CNN

No, I was always going to vote for the right person to fix the mess this country been in for the last 8 years; Obama.

The financial crisis has only reinforced my mind on who I MUST vote for.
The only hope we have as a country is with Obama and Biden.

no, if anything, it has reinforced my voting for Obama. he is intelligent, even tempered, reasonable, flexible, and lacks the mindset of a political hack, ie John mcCain

YES! I am going to break the law and vote multiple times for Obama.

No, it confirmed to me that no Republican should be an acceptable candidate. The captains of deregulation and lack of oversight is now costing all of us 5000 dollars a piece.

I would vote for an inanimate object before I ever consider a Republican again

No not at all it has just confrimed we need change the more the better.
Paul
Round Rock, Texas

Yes, I am an independent voter struggling with my decision on who to vote for in this election. The financial crisis has made it that much harder because apparently everyone was in bed with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Obama reportedly got over $100,000 in contributions and McCain got Davis as an advisor and reportedly over $20,000 in contributions. Neither candidate looks good. I'm ready to "punt" and vote for Hillary.

No! I have always believed that Obama is the best suited to the task, and that hasn't changed. If anything, the feeling has only gotten stronger.

No, but it's made me wish I could vote for Obama a million times over.

No, give me the Harvard graduate rather than the bottom of his class candidate! Barack has actually had to balance budgets in his own life-McCain has never so he has NO experience! Too rich for my blood.

Knoxville, TN

Jack–
Not at all. If anything, it has strengthened my commitment to Obama. His statement yesterday afternoon, to me, was very presidential. Any voter paying attention yesterday should have seen the difference between "cut and run" McCain and multi-tasking Obama. McCain's behavior yesterday shows me exactly the kind of president that I don't want.

Troy, Ohio

I'm very anxious to see the answers to this question. I'm an Obama supporter and believe that this whole last day or two of McCain's machinations has helped Obama. I think it's shown that McCain is unable to multitask, that he's running from his sinking poll numbers, and that he's trying to shield Palin as much as possible because she just can't cut it. However, it will be interesting to see how others feel.

No, I was already for Obama, but because he's handled himself with so much more poise and intelligence in the circumstances, it reassures my choice.

No, how could anyone possibly consider voting for John McCain, especially when he chooses Sarah Palin to be VP. She doesn't live in the lower 48, she doesn't pay attention to our national issues. She know foreign affairs, and hasn't a clue about the way Washington works. We're in the middle of two wars, and a Great Depression, her being President is shocking. Sarah Palin's a fine woman and governor of Alaska, she just has no business being a heartbeat away, and John McCain should never have put her there.

No. I was for Obama all along. We don't need four more years of McBush.

Jack,
Nope. Obama had my vote the night of Sarah Palin's acceptance speech when she slammed community organizers.

No I did not need the financial crisis to know who I vote for. It was Obama and will remain Obama. I have enough brain to see who McCain/Palin are. However, I am sure a lot of Republicans and Independents got a better picture of their war hero and maverick.

I am not voting for anyone who votes for this plan! They are a traitor to the American people who do not want this, and who are being forced to take on this heavy debt! Anyone up for election well be fired, get ready to pack your bags and go home!

Nope, it has reaffirmed my decision to vote for Obama, due to my belief that he is the person with better judgment, able to reassure the public, let them know what he plans, etc. And I voted several days ago, and mailed it in.

Nope , i already knew who was gonna tackle this problem like he's been tackling them all along .......OBAMA !

No, it has only reinforced by belief that Senator Obama is the ONLY choice for a level headed leader of this nation.

No. But i wish they had taken the bull by the horns instead of casting their pearls before swine.

No. But it has made it very clear... OBAMA!!!

No. I have been Obama from the start. I saw the handwriting on the wall in 2000, 2004 and now. Why are the American people so stupid? Those same people who voted for Bush then will be the same people who believe all the trash they are hearing and vote for McCain. These same people listen to FOX, Limbaugh, O'Reilly. They can't make up their own minds. I only hope people who were leaning towards Obama don't change their minds when they get wind of the tricks McCain is pulling.

NO, our nation needs to fix its problems befor it can change.
Howard
Joshua Tree, Ca

I've been with Obama sence the begging. I'll support him till the end. McCane doesn't know how many houses or cars he has. How is he supposed to balance a budget?

Jack
Both parties have not given us much of a choice, there were better canidates out there ,unfortunately its all about money and who is capable of raising the largest campaign chest. I dont believe either of these canidates can handle the finiancial crisis were in. I dont know what I will do when I enter the booth on election day.

It has reafirmed my convition that Obama is the man for the job - When a person is action as a political lifeline – I don't care about the color of his skin - And a lot of other people need to start thinking with their heads and not pre-concieved ideas further fosterd by John McKain's Kamp –

I'm for Obama more than ever.

No, I have changed my mind, but the financial crisis certainly reinforced my vote for Obama. Bush/McCain and the Republicans got us into this mess, and now as Bush is going back to Texas, the rich Republicans want us taxpayers to pay for their rich cronies to continue to enjoy the good life. Good riddance to Bush and hopefully, a lot more Republicans.

NO my vote has been for obama and after this stunt by Mccain and his choice for VP I now truly know I have made the right choice!

No it just affirmed my decision to vote for Obama has been the right one from the start.

No. I think that any informed American that decides to vote has already made up their minds about the 4 candidates. I say 4 because it isn't just Obama and McCain running for election It also includes Biden and Palin. We all know that they are only human and no mater how hard each may try to separate themselves from the current problems surely two of them will inherit them.
None of the problems in this economy happened over night and there is plenty of blame to go around no mater which party you look at. Either presidential candidate that wins will inherit the same old useless congress that helped to get us where we are today. In order to change that congress it will take the American voters themselves. McCain and Obama are just along for the ride.

Nope. The crisis and the responses by the candidates has only affirmed my confidence in my choice.

Obama is calm, cool and collected.

McCain flails about, over-reacting, changing his response. If McCain were in the White House and acting this way, the markets would be going crazy, and the situation would be spinning further out of control.

Let's see here! Bush is bent on rescuing his elite, corrupt Wall Street friends. Congress, as usual, is self serving., likely having their palms greased by special interests. McCain is acting erratic and disoriented. Obama is spineless and non-commital. The point? Bring on Ralph Nader, but fortunately I don't have to make that decision because I'm a Canadian and glad of it, especially right now.

It hasn't changed my mind, it has only justified my choice even more.

Hello America. With my recent plunge in the National Polls and this Economic Crisis that I am partially to blame for, I have decided to suspend my campaign and hide out in Washington for awhile until my advisors can figure out what they want me to do next! I have also decided that Barack Obama is way too smart for me to debate and doing so would be a no win situation for me so I am cancelling our debate. Apparently you have figured me out, therefore I have decided to run FROM President. See you all on November 4th. I am John McCain and I approved this message!

No Jack, the obvious problems in our economy helped me decide months ago that we need to change the Party in the White House.

Nope, it has just affirmed it even more.

Jack,

It hasn't changed my mind, just solidified it so to speak. I can't, being of sound mind, vote for a candidate that flip-flops and backs out of committments, and agrees to one thing and does another. John McCain will definately not get my vote, period.

NO.... it's been clear who i'm voting for since McCain chose a gimmick VP...

YIKES

-V

Correction -
It has reafirmed my convition that Obama is the man for the job - When a person is acting as a political lifeline – I don't care about the color of his skin - And a lot of other people need to start thinking with their heads and not pre-concieved slimy hate ideas promoted and fosterd by John McKain's Kamp –

Has the financial crisis changed your mind on who to vote for? Yes, and this is why it has Jack. By no means do I claim to be a scholar, but only a knowledgeable person can understand the concept that life is an in-transfer of knowledge and many scholars believe that over 90% of the things we learn, we learn from others. So when you have someone like Barack and Michelle Obama graduating with honors from one of our Country most prestigious College institution, this is an above average achievement to say the least. Barack often talks about how his Mom would wake him up at 4 in the morning to study his lessons, and he often expressed how upset it would make him, but let’s look at his achievements because of his mother’s love, concern and determination. Michelle also described how her parents stayed on her and her brother emphasizing the importance of an education and limiting them to just one hour a day of television viewing. As a result of their parent’s commitment to their lives, they attended Chicago’s most prestigious academic public high school, Whitney Young.
The reason I share this story is because of a few of reasons. The first being, I too had the honor of having my niece attend Whitney Young after getting chosen out of thousands of applicants of all nationalities of Chicago’s brightest kids. As a result of attending Whitney Young she went on to get her P.H.D. from Yale and graduated with honors also. Once again, this is no average achievement. It was a result of the countless hours that my sister devoted in preparing her when she was a young child. We all know that when you devote yourself to higher learn, it prepares you to have a better understanding of power, conflict resolution skills, discernment, philosophy, theory and many more other helpful attributes that bring about a better understanding of life challenges.
Bill and Hillary Clinton was another couple that did quite well at Ivory league School, not to mention that Bill was a road scholar. Even though we may have felt embarrassed with their questionable personal shenanigans, while in the Whitehouse. Nevertheless, there is one thing I am sure we all can agree on, and that is their political achievements were very admirable. Joe Biden has a law degree, and his wife is currently an English professor in Delaware. Now let’s look at George Bush, who was an underachiever in College (C. Student) and became this nation President. Regardless if you were one of the ones that voted for him, there is no denying that his Presidency was a complete disaster, plain and simple. After witnessing an underachiever in college get elected to the Whitehouse, and almost completely destroy our Country, we find ourselves once again contemplating foolishly doing it again with John McCain who graduated fifth from the bottom. This is simply unbelievable.
This Country has always promoted the idea that we are a nation that is built by the best and the brightest. Even our military have now adapted this same slogan, now it appears that we have a difference slogan for the Presidency, which now says that we are a nation that allows underachievers to become the President, which makes no sense. In closing, Sarah Palin attended five difference Colleges, one being a Community Junior College, and the last being Idaho which has one of the nation lowest SAT and ACT entry acceptance scores (Math SAT, 549 Verbal SAT, 559 ACT, 23). Out of 210 major Colleges I surveyed, there were only 13 Colleges with a lower SAT and ACT entry acceptance score than Idaho.
So when Sarah Palin feels like knocking Barack Obama for being a community organizer, she must have forgotten that he graduated from Harvard law School with honors and taught Constitutional law. Our best law firms in the Country only hires the brightest students from College, so why should it be any different when we choose someone for our Nation top job. This Country is the land of opportunity for those who work hard. Thus, in my final analysis on this matter is in no way meant to be cynical and undermine this basis concept, when I make it known that Gov Palin husband never graduated from College and worked 20 years as a blue-collar employee in the oil fields of the North Slope of Alaska. I know he is not running for any major office, but are these truly the credentials to get you in the Whitehouse.

