAY SHE HAS WRITTEN SOME PRETTY BIG CHECKS IN HER LIFE TIME.....
NO RECORD OF THE PHONE BEEING DICONNECTED, OR THE LIGHT SHUT OFF.....

Obama has a better plan. At least Obama'a plan is do-able,McCain's plan the experts can't see it working.McCain has no grasp of what the "true"economy is like. How can someone that is in the upper tax bracket know how the middle class is fareing? He can't and he does not know and I'm sure he doesn't care(not by what he is proposing as change).

Jack,

This can be answered by the people the candidate appoints as their economic team. I believe Obama will make better choices when it comes to these type of positions. If I was hiring one of these candidates to run my company I believe the choice would be clear.

Jack, Sen Mcain is out of touch with the average American citizen and has no concept of the gravity of the economic situation we now find ourselves in. His unwavering support for the misguided war in Iraq regardless of the incredible expenditure and burden on this country only serves to illustrate that he doesn`t realize that the war and our economy are inextricably tied together. The republican practice of "trickle-down economics only serves the wealthy and leaves the average American family to fend for itself and pray for better days! We as hard working people deserve to have our needs and concerns understood by our leaders so they can at the very least Empathize with us and help!

By stealing Obama's positions on the economy and on change, McCain is admitting that he has been and is wrong.

Irene Osborne, Billings, Montana

neither candidate has the authority or the money to fix all of our fincancial problems its in the american peoples hands to fix this and how do they do that they vote this year like they are doing it for the first time and vote for LEADERS and then we hold those leaders to account for all the changes they are doing and show us a clear and transparent government and they get ride of all those earmarks and they send those lobbyist home and they take off the commericals for all the drugs they tell the old people they need and then they fix the lawyer problem in this country and ban lawsuits for money and then they fix the health care and give everyone like in canada health care cause we deserve it.

TAMPA, FL. AGAIN, ARE WHO ARE YOU KIDDING? BOTH PARTIES WILL RAID SOCIAL SECURITY, SELL OFF ANYTHING NOT NAILED DOWN (AND THEN SOME), AND THEN WHIP OUT THE OLD CHINA PLATINUM VISA, THEN THE CHINA PLATINUM MASTERCARD LATER TO PAY THE VISA. JUST LIKE WE DO AT HOME.

Barack Obama PERIOD!

It sure as hell won't be McCain. With his forty five houses or whatever the number is, he too out touch with reality. And with all his recent distortions of the truth, it seems clear to me that he'll say anything to get elected. Picking Palin as his running mate also shows that he lacks smart judgement when it comes to running the country. I'll go with Obama on this one.

John McCain admitted that he does not know anything about the economy.He still believes in the Bush's policies. The only good thing that can happen is for a DEMOCRATIC SENATE AND A DEMOCRATIC WHITE HOUSE. If Americans are paying attention a REPUBLICAN senate and a REPUBLICAN WHITE HOUSE was a TOTAL FAILURE,a DEMOCRATIC senate and a REPUBLICAN WHITE HOUSE WAS A BIGGER DISASTER. THIS IS AMERICA'S ONLY NEXT SOLUTION .

John McCain does not think we are having a financial crisis, that is a big problem. A man who is so out of touch with normal everyday people that he thinks 5 million is middle class, is not someone who can help us in anyway. If he can figure out how many houses he owns maybe that would be a start.

Obama foresure. I think Obama will strike a balance of settleing the markets. I mean you can not pail out Fanny and Freddy while watching millins of us loose our house to forclosure. This ression was not brought on by the people it was brought on by the Greed from above. Well this time the fire has gone all the up to the top floor. The people that pay the taxes in this country are the ones hurting the most, yet the ones that never pay a dime get all the help. And just so there is no misunderstanding, I mean the rich people, with all the tax deductions and loopholes, they pay nothing.

I wouldn't trust someone that doesn't even know how many homes he owns to run the country's finances. His plan is the same as George Bush's plan.......help the wealthy get wealthier and then see what happens. Gosh, it doesn't seem to working that well for most of us.

The man with a brain and high IQ...Sen Obama, of course!

dawn
age 51
w/f
Marys Home, Missouri

With McCain's past history of a financial institution's that crashed and the financial crisis our country is in right now, I'll invest my future with Obama.

Well, Jack, I'm not sure which one can handle this mess. I'm hoping with Biden's help, Senator Obama can tackle this head on and fix it. I'm not sure that Senator Obama on his own could do what needs to be done. What needs to be done? I don't know, but surely someone that has been in Washington as long as Joe Biden has will be able to figure this out. Maybe, Senator Obama needs to bring back Alan Greenspan. He is a Republican, but he doesn't even think McCain's ideas on the economy will work.

Neither candidate is giving the voting public good answers to the economy. I am not sure one person can solve these concerns. Who does have the answers?????????????? I will gladly vote for that person.

Obama is because he will put the guards back in the hen house to watch what they top sheep have allowed to happen. Ain't this a crock of doo?

Jack,
This is an easy one; Obama by a long shot. McCain has admitted his ignorance about the economy and with that in mind I find it difficult to understand how he can effective surround himself with people can address these complex times.
This is getting to be more frightening than Dubya ever was.

It all depend's Jack, If Greenspan put's out onother book soon ,it may help McCain!
As it stand's now, Obama at least has a plan! All McCain has is tax cut's for the rich, a pen, and a book by Allen Greenspan!
Saying the word reform 100 times a speech won't cut it!!!

Geez, guess I have to try again.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Deb, Allentown, PA
September 15th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Jack welcome back and I’m so sorry for your loss.

I certainly would much rather give Obama a shot at fixing the mess we’re in. By his own admission, McCain doesn’t know anything about the economy, not to mention his economic advisor, Phil Gramm, thinks the recession is all in our minds.

The better question is: Why are the polls even close? We have a senior, warmongering old fool who graduated 894/899 in his class, with a right wing religious extremist nutjob VP who had to go to six different colleges in five years to finish her bachelor’s degree in journalism (HUH?) on the right, with a constitutional scholar who has proven his grasp of foreign policy, paired with a foreign policy expert on the left? What in the world are people thinking? And better yet, what organ are they using for their thought processes??

I think the statement made by Obama, that McCain does not have a clue is right on point. So needless to say Obama needs to win if the US has any chance of getting a grip on the slide that is happening now.
I don-t know why the republicans say they have fiscal reponsablity, they seem to alway put the US in debt. Maybe the responsiblity is toward themselves?

Well, John McCain obviously. All his advisors are lobbyists including Phil "you bunch of whiners" Gramm, who is a banking lobbyist. If you want expertise on banking issues, you need McCain and his lobbyists.

Obama, He'll just raise taxes. Problem solved. McCain might actually fix things.

Good to have you back Jack.

McCain, by his own admission, doesn't know much about the economy and Palin knows even less. Unemployment is up, foreclosures are at an all time high, our financial institutions are crumbling, gas prices are up and McCain's former financial advisor Phil Gramm says Americans should stop "whining". Obama understands that our economy is in serious trouble. McCain seems hell bent on assuring Americans that everything is OK.

McCailn doesn't have the brain to help the economey. He was one of persons who initiated no oversite for the Finacial institutions.
He also is a lier and just because he was a POW that doen't mean he can run the country. There were many POW's during Viet Nam and according to McCin, they all should be qullified to be president. What a joke.
Nick-OK

Obama no doubt at all. He is better in economy than McCain . Remember McCain saying ' I don't know too much about economy' but WAR that is in me, pow pow pow pow,,,,,,,,,

If you continue to do things the same way, you get the same results. McCain wants to continue to do things the same way and we all have seen those results and they are not good. Just because McCain keeps telling us that the economy is fundamentally strong, doe not mean that it is.

Things have to be better under Obama. While times are going to be tough for a while, Obama will not continue to bankrupt our children’s legacy and will work to get this country’s economy headed in the right direction once again. He has some of Bill Clinton's brightest economists advising him which is an enormous asset.

All I had to do to find the answer to this one, Jack, was to download Barack Obama's "Blueprint for Change". He has satisfied me that he understands the 'economy' as it affects both government and private individuals. Please can you tell me where I can find such a concise argument from John McCain? Wake up America and start asking the right questions, like Jack. Don't be blinded by McCain's stupid attacks on Barack Obama, designed to distract you from the truth. Read Obama's Blueprint and all your questions will be answered, honestly and with great insight into 'real' government.

Acting President Palin will hire the boy who let her copy his math homework at Wasilla Junior High to be the new Christian Defender of American Money. Her devoted followers will begin each day by praying in tongues immediately following the opening bell on Wall Street.

Hi Jack:

I think I'll take the guy that went to Harvard.

Bennie
Avon, IN

Jack, Glad you're back. Hang in there. You have an important role to play.

Obama will handle the economic crisis much better. Evidently Greenspan thinks so too. We need a different approach.

Is this a serious question. Just take a look at how they run their campaigns. Take a look at the person who never wants to talk about the issues and is whinning now because people who knows him are telling about what type of person they think McCain is. I say Jack ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

Barack Obama. John McCain just don't get it. He still thinks the economy is basically sound.

The uncharted waters of the current financial meltdown require a president who is a quick learner, with keen intellect, and no ties to past failed policies. Barack Obama is the only candidate with these qualifications. John McCain spent two decades in Washington and admits he understands very little about the economy. When it comes to a financial mess as complex as this, he wouldn't know whether to spit or wind his watch.

At least the Obama people have a plan other than drill, drill, drill. McCain's tax plan will help those that make less than $19K a year by giving them an extra $21, wow, that's wonderful. He would give the rich more than a 10% tax cut, is that what is supposed to be trickle down economics or just a rerun of Bush 43?

Welcome back Jack.
This one is easy, McCain said in very clear terms he does not even understand the Economy or how it works. Why are people even think of supporting this guy when he says he is clueless? I will never understand. Why the Obama campaing are not running ads with McCain saying in his owne words he does not understand the economy and that he lives in washington and is out of touch. What else does McCain need to say to give the Democrats the race. My goodness.

It sure wouldn't be McCain since he admits he knows nothing about the economy! McCain is just another Bush

The one that wears a ball cap to remind us where he was bottom of his class and thinks lettuce pickers make $50 an hour in his home state, I wouldn't trust with a lemonade stand. The guy with the big ears that can get folks to sacrifice for a common cause, may have some potential.

McSame has already admitted he knows little or nothing about the economy – thinks we’re doing just fine. Obama, not my first choice, is still based much closer to reality and with him, at least ordinary people may have a chance at improving their lives. I don’t think he will work against us with determination as does Bush/McBush. Obviously Obama is.

Clearly it is Obama. Sen. Obama has a far superior understanding of what is happening and how to correct it. Point-in-fact he introduced mortgage fraud legislation in early 2006, which the Republician Majority quickly dismissed. While John McCain has Phil "Enron Loophole/ Commodity Futures Modernization Act" Gramm former Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, whispering in his good ear.
McCain + Gramm = You think it's bad now Middle America, step right this way to vote for the Repbulican ticket and see how much worse it will get!

WE have a huge budget deficit, any company would be bankrupt and CEO would be not only fired but prosecuted and still we bail out companies over companies for failed policies and self interests of my rich mostly republicans

I don't understand these Republicans who vote on each election for lowering their taxes and believe that because Regan did it once it will help the economy ..The problem is we went into a costly war and started to spending and at the same time we have a bunch of corrupt politics in DC that are making money with sweet deals to oil companies. These olil companies got cheap money in Iraq and the companies making expensive oil to us. No wonder Iraq has a 80 billion dollar surplus.

We need to get away from oil and the control by oil companies, look just a few storms and the price hike..

I don't believe McCain... he has no clue and he is only in foreign politics and PLEASE no PAILIN can ever ever make a difference. She has NO clue, is not smart enough and she will be no president but another Cheney.

It is time for a democrat who will think about domestic issues.!!!!!!