I alway know how I would vote.

I am disappointed that the Republican party is taking the American people for a ride.

The Republican party has INSULTED THE AMERICAN PEOPLE, how else can we describe the McCain-Palin ticket?

NONE of the ABOVE should be on the ballot!

Mike..... Boise Idaho

No. But, it would have if I was voting for John McCain.

YES. I do not want to see a stunt master in the White House. My vote is for Obama.

No the financial crisis has not changed my vote. I am still voting for Obama and Biden. The republicans ruined this country and they ought to be ashamed of themselves.

Not really, it just makes me madder. If we have to pick up the tab for the train wreck, then we have paid for the right to monitor and regulate the railroad. If the free-market ideologues don't understand that, then it's time for them to be thrown out of office, without their pensions or their healthcare.

Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX

Jack,
nope.
Vote Soon, Vote Democrat, Vote Often. Tammany Hall or no hall a'tal!
Pablo

Not at all. It's been the democratic nominee, whoever they are, every election since Bush stole the Presidency. What I saw back then turned me off to Republican dirty politics forever. And I'm originally from Chicago, the supposed land of dirty politics.

dear jack,
the financial crisis makes all the more crucial to elect OBAMA.
the Bushies were in charge of tihis economy as it collapsed;we don't need another one and more of the same.

No, I already made up my mine one year ago. Too bad there is no early vote in my state.

J.

Even more so now than ever, I will vote for Obama. He has remained calm during this financial disaster and McCain has over reacted. He almost appeared to panic.

Not at all Jack. I have been for Buggs Bunny since the political season started and have seen nothing from either canidate of the major parties to change my mind. On economics both canidates seem bent on driving us into deeper economic doodoo by different means. On international affairs both want to restore our international status. Bush undermind that to such an extent that the president in 2025 might have a chance. Energy both pay lip service to several good proposals but how many congressional votes have been bought to restrict or quash real work in that arena so that nothing will get done in a timely manner. All in all I must admit I will eventually vote but not for anyone but against all others seeking office.

No, just the opposite Jack, it has reinforced my vote for Obama!

yes. absolutely. i will be changing my vote to the intelligent black fella.
president bush failed us, and john mccain will finish the job. we must have someone who is at least on top of these things. a more transparent executive branch is the most important issue of all ,after the last 8 years. i'm fed up with the elitists who have overran my beloved GOP. i'm still republican ,but, i will be voting for obama ,now. he will televise important government business on c-span. good enough for me. at least i wont be blind-sided ,again.

No, I realized years ago that Bush screwed up the economy when he cut taxes and increased spending (primarily on an unnecessary invasion of Iraq). Nothing like going from a budget surplus to a record deficit.

Yes, I am finally convinced that John McCain does not have a clue. When you are isolated behind riches of dozens of homes and foreign cars, you can't feel the peoples pain. McCain is being a politician with his latest stunts. I have lost all respect for him as a future President. He can't take us anywhere but backwards. My vote is now for change with Obama/Biden. Sorry McCain.

So does it really matter which of the corporate party candidates we vote for? Is there a small government option? It looks like both parties are dead set on leaving the taxpayer deep in the mire.

No it has not changed my mind. The only sane choice of the two corporate party candidates is still BO.

The Republican party is notorious for deregulating, privatizing, and turning the other cheek when it comes to making criminal businessman accountable for their crimes, they just keep on taking their advice and donations.
It will be a long time before I Vote for anybody with an (R) next to their name.

No,I'm more certain than ever that McCain and Palin are both not capable of dealing with anything.

No. I was for Hillary until August and then I was for Obama. I am still for Obama / Biden. It will make me figure out who is incumbent in other elections such as the Senate and the house. I will be voting any old timers out such as Libby Dole.

Independent voter Weddington, NC

NO….

it’s been clear who i’m voting for since McCain chose a gimmick VP…
She's not right nor left... she's upside-down!

YIKES

-V

It has actually made me stronger on who I am voting for. I am not for this bailout I work too hard to help the people who got us in this mess sleep at night on their 700 count sheets. This make me want to do some shaking up of my own & help get someone with a sharper mind who will think before he acts & not be radical in their decisions about the world.

No Jack,
However it has secure my vote. As a conservative I am very disappointed with John McCain. He does everything on impulse just like picking Sarah Palin and suspending his campaign

No. But a bunch of Mississippi residents might be changing their minds.

No. From the start I perceived Obama as the right choice with his consistent message, his ability to think critically, his level-headed response to serious issues, and his poise in not rushing to ask for firing key people. It is especially telling that with the financial crisis, he is tapping qualified sources for dialogue before jumping to a premature solution.

Jack, poise and calm during the roughest situations displays leadership. When I see someone shooting off at the mouth, flying by the seat of their pants and making stuff up as they go, I see someone ill equipped to deal with the situation. This just reinforced my pick of Obama.

Considering the fact John McCain and his financial guru Phil Gramm are part an parcel to aiding the present crisis by being instrumental in deregulating for the financial institutions it should change everyone's mind who was even considering 4 more years.

What these two did is simply the policy of the Conservatives and what they believe in and will not change because of what has happened.

The fact McCain still thought the economy was basically strong the same day the hammer fell on these financial firms should be warning enough for the American people.

He only has two choices for his cabinet when it comes to finances and that is Carly & Phil and both are known losers.

Nope, I have always been 100% sure that Obama is the man for the job. The economy declining has only made my choice more clear. Why would I want someone who has labeled himself as someone who knows nothing about the economy? I want someone in charge who has the confidence in his knowledge to help turn this country around!

No, but it has reinforced my belief that John McCain is not the man for the job.

No. I'm still waiting to hear the debates, but more because I'd like to hear the other candidates take on Obama than hear anything McCain has to say.

NO! I was voting for Obama and I am still voting for him. He has shown he can remain calm in a crisis and still work on the issues. McCain has looked confused and jumpy, just what this country doesn't need. Besides the thought that Pallin could be one heartbeat away from the Presidencey should make everyone afraid, very afraid.

There's an old saying that pressure can burst a pipe, or it can make a diamond. McCain is a bursting pipe. I don't need his drama in my President. Obama seems to take both the good and the bad with a much more even keel.

I recognized as does conservative commentator George Will that Senator McCain doesn't have the temperament for the US presidency. His befuddlement over deregulation chickens coming home to roost has just reinforced the obvious.

I am very skeptical that this supposed crisis is half as bad as it is being hailed! I'm hearing a lot of it could, it might, ifs, etc. I feel like again we taxpayers are being duped to give up taxpayer money in an effort to allow the rich remain rich. I'm starting to cry!! In answer to your question, No, I still favor Obama!

Scott
Wood River, IL

No...if anything it has re-assured me that my choice of Obama is the right man for the job.

Absolutely not. From day one, I have supported Obama and the financial crisis has actually deepened my resolve to keep McCain from slithering into the white house to resume Bushs third term. What a catastrophy of gigantic proportions that would be! Obama has remained calm and collected unlike McCain who I don't think could find his behind with both hands and a flashlight!

From the beginning my vote was for Obama, and nothing will change my mind

No it hasn't changed my mind. It does show that John McCain is "not ready to lead". Saying you're going to suspend your campaign to go back to Washington to resolve this BAILOUT (cause that's what it is) issue and your not even apart of the committee responsible for creating the bill. Listen, Johnny. Go back to AZ. Kick your feet up. Sit in the sun (not too long, we know how you react to that) and fade away. I heard they are making "Grumpy Old Men 3".

If it wasn't clear before, every american should now realize that Bush, The Republicans, and McCain are the flunky figure heads of the 21st century robber barons who have looted the wealth of every american. History does repeat itself and the only way to attempt to create a deviation from the present and on going republican authorized looting is to throw them them out,............. all republicans.

No way! Obama all the way! No way, No how, Now McSamePalin

Yes it has..................I don't want another 8 years of the next Bush.

Jack, I may be dumb, but I ain't stupid. After the eight years that got us into this mess, why would I want four more? John McCain is only hawking change now because he old line wasn't selling and Obama's is. I was voting for Obama before this happened and I still am.

Obama is still my pick for President. This stunt by McCain, should steer those undecided voters to move on over to Obama.

No it hasn't. I've been behind Obama all along. What I can't figure out is how it's possible there are 40% of voters that still haven't switched to Obama? Honestly, how can people be so blind to the nonsensical stunts McCain pulls on a daily basis? Each day's nonsense contradicts the previous day's nonsensical slogan! It's as if some people in this country just don't care about the direction this country is headed in. They need to wake up because it's now or never.

No, if the American people can't see how the world is changing right before their eyes then all I can say is that they must be blind. In order for our country to change along with the world then we will need someone that now about change. Someone who knows about the people and their wants and desirers for the improvement of their life. And, as the old saying goes, (money can't buy you everything). It differently (can't buy you love) nor, (can it buy you friendship). Those are only a few things we as Americans need from and need to give to the whole world.

McCain = no change

Obama/biden 2008

Jack: Yes it has and I'm sure most American feel the same way. Just after the September 11th terrorist attacks occurred, George W. Bush went before the nation and made the case that he needed unprecedented authority - budgetary and military - to take on the threats poised at the well-being and safety of the country, and we experienced where that got us– We saw no-bid contracts given to firms like Halliburton. We saw $9 billion of U.S. taxpayer money "go missing" through the Coalition Provisional Authority. We saw abuses of power, the expansion of secrecy, and the promulgation of norms that seemed to be the very antithesis of what America stands for.Now with the current economic crisis in the United States, Bush is yet again asking for unprecedented powers and budget......and McCain is a continuation of Bush and Bush policies. You would have to be a nation of village idiots to vote Republican.

First is was all the money Obama took from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and now we learn that Obama gave $100,000 of taxpayer money to a campaign contributor who conveniently "lost" the records for a community improvement project that never got done. It's hard to vote for a guy with such poor judgement on handling other people's money.

McCain expressed his concern about these risky GSEs two years ago, but was shouted down by those who were more interested in how many minorities owned home.

No.

But I would love to hear Sarah 'Executive' Palin view on it.

She is clearly an expert on both micro and macro economics.

Forget King Henry, lets get Sarah to manage the $700bn. Given her track record of saving money it would only cost the US, a few dollars.

No. But I'm an elitist college graduate, who reads newspapers and trusts the media more than the political parties, who doesn't trust Wall Street to police itself, and who remembers when candidates for office were supposed to be literate.

No, I believe John McCain is the only one that can bring a bi-partisan spirit to Washington,DC. and get things done to help the people of the USA. He has a record of reaching across the isle.

No. I was always going to vote for Obama. But McCain's erratic behavior on this issue has made me even more certain of my choice. Hopefully it's caused some of his supporters to take a closer look.

No, I planned on voting for the right person all along – Obama. Hopefully though this crisis has nudged the other folks who still clung to some notion that McCain/Palin had something better to offer than Bush/Cheney to the world of enlightenment.

Perhaps. I was not going to vote for President this time, as I don't really want either of them. But if it plays out that McCain's action this week does help break the financial crisis, then I might for the first time in my life vote for a Republican – him, of course.

I know perfectly well that anything McCain and especially Palin do or say is going to get trashed on this board, but decisive action against the socalled conventional wisdom can have its merits at times. Say what you will against McCain, but you can't say he would be a 'do-nothing' President, and his instincts are not always wrong. But of course, he is not the all-knowing god that Obama is worshipped for being. Hey, I didn't drink the KoolAid so I guess I just don't get it.

No, absolutley not! It only stregthened my support of Barack as being the best to lead this country. IF I were a republican, I would be hiding my face right now in sheer embarassment and shame.

No. I have known from the start where our future will be safest and surest and McCain ain't it. Just for the record I am a white female in my mid sixties and well educated. I am also not stupid which you would have to be to vote Republican in this election.

No I am still voting for Obama. I want the best & brightest after the dumb & crooked.

No, it reinforced the fact that I had chosen the right man. Obama has looked very Presidential and hasshown the concern for the crisis that is needed. At the same time, he tried not to keep people calm in order to not have a panic.

It hasn't changed my mind at all, but I hope it's changed other people's minds. Especially if they bought into that "the fundamentals of the economy are strong" talking point.

No! The crisis was in part brought on by McCains push to de-regulate the financial industry to make the fleecing of America easier. This is just a carbon copy of the savings and loan debacle that McCain was in the middle of with his support of Charles Keating and the Keating 5.

Not yet Jack. But both of them are cowards on this subject. I believe that most Americans would vote for whichever candidate was first to advance the position that the tens of millions and sometimes topping billion dollar per year executive compensation and bonus packages received by every CEO and other top tier of investment banks and hedge funds should be disgorged, put into a big pot and should be used instead of taxpayer dollars to save our economy. However, sadly, management of these bailed out companies will end up profiting from the taxpayer bailouts unless this happens.

Nope. I was anti-trickle down years before Obama, still am, always will be. He presents an alternative feeling, a participitory form of government I have missed since the 80-s. I hope we give the man a chance to perform as advertised, and that we cooperate with him and allow some of the 'change' so sorely needed. The side show of an alternative is just unthinkable.

No. I have been aware of the de-regulation policy of the Republican base for some time and have been waiting for this day for some time. It is true that both democracts and republicans have supported this economic theory for some time but it is an overwhelmingly Republican idea that simply had a few democratic converts. This, in addition to the neo-imperial war in Iraq, are the clearest indicators as to why voting Republican is simply not in your interest unless you are extremely wealthy. In fact, I hope that this situation will educate people on the idea that it never actually was in their interest to vote republican-this current fiasco is why.

It hasn't changed my mind on my vote for president, but it sure has changed my mind on voting for others. Anyone that votes to bail out the rich is losing my vote. Maybe we need to let them bottom out. Let them jump out the windows on Wall Street like they did in the "Great Depression". Maybe the next group running things will use more care in playing money games.

NOPE – voting Obama in early voting – then my tv goes OFF until November 4. I've had all the slash and burn, smear and fear this old heart can take.

No. I always vote Democrat but this tells me that we seriously need to start a strong third party who will not be like these othere two. I am sick of being screwed. I was scared into going to war and now I am supposed to be scared that Wall Street is falling. Let it fall. Our parents got through the Depression a lot stronger than these fat spoiled group would do.

Yes it sure has..... I want a President that is not going to say one thing, one day and then say another the next day and play politcal games with a major problem like this bail out. We wouldn't be in the situation if it wasn't for Bush & McCain and the Republican Party that has run our country into the ground for the last eight years...... This only proofed the point completely, that McCain is NOT READY FOR THE PRESIDENCY!! On the other hand Obama showed the American People his strengths at a time when we needed the support of our Presidential Candidate. And I am very glad that Obama showed us that his decision making is very decisive and to the point! Obama showed the American People that he is ready to lead and get us out of this mess that the Republicans put us into.

Ann Marie
Alliance, Ohio

Nope. I am still voting for Obama.....the Republican's got us in this mess. And since McCain votes with Bush 90% of the time.....he lacks the intelligence and the judgement to get us out of this mess.

Jack, asbolutely. Initially I was a fan of Obama and his message of hope, but as the election process has gone on I have seen many developments about his ties and connections. This recent crisis connects Obama with one of the men who contributed to this disaster, just so he could have more false bonuses given to him and his cronies. Obama took money from these companies, and was the 2nd highest beneficiary, only second to Chris Dodd. I think it is time for CNN and other networks to expose the actions of Keynes and others who are not being held accountable by the politicians who benefited from this corruption. It was only a few years ago John McCain warned us when he co-sponsored a bill to deal with these mortgage companies.

No. If anything it has reinforeced the idea that the Republicans need to be retired.

The republicans gave us the Great depresion in 1929, now the present administration, also republican, is trying for a rerun.

Now they want me to pay for it? They Turned my 401k into a 40, isnt that enough?

What I am actually trying to say is: I will tollerate fooling around in the coat closet, over screwing me in the wallet any time!

No. However, it's confirmed why I'm voting for Sen. Obama since he doesn't hold the philosophy of allowing big business to do whatever they want to do at the detriment of little people. This economic crisis should at least remind people what Mccain has been about for the last twenty years. I don't see how people can overlook his record and his kinship with the waywardness of corporate america.

I'm a diehard Democrat. Would never vote Republican even if my life depended on it!

Absolutely not!! Although anyone contemplating voting for McCain/Palin need to change their minds because they are a JOKE!! They call themselves Mavericks look more like an old episode of Gunsmoke.

no, i already had the right ticket, obama/biden

No SIR Jack!

Democrats all the way. I feels sorry for those who voted early thay can't change their minds now, toolate

No. This has only enforced strongly my support for Obama. McCain doesn't deserve the title of dog catcher or Senator, let alone President. I certainly do not want his discraceful, dishonorable acting person representing my country, especially when in crisis.
Vickie in Mason, OH

Yes, from McCain to "None of the Above"

No I haven't changed my mind. I have only had my opinion strengthend and will vote for Senator Obama and trust his leadership. I am older than McCain but I just checked with my wife and she says I'm not as confused as him.

I have been on the fence but I think it looks like my vote is going to Obama. Why you ask? Its because of the economy. John McCain has said he doesn't understand economics. This is a big problem. Obama has definded clearly the problem from the beginning. He has written letters and spoken out about these issues since last year. He has outlined a clear plan. He now has my vote because he has been steady , calm, and organized. Not in a complete panic like McCain who has communicated inconsistent messages about his understanding about what is going on. John McCain said, "The fundamentals of the economy are strong". The stunt about cancelling the debate is just nothing more than a stunt. Obama has demonstrated real leadership skills and judgment.

Finally decided Voter

No. I still plan to vote for Obama. I like the way Obama has shown leadership in this financial meltdown. He is paying attention to what is going on, staying informed, expressing his view concisely, and is offering to do whatever his peers in in the senate think would be helpful. McCain, on the other hand, has overreacted by shutting down all campaign activity and gone off to Washington to put things in order. The old guy just doesn't impress this old white lady.

It has only deepened my commitment it Jack. The economy is based more on the original agrarian realities of life that were established before gold was given any value as a tool. I call those who worship the culture of Paris Hilton and have eliminated their human values for that quest, Paris ites. America would be a better place if Gitmo were used for these Paris ites. The Bin Laden/Bush plan of bleeding America to death is going well, according to their plan. They are sucking up America's future.

No, the crisis confirms my support of Barack Obama. Obama does not overreact but is able to multi-task, addressing the legislation, the campaign, and the debate. John McCain apes the philosophy of the Bush administration,....Make everything a crisis,employ fear tactics, and overreact.

I'm still an undecided.....I don't want four more years of Bushenomics which is what we'll get with McCain. I'm not so sure Obama can really "change" anything....So, whoever wins in Nov. really doesn't win anything now do they, Jack?

No Jack, I have been with the winner all a long, Obama.
Connie from Indiana

Of course not. I'm voting for the Democrats this year. They might not be perfect but anything is better than what we've got now. Another 4 years of republican politics and we'll be just another third world nation.

No, Jack. My mind was already made up by all the other crises in the last eight years. This is just another crisis with causes and responses similar to those for the previous ones.

No Jack it has not. It has however confirmed my contempt for the Party that has promoted the "Greed is good", Survival of the richest economics. The savings and loan scandel, the dot com. collapse, the enron scandel, the keating five, these are all gifts from the Reagan trickle down theory of economic thievery and this wall street crises and these bailouts are just farewell parting gifts from the neo-cons.

No. The candidates' responses to it just reaffirms my view that Obama responds with reason to a crisis and McCain just reacts emotionally.

Hasnt changed my mind at all Jack. I wasnt voting for either of these two blowhards anyway.

Jack, This crisis hasn't changed my mind, it only strengthen it. This problem has been caused by a variety of reason over the years. It has been made worst by Republican de-regulations and a lack of oversight both moral and legal, by this White House and it's agents for seven years and a half or more.

i am for obama. He can handle alot of things happening at the same time and do it effectively. I admire that in a leader, unlike mccain, who wants to grab attention all the time.

No! but it has led me to think a lot less of McCain. He has sold his sole, to the free market impire. If Obama is elected, and disappoints me, i will vote for a third party candidate from now on.

Without a doubt! McCain and Palin are hapless when it comes to tough problems. If anything, we don't need, yet, ANOTHER President who "shoots from the hip". I refuse to elect any more "Cowboys".

No, but I did just purchase an "Imagine Democracy" t-shirt from Ralph Nader at votenader.org. So, I guess you could say it has made me cross lines to give Ralph a hug. But I will still be voting for Barack, DESPITE the fact that he supports this BS BAILOUT.

..disgusting, repulsive, ...rich bureaucratic... ugh!

Actually, it has only reinforced my belief that we need a leader who has the characteristics of intelligence, calmness, grasp of the complexities of the economy, and ability to handle more than one crisis at a time. And the only candidate that has all these characteristics is Barack Obama.

Wake up America!

Yes, think I'll try to figure out a way to vote TWICE for Obama.

NO! It has solidified my choice and has caused me to tell anyone who will listen that Obama needs their vote!

Karen from BMore

Jack,

No it hasn't. I was already supporting the Obama ticket. I do think though that this crisis is sending more people over to the Dem side.

No! It has just made me more confident to relate to other why John Mccain and the Republican cannot be given even one more day!