McCain said this morning that the fundamentals of the economy remain strong and he defines that as the American people. This is true if people have a job and can pay their bills, but at the current rate, we will have an unemployment rate over 10% by the time Bush leaves the White House. McCain also said last week that people don't trust Washington and then he, McCain, lied about a simple question, so why should I vote for him, the man that touts HONOR as his creed.

Hi Jack good to have you back!
Look a year ago i lose my job,then my car and my house,
and i don't blame the goberment entirely
but here we all have the chace to try something diferent.
If the republicans with George B have put our country in this crissis
i think the less we can do is try a democrat goberment ,at least one thing is for shure somenthing will ghange for good or bad .

Really, is there a choice. McShame says he really doesn't understand economics as much as he should, then turns around and says he'll fix the economy? He's been in Congress for over 20 years. He's had his chance to reform and instead crawled into bed with lobbyists and the Bushies.

I may not be rich or own more than one house, but I do have common sense. I'm voting for Obama!

Barack Obama has the judgement to appoint COMPETENT people to handle this crisis. Judging from McCain's pick of Palin as VPOTUS, he does not have the right stuff to run this country.

Welcome back Jack. This is an easy one Jack. It's obviously the Obama/Biden ticket with Biden's 20+ year of being in the sack for the financial industry. I'm sure for starters that MBNA, a Bank of America Company that has been Biden's biggest contributor for the last 20 years would be happy to offer advice. Or Biden could ask his son, who recently resigned as a MBNA lobbyist for advice. I could go on and on but you get the idea.

Obama, obviously. McCain either doesn't know or doesn't care what got us in this position. Four more years of Republican policy and America as we know it will be gone.

Boise, ID

Ask the folks on the "View".

Ky

Obama has the best plan and the onlly real plan! If I hear drill baby drill or Washington reform tossed out as a plan for the economy from McCain-Palin one more time, I am going to puke.

Is it too late to draft Alan Greenspan?

Jack,if McCain couldn't answer the folks on the view without gettig arrogant how can he handle the very important topic"THE ECONOMY".I heard him saying today that he has to change Washington but could you tell me how this is possible when there is and will be a DEMOCRATIC senate.KEEP DREAMING ON MCCAIN/PALIN.

The financial crisis (why don't we call it a "challenge" since the GDP is still rising) will require a steady hand on the tiller and a savvy player behind the hand. Of the two candidates, McCain is clearly the best to navigate these choppy waters. Obama would still be thinking up his speech about the crisis by the time Mccain had his solution being implemented.

Jack:

I think the folks are confusing the economy with Wall Street. I work in the finance industry and I can tell you that for the most part, the President doesn't control the economy.

Private businesses and ordinary people for the most part control the market by their buying stocks and 401(k)'s and not panicking at the first sign of an economic downturn.

Remember what goes up MUST come down and vice versa. Either Obama or McCain will make sure that the fundamentals are in place to keep things afloat.

Laura, Boston

Obamas bottom up strategy is better for the economy than the McCain trickle down economy. When unemployment is high and people lose their jobs they can’t afford to buy the products that companies make nor can they afford to live.

Considering McCain's key economic adviser has been Phil Gramm, who's deregulation legislation has been a key contributer to the current economic crisis this isn't a difficult choice.

Obama might not fix the economy, but at least he isn't soliciting advise from the people who broke it in the first place.

Certainly Obama. Although he has less experience than McCain, he is better equipped to pull our country together and work with Congress to improve our economic conditions. McCain's economic policy is indistinguishable from Bush's, which has sent our economy into a downward spiral over the last 8 years. And those who are behind getting rid of big government don't realize that we need the federal government to step in to get our economy back on track. We need a strong government that will lead us to energy independence, create jobs, improve our education system, make sure that it's citizens have healthcare, and truly look out for all, not just some, of the people. Obama is the candidate who wants to do this.

McCain had all these economic woes in readiness ( in his briefcase) when he was in the senate (just before he announced his bid for Pres.) The only reason he didn't mention them before now is, because he couldn't remember which house he left his briefcase in!! What a Maverick , what a reformer ! What a liar ! Is he trying to tell us these catastrophic events are a sudden happening ? NOW , after he and his astonishingly inept party ,have bungled the economy so badly , he is ONCE again THE HERO on the WHITE STEED , to save the day ! Man ! If the public swallows this one , I'll run for Mayor of Wasilla !!

Warren Buffet. Sadly, he is not running.

pretty soon China is going to ask for its money back and it feels like its coming sooner than later

Obama and the Democrats. McCain and the Republicans have dug us in a big hole and I have learned when you are in a hole then you need to get rid of the shovel and stop digging!

Well, McCain is the better equipped candidate to continue selling our assets to foreign nations (China) and thereby make this financial morass a global nightmare: basically saying I will make my problems your problems. Obama has called for a plan for greater oversight and transparency on Wall St.: saying I will make your problems my problems. I they both deliver on their platforms I think it is an easy call to pick Obama and his plan. Mind you, a politician actually delivering on a campaign promise happens as often as a “once in a century” financial crisis.

I prefer someone who thinks before he acts, and considers more than one option. Someone who respects the opinions of people who have been right more often than they have been wrong on the subject. Someone who will opt for a practical rather than an ideological agenda. Someone who puts the welfare of the country as a whole above the welfare of the few. Obama or McCain? It is Obama, hands down on this one.

Seeing that McCain needs to take economy 101, being an elitist millionare, not knowing how many houses he owns, he probably doesn't even know how to write a check nevermind balance one, I would have to assume this is a trick question and everyone knows the answer is not McCain.

Jack,
That all depends on if you want to live the high life or down and out. If either way is your financial way McCain's your man. Pay as you go for a stronger economic America is the Obama way, if that is the way you wish to go he's your man...

C.I., New York

I doubt the current market turmoil would be considered a once in a century financial crisis considering the impending social security, Medicare, and federal pension debacles we await. Having said that, neither party has the capacity to get it done. !

McCain's solution is for us to stop whining. Gotta love that...it's all our fault. But don't cha think the problem might just be a little more complicated than that?

Obama is the smarter one to handle this financial crisis. Have you forgotten that McCain finished 5th from the bottom in his college class of 898. Obama graduated magna cum lada from Harvard. Obama is also smart enough to hang around brainy people unlike McCain. McCain keeps choosing dummies, dummies hang with dummies – I reckon.

Obama would handle the economy the best and world affairs better then the republicans. the republicans have controlled the white house twenty eight years out of the past forty years and the following has happen under their control:
1. our country has 9 trillion plus in debt
2. one war lost
3. one war a failure
4 one war for the wrong reason in the wrong country
5. each time that they are in office our economy goes into failure and congress has no control on spending and special interests along with big business seem to have their way
We should elect another republican so he can complete the failure in my life time.

JACK, Barack Obama would handle this better because he truly understand the problem he knows why it started ,how it started , and what it takes to fix the problem , also he is willing to hear all sides of this problem and most important he has the concept what will be good for all taxpayers first and we haven't had that concept in a long time.

I am sure that Obama is the only candidate that has the will and energy to handle the today economy. McCain needs a lot of rest and sleep right now to refocus on his confusing on his reform remark that the economy is basically sound recently and in addition to his long standing support of Bush economic policy. When McCain said the economy is basically sound, I believe he tried to reflex for himself, because he does not worry about fill up the gas tank for his car, he does not worry about foreclosure because he has more housing to toss around, he does not have to worry about losing job because his job at the senate is secure and he does not worry about the education for children because all his children are grown and well off now and he does not worry about health care because he has good health coverage for himself now. This is the kind of reform for McCain and lipstick Palin.

A vote for McCain/Palin is equal to flushing this once great nation down the toilet!

According to McBush the economy is strong and growing, that just goes to show you what a blooming idiot McCain really is. He has not idea what is happening in the world today. If you don't have to worry about money then everything is rosey but that is not life, 95% of the American people have some type of money problems, if McCain had had to work for a living he probably would have been a janitor, about the only thing he is qualified to be, but he married money, no more working, I have never saw anyone suffer from small man syndrone like McCain, he is such a pint sized little jerk that the only way he can compensate for it is to lie about everything, Karl Rowe was right, McCain has really lied in this campaign and most people know it.

Jack,

I would put my faith in Obama and Biden hands down. Obama has the integrity to admit there is a problem and the intelligence to seek a stabilizing solution. McCain admits to not understanding the economy and is part of the party that put us in this mess in the first place. OBama has Biden's experience to navigate his plan through congress, and McCain has Palin.

George Bush had a Yale education but seems to have forgotten a lot. John Mc cain finished in the bottom 5 of his class at the naval academy but claims he has the know how.
Barack Obama graduated Columbia, Harvard Law School and was president of the Harvard Law Review.
Make the call.

I'll go with the more educated candidate in such an important election. Being educated and well informed is far more pertinent to the office of the President than being a POW.

Obama's my pick. To steal a phrase from "Monty Python" of years ago, "and now for something totally different." We need different. The republicans deregulated greed. We can't take much more. Welcome back, Jack. So very sorry.

In addition to admiting he doesn't know much about the economy, didn't McCain nearly bankrupt his own presidential campaign? McCain is too far out of touch. His plan is to tax people on the worth of their employer provided health insurance plan! This means if you make 50K a year and the average employer health plan is worth 12K you'll be taxed on an income of 62K!

With today's financial news, I think it's obvious that the Republicans need to go (far, far away).

Jack,

Certainly not McBush! The tired, old conservative tactic of hands-off, trickle-down leadership when it comes to American businesses has now proven itself to be a disastrous failure. The rules and protections that stood between us and this kind of meltdown were systematically dismantled by the republicans. We need a leader who will re-establish those protections and will redistribute the nation's wealth so that more of it winds up in the hands of a middle class that will actually spend it on the kind of meat and potatoes items that drive our economy forward. We need a president capable of calming and rallying us, someone who can speak to the national soul and make us believe in ourselves and our country once again. We need Obama.

Jack, that is a no brainer; the senile guy can't even remember how many houses he has – -

The best choice for the US is someone (s) with experience who can clean up the goverments waisteful spending, and that is a "McCain/Palin Ticket". Obama is all talk and the only thing I see him doing is to hire a team of lawyers. And develop more programs which WILL raise taxes, Heaven help us.

Carol

Dear jack, welcome back we missed you!

You know, as much as I dislike the Bush administration, Bush would have never had the guts to say our economy was strong after one of the darkest mondays of our history.

We saw one of our most important financial institutions file for bankruptcy, and Mccain didn’t find anything else to say except, the fundamentals of our economy are strong!

This evidences not only that we need change but that McCain and Palin, two people who have no clue what the economy means, will offer four years that will be worse than what we had these last eight years.

I can’t imagine how they would get us back on track. America please wake up! This is important, register to vote and take your neighboor with you! …for the sake of our future.

McCain has decades of experience in Washington passing bills that directly affect the economy, but admits he actually knows very little about economic matters. You would think that after all those years something would have stuck. I see now why he was at the bottom of his class. I think I'll go out on a limb here and take Obama, the Harvard grad that actually has a plan.

the guy who can work a calculator!

Jack,

We missed you so much. I am so glad you are back. Our prayers are with you.

I think I will take the Harvard grad. I think we need a smart guy in charge for a while. The current idiot running things has got out of hand. The deficit and mortgage mess are just some examples of what happens when you let the "C" student run things.

Palin stricks me as a "D" student. I am not interested in her either.

Debbie

Not the one who is "divorced" from the everyday struggles of regular American people. Or the one who thinks that the fundamentals are sound. Or the one who's bank lobbyist-financial advisor called the suffering citizens "whinners". No, McSame and Earmark Queen Palin are not the ticket for me!

Well McCain still thinks the economy is strong, I guess when your wife is worth a $100 million and you don't know how many houses you own you can think that. I pick the guy who took student loans and paid his own way through Harvard, grew up in a lower middle class home, and made his money the old fashioned way, he earned it.

Obama/Biden – with the thoughtful and VERY careful selection of the appropriate financial advisors that ANY president would need.

Mavericks are reckless – no to the mavericks.

i'll vote for the guy who can accurately count his own houses.