Get some backbone, Washington politicians, especially you Democrats! If you want to control the country and the Whitehouse, then LEAD and stop pointing fingers!! Stop rewarding big shots for bad business deals or for stealing from the American public!!! And, if all you Democrats can do is go along with the Republicans on every bad piece of legislation they offer, then you're not the party to be in office anymore than the Republicans are! Our Founding Fathers were true Patriots, and expected the politicians who followed them to be willing to risk life and limb for the good of the country as they did, not become the world's biggest crooks! They must be rolling over in their graves to see what's going on in Washington and Wall Street these days.

Any economic legislation or stimulus package signed to resolve this crisis should contain the following agenda items:

1.) No golden parachutes for executives whose company we're bailing out. Any CEO whose company needs rescuing should automatically be forced to loose their personal interests and assets (as we poor people must do), and pay restitition from their windfall profits and personal assets.

2.) No absolution for wrong-doers discovered in the course of potential criminal investigations and prosecutions.

Now more than ever I am convinced the only person who really would have been able to handle the present crisis was Hillary Clinton. The more Obama and McCain speak the more frightened I am of the future no matter which party wins. Obama has shown no leadership whatsoever. McCain like Biden has been part of the problem forever.

No, it makes me even more for Obama then before, and I was for Obama 100%, now I am for him 200%. John McCain should be ashamed of himself but we all know he isn't because he doesn't have a conscience, his grandstanding tsince yesterday has been disgraceful, embarassing to the American people and downright disgusting. Talk about selling your soul, maybe he can have his pitbull who wears lipstick get him in touch with her pastor and lay hands on him to cast out all his evilness. He's suspending his campaign but can go to Bill Clinton's event and make a speech and Bill Clinton needs to get his act together also, is he a democrat or a republican. The only steady, calming person in this whole mess has been Barack and I will guarantee you within hours the McCain camp will be taking credit for fixing all of this – it's unbelievable.

Marian,
Austin, TX

I have always and continue to strongly back Barack Obama. The current financial crisis is just a reminder of the devastation the Bush Administration and Republicans have wielded against our country. Anyone who votes for McCain must be crazy–this man and his sidekick Palin–are scary! I think it was ridiculous for him to go back to Washington to get his two cents in when nobody wanted him to come back. Check his voting record–he has missed a lot of votes over the years!

OBAMA 08

It has only reinforced that I am making the right choice with Obama.

If McCain is going to run and hide everytime we have a crisis he does not understand we are going to be in big trouble. I was never going to vote for him and now he has shown me why.

Jack, it hasn't changed my mind but rather reinforced my decision which was based in part on McCain's own admission that he knows nothing about economics. And he has also been a staunch supporter of a hands-off approach to regulating big business, a big cause of the disaster we are dealing with today.

I'm 64 and hope to retire next year!! McCain should do the same NOW! I've been a republican for over 40 years and its time for a young, highly educated and well liked by the world to take over. Obama has a degree in foreign affairs and economics from Columbia and graduated magnum cum laudi! He also has a masters from Harvard in Constitutional Law and graduated magnum cum laudi!!! I DO NOT want anyone any older than I am (64) trying to take care of me and my affairs or my country!!!

The current economic crisis has convinced me that voting for Obama is definitely the right choice. In fact, my husband who was on the fence until McCain "suspended" his campaign, is now going to vote for Obama. He's fed up with McCain and the GOP, and he's a Republican.

It has, but I think they both have blood on their hands....how can we honestly think that the government is working for us? I'm so sick to think that I have to pay taxes or go to jail......and these boneheads get to run around with the keys to the candy shop and there isn't a damn thing we can do about it......Looks like the North American Union is now even closer than we think.......good bye America........Moving to Canada or Europe is now becoming the best idea I've had in along time.

No, always for OBAMA , would never ever think of voting for McCain.

No. Was voting for Obama – was happy to do so to avoid more of the same.

I get more impressed with Obama every day. He's the caring, calm, collected, straight-forward leader we need.

Enough of McSame drama queens.

Janice
Aberdeen, SD

No! I've been impressed with Obama from the beginning, and by the way, i'm white and 66years old!

No, I have been on the "Change Wagon" since day one. It only solidifies that I will vote Obama and hope that he wins big on election day..........

In the time of a financial crisis that`s a tough one the smart guy with an ivy league education or a hot tempered senator who voted 90% of the time with bush.I dont know Jack that`s hard you tell me?

Lakeland,Fl

No, and I find it hard to believe that anyone could still be on the fence, even before the 'breaking news' that we are in a recession.

Please.

I know I won't be voting to put the fox back in the hen house for 4 more years.

I am more committed now than ever to vote for Barac Obama. I hope that when he becomes president, he will add more FBI agents to investigate and prosecute mismanagement of our financial markets. While researching the chapter on ethicas and the federal sentencing guidelines for a book, I came across the following quote by Eliot Spitzer, former Attorney General of the State of New Yourk: "It's not altruism, and it's probably not the paperwork. It's enforcement. One jail term is worth a lot of compliance officers. And it doesn't require you to create a whole new bureaucracy."

yes. i'll be voting for the smart guy ,now. i thought mccain was safe, but, this is an economic 9/11 ,and mccain appears to be playing politics with it. that is shameful. shame, shame, john mccain.
i'm switching my support to barack obama.

No. I have been railing against supply-side tax cuts and deregulation since 1981. I thought it was criminal that we bailed out the savings and loan industry without holding the bankers and politicians upside down and shaking them until the money fell out. It may be true, as some have said, that there is plenty of blame to go around, but it is the Republicans who have made deregulation a centerpiece of their agenda for twenty-eight years. And it is the Bush administration that grabbed all the power it could and tried to make congress irrelevant. They used their power to get everything they wanted. Now we are left to pay the price of their folly. The Republicans should have their charter revoked.

Jack, more moderation?

Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Deb, Allentown, PA
September 25th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I’m very anxious to see the answers to this question. I’m an Obama supporter and believe that this whole last day or two of McCain’s machinations has helped Obama. I think it’s shown that McCain is unable to multitask, that he’s running from his sinking poll numbers, and that he’s trying to shield Palin as much as possible because she just can’t cut it. However, it will be interesting to see how others feel.

It has strengthened my support for Obama even more since McCain can't seem to get a grip. He is unpredictable and erratic.
He makes risky decisions without consderation of others.
No way would I ever cast a vote for McCain.

NOPE – Only reaffirmed my original choice as to who can keep his cool in a crisis and handle several things at once and who gets frazzled and starts acting in an erratic, tempermental manner. I'm glad I can trust my first instincts!

No, the crisis just confirms my vote for Obama. How can anyone with half a brain choose McSame after his irrational behavior. He's just another Al Haig - "I'm in CHARGE"!

Yes Jack,

At first I thought Barack Obama was the better canidate on the economy.
Now I think that Barack Obama is the only canidate on the economy!
John McCain sound's like the man with two brain's!
He makes me dizzy trying follow his train of thought.

My choice is clear, Obama has my vote!

No, I know who has been in power for the past 8 years. I'm firmly with Obama.
McCain is a desperate man using this as a circus to detract from the truth of who was asleep while all this happenned.
Obama can chew gum and walk at the same time. Apparantely McCain can only do one thing at a time.

it simply tells me the OBAMA deserves to head the financial institutions of the united states if that will define the WORLD'S MOST POWERFUL MAN

No. My vote depends on the debates. If Senator John McCain chickens out with excuses, I'm definitely voting for Senator Barack Obama.

Chicago, IL

Perhaps. I was not going to vote for President this time, as I don’t really want either of them. But if it plays out that McCain’s action this week does help break the financial crisis, then I might for the first time in my life vote for a Republican – him, of course.

I know perfectly well that anything McCain and especially Palin do or say is going to get trashed on this board, but decisive action against the socalled conventional wisdom can have its merits at times. Say what you will against McCain, but you can’t say he would be a ‘do-nothing’ President, and his instincts are not always wrong. But of course, he is not the all-knowing god that Obama is worshipped for being. Hey, I didn’t drink the KoolAid so I guess I just don’t get it.

I live in GA and I voted today. I was amazed at the number of people that were also voting. I can not take any more of this administration. It is time for a different perspective. Democrats are not perfect but I dont think this country can take another 4 more years of the Republicans. If I got this type of service from my auto mechanic or doctor, I would have looked for a replacement long ago.

It simply re-inforces my vote for Obama/Biden.

Peg from NY

Eeven though I can't vote (wish I could) it just confirms what I knew months ago. Obama is the REAL deal! Calm,cool,collected and extremely intelligent. Everything you want in a leader.

Not someone who goes off half cocked like Mcnutty at every turn.

The crisis has deepened my resolve and transformed me from Independent to Democrat (at least for awhile). I have never seen such smarmy, self satisfied and arrogant bunch of [insert word for sharp pointy object] / pin heads in all my days. It is as if they think that if you look like something you actually are that thing and if you look like something else then you are not.

I think the American electorate is waking up and I don't think the Republicans are going to like that.

It's made me more certain to vote for Obama. The Republican philosophy of a more "hands-off" approach to government may look good on paper, but doesn't take into account the nature of human beings to be cruel to each other when left unsupervised. This past week has been like "Lord of the Flies on Wallstreet".

No I plan to vote for Obama and this situation has only deepened my comitment to vote for him.

Fire, Ready, Aim Mccain has only forced me more towards Obama as in the coming years we need someone who is going to keep a clear head rather than firing off with and answer before all the facts are out there.

Jack,
Yes McCain is playing politics with this crisis. He wasn't up front about Obama calling him and asking that they work together on this. I notice McCain's ads are still running and he is trying to make it look like he is the one that is straightening out this mess. People keep talking about Obama being calm. Isn't that what we need right now. Someone calm and rational. Mccain is hiding things from us already .
He will be the same old mess we already have.
Judy In Boise, Idaho

i got a recorded message on my phone from michele obama saying early voting begins in iowa today. guess where i'm going? i'm sure not voting mcbush..arlene in iowa

Jack,

It only confirmed further my vote for Obama.

I apologize for actually voting for someone who can chew and walk at the same time, God forbid.

Sene',
Falls church, Va

Jack:
Hasn't changed my mind, still commited to "Change We Can Believe In" not the smoke and mirrors, deceit and deception we are seeing from Mr. McCain and Mrs. Palin.
Duane
Blodgett MO

I made up my mind when Palin was nominated. This crisis just convinced me I made the right choice: Obama.

Not one bit! Cofirms that I all ready made the right choice. OBAMA 08

No, it just reinforced why I am voting for Mr. Obama

No change. This mess is
Just a great cofirmation of the idiots we have placed in place of trust who have betrayed the whole country for personal gain. Throw all teh B????? out.

I was for Hillary, I am now for Obama.

Regards this crisis, I am more fervently for Obama. He has vision and will steer this old-thinking and outdated-acting-government into the 21st Century.

Not at all. This 'crisis' has been brewing for a lot longer than this election or the current administration.

Yes. As an undecided voter I have slowly but surely learned that McCain will not do anything differently than Bush has done for the past 8 years. Obama may not have a ton of experience but I'm willing to give change a chance. God knows we need it!

I have been with Obama since the beginning. Have you read his book? A very intelligent, responsible, good person. Sees things from both sides of a view. So no, I don't want an old f- with same old Republican ideas. I look forward to new, untried ideas and views and 'thinking out of the box'. God Bless Obama! Oh, Jack–read his book!

Jack
We were so impressed with Obama when he came to Idaho. We have been watching this outrageous campaign since it started and we have not wavered one little bit. We will vote for Obama
The Knights in Boise, Idaho

McCain did, does, and always will have my vote. If the media would only grill Obama the way they grill Sarah Palin, the whole country would see what inexperience Obama has. What a JOKE to think that McCain has over 2 decades of service in the senate! He can debate Barack Obama with his eyes closed and one hand tied behind his back! If I were the people of Illinois I would be so upset. Maybe he should donate the money Barbara Streisand gave him to Wall Street – talking about finally doing what he preaches. McCain is exactly the President I want. Good riddance to a stupid debate when if you don’t know how they stand on the issues by now, you don’t deserve to vote.

I am on the fence but very disappointed that Obama didn't use his influence to get that Emergency Extension of Unemployment Benefits passed for 13 weeks, when his own state of Illinois has a jobless rate of 7.3%. No one answers his office phone in D.C. because the mail box is full and his office in Springfield has a message stating to call back later ( like 2010 I guess). So OBAMA is not popular in Illinois right now & every % point will count in this race. A politician should at least take care of his own state that he represents! I'm leading towards Ralph Nader but still indecided!.

No, Jack, I dont want to live in a third world nation. If we put another republican in office that is exactly what we will happen.

NO

its the urgency of NOW that got me we can't wait anymore for the tide to turn back to the honest people of america. we have to get education and the economy back on track and stop testing and stealing from our children. Obama for our future the one that was taken from us in 1980 by the trickle down theory it doesn't work

yes , just registered today to vote for obama

Jack:
no change, mccain's move didnt even surprise me. I would never vote for him.

sam, soutih georgia

No. This just reinforces Obama all the way!

No! I'm still voting for Mccain because he has a record to run on. He has worked across the isle to accomplish real change while the only thing Obama has ever changed is his mind and the only thing he has ever run is his mouth. Obama promises everything but has never done anything; that's why he can't close the deal in what should be a democratic year. Mccain will eat him up in the debates and the electorate will finally realize Obama's an empty suit.

No. It has only reinforced my opinion that McCain, with his 13 cars, seven houses, and 26 years in Congress, is wreckless and dangerously out of touch.

We already knew he thought the economy was fundamentally strong. We already knew that his top economic advisor thought he was unfit to run a corporation.

Now we receive word that he thinks the current crisis is important enough to stop the campaign, but he couldn't even be bothered to ACTUALLY READ theTHREE-PAGE bailout legislation. What's he waiting for? Joe Lieberman to whisper the right answer in his ear?

Not by any means. Barack has had my vote for 20 + months now and it will be mailed in very shortly! I was proud watching him at his press conference yesterday. He looked and acted very much like what I want our President to look. He was so much more in control than McCain who always seems to be in a panic when not needed. The economy may be in dire straights but his going to Washington has nothing to do with calming things down or getting it settled.

No, my mind has been made up for a long time and to even ask the question is pretty ridiculous. People have made up their minds at this point (I think even those so-called "undecided" voters have made up their mind, they're just not telling) and there is very little that can happen that will change their minds.

No it did not change my mind being a native from Az. I have known why I would not vote for McCain 26 years ago. Keating 5 was the first episode and the last episode that he to cancel a debate .

NO! It's just so sad to see an American military hero lose his way. He seems so lost especially when events don't go his way. To call a time out when we most need to hear from him is just Sad. I believe in my heart and soul with Mr. Obama's vision for the future of America.

No it has not, I am voting for Obama! John McCain and Sarah Pailin have shown poor judgement, lack of knowledge on the issues facing american citizens and absolutely NO CLASS!

No , Jack it has not changed my mind. I guess I am not one of the brainwashed Americans that could not see through McCain/Palin dirty tricks . I will definatly vote OBAMA. Rose, Massachusettes

No, it hasn't Jack. It has only reaffirmed my belief that Barack Obama is the best man for this country.

I am a registered Republican but I have always thought this was Obama's election to lose. McCain is running one of the most awkward and confusing campaigns I have ever seen. He is running as if he is in charge already and can call all the shots, but in fact he is and always has been the underdog. The results are an awkward and unbalanced looking 72 year old man who is the only person that truly believes he has a chance to win this thing. As this election has proceeded out of the summer months, McCain has turned this election into more and more of a circus.

/grabs some popcorn and waits for the next side-show from McCain

I was undecided until Mc Cain tried to pull a fast one by picking Palin as his VP over a few minutes on the phone. She is against a lot of thing women believe in, not to mention the accusations against her and that road she build to that infamous bridge to nowhere. I think Biden will bring a lot of experience to the table and good pick for Obama. My vote this time will be for Obama.

Mr. McCain made my decision crystal clear. I am voting for Obama. He is the hot head, unstable guy that Rove and the crew told use he was 8 years ago.

No. My objective since 2001 has been to get the Republicans out of power. I would prefer a 3rd party candidate who has a chance but the Reps and Dems won't allow that. I am hoping that Obama is elected because it will end the neo-con occupation and, when Obama proves completely uneffective, will hopefully awaken people to the "Republican/Democrat scam".

No it has not. I do not think McCain is fit to be president. I wouldn't vote for him in the face of any problem–least of all the economy.

Dear Jack,

if there were any undecided or not sure, this should be clear by now!

Not yet, but if McCain offered me enough cash in the form of investment incentives and tax breaks I might consider it.

Absolutely not! I am voting for the less worse of the two, Barack Obama.

How do you spell relief? OBAMA

Yes, I will vote for Obama...no doubt about it.

Not at all. I plan to vote Obama and made this choice some time ago. I long for the good old days when the Democrats last held the white house during the Clinton years. It has been all down hill since the republicans took over.

Not at all. If you're not afraid to march to your own drummer it's much harder for the Pied Piper to lead you down the wrong pat.

No. I am just so anxious to vote on November 4th. My polling place is directly across the street from my house. I "WILL" be first in line.

John McCain is a study in how age affects the mind. This isn't an observation from his political posturing on the financial crisis but rather an astute observation of all he has done and said since the campaign has begun.

Vetoing beer, killing Iranians with bombs and cigarettes, thinking that Iraq bordered Afghanistan, not knowing the Chech Republic exists and the list goes on and on.

John McCain simply is not stable and continually gets caught spitting in the wind then needs a campaing spokesman to wipe his face.

No. Obama has just replayed his "PRESENT" vote from the Illinois legislator. Once again Obama couldn't take a position- "Am I for it or Against it?" We need a president who is willing to take a position and not a Harvard educated lawyer who has learned how to avoid leaving tracks wherever he goes. An Illinois senator can vote "Preent" 130 times but a President cannot do it once.

My mind hasn't changed about which party to vote for. We need a Democrat in the White House to straighten out the economic mess the Republican Administration is leaving behind. The one thing that has changed in my mind is the fact that the President of the United States needs to be an extremely intelligent person. Looks like on every issue facing the American people we need someone with a different skill set. Our Commander-in-chief needs to be able to lead our military, watch our pocketbooks on Wall Street, help the less fortunate with social programs and healthcare, watch job growth or decline, keep our taxes within reason, and sleep at night with a clear conscience that he did the best he could.

Yes. I am voting for McCain he is not Bush. He is also a doer and Obama is all talk and no experience. This financial crisis is much more important than talk. We have heard both candidates talk for the last 19 months. If you don't know where the candidates stand on the issues by now, you haven't been listening.

No. I'm voting Obama/Biden. Obama has been trying to resolve the problems in the economy all along, while the Republicans have consistently denied any problems.

Since neither candidate has any economic experience I think I will vote for the independent candidate on the ballot.

Geri – Mead, Ok

No. I'm still voting for the only candidate that's ever fought for his country, John McCain; you know, the one that doesn't use a computer because of his POW injuries. But he can navigate a bomber during a war. I'd like to see the depressing chip-on-their-shoulder liberals top that! Oh, that's right; they don't believe in war, just killing innocent babies!
The biggest decision Obama ever made was whether or not to get up and go to his 8:00 a.m. classes at Columbia!

TR,
from PA, where we're bitterly clinging to our religion and guns!

Obama has handle the crisis better than McCain and has not changed my vote it has only reinforce it.

Not sure what I will be doing vote wise on November 4th! I can not trust this nation anymore or our leaders! There is no moral accountabilty or honesty in the government. I really love this nation, but dislike the people running it. Who can we trust? They all lie and serve there own agenda's in the end! I believe in the way our nation was founded and the principals that built this great nation, I can only pray that someday we have a real person that wants to serve the nation and it's people and not the "All mighty dollar"!

Jim

Wichita, Ks.

No. In the words of Teddy Roosevelt, "When the going gets tough, the tough get going. In the Words of John McCain, "When the going gets tough, the tough take a break." If we have learned nothing in the past eight years, we have learned that we can't afford a commander in cheif who is obviously incapable of being one.

The financial crisis was a huge consideration in my decision, but my decision was reached nearly 2 months ago. As usual, it took the rich getting burned before our government found it time sensitive when the rest of us have been feeling it for over a year.

The financial crisis has made it clear how much is at stake in this election. If John McCain and Sarah Palin are elected, our country will be in deep trouble on all fronts. This national emergency has energized me to do all I can to help get Barack Obama elected.

Yes. I was thinking of voting for a third party candidate or writing in a candidate. Now I'm voting for Obama in the hopes he'll drop kick Paulson and Bernanke through the goalposts of life.

John McCain had to call a halt to his campain because he can't use the blackberry he invented to keep in touch with Washington. So I will vote for the candidate who can walk and chew gum at the same time.

In a word no!!!!!!

This reminds me of that McCain celebrity ad. America cheers in unison, "Obama, Obama, Obama, Obama."

Miami, FL

No, We need Obama for President even more so than before. After the stunt McCain pulled yesterday, I have lost all respect for him.

Its not too bad right now. If you don't buy anything or go anywhere, don't eat much, a person can get by.

In another word NO ,
and to add a few more Obama Is the only man to lead this nation.

Jack,
We climbed this roller coaster with the republicans and now we're going for our first dip.Why not make it a big one. I want Palin to be the president so we can crash and incinerate ourselves.

No, it has not changed my opinion. Cut and Run McCain will never get my vote.