It's hard to even believe that Hillary and Sarah whateverhernameis are being mentioned in the same breath! Ms. Palin has no credibility, zero none. It's quite frightening that this woman is a VP candidate when the life expectancy of the candidate in the front of her ticket is probably limited.

More importantly, my thoughts and prayers to you and yours on the passing of your dear wife. I have made a contribution in Carol's honor to the ASPCA, I hope others will too.

Jack,

Welcome back, and sorry for your precious loss.

Barack Obama is better able to handle this precarious economy. We need new and innovative solutions. John McCain is vintage and if I wanted vintage I would pick a wine. ( or should I have said whinner)

Emporium, Pa

wlc back and my condolence for the lose of your wife....I'm sure she's up there with God

About the economy, you forgot to include Greenspan comment that America cannot afford McCain's economic policy, his tax cuts in particular. This is a man who could not help Bush bc you need an administration that will work with both the private and public sectors, something President Clinton did so well.

To answer your question, without a doubt Obama is better equipped to handle our economic crisis. I fear with McCain and Palen, they'll make the Depression Era look like an easy ride.

McCain admits he doesn't know the economy well, so the answer is Obama by default.

Robert Price
New York, NY

Definately Obama, McCain has had 30 years and Phil Graham to put us in this mess!

McCain certainly. Obama raises fears, but McCain solves problems!

Jack, I'll take the critical thinking top of his class Havard guy over the old guy that graduated at the bottom of his class.

McCain has openly admitted he doesn't know much about the economy. Obama already had my vote. This just makes my decision all the more certain.

It is embarrassing for me to admit I am a republican. McCain/Palin represent everything wrong with politics. I can't believe that man said our economy is structurally sound. But considering he doesn't know how many homes he has....yes I do believe it!

I am voting for Barack Obama, a democrat...the first time in 30 years. I am not looking for a miracle in regards to our economy. I know we all have to make change before we can expect our government to!

McCain/Palin! Obama's plan to increase business tax, payroll tax, capital gains tax will effect job production and we can't afford that. Plus, Obama wants to redistribute wealth and support the losers with the entitlement programs. That's how we got into this mess! We need to stop taking care of worthless self serving execs and stop giving to everyone. We had people crying they couldn't afford a house so the gov't made sure they could afford a house and then those same people bought too much house and defaulted and now we have the banking crisis to contend with that will affect those of us who are responsible plus the idiots who bought too much house complaining about losing it. McCain is no nonsense and won't take care of irresponsible morons or big spending gov't and that is what we need!

one word Jack. None.

Well, lets think about it. One has a campaign staff full of lobbyists while one refuses to accept lobbyist contributions. Just do the math.

A "once in a century" financial crisis requires a "once in a century" leader, not a person who's been around for a century. We need Obama.

What has either one done in their careers to show he is better equipped than the other to handle our economic crisis? I am a McCain supporter but let's get real...a President can do only so much to perk the economy.

For the Democrats to lay of our financial woes at the feet of our President is ignorant. To believe that the next President, regardless of whether it is Obama or McCain, is going to cure all of our financial woes is also ignorant.

What either Obama or McCain is afraid to tell us is that this country has run out of quick fixes! Multiple solutions to each of our most serious problems are going to be take mega bucks, mega time, and mega sacrifice on our part.

So, if you think Obama can wave his magic wand and spread his wings and charm to right all the wrongs of our country....then vote for Obama. If you think McCain has the intestinal fortitude to implement reforms and cut the purse strings on many giveaways...then vote for McCain.

I don't like either candidate. They both add substantially to the national debt.

Ofourse its Mcain. Mcain has more experience and is known as a reformer and will fight to make the economy better. Espcecially, through getting our country underway to energy independence. What experience does Obama have in economic issues?

Duh. How about NOT the Party of the Administration in power?

Can't we just get Franklin D. Roosevelt back?

I hate to say this but in the short term, Obama is. However, unfortunately our children will pay for it in the form of an ever expanding multi-trillion dollar debt, a debt held by many people that we don't consider friendly towards the USA. It is too bad that amidst the worst financial crisis in generations the American people have the choice of either an out of touch foreign policy specialist OR a man who thinks that we can spend our way out of our current problems and do it under the guise of 'change'. I think that historians will look back at this election as the tipping point where the USA finally lost their grip on world financial supremacy.

Well, according to John McCain, Sen. McCain doesn't know much about economics. I'd go with Obama.

That's easy!
The only candidate who has truly defined the term "change", Ralph
Nader.

Sorry for your loss, Jack. It must be very difficult.
No question, Obama. McCain doesn't even think there is a problem with the economy. Obama is the one with the ideas and intelligence and judgement to face these terrible problems.

Jack,
Why are you being redundant? Mcain told us from the outset he was not strong on the economy. What part of "more of the same" the American people has not gotten?

I cant say mccain because he is such a liar he cant be trusted. Reminds me a phrase I once heard that went "read my lips, no new taxes!". We all know how that went!!

Gee, I don't know: a choice between the candidate who doesn't know that much about economics or even how many houses he owns or the candidate who has been talking about this issue along with a detailed plan for economic recovery? Even someone whom has never taken Econ 101 could answer this.....Obama!

Aren't we talking about capability here? It's one thing to admit not knowing squat about the economy, another to be a presidential candidate and somehow relegate such ignorance to personal weakness when better minds should have been offered as part of the future equation. I think they're called advisors...

McCain is part of ancient history, Obama is certainly quicker to grasp a number of matters soon to be upon us–and react with calm and decisiveness.

If there's anything good to come from the Wall Street crisis, it's to show us all the deficiencies of the Republican candidates. And, there's no need to even mention McCain's running mate in financial matters.

I hear most of you saying Obama and that he is going to bring change. I look at what change he has said he will bring. He will raise taxes on the wealthy and middle class and cut taxes to the poor. He will raise the capital gains tax from 10 to 25%. I'm an independent and I can't handle more taxes. I believe it is time to quit blaming the people running the country and start blaming ourselves. The administration didn't approve the loans or get loans they couldn't pay. We are in a mess no matter who gets in office. The bottom line is what has either said that is going to significantly work. This thing will take time no matter who is in office. However, more taxes means less investing and less investing means slow economy. I heard McCain say one time he would curb government spending. Honestly, Ron Paul makes more sense to me.

Anyone who thinks Obama is going to help the economy needs to take a closer look at his tax plans. They are going to kill the economy!

We're supposed to believe that the party that got us into this mess is offering us the McCain/Palin team to make it all better. How stupid do they think we are?

I'd much rather give my vote to the "unknown" with hope, than give it to "Mr. Experience" who might have experience but will do nothing with it.

I'm going to have to go with Obama. McCain's economic adviser called us a nation of whiners; McCain himself thinks that the economy is still fundamentally strong (this in the face of a "once in a generation" collapse) – who do you believe? Greenspan or McCain...that's a no brainer.

The Republicans have opposed regulation of the financial industry and this was led by John McCains CFO. Do we really want more of the same/McCcain?!!!

Sen. Obama is the best person to help with the crisis that we are having. Sen. McCain has not a clue about economics and it admitted it! He even had the nerve so say that we (the US) have a strong economy right now, what rock has he been living under?

Obama is better able to handle a financial crisis. Instead of shooting from the hip, he would gather the best financial minds in the country around him and let them discuss until he reached a decision. No president can know everything about everything. The smart one gather all the opinions they can, pro and con, listen, and then act.

I think it is clear that since the foreclosure mess is due to a loosening of lending standards, that was passed during the Clinton years to boost home ownership, and our personal stupidity (along with lenders) to borrow more money than we can afford to pay off at the first bit of financial crisis, that we need the government to bail us out. Too bad there is no personal responsibility to live within our means and that just carries over to the politicians who spend OUR money foolishly.

I suggest to you readers and lovers of taxes, please tax our wealthiest individuals such as musicians and actors and talk show hosts and authors who make many millions a year a "windfall" tax at the rate of at least 50% maybe even 75%. I think it is unfair that working "rich" like your physician, dentist, lawyer, or local business owner could be taxed at the same rate for their $250,000+ a year as those who make many times more. Think of the income we could get to redistribute to all. Remember that for the most part our politicians, all of them, are in a different income bracket than 99.9% of the population and none of them know what it is like to be a "normal" American.

All of our politicians got us into this mess and NONE will get us out. Only we can, if we are willing to take some responsibility!

Definitely not the person who said that he didn't know much about economics. In the real world people in charge get fired for financial blunders much smaller than what we are seeing today. I guess it doesn't apply to the Republicans.

It is clear which candidate has expressed a clear understanding of the economy all along, and which one didn't find economics sufficiently interesting during his many years in the senate to become informed. Obama, without doubt is the one to lead us out of the mess.

Obama, of course! Who de-regulated Wall Street? Phil Graham and his side-kick, John McCain, who still uses Graham as a financial advisor to his campaign! He's trying to hide his support of de-regulation and uses the "big lie" once again to point a finger at the Obama and Democrats. I'm a Republican but I disown John McCain!!!

While it may be easy to temporally relate an economic event to a present executive administration, please remember that congressional positioning had much to do with promoting an environment for institutions to move away from sound financial principles taught in macro economics 101. (ie. Senator Dodd, etc).

Whether you believe in capitalistic or socialistic government, not everyone can have everything (remember the book "The Animal Farm")

A financial sector utilizing poor judgement and greed should not imply the entire economic arena is as myopic. Lending may have preyed on enthusiastic, poorly-footed borrowers, yet patient investors and those with good work ethics that live within their means will most probably not be swayed by a media moment. The race is not always to the swift of foot, but perhaps the sure of foot.

McCain knows little and Obama knows even less........ bar the door Katie, there's one big financial storm out there and it's getting nasty.

Jack,

McCain has been in DC long enough that he's had opportunities in the past to correct these issues but then "the Economy isn't my strong point" he says. His comments earlier today that our Economy is fundamentally strong just goes to show how little he does understand it. Sure his Oil buddies are all doing well but the average American has seen his wages and buying power go down.

So in answer to your question, I think the kid from Chicago who grew up poor and earned everything he has might just have a better handle on saving us from this 'Once in a Century' financial crisis.

Tim
Syracuse, NY

McCain says he'll "never let this happen again", but then says he wants even less regulation. That doesn't add up. Since deregulation of the mortgage lenders and brokers was a fundamental catalyst in this mess, how does Senator McCain expect to keep his word? When will this country learn? First it's energy deregulation (hello Enron), and now this. The Republicans have gotten very good at selling "lower taxes" as an elixir, but in reality, the income-tax distraction is nothing more than a straw-man argument.

First of all welcome back!
there is no doubt that Obama will be the better candidate to handle this kind of situation. The economic crises we are in is the result of 8 dramatic years of Bush and we all know either you are democratic or republican that McCain is just like Bush.
Our country is crying for change , real change.
OBAMA is real change.

Obama of course, remember,the Bush/McCain/Palin ticket is running on war alone. How would anyone want palin handling this devastating situation ?? If you do, I recommend taking your savings out of the bank first.

Unfortunately...neither one is competent enough! This nation is headed down a dark path that will eventually bring us to our knees. American supremacy is a thing of the past. China, Russia and others already own most of our country and I can hear the fat lady warming up. We need more than the blather that is coming out of the mouths of these 2 politicians. We need help!

The economy is in the crapper and McCain is offering a chicken in every pot. Happy days are not here again.

O'bama is not bogged down by 26 years of washington lobbysists and their greedy add-ons that work against a balanced budget.

A Change. A fresh point of view. A new beginning is needed in America.

Jack

The answer is simple and straight forward. It is the candidate that understands the economy and the dire situation of the middle class. Not the candidate who for the past week has spent time putting out messages to distract from the real issues. So the answer is BO.