Jack,

No..my mind is set....it just gives us Obama supporters more ammunition to convince undecided voters of the importance to get it right this time. We clearly cannot afford another catastrophe of 4 more years of ineptness, crass ignorance of the real mood of this great nation and the downright selling out of the core principles which America stands for, and the complete betrayal of the homeless, the jobless, the medically helpless and the penniless. Need I go on....

No it has not. The way things were handled in the last few days, everyone should NOW realize they should vote for Obama/Biden.

Yes...
I'm and Independant...formerly a life long Democrat.

I see both the major party candidates brown nosing to meet everyones desires–including some groups I can't support–ever.

So I'm voting Libertarian.
Bob Barr 2008

He doesn't have a lot of campaing dollars, he doesn't have a lot of supporters–but he is ethical, he does stay to the principle of less government involvement, and he is commited to the constitution of the United States–which I do not believe gives congress nor the president to conduct the current smoke and mirrors game to bail out poor business managers.

Absolutely not! If anything I am more sure than ever that it wont be Mccain.I for one dont want a President that takes postponements when it gets hot in the kitchen.

I think I'll decide after I see who has the multi-tasking ability to show up for tomorrow night's debate. I guess that means my vote goes to Obama. BTW, I can multi-task too....work and email at the same time.

I have now changed my mine and now will vote for Barack Obama. I think he will be a great leader as the President of the USA. McCain is evil and not trustworthy he is always trying to do things as if he is already the presiden. , I dont want a president that say comments and do things that he always has to come back and retract his action or comments. McCaiin stand up like a man to Obama and do the debate because Obama will be strong and win this election anyway.

No, it just reaffirms my decicion to vote for democrats, the republicans have sold us out with the trickle down philosophy. The rich have run off with the money, and left us tax payers holding the bill.

Not at all. I was not dillusional as those republicans who care more about abortions and other nonsense while this country is in a crisis. I already knew Bush company was lying about the economy and McCain has no idea about what to do about the economy except playing his war hero card. This is not complicated as rocket science to understand for those who are not dillusional.

- Nuwan from Houston, TX

McCain's stunt has confirmed to me what type of president he would be. This whole maverick grandeur is just a euphemism for Mccain bucking the system to do whatever he wants to posture himself politically. I'm still trying to figure out why some folks are voting for this dude. What an opportunitist! So what he's a POW. This stunt is cowardly to me.

No. Obama has been my main man.Ther more I find out about McCain and his crew the better my choice looks. Paulson left his co. in worse dept than it was. One of McCains (past CEO) advisors left the co with 45 mill. while they fired 20 employees., Davis has been collecting 15,000 a mon. from Fannie & Freddie. The writer of the Shock Doctrine stated McCain will not be the same as Bush but he will make this country 10 times worse. Unfortunately Nader has more knowledge about the prsent fiasco than either of them..Democracy Now has him on frequently. Again The Reps. are trying to use fear tactics. the same as they did with the Patriot Act, and Iraq war. Hurry hurry hurry. It's totally unnecessary. If Bush's congress rushes this they will being betraying you , again proving you better change the names of the crowd in Nov.

No Jack, this hasn't changed my mind one wit. It has just confirmed that Mr. Obama is the most qualified candidate by a mile.

Here's a suggestion for John and Sarah: Cancel your whole bloody campaign and concede that neither of you are equipped by education or tempermanet to lead us out of this disaster.

This mess is the outcome of Republican philosophy...yes that would be YOUR party...and some of us are not dumb enough to believe that either of you are a horse of different color.

Absolutely this has changed my mind. While Obama was waffling behind his podium, McCain laid out and implemented a plan of action. Some of you left wing nuts have no clue what true leadership is, even if it smacked you on the head. This is McCain's second brilliant maneuver next to choosing Palin. That's evident by the hatred and vitriol spewing from the un-American left.

NO. I always intended to vote a straight Democratic ticket. I have known for a very long time that the economy was a mess. Anyone that has been paying any attention at all over the years knew that. The Republicans were hoping to get through the elections, and leave this mess for the next President and the Congress.

No, it has re-enforced who I believe can get us out of this mess and it ain't McPalin.

David
Westborough, MA

No, I've always planned on voting for the Democrat running. The best years for this country was during the Clinton (Democratic) administration and the worst has been the years when Republicans were at the helm. See a pattern here?

McCain makes my head spin. He flips and flops so much he should be on a gymnastics team not running for president. I admire his service, but he's not the guy to get us out of this mess.
Joe in San Antonio, Texas

It is revealing how both the candidates reacted to the financial crisis.

John McCain panicked and dropped everything and fled to the comfortzone of Washington.

Obama is calm and collected and is doing everything he can to get a deal going without the drama or one upmanship displayed by McCain.

Jack, the last thing we need is a lawyer meddling in our finacial affairs. Obama has yet to say anything coherant about this crisis. Maybe he can discuss it with himslf during the one-person debate, while McCain helps fix the crisis.

sure has Jack, I'll be voting for a third party.
Townsend Ma.

No I will vote for McCain because Obama is inadequate at dealing with these situations!

How could it alter my vote. America is all about favoring the rich isn't it? We bail out the Rolls Royce crowd with public money now, right? , So I suppose my vote will just have to go to the guy flying around in the jet, spending millions, hoping to gain influence and living the good life. Now let me see....which of these guys fits that description?

No.Obama has alwats shown the charecteristics I am looking for in a president and that was reenforced by the way he has handled this economic crisis thus far. Obama continues to put Main Street ahead of Wall Street. He will bring change to Washington. The real question is...Will Washington and Wall Street be prepared?

No, the past eight years made the choice perfectly clear.

Nope, not one bit. It's only confirmed ever more so that Obama/Biden is the team we need.

Santa Fe, NM

Jack,

I'm not sure if you or your staff will ever have the chance to read this before the American public, but I must say that if we're [the Amercian People] are expected to save Wall Street and the economy pay us for it. The intrest made on this bailout should all go back to the investors, which happens to be the Ameican taxpayers. Since we're fitting this bill, we should gain from it other than banking on a job. With a 50% chance of the company packing its bags and heading over the Atlantic.

No. I am more convinced than ever that Obama is the right choice.

I intend to vote for Obama. Mccain has no clue about the economy.

Ron Paul is sounding pretty smart right now.

No. I made up my mind months ago. It's Obama. McCain has simply proven my early decision was correct. McCain is not to be trusted.

No. My mind hasbeen made up since I saw Barak Obama speak to a very small crowd on a cold November night last year. He has real grace and a vision of what this nation should be. We have to know where we are going before we can change the policies that are tearing our financial instituions to pieces. May God give McCain the guts to participate in the debate. The choice should be clear.

This crisis reminds me of an old sitcom episode in which the title character, Maude, is on vacation and calls her daughter to ask how things are going at home. The daughter says, "The cat died." Maude proceeds to lecture her daughter that you never convey bad news in such a shocking manner. "You should start out by saying, 'The cat's on the roof and won't come down." When you eventually tell the bad news the listener is more prepared for it. Well guess what McCain supporters? The cat's on the roof and won't come down.

The financial crisis has not changed my mind about how I had planned to vote for but I sure do miss all the discussion about lipstick on pigs.

It has Jack. Twice I was smart enough not to vote for bush. After listening to Obama's what ever you want to hear I'll say speaches I've decided to be smart enough not to vote for him. McCain doesn't always say what we want to hear but unfortunately what we always want to hear isn't the way it is. Truth can get a candidate in trouble and thats why McCain is losing. Wait . Let me put it this way. McCain lies less then Obama on how to get America back on track.

The Rep[ublican ticket is a joke; the Democratone has a big mess to clean up.
We do not need a continuation of Bush "econo-fication."

No...I was always an Obama supporter. With all that has gone on lately, I cannot for the life of me understand how anyone could even think of voting Republican! Remember the definition of Insanity? ...."when you do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. " This is insanity to vote Republican!

If Obama backs this idea , I will definately reconcider my vote . Anyone that takes Bush's or Paulson's word on this is an abject fool!

No, it only reinforces my decision to have a calm, sane presence in the White House in the form of Barack Obama. John McCain's last minute stunts and Sarah Palin's cluelessness frighten me. Really frighten me.

I was going to vote for Obama anyway, but incidents over the past week(s) have caused me to change my mind about McCain's integrity. Such as wanting to delay the debate to go back to Washington to participate in talks on the economy. Since the commission has already been selected, its apparent that McCain just wants to stop Obama's mementum and take advantage of a few photo ops. Such as telling David Letterman that he could not be on his show because he had to rush back to Washington, only to get caught redhanded being interviewed by Katie Couric. Now I don't know if the statement, "The economy is fundamentally strong" was a lie or just plain stupid. But I do know that, with McCain in office, the country would be in big trouble.

Nope, I am still voting for Ron Paul. Write in if I have to... If that counts as a no-confidence vote for the other two clowns, then so be it.

nope!.. i still vote for obama regardless...you can't trust mccain just like you can't trust bush anymore..too many lies on bush administration and it will happen to mccain..

Vote? What does that mean? We have two parties which will, in their own way, run this country further into the ground. Even if there was a people's choice candidate I could truly believe in, who can believe the voting machine results? Just more lies. The voice of the people doesn't mean a thing. Just because we have twenty-plus cities where people are just saying No to this bailout, doesn't mean our 'representatives' will actually listen. Taxation without representation, hmmm.

I am voting for Obama come Nov. 4th because the last thing we need is McBush and Palin running this country into the ground. In this time of economic crisis, we need an leader who is calm, smart, rational and is willing to seek advice from others before he acts. Obama is the kind of leader we need. May God have mercy on us and the world if McBush and Palin win this election.

I knew who I would vote for following the 2004 Keynote address dellivered by Sen Obama at the Democratic convention. That conviction hasn't wavered.

It doesn't matter, Jack. Haven't you heard? McCain has suspended his campaign. Wait, does that mean that Palin is now running for president? Oh, I just can't keep up with all of this. If Obama suspends his campaign, does that mean it will be Biden vs. Palin? Or will it be Hillary vs. Huckaby. who's running again?

I think it has sent as strong reality check to Republicans about Senator McCain's ability to respond to a crisis. It is a huge vote of "no confidence" when the McCain campaign is having to deflect criticism from David Brooks and George Will. Republican voters may need to cross party lines to preserve their conservative values this time.

I will vote for the canidate who vows to seize the assets of those who caused this mess and pay it off that way.

No. I wasn't voting for either Republicrat anyway.

McCain has said many times he knows nothing about the economy ,but he is ready to run to Washington and save us all? Thanks but no thanks John. I think they would do alot better without your help! I think it might be better to have the debate. Not that it will change my vote for Obama.

I'm a Democrat for life. I wasn't old enough to vote in the 2000 and 2004 elections, but I definitely didn't support the moron that won! Can't the American people see what a deep hole the Bush administration has put us in? I think electing Obama will give us hope that we can get out of this mess.

Absolutely.