If the R party candidate doesn't know how many residences he and his family reside and the R party candidate's wife chooses not to say then I certainly don't think R party McCain candidate WOULD NOT KNOW HOW TO BALANCE NOTHING IF HE DOESN'T KNOW HOW MANY PLACES HE CAN LAY HIS HEAD AND WIFE WON'T DISCLOSE HOW MANY

We need the thoughtful Obama, who ponders carefully, consults with bright economic minds, listens to advice, and will proceed to make the best and brightest, most carefully planned economic decisions for the American people. These decisions are going to be wrenching. Why anyone would want such a job is almost beyond comprehension, but of the two who think they're up to it, Obama is the best.

In order to fix the financial crisis you first have to recognize there is one, John McCain's comments today tells me he is most definitely not ready to fix anything! Rob McGuffin Windsor Ontario,Canada

I think we should take John McCain at his word. He said he doesn't know much about the economy. Senator Obama is the one to lead us out of this 8-year Republican mess.

McCAIN!!!!!!!!

If we wait for either, we'll likely be in a full-blown depression!

For the first time in his miserable Presidency, Bush needs to make some command decisions without enlisting the "help" of The Dark Lord.

The housing crisis and everything that led today's bloodbath on the markets is the result of DEREGULATION of the financial services industry. Deregulation is the economic mantra of the REPUBLICANS!

It is also the Mantra of McCain! Go figure!

Voting for McCain is basically saying that t we can have another four years of sheer insanity and exceptionally poor leadership for our country – on every major issue that faces our country today. Obama and his campaign have indicated that they know how to manage a multi-million dollar organization,all funded by private donations. I'll give him and his advisors a chance to provide us with new ideas and strategies on the economic front.

I am a law school graduate-and I assure you that the last thing we need handling this awful financial mess is a Law School Professor!!! John McCain is highly experienced and honest. I believe he will surround himself with the kind of experts he needs to navigate the nation through this mess into pracitices suited for the 21st century.

Obama.
Sen. McCain
is out of touch with most of the world. He will never be touched by a recession/depression withhis multi millionaire wife and life. I don't think he truly knows what is going on . He has been a very negative,mean candidate. Most of Obamas negativeness is fighting back. McCain has a temper and should not run a country.

Welcome back Jack. You have been greatly missed! I am so sorry for your loss. My continued prayers are with you and your family.

How can we trust the econmy to someone who graduated 5th from the bottom of the class? 894 out of 895 graduates? Just because time has gone by dosen't mean he has gotten any smarter.

One thing for sure, the Navel Academy taught Sen McCain well on the issues of war. He has studied war, been to war, votes for war and wants to keep us in any type of war.

Clearly, this country, with today's crashes on wall street must conclude that the smart guy is the better choice.

McCain deserves respect, however let's hope for the sake of the country that he is not elected. No comprehension of the Economy nightmare.

This problems have been brought about by the Bush failed policies. Mccain fully supports them asserting that the economy is strong. He seems to be sleeping through it all. He's not in touch with reality. Obama-Biden are the only ones who can fix these problems. We've suffered too much to sustain four more years of the same.

Obama is significantly better in handling this situation with his economic experience. Ever since 2000, it has been much harder to afford necessities for our everyday lives and I am barely getting by with funds for college with the necessities. I think the situation is bleak and we need Obama to fix it. Its pretty obvious if you know economics, that the supply and demand curves are shifting farther left everyday because of gas prices and with a result there are higher prices and less supply and thats where our economy is struggling. . Everyday, it hurts more and more to afford my familys necessities especially with the increasing gas and food prices. Think about it, Obama will help us more economically in both the short run and the long run. The wealth gap is becoming worse and worse where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. We cant have 4 more years of that

I'm not a big fan of either candidate. As middle class income voter, I fear if we stay this course, we are looking at over 10 years of financial struggle. I do not think either candidate will solve our financial crisis in their term. But steps need to be taken in the right direction. Obama identifies the situation and explains a definite course of action to save all working class, as the corporate giants start to tumble. I personally want to be standing safe above the wreckage, not lying underneath it. McCain seems to be following the "BUSHism" that all is ok. Obviously it's not. American's should be scared. Our country is going bankrupt before our eyes. I pick Obama. Please excuse me as I start to purchase gold and stuff money into my matress.

McCain only because he won't mess with taxes. Anyone who knows finnace (and is honest with themselves) knows that a president has little effect on national economy. This current crisis is the result of greedy investment firms.

I feel that Obama and the Democrats (especially with the help of the Clintons) are best able to handle the failing economy.

McCain's $600 shoes, seven and counting homes, and heiress trophy wife should tell you all you need to know. And let's not forget McCain's economic guru Phil "the middle-class are a bunch of whiners" Gramm. I wouldn't trust McCain/Palin/Gramm to handle my TV's remote control, much less trust them with a nickel of my money.

Obama is by far the best to handle the economy and any of the other difficult problems the next presidaent will inherit.

Dave in Brooklyn probably lives in Wiliamsburg and is just a stupid hippie.

Wake up America. McCain was WISE for saying he doesn't know much about the economy. That humility is what will make him study the issue and choose smart people to advise him. He is not George Bush who sticks his head in the sand.
Obama is too young and inexperienced to know what he doesn't know. He fools the middle class into thinking his closing of corporate loopholes and taxing the "rich" won't affect the middle class. Ha! Wake up middle class. Those above 250K are not some evil wealthy money hoarders. They are the small businesses who employ most of you, and the companies from which you buy things. So you will be out of a job or get paid less while the employers recoup there higher taxes, and the corporations will charge you more for the products you can't afford to buy anymore anyway, with your reduced salary or unemployment.
So this is the level of complexity of analysis Obama has with his Harvard Law School education? The tax the rich becomes tax the middle class if you are smart enough to follow the process to its natural conclusion.
So give me the guy who humbly admits he has to study up on the economy any day. Doctors who are less than the top of the class often make the best doctors, becaues the top of the class folks never question themselves. Same deal here.
Sam Chandra
Chicagoland

Phil Gramm is the architect of much of the deregulation of financial markets. He is McCain buddy and was his advisor on economic matters until he put his foot in his mouth. I would not give McCain on penny of my money to invest!

It is breathtaking that two people - McCain and Palin - with such limited intellect could be in position to oversee the overhaul of our financial markets.

Just Ask Carly Fiorina this evening.
She's impartial.
The Economy couldn't be any better to someone who nearly bankrupted her own company and still walked away with $26 million for her efforts.
The business of America really is business – just from the wrong end!

Obama is a brilliant legal mind and actually understands the economy. McCain is a senile aristocrat. How can anyone believe that a man with 7 houses, who wants to give more tax breaks to the wealthy is actually going to help middle and working class Americans. As a lifelong Alaskan I can say with conviction that Sarah Palin is anything but a breath of fresh air for Washington and is even less capable when it comes to the economy that McCain is. Obama Obama Obama!

the candidate who understands the complexity of the global economy we operate in and with a clear eye to the future – Obama.

Bush tax cuts for the wealthy while we are at War, and some say over Oil. The Republicans have proven to be greedy and corrupt but they say the support moral issues. Have Americans finally rec'd the message?

Barack Obama is. John McCain is not going to do a damn thing with his lying ass. If he's going to change things, why doesn't he start by giving some of the homes he owns to homeless Vietnam Veterans?

Its obvious that Obama presents a better plan with regards to this issue. Its obvious that this crisis did not occur overnight and has been allowed to happen over the past 8 years. McCain is part of the problem having been an investor in realestate and in his manipulations of funds. The Palin and McCain ticket will only bring more of the same!!!!! She cannot even speak to the media unless they are biased toward her and frankly I fear this ticket! This is a reaction to the McCain/Palin ticket and an omen of times to come. We need Obama/Biden to gets us through the next 4 years with fresh ideas.

The person who as eaten Ramen Noodles for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner during their college days.

That's Barack Obama.

For a candidate to burst on the national scene and raised over $415 million, has 2500 employees, 2.5 million shareholders, and 18.5 million customers and do all this in less than 19 months, HE GOT MY VOTE!

After eight years of inept, immoral and unethical leadership by Bush and the Republican's in Washington, who in their right mind would elect McCain for another go at this?

McCain has relied on people like Phil Graham for his economic and now with the DOW down over 500 we can see the effects of this rule by the elite has done to America.

Give America back to it's citizens and not to the inept rightwing. Vote Obama.

Clearly, those who espoused that ridiculous notion of a 'mental recession,' and the candidate they support may still believe such foolishness. McCain and his co-horts simply do not get it. However, those Americans who have to make some very serious financial decisions for their family are actually feeling a real recession and will be inclined to support the real candidate for and of change – Senator Obama. I truly hope Americans stand up for change because the world is watching and waiting for its renewed leadership.
Alex
Bahamas

I quote John McCain from the Boston Globe, December of 2007: "The issue of economics is not something I've understood as well as I should. I've got Greenspan's book."
Nuff said.

Gayle
Columbus, OH

I Googled "Keating Five" to learn about the Savings and Loan scandal – it was before my time. Long story short, I learned that Senator Spaceman, John Glenn, and Senator McCain were chastised for exercising "poor judgment", while the remaining three learned that their time in the Senate was coming to an end. Even if McCain was guilty of poor judgment then, I believe he has the benefit of twenty years historical hindsight. Senator Obama's history is as yet unwritten.

If the Gunny doesn't know what to do, at least he knows that he should defer to Alan Greenspan.

Since Mc Cain was part of the problem, Obama is the best. We can't afford any more mistakes from Mc Bush.

Jack,

Before you can successfully address a problem, you must recognize the depth of the problem. McCain still thinks the economy is fine. Obama is comparing our situation to the great depression. The answer should be obvious to all.

John Vandenburg

Obama is better prepared to handle this once in a hundred year financial crisis. He is in touch with the average person. He has the negotiating skills and basic respect needed to pull the parties together to solve the problems. And, Obama is not too proud and self-absorbed to solicit advice from the experts.

McCain shouts out that "shaking up Washington" and regulating the industry would solve the problem. Well, it's Republican policy to deregulate and let the market place take care of itself. Well this total collapse is the result. And, if I recall correctly, John McCain and Sarah Palin are Republicans...garden variety Republicans. It's their kind that caused this mess. And, don't argue that it was a Democratic Congress over the past two years. Yeah, they may have had a majority, but it takes more than just a simple majoritiy to effect change.

At least the Democrats believe in benevolent regulation and care about the everyday person.

With McCain/Palin, it's the emperor's new clothes all over again...the same old naked truth about Republican beliefs garbed in spin and lies about change. When you really look, all you see is George Bush nouveau!

After listening to John Mccain's comment as to the strength of the American economic fundamentals, one would be hard pressed to say he is more suited than Barack Obama. Further John Mccain himself has admitted he is not knowledgeable about the economy, another strike against giving him an edge. The past eight years of George Bush's policies which John Mccain has supported 90% of the time by his own reckoning, is responsible for the current financial crisis.

THREE STRIKES AND YOU ARE OUT JOHN.

Well, based on Sen McCain's admission that he doesn't understand the economy, I would hate to think we had to rely on his decisions. It's obvious that at least we would have someone who understands how to spell "economy" if Sen Obama were in charge.

Jack, McCain used Phil Gramm as his economic advisor (Mr. USB).
Obama recently met with a team of the best financial minds in the country, including Warren Buffet, to assess the financial status and plan for the future of the country.

Obviously Obama. No more McSame

I don't know about the rest of you but I am still waiting for Reaganomics to trickle down. Helloooo! Trickle down economics does not work. Go Obama.

Isn't it obvious? Clearly Obama is the man. The Republicans want to deregulate everything, don't they?

Obama.

Not too long ago, Senator McCain proposed that we suspend the Federal Gas Tax for the summer. Now we need to infuse 30 billion dollars into the Highway Trust Fund just to continue the projects that have been started. Imagine what we would have to infuse had we suspended the Tax for 3 months. John McCain is totally clueless on the economy and proves it everyday with his pandering comments. He keeps saying we send 700 billion dollars to countries that don't like us very much. How about the 10 billion a month we keep sending to Iraq–do they love us?
I can see the light at the end of the tunnel and it is not the McTrain.

McCain. Thank God Greenspan is no longer in charge. He and Clinton began this to make the economy appear better than it was. i.e. The phoney "budget surplus"

I will be voting for John McCain, but will praying for whoever wins in November. What a mess.

I will be watching to see if the CEO's survive with their multi million dollar parachutes. I hope they step up and support thier employees.

I live in Arizona where Mccain has been a senator for some time now. We also happen to be one of the top 5 states effected by the mortgage crunch and sub prime loans in which is to blame for the Wall Street problems. My neighborhood has seen 30-35% property value drops over the last few months. If Mccain can't help his own state how can he help the country in a once in century crisis? His values are old school and we need a fresh perspective in the white House. His Mansion in Sedona has most likely not lost it's value.

Obama has a clue; McCain is clueless and clings to the notion that giving rich folks a lot of money and not clamping down on fiscal irresponsibility by the government will solve our current crisis that is of the Republicans' makling, including McCain. McCain thinks the economy is sound. Even Wall Street does not agree with McCain who is totally without weapons in his arsenal to even approach a solution.

OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA! Not only for the economy -for security, immigration reform, civil rights, trade, foreign policy. Four more years of Bush/McCain't may be the biggest disaster this country has ever faced.

NEITHER ONE! This isn't a Democratic or Republican issue, it's pure human greed. Democrats want to blame it on the Republicans, saying they didn't have sufficient regulation. At the same time, they'll say we need to limit government into our everyday llives. So, no one can win in the political arena. Where does individual responsibility come into all of this?? I know full well not to take a loan with a giant balloon payment, that I can't possibly pay back. Members of my family have lost their jobs recently, and rather than feel sorry for themselves and waiting for a handout, they've gone out and got another one (sometimes two). For Heaven's sake America, wake up and start taking responsibility for your own messes, and stop blaming everyone under the sun. Obama or McCain can't save us from our own stupidity.

John McCain admits he doesn't understand the economy as well as he should, he doesn't know how many houses he owns, he jokes that anyone making less than $5 million a year is middle class, he proposed getting rid of the 18 cents gas tax, and he was against the Bush tax cuts before he was for them. Obviously McCain is not who we want as President during the Bush Bust economic crisis.

McCain is a fiscal conservative. He has stated he will freeze spending to examine expenditure. He is against pork spending. He won't tax business out of the country. His senate record backs all that up. Last time we tried Obama's type of "windfall" taxes....production dropped. Obama's tax and spend and "Robin Hood" economics will cripple this country. What McCain stated is correct. The economic fundamentals in the country are sound, he's not saying certain sectors haven't been hurt by the current economy at all. He's not out of touch as some would paint him. So to answer the question...it's no question, McCain is the only choice to lead us in this economic climate. Obama's taxes and bigger government and more government programmes would cripple this county.

Obama is better equipped and able to handle this financial crisis. Too many years have gone by with Republicans not addressing the important economic issues. They are too concerned with helping the top 2% of the population rather than average middle class people. This crisis was born of Republican policies gone awry and our country cannot survive another 4 years!

The country faces two extraordinary situations: A systemic banking collapse and a catastrophic energy crisis. They have one thing in common – the cure is painful and Americans don't want to hear the truth. So as long as the candidates tell Americans exactly what they want to hear, the disaster will worsen. It's on the job training for both parties.

OBAMA – of course.

All politicans will stretch the turth to their advantage at times, but Bush/McCain/Chenney/Palin are outright liers. Bush/Chenney as well all know have lied to us in the past and McCain/Palin just last week.

We need people who will do their best, tell the truth and "for the people". I believe Obama and crew will get this mess on the right track. At leaset Obama has already told us that it's going to hurt, and that's the truth.

Barack Obama....McCain admits he knows nothing about the economy and he certainly has no new ideas or solutions to our terrible overseas image...we need Obama who listens, is intelligent, and who will surround himself with the best people he can find..he is all that will make me feel confident about the future...I would not feel at all confident if McCain is elected

NEITHER

Jack, it is unarguably true that the democrats have the best economic policies that favor this great country. Let us not be fooled by the pandling of John McCain and his cohorts. John has failed to tell the truth in his campaign statements and ads. So, how can we believe his would-be economic policies.

anthony
jackson, MS

McCain has said he doesn't know much about the Economy and needs to be better with that subject and says that "the Economy is fundamentally sound",plus is an admitted computer illiterate.Palin is under investigation for her ethics and was for/against the bridge to god knows where.Barack Obama would do better then those two in his sleep.

With all the financial bad news, no one is going to jail for fraud. There are mortgage brokers, Ceo's with their golden parachutes, and gouging oil companies that shoul be held to task.
Thank you Ronald Reagan for all the deregulation. You let the fox into the hen house and greed took over.

Hi Jack – Anyone who subscribes to the Tickledown Economic policies of Ronald Regan, does not represent the interest of the middleclass American. I think as long as we live in the past we'll destine to repeat it and I'm not talking about the Clinton's 1990's. Dennis

I'm sure McCain is eminently capable of handling the financial crisis of the 12th Century, maybe even the 16th. 21st? No way.

offcours Obama–the old man is out of touch–who thinks economy is strong!!!!, and the little palin who just started her journey needs to stay home and take care of her household stuff and live this country people from her two day shining politics.

Sen. McCain used Phil Gramm as an econmic advisor. This is the same man who, as a Senator, slipped in legislation to allow the wild commodities speculation we now see, and who said that we are a nation of whiners. Sen. McCain is not the sharpest tool in the shed and relies upon his advisors. Who is advising him? Lobbyists. Gov. Palin also showed that she is not very bright. Who is advising her? McCain and his advisors. Whereas, Sen. Obama is well educated, thoughtful and non-reactionary. His tax policies are right-on and will boost the Middle Class when we desperately need a boost. Remember, the Middle Class are the consumers and this is a consumer-based economy. Sen. Obama's policies clearly favor the Middle Class.

If my choice is between a guy with the Harvard law degree and the guy who graduated 6th from last in his class of 900 at Annapolis and has contributed to the economic disaster at hand ... ???

McCain has admitted to his limited uderstanding of economic issues. Barack Obama has already shown America his good judgement in these tough economic times. He knows these gigantic financial institutions need more oversight, not less – like the republican party-line always suggests.

As I am sure you have heard many times over I do not believe McCain could handle the economy with his statement that he made today. I didn't think so even before he made his statement, with his voting record from his years of being in congress he is just not equipped.

Obama. Even Greenspan said Obama has the better economic
plan for taxes. McCain has been supported by the Federal government since he was 18 years old. His wife wears $300,000 dresses. Do you think he is concerned about the economy??

Obama recently paid back his Student Loans. He worked his way up to be President of the Harvard Law program. His mother was on food
stamps and was worried about having health care for her cancer. He knows what its like to feel economic stress, worked his way out of it,
and helped others work their way out of it with job training programs, etc.

Well, Senator Obama is highly intelligent, well educated and has pledged to consult with a variety of advisors who will be something other than yes men. On the other hand, Senator McCain has Sarah Barracuda, Phil Gramm (in no small part responsible for this current mess) and Carly Fiorina who had her own problems with Hewlitt Packard when she was running that ship. More of the same or something different and undoubtedly better? I'll take Obama any day over the backward looking McCain camp whic believes that the age of the Robber Barons was a great era in this country.

Obama is better qualified.
McCain has Phil Gramm as his economic guru and it's his deregulation
of the banking industry that perpetuated this mess in the first place
McCain says that Gramm has a PhD in economics but I think it's in the Voodoo Economics of both Bushes.

I think that McCain will be better to handle the economy than Obama. Obama stands for big government and higher taxes; his record speaks volume. Since the democratic congress took over in 2006, the economy has been going downhill with higher gas prices; thanks for NOT drilling thanks for keeping americans dependent on foreign oil... no wonder the low rating and the lack of confidence the american people have for the congress.

I am 65 years old. I have lived under every president from Frankin Roosevelt all the way to W. Only one president in my lifetime straightened everything out when I (and a lot of others) had given up.
The last name of that president was Clinton! Now, you ask: Which cadidate can straighten out the economy? Since all the ultra-liberals like you made sure of it the one candidate who might be able to fix it is no longer in the hunt!

If there is a silver lining to be seen on this bleak day, it is that we do have a candidate who is honest, honorable, intelligent and wise enough to see our nation through to better times. His name is Barack Obama. Pat in Kentucky

McCain has the right idea the basics are still okay. The Dems created all this financial havoc when they started the S&L closings and established the RTC. Greenspan played right along with them in pushing a financial market that was built on a house of cards. This could have been stopped many times during the Clinton years but Greenspan didn't have the guts to do it. McCain has the guts and the financial people working with him to resolve it with using the tax payers to payoff incompetent business leaders and do nothing Congressmen. No more golden parachutes no more bailouts. Please remember who backed a lot of these investment banks and what state they are incorporated in.

Obama and Biden, of course. McCaine and Palin are clueless when it comes to our economy (and inept at the rest of our gigantic issues ,domestic and foreign)

Obama/Biden are far better equipped to handle the economy. McCain would give us more of the same conservative policies that have brought us to where we are today. We need strong econonic leadership in order to be a strong nation.

John McCain will be too busy helping to cover the exposed hind parts of his cronies to successfully deal with the current economic woes we are facing. He was a "D" student.

It will take an intelligent and forward thinking, energetic mind to help motivate Congress to draft legislation that will protect us from the fat cats that are laughing all the way to their off shore accounts with our little retirement investments.

I trust Obama to keep me from donning a Wal-Mart greeters vest to supplement my retirement.

We need Barack Obama and Joe Biden!! No question!! McCain and Palin are very SCARY!! Neither of them has a clue!! They are WORSE than Bush and Cheney - by far!!

Our foreign affairs and econmic woes have bothe occurred on the Republicans' watch. In the past it took a Franklin Roosevelt or Bill Clinto to clean our fiscal house. Obama and Biden are the best ones to take on the job. Besides, John McCain has already said he knows little about the economy, and Sarah palin only wants to be sure Alkaska receives more Federal money per capita than any other state. For sure she will not help the economy.

Ben

I think Obama is the best for crisis. He is a cool, calm thinker. McCain shows poor judgment and is quick to lose his temper. Neither is good for a crisis.

I hope America realises in time that Obama is better prepared, his record shows that his more in touch with middle class and that McCain plan is to benefit the wealthy just like Bush America lets lear from the mistakes of 2000

Barack Obama is our best choice. He has the education, and vision to move us forward. Clearly, Barack Obama brings a new way of thinking to Washington. Barack believes in the power of bringing us together, and leading us out of this mess. John McCain is proving daily, how much he doesn't get it.

The Republicans like to knock Obama, labeling him an elitist because he attended Ivy League institutions for his college and graduate education. We need someone with small town values is their rallying cry. Guess what? George Bush had "small town values", Dick Cheney liked to hunt on weekends: did this do anything to help the U.S. economy? No.

Here's a reality check: the Bush administration did not fail because of bad luck and bad timing. FDR inherited the worst recession in our nation's history and stabilized it, heralding decades of unheralded economic prosperity. No, Bush's term is a failure because he was a hard-line Republican, and Republican economic policies are flat-out wrong. Now the party that elected him is trying to disown him even though they agreed with him point by point, vote by vote, veto by veto. (Oh right - except for Katrina.)

It is plainly obvious that this country needs a politician who bases policy on the facts rather than ideology. Economics is tricky stuff with plenty of ins and outs. Personally, I'll take the Ivy League grad with the magna cum laude diploma.

Obama understands the law and economics to confront the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression facing our country today. In my opinion, the crisis was a result of Fedral Government failure to monitor the criminals in charge of these giant instutitions–who call themselves "CEO's."

It will be a colossal mistake for Americans to elect Mccain/palin who undoutably will continue these policies that simply benefit the top 1 percent of Americans. My friends, do not be fooled again. Did you see what is happening at Wall Street? How can anyone convince you that another 4 years of Republicans would be better for you?