I watched a couple of senators today, they said that 96% of the emails and calls they are getting is against the bail out. YET, they are going to vote for it.

I refuse to vote for any incumbent from now on. They lied to us about WMD, and they want us to believe this? Yes, rhetorical. Iam ashamed of our government. None of them have any spines anymore.

No, my mind was made up eight years ago, and I am even more sure now. No Repug will ever get a vote from me. I'm not a Demo either. I've been a true independent long before Full of Himself Lou Dobbs thought it was cool.

Yes it has completed my reasoning for voting Republican this time. (1st ) I decided not to vote with the democratic party do to the fact that they hand picked Obama just as the republican party hand pick Bush. the religious right didn't get what they wanted, and the Obama fan club will not get what they want.
(2nd) this economy is no place to put a novice politician. How much money was given Obama and McCain from these companies needing bailout money. The one with the less money should win. This is serious business.

Absolutely not!! I’m more determined than ever to vote McCain/Palin.

The Republican side, including Bush, clearly warned that Fannie & Freddie needed to be regulated to avert this current situation.

McCain echoed the same fears, but the Clinton administration and, in particular, Barney Frank denied this as EVER possibly happening and pushed hard for these two institutions to take on these “risky” loans just to put more people in homes that couldn't afford them.

Just pull out the past video tapes of these Washington meetings and speeches by these individuals – see for yourselves who said and did (or didn’t do) what.

The truth may hurt, but it IS the truth!

kerry diehl
michigan

Obama all the way, I have not changed my mind. McCain had no reason to suspend the campaign and if he wanted to take a break from campaigning for a couple of days where is Palin? Does McCain have that little confidence in Palin to go on the stump and talk about the issues that everyone cares about. Both Obama and Biden discuss the issues that affect us all EVERYDAY.

It has made me realize more than ever how much we need Obama. I read last week when McCain graduated from Naval school almost last in class his dad bought him a brand new corvette. That says all I need to know about a background of money and privilege even when you don't deserve it.

Sad to say nothing has changed my mind except the behavior of John McCain this time through. As an old Naval Aviator I always prided myself on being a member of that great fraternity but I think McCain has disgraced himself by conducting such a sleazy campaign. Whatever honor he had has gone by the wayside. Blatant lies just do not cut it.

He sure is!!!

Montreal, Qc.

I refuse to loose again, I going for Obama. If you get me once it’s on you, but if you get me twice and I don’t wake up, I actually deserve what I get and what is coming to me.

Jack,

Unlike most voters I still have not been convinced by either canidate. This just shows you how politics has nothing to do with Leadership. Instead of pointing fingers, lets fix the problem. I will make my decision when I go to the polls. I don't trust the politicians or the news media. Everyone is making money off the backs of the middle America

Jack – the ecomonic crisis only reinforces my vote for Obama – I only wish I could vote more than once

No. I am voting for Obama and moving to Mars if America elects McCain.

Yes – it will reaffirm my vote – that we need someone in there with full familiarity and experience – John McCain – once again – is putting his country first – rather than worrying about power and exposure to the masses.

Jack,

It will be an absolute pleasure to vote for Obama. What a change – a person who can stay cool in a crisis, think through a problem (and not shoot from the hip), line up allies, do more than one thing at a time and speak in coherent sentences.

Thank God we can have a change from Bush, McCain and their cohorts.

You know what I find absolutely laughable? The fact that the financial naïveté of 95% of the American public is the exact thing that allowed this crisis to go down and it's also the exact same thing that's going to lead them to vote for a guy who is certain to perpetuate the mess we're in now.

Barack Obama's financial "platforms" are laughable and complete and total nonsensical fairy tales ... he's going to punish companies who send jobs abroad, socialize health care, and lower taxes? Yeah ... right. Let me hold my breath for all that to happen.

Anyone in their right mind who's fooled into thinking Obama isn't going to tax the living daylights out of you, middle class or otherwise, is lining up to get what they deserve.

Obama wants to turn the U.S. into a European-model country and guess what? Europeans pay like 60% of their income in taxes.

Does that sound like something you should be voting for??? Wake up people ... stop being fooled by the empty rhetoric and pretty speeches. Obama is clueless and will only further run this country into the ground.

I'm not a big McCain fan either, but the choice is clear ... one has decades of leadership experience and one will need three years of on-the-job training before he can find the White House bathroom.

I feel an Obama landslide victory in the making. This crisis has only confirmed my vote for Obama.

In a word, NO. I'll still be voting for Obama - we need him now more than ever.

No, McBush would be the worse mistake that this country could make. Obama08/12

after this mess – the republican party is over – it is apparent that they are not representing we the people, they represent themselves and could care less about the rest of us.

Obama gets my vote!

NO, after the last 8 years I wouldn't have voted for any Republican no matter who it was and I certainly wouldn't vote for McCain since he and his "deregulation" cronies are at the root cause of this disaster. Heck, I would have voted for Bozo the Clown instead.... oops sorry, he already ran and won in 2000!!!

YES!
I'm for serious change now. Let me at the voting booth to vote out ALL those idiots in the U.S.Congress that I can. Too bad I don't live in MA to vote out that sleezoid Barney Frank.

I've now decided NOT to vote. Neither will improve the quality of my life as a small business owner. For the last two months I've had a terrible time getting my big corp clients to pay what they owe. Ain't neither candidate, nor Dodd, Schumer or Frank, going to bail me out. I'll go under. I'm fed up with this country. As far as I can tell, this is a corrupt and dishonest citizenry from the top of the economic ladder to the bottom.

Yes, I was leaning toward Obama, but now I'm leaning toward McCain... esp. after the antics the Dems have displayed during these last few days. I'm disgusted with their grand standing.

Too late Jack, I voted already in GA yesterday and it feels good and as for Bubba Bill Clinton,someone needs to remind him that he is a democrat and not a neocon.

Yes, I have changed my mind. I was going to vote for McCain. Now I am undecided, but certainly leaning towards Obama/Biden. If Bush and his rich friends have that much power to redirect that much money , why not provide access to affordable health care (not heath insurance) for all Americans? Why is it more important to shore up their portfolios? Because they don't really care about the rest of us. Rich, white, old men. I've had enough.

No, it only backs up my choice of Obama as the next President of the United States. He is already showing the leadership we need.

Not at all Jack, McCain and Palin have always been my less favorite candidates. What they are doing now, makes think that they shoud not be running for the highest office in government. By the end of next week, I hope to see Barack with double digits lead in every swing state.

Nope. I am for Obama all the way and always have been.
I would like to say this: How much would each tax paying American get if we were given the 700 Billion? We could really jump start the economy!

I'll vote for Obama if he's man enough to admit how much he and his campaign manager has received in cash from lenders in the past. It appears he is trying to avoiding any question in reguards to his past..

Jack,

If I were someone who thought about voting McCain, I was strongly re-think that given the current situation. Here you have a guy who openly admits he knows nothing about the economy or how it works, yet he is suspending his campaign to work on the economy? I think we have enough lame ducks in Congress. The last time we voted for someone who knew nothing about the economy was...oh wait, he's still in office.
Catch my drift?

Dominique
Oneonta, NY

Mccain is playing with people live and politics where was he last week many working people can"t stop working to deal with theie financial crisis so why a presidental candate. Bush as the president did not cancell his affair of meeting with leader a round the world Mccain did it because he is down in the poll i am not voting for him iam voting Obama he is for the unheard voice of the people thank you

No it hasn't, Jack. I actually decided I would vote Democratic after hearing Sarah Palin's speech at the Reuplican convention. What I've seen the past 2 weeks has convinced me my decision is correct.

Been voting for GOP for over 20 years, ever since I could vote. This year it is Obama. And this financial mess, along with McCain's circus act of suspending campaign and debate just made the decision easier.

No, I'm voting for Obama. It would be stupid to vote for another republican after 8 years of republican rule. This all reminds me of the girlfriend/boyfriend abusive relationship, where the boyfriend hits the the girlfriend, cheats on her, and is down right an ass to her, yet she some how still forgives him. That's how I see the people are who are voting for McCain, "oh, it'll be different this time, I promise honey"...spshh...bull.

I think if McCain wins I'm moving overseas, the hell with this sinking ship!

Some are calling it a Political stunt but at the same time its action that Senator McCain took that displays his leadership qualities to return to Washington. Senator Obama has been clearly exposed in this crisis as he showed absolutely no initiative to come forward which is representative of his record of not taking a stand when the time arises to show leadership. His shallow wisdom is to wait until the crisis is over and see where the political benefit lies, and then and only then move in that direction. Too bad so many are under the spell of the Obama 'fairy dust' and can't see his act but thankfully enough of us are not and will deliver O-H-I-O bright Red.

Sure. Didn't Bush admit yesterday that the financial crisis was a result of a decades mismanagement. Wasn't he in charge for 8 of that? My mind was already made up anyway.

The reposnes on this site proves basically what Lou Dobbs, that Jack Cafferty is a left wing hack.
Get used to the fact that Obama is going to lose this election no matter how much CNN wants him to be president.

America on the fast track of becoming a third world country an people are playing games.

Jack,
Like a majority of the respondants to your question, my voting decision has not changed one bit. I am voting for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. "Mighty Mouse McCain" can't fool me into believing he's putting his country first. Shame on him for his creepy stunts and ad campaigns - and first and foremost, for putting Sarah Palin on the ticket. It is a farce and an insult to all Americans, especially women, to see a VP candidate claming to Katie Couric that she has foreign policy experience because Alaska "shares a border with Russia." Come on America – WAKE UP! McSame is not the change our country needs.

No, it hasn't. What it has done, though, is reinforce my decision for Obama.

how can anyone think about voting for Mccain? We badly need a president with Brains........vote OBAMA

obama is weak and has no experience. He has spent more time campaigning for president than he has as a senator. He did not do the job he was hired for as a senator and I doubt he would do any better as a president. He has too many links to terrorists to trust him to stop them. McCain is the only logical choice!

No, I'm still voting for Obama/Biden everyone else should join the campaign.!

Nope. McCain's a senial fool, Palin's a complete nut and the Republican name smells like soiled baby diapers.

I was always going to vote for Barack Obama, John McCain shenanigans just made me see who is the adult and who is the child – who is the leader? Barack Obama. Didn't you just say to yourself – YES, I am so proud to be a Barack Obama supporter.

A side note – can someone tell Bill Clinton he is a Democrat not a Republican, or did Hillary never really change all those years ago?

No, it has reinforced and confirmed a hundred times over that voting for Obama is the only acceptable move. We need to take back our country and tackle domestic issues, and Obama is the only candidate for that job.

has not changed my vote, but has strengthened my choice

Obama/biden

. . .No Jack, I'm still voting for Barack.

No. I am still for Obama/Biden.

No, I have always been an Obama supporter, and the financial situatiuon has just reinforced my vote for Obama even more.