We cannot take the chance that John McCain will know how to handle this crisis. John McCain is a Lindsay Graham supporter and it was Graham who was at the heartbeat of our current deregulation agenda.
I cannot trust a former beauty queen who took six years to get a Bachelor's degree and was a short timer as Governor of an extremely small state.

Barack is a brilliant man, a Harvard Graduate. He will know how to deal with this financial mess and he will know who to call, he will put those people on his staff and America will find themselves on the path of true reform, the reform that the democrats will bring us. Remember President Clinton and the fact that he left office with the country experiencing a surplus and everyone's portfolio very healthy.

What a question! I am "still" ENPLOYED by LEHMAN BROTHERS and I have to tell you this is not only Wall Street's own doing. You can't blame the football team for trying to score a touchdown. It's the bad policies of the last 8 years that have shaped the system and resulted in the current massive crash. Neither McCain nor any other Republican can nor should they be entrusted with solving the current crisis. After all, they are responsible for the bad policies. We need new vision, a new team, with new energy and better policies to help us all. The only alternative is Obama!

Hmmm. That's a hard one. I agree with the Iraqi position mentioned in the Post today. I would have to say McCain.

Come on man. i am tired of the foolishness. We don't need "More of the Same McCain." Right-wingers are running this country into the ground. Values and patriotism are very important...but they don't pay the bills. Whose to say the Republican Party is the party of values and patriotism anyway? It seems to me that every election they rap themselves in the flag, grab a bible while holding a gun and point fingers at Democrats...painting them as being immoral pansies. When the election is over they go back to partaking in some of the most immoral social and political behavior in our country's history. The simple fact that McCain threw a woman on the ticket with no experience, very prehistoric views and very little substance is a leading indicator that he isn't the person for the job. Its not that she is a woman as I would have voted for Hillary had she won the nomination but this is ridiculous. In the words of a pretty good movie about an election, "we need serious people for a very serious time." I honestly don't believe McCain is a very serious person based on his message which is the same tired rhetoric we have been fed for eight years. I hope his time will be up come November.

Dear Jack:

First of all I send you my condolences to you and your are in my prayers.

Wall Street is a mess. I now understand the power of greed and what it can do. It is sad companies like Lehman Brothers who have been in business for 158 years lose it foundations because of the stupid changes that have been made within our federal trade and banking system from this disfunctional Bush Administration. Now it going to take 20 years to fix it.

I'm not sure which candidate can repair this mess, but it will take a bunch of smart people who understand the logic of economics to do the job. McCain said he is not a economic incline, so I guess it will have to be Senator Obama for me!

Let's see: Obama–Columbia undergrad, Harvard Law where he was president of the Law Review, versus McCain–Annapolis undergrad where he was fourth from the bottom of his class. This is an easy one especially when you lookl at each man's temperment. Obama has shown an ability and interest in listening to others, while McCain is famous for throwing tantrums. No one person (or two) can solve this. It will require the best minds of several generations to get under control. I have little faith in "experience" here. Expecially when it is Republicans (with the power of the presidency for 28 of the last 40 years) who have gotten us into this one in the first place.

Bill
Pittsburgh

Those who think McCain is better equipped to lead us out of the financial crisis probably voted for George Bush not once but TWICE!

The more I watch how these candidiates handle themselves it seems Obama is by far the better choice. He has said numerous times that he is going to sorround himself with advisors that bring strengths to the table he may be lacking in. He demonstrated this by choosing Senator Biden as his running mate. McCain has stressed his "Maverick" tendencies and seems he will be making decisions more on where he, and he alone thinks the country should be moving towards.

Even my stockbroker (a staunch Republican) admits that the economy (and the stock market) does better under Democrats than Republicans.

rr

Certainly not McCain who had Phil Gramm as his financial adviser. Gramm was the mastermind behind all the deregulation.

Patty
Cumming, GA

To be honest we can't really say for sure what either candidate will do or not do...at least until they get into office.

However McCain has already admitted to being clueless about the economy and his incessant insistence on the economy being fundamentally strong indicates this to be the case. The fact that his (former) top economic adviser also calls us a nation of whiners makes be inclined to believe Obamas claim that McCain is out of touch.

McCain graduated almost rock bottom of his class while Obama through sheer hardwork and brilliance graduated from Harvard cum laude. I'd sooner trust Obama's judgment and 21st century thinking than McCain's shoot from the hip approach. This crisis will require in-depth thinking and McCain has admitted Obama is good at that.

We need the intelligence and perspective of Senator Obama to guide us forth through the mess of the last 8 Bush years. McCain has no - repeat no - economic tricks up his sleeve. That's never been his campaign or platform; he's too busy reminding of us his POW days.

We had Bush '41 and Bush '43, we don't need 'Bush 44. We need to take an entirely NEW direction in this country. Obama and Biden see the big picture . They GET IT !!

Obama/Biden 08 !!

sorry for your loss jack......but putting that aside......you know Greenspan was fired from Nixon administration for incompetence, and presided over the fast and loose money policy which got us into this mess.....why isnt Chris Dodd being investigated for getting sweetheart deals and bribes from Fannie/Freddie?.....you are so quick to blame Bush for every ill under the sun.....yet it was the liberals' position of Rodney King "why cant we all just get a loan?" that got us into this mess::
Lets have a special prosecutor to see who is REALLY accountable for this mess......but of course, that'll never happen.......dems wont hire anyone who will point the finger straight back at THEM !!!
IM VOTING FOR THE GEEZER AND THE GIRL. and as Obama's numbers collapse everywhere in the country.....i'm enjoying the schadenfreude of watching liberals' heads explode like the aliens in Mars Attacks>>>>>>KA POW there goes another one.

I'd trust McCain in a crisis, even an economic one.
A leader surrounds himself with experienced people with differing viewpoints, makes a decision based off all those views, and then accepts responsibility for that decision. McCain knows he is not an economist, so he is more likely to focus on getting the best possible advice than Obama.
Obama, because of his confidence and inexperience, is more likely to make a critical error without adequate advice, then fratically reverse course, compounding the damage.
Economic situations are the result of events and trends from 3-7 years ago, not last month. Time and patience are two things McCain understands much better than Obama.
I'd trust McCain.

I see that the vast majority of the posts favor Obama, and of the votes for McCain, the majority are sarcastic. That gives me faith in my fellow Americans.

NEITHER CANDIDATE-

WE NEED TO DRAFT MICHAEL BLUMBERG FOR PRESIDENT!!

Obama is for one simple reason. Carly Fiorina is Mccain's chief economic adviser for Mccain. So between her and McCain you would think this is great now looking down the road if McCain is elected.

But if you asked Larry, Curly & Moe or Mccain. I would have to pick these 3 certainly....uck..uck..

I think Obama, because Senator McCain said that he doesn't know nothing about economy. Those 2 things that Americans are good on it and Senator McCain doesn't know about it "computer and economy".
When I came to USA for first time from Africa!! I stayed for 2 months here, When I went back all my classmates were asking me questions about computer just because I was in USA!! come on! USA is the Washington of the world!!

While it's bound to be a blame game for both parties, how is it remotely possible to ignore John McCain, who not only doesn't seem to have a clue about economics or his role for the past 8 years in the senate, siding with Bush by voting against any measures to create oversight or government regulation over the greed of Wall Street, but now he tells the people of Florida our economy is basic sound. My god, help us. And he want to President. Tom Crawford

John McCain is not. He has a soft-heart for private intrest. I can see him always putting their needs ahead of the America people. This is a once-in-a-lifetime crisis and we need a once-in-a-lifetime President like Obama. Obama is the smarter of the two and he has more pure ideas. We need a thinker this time to occupy the Presidency because this nation is in desperate need of new soultions to these same problems. John McCain will not act fast enough to stop the financial crisis. He will drag his feet and pacify us by telling us that the economy is resilent and more of that George Bush, 911, the-flag-is-still-standing-crap!

This crisis had its roots back in the day when the housing bubble started. Congress and the White House were controlled by the Republicans back then so their attempts to blame this on the Dems is silly. McCain was there cheering on Bushonomics and how great the tax breaks for the wealthy was working. And now he tries to tell us that the economy is basically sound.

With that sort of judgment, there's no doubt that McCain can't be trusted.

The public has the idea that the Bush administration is responsible for the declining economy. John McCain, whether he does or not, should represent the Bush administration. How can the American people trust another neo-con in the Executive Branch?

OBAMA is.
How anyone can sign on to 4 more years of this is beyond me.

I guess what the McCain crowd doesn't understand is if he is elected he will be fighting a Democratic controlled Congress that will not let the current tax cuts stand. He will have the pleasure of watching many GOP members cross the aisle to support the Congress because they would all like to have jobs later. Get with the program GOP card carriers even if you your man ends up sitting on high the Congress won't be on his side as it relates to the economy.

With this massive financial avalanche, maybe neither can save us from this mess. McCain continues to say, even today, our country's economy is "fundamentally strong" and advocates continuing the ways and means of the current administration – CAN'T BE McCAIN, regardless of his double talk and "clarifications" each time he states what he thinks & his campaign sees a need to whitewash his views for political gain. Obama? At least he has been consistent in his message for change from the status quo which is FAILING. When you use the terms CHANGE under Obama, we see a message for the need to change what we are doing – REFORM under McCain is referring to something altogether – watch out for the far right religious views to be imposed if he is elected – Holy Cow – maybe even Holy War – has nothing to do with our "fundamental strong economy."

What is with the people who keep saying Obama wants raise taxes and McCain will cut them????Well folks read on and try to do some research before sounding off. Obama wants to raise taxes for the wealthy..GET IT??? RICH FOLKS WITH 7 to 9 HOMES ...And McCain does want to CUT tax..FOR the Rich..GOT it? Try reading the whole article some time and not just the comment some other illiterate wrote!!

Clearly its McCain. The problem with Bush's policies has always been that he didn't go far enough. McCain will go further. And McCain has little connection with the economic establishment. This is a time for change and who can provide economic change better then someone with only the vaguest notion of what an economy is?

I was a mortgage originator for a large bank for 21 years. Part of the blame should be placed on the mindset that everyone deserves to own a home. Many years ago the government began to put pressure on the banks to approve people with low to moderate incomes and questionable credit who would not normally qualify. The bank regulators would look at the bank statistics when considering merger requests, etc. The banks responded by dumbing down the qualifications and approving marginal borrowers. The banks seem to be getting all the blame for the poor quality of the loans when they were being pressured from above and being rewarded for increasing home ownership.

Obama got a real good deal on his million dollar plus home in Chicago.....Remember... That financial deal as CNN reported it qualifies Omama to be down on Wall Street with the rest of the greedy bastards!

Jack,
I don't know enough about economics to know whose financial plan would stand us a better chance of getting out of this financial mess. Maybe neither one. But one thing I know for sure: I know whose greedy, self-serving, financially incestuous policies have gotten us into it in the first place - and they all have (R)s after their names. Consequently, I have no intention of voting for either an old man who seems to suffer from senile dementia or his cheer-leader-of-a running mate. Bush was bad enough with Chaney to make the decisions for him; imagine an aging John McCain with his decisions being made by Little Miss Sunshine on steroids. Gawd!

You are asking this important question of people who don't have a clue about economics.
And the winner is............which ever candidate has the most posters on a ridiculous blog!

Jack, the answer to this quesiton is simple Senator Obama is better suited to handle John McCain is clueless and reckless when it comes to the economony along with Sarah Palin. The bottom line is Mccain is thinks the econmony is stronger for working people. That good news for someone whose wife is a billionnaire and he believes middle income is someone making 4 million dollars.

McCain is danagerous to put into office let alone a bad temper. McCain just doesn't get it he is really out of touch.

Obama/Biden – 08

Ron Paul.

I pick Obama now that Hillary is not in the race as being more qualified to run our country!
We do not want 4 more years of the same last 8 years!
Hillary and Obama agreed on most of the issues!

Jack,
I think that Obama has the better views but as a red blooded American and proud to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave, I just have a had time putting my support for a man who refuses to wear an american flag lapel pin or even put your hand on your heart for the pledge of allegience or the national anthiem. I have other views and opinions that I had best keep to myself, except for the fact that I know as a gun owner, sport shooter and big game hunter I would have to go with McPalin!!!!!!
So sorry about yor wife, best wishes
Jack
Rural Nevada

Definitely Obama is better equipped to handle this economic crisis. Can anybody in their right state of mind think a minute McCain whom no later this morning was saying the economy is strong will be able to do something? Even if the economy was strong the same thing ahappening how will happen under McCain Presidency. As for his running mate she is just a parrot repeating the speech prepared for her since the GOP convention.

I hope Jack that you have a different moderator otherwise a lot of the commentators' opinion will not be posted.

And should we expect the Comnunist News Network to be supportive of a free enterprise, capitalistic society. Obama is all about redistributing wealth and creating low paying government jobs for the masses of poor folks, he pretends to be for. If his successes with the housing industry as a community organizer are an indication of his financial management skills, we can all look forward to living in run-down government housing under an Obama presidency. The change Obama will bring is "THE CHANGE you have left in your wallet" when he gets through with his new taxes. People need to look at "what he has already done, instead of what he says he will do. Forget about the dream of owning your own business. Obama will do everything possible to keep you on the government dole, than making your own payroll.

Jack,

You have been missed. My sympathy & prayers to you.

Your audience is so smart and keeps up with the news. It did my heart good to read all of the responses to this question. I live in the Panhandle of Florida and it never ceases to amaze me that people don't even try to do their homework on the candidates. They just vote republician. My answer -> Obama hands down.

Pensacola, FL

Obama for sure. McCain will blame the Dems, he forgets who was in power for all these years (not a suprise at his age).

McCains, lobbyists/campaign team, fogot to tell McCain what to say this morning.

Obama/ Biden, the smart guys are in our corner!

Jack, sorry to hear about your loss, prayers are with you!

Absolutely Obama!
Mc Cain says he knows little about the economy, I believe him! He explained in an interview it is easy for him to go to Washington and be divorced from the things that challenge people everyday. How's that for an admission he is out of touch. We're hurting and his boys runing the show want it all to remain the same so they can get theirs while the rest of America pays for it dearly.
Palin is a pawn and a tool to dangle in front of us to trick us into believing they are capable of change. Can't wait to read "her future book" How I was Used by the GOP.

Right now, our country simply cannot afford the tax increases and massive additional spending that Obama is promising...they will drive our economy into another depression. Our only hope is that McCain can and will follow through on his promises to drastically cut government spending and lower taxes on all Americans, including small business owners.
San Diego, CA

Puzzling,The above comments and the polls.Do American realiize
they gave bush the majority and run it into the ground.Gave Democrate
a one man majority and expect them to fix the problem.Then complain about do nothing Congress.Wake up America smell the coffee.The entire world economey is based on American Economey.Choose the right candidate for your presidency

Cripes...How many regurgitant Obama supporters can spew the same garbage...It seems like an 'e-mail' alert to monopolize with 'talking points".

Increased taxes at a time of economic downturn are the death knell (look it up) to any recovery. Obama's desire to "re-distribute" wealth will cripple the economy even further.

Sound conservating fiscal policy will see us through...if Americans are willing to endure it...

Jack, there is no doubt in my mind Obama and the Democratics are best prepared to manage the economy..short term and long term.

Ellenwood, Ga.

If the voters love children more than they love Sarah Palin and the very rich Mccain, they will not allow the Republican Party to remain in power. I did not decide to vote Democrat until today. If people decide to vote REpublican, we will all suffer the consequences.

How could McCain possibly know how to fix this problem if he still thinks that the economy is strong today? At least Obama is not in denial.

Neither party can fix this mess. You cannot keep throwing money at a problem and think it will get better. Bail out the mortgage bankers who made STUPID decisions, bail out the big Wall Street Investments companies who looked only to their own interests, bail out the auto industries, bail out the airlines, etc, etc, etc. Where to they think the money comes from...just print more! Bush made a mess, but he had a Democratic Congress to help him ~ the President does not and cannot do it alone. America is on a downward slide and I think it is because we've abandoned the Christian principals and morality this great country was built on and blessed by ~ we didn't want to "offend" anyone. I fear for my financial security, which I have worked hard for all my life without handouts from the government.
One more thought, stop letting the CEO and leaders of these companies that we are bailing out leave will multi-millions while the workers below them lose their jobs and livlihoods.

Welcome back Jack, I have missed you and you have my deepest sympathy. This question is a no brainer Jack! McCain just doesn't get it that the middle and lower class are suffering. His choice of a running mate shows his lack of good judgment, and the lobbyists who helped us get into this mess are running his campaign. Obama and Biden are the only hope we have to get us out of the debacle that Bush and Cheney put us in. My only hope is that the republicans and independents who belong to the middle and lower class have the good sense to vote for Obama and get over the politics of race and the culture wars that have dominated this election. May God help us all if we have another 4 years of the same.

I'm a Boomer and Hispanic and Obama is "My Man"! He's educated, knowledgeable and is walking the same path that the everyday man is walking. He has a checkbook to balance daily/weekly depending on your finances and McCain probably hasn't looked at a checkbook in decades since he seems to have an endless amount of money available to his personal life due to Cindy's family business. He is so out of touch with the economy. He's proven it by saying the Economy is in good shape! What country is he living in?

Jack,

I feel this is a a rare occasion that age discrimination has a relavant and valid place in this race. The reason I feel this way is simply this: John McCain, because of his age and lack of real work experience in the civilian world, is out of touch with this modern economy we are in. I believe Obama is closer to the working man, his concerns, and obstacles in making a living for himself and family, than McCain because of his youth and real life struggle. Never thought I would feel that age was a detriment with any teeth...but this is one time it is.

Good Republican tenets – "trickle down" economics, small government and de-regulation...

In spite of the viciousness of the "Bubba" mentality (those white folk who just don't want to vote for a black man)...the silliness of the McCain campaign attacks, all the trends are pointing towards "Real Change" - and the reality of the economic crisis is staring the McCain in the face and rhetorically saying - 'You have got to deal with ME!!!!'.

In the midst of all this horrifying economic news - McCain sounds just like Bush – He believes that the economy is fundamentally strong...yes - he made this statement earlier today - and then had to come along later and "clarify" his comments. We have had enough infantile statements and later clarifications for the last eight years. We need clarity, common sense and honesty.

I just had to write these thoughts.

Obama is the only choice. Mccain isn't sure about anything including how much homes he owns. Why trust him for any hard issues? Obama seems to have the intellect for these hard decisions.

McCain had his chance back in the crash of 1929 (he was in the Senate then, right?!?), so I'd have to go with Obama this time!

Forgive the political incorrectness here, but calling John McCain a reformer and a maverick is like giving an award to the tallest short person. It's meaningless. A maverick Republican is still a Republican. A vote for him is a vote for the failed policies of the Republican Party. It's time to try something else.
– Phoenix, AZ

Neither, only Hillary Clinton! However, since the Democrates shot themselves in the foot by GIVING Obama the nomination, my vote is for John Mc Cain.

JR
Hemet, CA

Thinking about it effectiveness in "handling" the crisis depends on what the objective is.

If you're all for wealth consolidation and a future Feudal society them McCain is your man.

If the Wealth Gap that has become the Wealth Grand Canyon horrifies you and you prefer a Democracy where everyone has a reasonable standard of living them Obama might be your man.

While some may believe McCain may be the more experienced of the two in solving economic troubles (seeing as how he was probably around during the Great Depression), Obama clearly is the candidate that can steer us out of this financial mess. Tax breaks for the middle class, the meat and potatoes of this faltering economy, should slowly revert this disaster that Bush and his right wing Neo-Cons have placed on the American people. Just listening to Obama speak makes me want to spend money...on his campaign.

Jack. First, of my deepest sympathy to you on your recent loss. I am glad you are back, doing your part to engage the American people during these dire times we live in. Obama and Biden ARE the better choice, if for nothing else, Biden's long record of championing worthy causes, coupled with the HOPE that Obama's articulate intelligence offers... John McCain is an honorable patriot, but this country needs more than a great decorated warrior, we need intelligence and a new approach. I'm sorry, shes very enticing to consider, but Palin still just seems too dicey, she's a political siren. Running Alaska and running the largest economic power in the world are two entirely different ballgames. I for one am tired of the military/homeland security scare tactics of the Republican party. That dog don't hunt anymore. 5,000 americans dead in Iraq;, no bin Laden; mortgage meltdown, now Wall Street.?? The Republicans have effed up nearly every aspect of our economy over last 8 years.. Desperate times call for desperate measures. We need Change, we need Obama/Biden...

Nathan – what good judgement has Obama shown in these tough economic time? I mean besides getting an unprecedented low interest rate on his house from a convicted felon.

Glad you're back Jack, your family's in our prayers. It's a no brainer, and I'm not suggesting McCain by that comment. Obama without a doubt.

Since McCain was born very close to the Great Depression, one would assume he would have taken the time to learn about what causes these sorts of things. Given that he is nearing a century or two in age and has shown no grasp of economics to date, perhaps it's time for some real change.

Remember the "other guy" turned down a lucrative Wall Street job to do some community organizing.. whatever that is. Seeing as how he was a shoe in for any job on the street he may have desired, maybe we should give him a crack at dealing with it.

First of all, let's keep in mind that it won't be just the president who "handle[s] the financial crisis." Therein lies a critical distinction. To whom would Obama turn to help steer the country's economy on a sound course? To whom would McCain turn? Who listens better? Who is best at gathering facts and considering them before acting? Who has better judgment? I would answer that Obama is the one who would best contribute to resolving the financial crisis. He listens well, which means he would learn well from the finance experts. And he thinks of the middle class and the impact that the crisis is having on the members of it. McCain is out of touch with the concerns of the middle class, and he has a hot temper. There is something deeply inauthentic about him. He has also surrounded himself with shady lobbyists to help him run his campaign. I don't like the types of influence he has around him. He is not the one. Obama would also speak transparently about what the crisis means for average Americans. We can trust him to let us know what is really going on.

OBAMA. to date, he has been the candidate willing to seek and promote innovative ideas and solutions to our current setbacks. this includes our economy. if there's a time for the appliction of new solutions, it's certainly during a 'once in a century financial crisis'.

How can a man who has had his pockets lined with his wife's inherited wealth possibly handle mine and my neighbor's financial crisis. Barack Obama experienced welfare as a young boy, he knows just how it feels to be poor, to be disenfranchised from a white world, and to pull up your bootstraps and move up and out. I would put my finances and my hopes in the wallet of Senator Obama. He has sat at the same table I have!

I love how the dems seem to want to blame everything on the republicans when things are bad. As if the mortgage crisis, the hurricanes, etc. had anything to do with them. You can't increase taxes on the employers, while in a recession and expect us to prosper. Of course McCain is the right choice for the economy.

on this one I'll take the guy from Harvard thanks

I don't know if Obama is qualified to handle this crisis, but I can say for sure that McCain is certainly disqualified to handle this crisis. This mess that is dragging down the entirety of our country's financial system inch by inch every passing day was created, allowed, and fueled under the Republican administration of George Bush and his buddy McCain. This administration is not only looked the other way, but also actively brushed off warning signs as we are learning now that such a crisis might be looming over the horizon. The Republicans laissez faire economics philosophy is sorely and sadly for the masses of Americans no longer valid in the new millenium and the current global market. Life is constantly becoming harder for a majority of Americans and the future outlook bleaker, while they have the audacity to say everything is fine and they have confidence in the strength of this obviously ailing economy. Meanwhile, John McCain is so obsessed with being elected to the White House that he will say anything including adopting positions held by Democrats for decades to win the White House. If he is such a maverick and wants our economy to be strong, why didn't he use the help of Republican controlled executve and legislative branches for the past few years to prevent the disaster that ails our economy now. I don't know about you, but all I see is another dishonest politician taking advantage of the situation to his own ends. He and his party had their chance for the last eight years and they blew it. It's time for real change and no not the phony brand McCain is selling.

This is a no brainer! John McCain would continue the failed policies of the Bush administration. You must not forget that our government has been mainly in the hands of the Republican party for the past eight years, 6 years of the congress and 8 years as president. Their economic policies brought us to this economic disaster. The election of Obama-Biden would bring a fresh approach to the problem. At least we would get some new ideas. I believe strongly that new ideas are what we really need.

I'm amazed that the majority that have made comments here are in favor of obama, yet the polls show mccain ahead plus the gop has more of an enthusiastic crowd now unlike obamas. what in the world is going on? by the way jack, sorry for your loss.

Jack,

You're the man. So is Obama, and he's the man for the job. Look what happened the last time we entrusted a Republican to handle America's financial woes; we got two wars, billions of dollars worth of debt and the hatred of the rest of the world. McCain saying it's all in God's hands isn't going to help him dig us out of financial turmoil. What Palin's edict from God in Iraq doesn't extend to Fiscal Crisis too?! The last thing we need is a right-wing Christian Fundamentalist lying to us about tax cuts. Cutting taxes for the richest of the rich, then saying Obama wants to raise taxes on all Americans is a blatant lie. Obama has experience helping the less fortunate. (Something McCain, with his political pandering knows nothing about). Obama recognizes those people who are really in need, from his work as a community organizer; He's more in touch with what the words "Financial Crisis" means. I'll tell you what it doesn't mean Jack; Financial crisis doesn't mean you have to sell three houses so you can maintain the other five. WAKE UP AMERICA!!! Look to the left, The Right is Always Wrong!

I live in Ohio. I'm used to a slow economy.But it seems everyday brings more strkies against this country, and by default the opportunity for economic growth in my state!

I'm worried about my parents future as they near retirement. I worry how my grandmother will pay her heating bills this winter on a fixed income. I worry how I will cover my bills this winter with no increase in my paycheck, but all other costs going up and up and up.

I wonder if the politicians and news media get it that we don't care if the bridge to nowhere was built in Alaska, or if a plane was sold on Ebay. We care about our families health, and our ability to afford food, clothing and shelter!

Chicago, IL

Jack:

Frankly, I don't feel either candidate is fully "prepared" to handle a "once in a century" financial crisis. Then, again our banking, financial, and investment sectors are full of economic "geniuses," right? Look at what a mess they've gotten us all into!

I think it's more important to look at who, each of the two candidates, is likely to turn to for (economic) advice, than the specific preparation each of them (individually) has.

After all, coaches don't win championships! Coaches with talented teams, working as one – towards a shared goal; that's what wins championships!

Jack, Here is another incident of this administration pulling the wool over the sheep's eyes. They will be known as the adminisration that wrecked this country. Without question Barack Obama needs to win this election, it may be our final hope. Enough is enough of the failed policies of the GOP – we cannot afford more corruption and greed ,which is the basis of what is happening to our economy. I hope people opt for a change or we will be facing a catastrophe in many facets . WAKE UP FELLOW CITIZENS

When McCain's prior economic advisor said that this was a nation of 'whiners' when it came to the economy then I realized how out-of-touch the McCain camp is. And then today - TODAY!– he says that the economy is 'sound'. I think we are talking PLUTO!!! PLUTO...this person is out there...

I am a proud Black American from Centennial, Colorado who watches and read the news daily with bated breath.
There’s no doubt that the team of Obama/Biden is better suited to run the country. They understand whose really the backbone support of this country “the Middle Class.” These are men with provern integrity, that will share the wealth and not continue to ransom our country to the highest bidder. I am terrified when I think of the alternative and the rest of the country should be too.

What Wall Street needs right now is some regulation. McCain prescribes to the neocon idea of the free market, but this meltdown is a prime example on how you cannot trust the markets when they are left is this lassie-faire style of economics. Obama would be better at bringing some control to the markets while McCain would just step on the accelerator harder.

What question is that? Of course Obama is the only one that can do it.
"no way no how no mccain no palin"

None of them and both of them. This should be fixed by the regulatory organisms based on bipartisanship. The reality is that this is a problem that won't be fixed by reducing taxes (as McCain proposes in general) because taxes were already reduced and that didn't help. Interestingly McCain is asking for more regulation even though he says that he is in favor of no regulation for businesses (small government buzzwords). Obama is favoring regulation but he can't fix this alone, he will need the help of Republicans to get any new regulations approved in the Congress

Jack. This administration cut out any prudential regulation of the financial markets and John McCain's good friend and chief economic advisor Phil Gramm helped add fuel to that fire with the deregulation of the banking/investment banking and insurance industries. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act really set the stage for this current crisis and the appointees to the financial regulatory agencies by this administration gave proof to the notion that a fox is not a good guardian of the hen house. If the Republican Party is voted back into office this fall then all of us can truly be prepared to revisit the economic situation faced by our parents and grandparents in the late 1920's and 1930's.

I have no doubt that Barack Obama has more credibility, credentials, and vision to get us out of this mess. John McCain is one politician that has helped us into this mess. Partnering with Senator Graham, who was or is an economic advisor to McCain, they were instrumental in the financial deregulation that occurred 6-8 years ago. I have no trust or faith that McCain, who owns seven or more houses and whose wife wore $300,000 worth of jewelry at the RNC Convention, understands the needs of 95% of Americans. He is a failure on this front. My vote is with Barack Obama.

I am an independent who is enthusiastically supporting Obama. John McCain has had 3 decades to "reform" government what makes me think he can do a thing being he can't even use a computer. Wake up John and "serve your country" by getting out and letting intelligent, qualified and modern people who know the challenges of our century!

Jack,

The economy is down but it isn't out and the great fundamentals of economy are there.

95% of Americans still pay their mortgage month to month, but we focus on the 3-5% who are in foreclosure cause of bad money management on a individual basis.

Obama and McCain both don't have a great understanding of the economy. Obama wants to change the fundamentals of the economy while McCain wants them to continue.

So who is better? Neither.

After eight years of the ever-so-cozy relationship between government and business, we certainly don't need more of the same. John McCain is a good man but he himself has admitted that economics are beyond him. We need somebody with vigor, a fresh approach, and the clear ability to convey a sense of hope. If nothing else, Barack Obama reminds me very much of Franklin Roosevelt. I have been a history teacher for more than 20 years and have always marveled how an extraordinary person has been there to take the reins at a dark time. Barack Obama is that man today.

This one is a no brainer! The dreamer and slick talker from Harvard will bankrupt the country. If ya think its bad now, wait to see what will happen if Obama gets elected. Except for the extremely wealthy, we'll all be broke and there will be no middle class. Thats the only way Obama will ever bring us all together.

Where is FDR when we need him? OH I forgot ;we have Obama!

Obama will turn wall street around for the middle class. McCain will make his wife richer. Biden will fix the corruptness. Palin should be thrown to the wolves – LITERALLY.

I hope voters will vote for their children's future, if not for their present pocketbook. To vote for another Republican President. in office will be the shame of America. Remeber, we will all suffer.

Obama would be 10 times better.

The Democrats are because they believe in some market regulation. The repuiblicans specifically Phil Gramm of the MCCain campaign fought for and got the financial servic es deregulation that is the cause of where we are. I am tried of the republicans privatizing the profits and then socializing the pain.

When are we going to realize who is hitting us over the head with this debunked theory of trickle down economics.

This isn't a close call. John McCain is an old man with older ideas. FDR and the Democrats brought us out of the Great Depression in 1932, and Obama can do it again in 2009. The Coolidge/Hoover ideas of Bush/McCain just don't cut it.

That is a no brainer Jack. I do not know how anyone in their right mind can think that John, "Mr. Fundamentals of the Economy are Strong" McSame can handle this. Lets listen to Chairman Greenspan when he says that America cannot afford to fund tax cuts by increasing the deficit. My vote will go for the only ticket in this campaign that has any semblance of sanity. John McCain and his "know-nothing" sidekick have no idea what they are doing, especially when it comes to the economy. Are you better off now than you were four years ago? Think about it – Lehman Brothers and Bear Sterns go under, unemployment goes from 4.2% to 6.1% in 8 years, and foreign banks are funding our debt! Nothing in this country has gotten any better since Bush/McCain took office! OBAMA '08!

Who do you trust to handle the economy -
a guy whose main qualification was being a POW, or an intelligent Harvard graduate who worked to help the poor?

You tell me.

The answer is: neither. You see, Americans, both liberal and conservative, tended to ignore one precious value: live within your means. This is something neither liberals nor conservatives and their policies can deal with. It is up to people to do so.

Yes, there are many stories about people out of their 3 and 4 bedroom homes. But wait...could they afford them if the economy went south? Did they really need a 60" plasma HDTV, Nintendo, etc? None of these things are bad in themselves, but when the budget gets blown sky high the moment a downturn happens, you haven't planned properly.

Jumbo loans over $500,000? Interest-only loans? You say these should be abolished, I say you needed to do some homework before you got into these. Variable interest loans? Unless you absolutely know for a fact that you are gone from your house in one year, it won't save you much after fees...and when it expires and your interest rate goes up 3% or much higher and your payment jumps $300-$1,000+ per month, you're toast.

Liberals, you can't blame conservatives/Republicans for this. And vice versa. The banks do share responsibility for excessive greed, but the majority of the fault belongs to those who didn't read what they were getting into when they signed the bank papers. To say that the economy is best under a Democratic administration is just beyond folly. It does best when it is regulated least, but yet regulated enough to piunish those who abuse the system. Socialism as the liberals want it is a damnable utopia that has enslaved millions around the world, and it won't work here. Let ME decide...not you...what to do with my money, and learn the adage: live within your means".

Again, not slamming those who did their homework and still failed...that will happen to anyone. But way too many people who didn't do a reality check, now find that they are the ones who have been cashed.

The American economy will be just fine. Everyone needs to take a deep
breath. My concern is that Congress and President will over react, and make the situation worse. As far as the candidates are concerned, let me
just say this; the economy will not be assisted by an increase in taxes.
Just remember this, Wall Street has lost 5% in its value many times.
In 1987 the Dow lost almost 20%, in one day. Does anyone even remember it?

Barak Obama and Joe Biden and Hillary Clinton are the best suited to get us out of this mess. I respect the republican view on this but my goodness they are just way out of touch.

McCain is the man with experience for me. Obama isn't ready to lead and a Democratic congress hasn't fixed anything either.

Although I lean towards Obama, these problems may be too big for either candidate. Change is necessary, alright, but it must be deeper and more fundemental than either candidate wants to talk about.

Neither Obama nor Mc Cain.
First lets remember that democrats ( because it benefited lower income people ) and republicans ( as it created more real estate owners ) were both in favor of the reckless lending that is at the root of the present situation.
Neither candidate has the experience or background to handle such far reaching, complex and delicate problem.
So your question can only be answered when we'll know who the next president chooses as Paulson's successor, if it is not too late by then.
So for the time being the best chance to resolve this situation in matters of months rather than years lies with the present administration.

McCain, he was around for the last one.

Jon
Bethesda, MD

Many people fail to mention that over the last 100 years, the president's parties have virtually flip floped from Republican to Democrat and back again. It is also important to note that when a president leaves office, most of the laws that were put into his place during his presidency don't begin to show their effect on the economy until the next president takes office. I'm not a supporter of Bush but I do feel like many people are extremely critical of him because of the war and 9/11. Let's rewind - Bush had been in office for less than a year when 9/11 occurred. Clinton was in office for 8 years prior to 9/11, why didn't he do anything to prevent it?

Clinton was lucky enough to be president during the internet age - something he didn't have a whole lot of influence on. The internet boom is what made our economy better in the 90s, not Clinton. One of the reasons we are so worried about our social security now is because Clinton made the money we deposit into "the bank of social security" available to be spent by the government (which also helped give him his surplus).

Overall, we need to stop focusing on the candidate and their social life with each other and focus on whether or not we agree with the party's stance on issues. Because in the end, the candidate will vote in the direction of their party. So Obama will raise taxes and increase the gov't spending while McCain tries to keep money in the pockets of the person who earned it to spend how we see fit.