Jack
McCain can't hadle anything. He is a one track pony on and donn hill run, I hope he doesn't take the contry down with him..
VOTE OBAMA!!!!!!

No way. Why would anyone vote for John McCain and his 20+ year history of supporting deregulation when that's exactly what caused this economic crisis in the first place? Trust the corporations to regulate themselves, are you kidding me? People, we've got to stop being such a bunch of suckers.

It's an easy choice. We need the brilliance and leadership skills of Obama, a Harvard grad. Global problems cannot be solved through the framework of a soldier and war. Respect to McCain, but he should be retiring quickly.

Absolutely amazing to me! Probably 99% of the people who have commented on this question is voting for Obama. I personally have always been an Obama fan, however, I don't understand these polls that say McCain is only 4% & 5% behind. I can't stand the McCain/Palin ticket. I feel as though McCain is still playing the good ole boys Washington game. The amazing thing is like I said early that he is within striking distance of winning this election! Scares the hell out of me!!!!

No. Neither will the latest flood of photo ops, 15-second sound bites, attack ads, or sophomoric e-mails that I've been getting lately. I decided several months ago that I'm going to vote for Obama, not John McBush.

Jack, McCain is a chicken! All this is to chiken out the debate.

This crisis is pushing me more toward McCain. Seeing that he coauthored a bill shot down by the Dems, addressed the President in 2006 from the Senate floor about this problem, and isn't on the Fannie Mae payroll.

No, because I never planned on voting for the "Palin-McCain" ticket anyway.

It is sad to see so many people willing to vote for a loser. I see Obama as inexperienced, racist and a complete failure as a senator. If you must question why we have issues in Washington, start with Obama.

It has reaffirmed my support for Obama! He has detailed plans and an outline for how to pay for them! McCain has 300 Billion in tax cuts for the ultra wealthy with no way to pay for them! Sound familiar?

The current crisis has neither shaken nor undermined by decision to vote for McCain and Palin. Obama is presented as a celebrity and media icon with no experience in the political arena. He has voted "present" on the majority of issues that he has faced during his first term in the senate. He refuses to take a stand on issues. His campaign is built on the idea of change–yes, change in the sense, that if he wins this will be the first time where Americans actually see how the president is controlled by lobbyists, corporations, etc. Obama received over a 100k from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac-two of the very institutions that got us into the mess.
My vote has been McCain from the beginning. Regardless of if his latest trip back to Washington has true and honest motives or was a political stunt, how can any American complain when someone is actually doing their job-a job that our taxes pay. McCain stepped up his act and showed America that regardless of if he wins or loses this election, his heart is for America. Isn't that what we need in a president? Our president is our poster child-the one that represents us to the rest of the world. Isn't a love for our country and a willing to die for one's country a neccesity for the presidency?
As for all this talk about Palin-I think she is a wonderful inspiration for ladies of my age. I'm a 22 year old, graduate student, who is excited about the prospect of a second women running for vice president. She is real. Her family is real. They have been in positioned like each of us. She does not need to be from the lower 48 to know about America. She is an ideal example of an American women and I would be proud to see her standing next to the President during any civil matters.
This election is getting ugly and too many people are seeing the celebrity tilt of the media. Look beyond the cameras and memoirs.
Voting for McCain and Palin!!! And proud of it.

No, it has not changed my vote. I am voting for Obama. He is the the smartest to lead this country out of the mess we are in. Obama got to the point he has because he knows something about balancing budgets, I am not sure McCain has ever had to do that. He is the soundest candidate for the job!!!

Nope. OBAMA-BIDEN!!!!

I am ceased to amazed how John McCain is supposedly a leader based on his military record, but has made some of the most irrational decisions and statements this political season.

While Obama may not be the perfect candidate, he definitely hasn't come across as a senile old man desperate to take over the Whilte House.

Time for the next generation of Americans to stand up and be counted and for McCain's generation to hand over the reigns. You've had your time. You've screwed things up. Time for some change.

Bush 44? Thanks, but no thanks.

Still for Obama. McCain is looking more incompetent all the time. If he were President, he'd make nervous wrecks of our population with his "razzle-dazzle" grandstanding: put off the convention, nominate Sarah Palin, postpone the debate. The man can't seem to deal with reality except by trying to put the country on hold.

No Jack
After 8 years with this cowboy administration, and now this CRISIS, one would really, "I mean" really have to be a fool to elect someone to office who is basically joined at the hip to George Bush. Republicans should poke their heads in a hole like an ostrich and feel embarassed to be called a "Republican". What a joke.

This won't change my vote for Obama. If anything, it reinforces what I've come to know about Republicans that greed cannot regulate itself.

Scottsburg, IN

To those who things it's the Republican at fault in this financial crisis, please research what the voting records of the Democrats that block the regulation offered by Republica to control Fannie Mae and Mac. Then make your intelligent decision.

Can we vote tomorrow? ... thats how ready I am.

No,

I am still 100% sure that John McCain is the right choice to lead our country for the next four years. It shouls be clear to everyone that John McCain is serious about fixing fixing our economy and working in a bi-partisan manner. We need John McCain in the white house.

After being a life long Democrate I am now changing my vote to an Independant. I do not understand how Congress can continue to run this country into the ground?
Some may say I am throwing my vote away but dammit, something has got to change. I know Ron Paul's/Chuck Baldwin's Campaign for Liberty is picking up steam. They might not make a difference this election but after one of the two goons completely bankrupts this country the "sheep" will eventually wake up.

I say, make the upper 1%er's pay for thier own problems, we do!

I can't wait until the vocal minority in this room hear the election results, again.

I wonder if they will finally realize that no matter how much you want to believe in what you believe, it doesn't mean the majority of people agree with you. You can post it on here all day long, people are still going to stay quiet.. and go out and vote for McCain.

The question is a good one and the answers are enlightening. If the polls reflect a close race how can so many of the responses be for obama. Does this reflect a filter on the repsonses or just the audience.

I have been one of those elusive "undecided" voters up until now; but with this turn of events, combined with the appalling selection of Palin for VP, my vote must go to Obama.

I see you only post things against republicans, for the last 2 weeks I have been emailing you about good remarks about Mccain, you never posted them. You only post what democrats say, so I copied everything and sent it to Fox, and told them you never post the emails, they read it on theri show what I wrote. They said this Guy wrote into MSNBC, but they never posted it so now we will read it on our show. That is the difference between fair and balanced news. Take a lesson Jack.

Jack, I have to say that it has. I know I may be in the minority here, but I think McCain has really risen to the occasion to show that he is going to put Country above politics. I honestly was't going to vote because I don't really trust either of the candidates. But as of today, McCain has my vote.

Yes it has. I was going to vote for Obama, but I simply cannot do so, given the UTTER lack of leadership he and McSame have demonstrated on this issue. This was their chance to show us what they got and I'm benching them both. I'll vote for a third party candidate or maybe write in your name Jack.

No. The financial crisis has not changed my mind on who to vote for. From the beginning, I was going to vote for any candidate who was not a Republican, and since I cannot vote for Hillary Clinton, I am voting for Barack Obama. Voting to elect John McCain would be the same as re-electing George W. Bush for a third term, and we would end up with another president who admittedly knows nothing about economics or the economy.

I have tried to remain open to both candidates. I wanted to vote not for a party but for a leader. But, beginning with the choice of Sarah Palin and continuing and culminating in his call to suspend Friday's debate, McCain has demonstrated a mental confusion, erratic emotionality and susceptibility to
his "handlers" advice, which suggest to me that at 72 he is no longer at the top of his game let alone able to act as president. I will be voting for Obama.

Not at all. His choice of Sarah Palin and now this has only reinforced my opinion that Senator Mccain is totally incompetent and has no business inthe Oval Office. He sealed his fate when he said "the fundamentals of the economy are strong".

He also flip-flopped about 3 times this week about the bailouts. While Obama is calm, rational, and looks like the seasoned political veteran who has "been here before", Mccain looks totally lost. You would think that if you compared political resumes on these two, it would be the other way around. Judgement beats "experience" this time around.

John Mccain is now embarassing himself and his fellow Republicans. Republicans really messed up when they didn't nominate Mitt Romney...or even Mike Huckabee. .

Actually, the events over the last week or so have reinforced my belief that Barack Obama has the temperament, rationale, and intestinal fortitude required of a President. Setting politics aside at a time when politics is the key ingredient required to work through a solution to the purported financial crisis shows me John McCain is out-of-touch, confused, and incapable of handling complex and fluid issues. We live in a world where our leaders must also multi-task, just like the majority of taxpayers have adapted to well over a decade ago.

The financial crisis has reinforced my choice to vote for Barack Obama. November 5 taxpayers need to send a bus to give this administration a taxpayer sponsored ride home.

YES, I am now voting third party! Both of these candidates and political parties are a mess and they are BOTH to blame for this problem. If we keep electing the same recycled leaders nothing will ever improve!

Write in: Ron Paul!

I think that this will be a down to the wire election. Remember 2 things! 1. Go Vote 2. Don't worry,be Happy! God Bless the USA

Why do the democrats, lower case intended, believe that this economic crisis is the Republicans fault. I blame most of it on the do nothing Congress. They have been in power over the last 4 years and could have identified the coming crisis. Isn't Dodd the chair of the Banking and Finance Committee and isn't there job to oversee the banking and finance industry. Gawd will these people stop pointing the fingers at the Republicans and look in a mirror. Oh by the way Obama-san will NOT know how to get out of this mess. He will be too busy looking in the mirror at himself instead of tending to the issues at hand.

Dennis, Rochester, NH

Interesting flurry of Obama supporters who obviously vote with their kindergarten, Captain Hero vision of reality. The way that John McCain has handled this crisis is indicative of the insightful, decisive leader we need. Not to mention that Obama has, as his main advisor, a former CEO of the Fanny Mae company and has benefited significantly from campaign contributions form the same company...

Absolutely!!
It's quite convenient for McCain to suddenly remember he's a US senator with voting rights when faced with the probability of actually confronting Friday's Presidential debate. Strategically or tactically, it does not bode well for McCain because it shows a hero of the Vitenam war cowering in the face of adversity. That's not a president I want running the United States of America!

I hadn't made up my mind but was leaning toward McCain. Now I'm back to "undecided". Where's Ross Perot when we really need him?

OBAMA is the man......I live in northern Alabama, where the BUBBA factor is GREAT......My husband is died in the wool 100% bubba redneck. Thought I would fall out when he said that he would divorce me, if after mcains whimppy showing of the last couple of days, if I didnt vote for obama. Thanks Sen McCain for showing us the "chicken factor"......

I am an Obama supporter now and forever! I made the right choice and I am sticking with my right choice.

Wow, how's that financial problem is brought on by republican?
It's a greedy lender and stupid people borrow money to buy house that they can't afford. I am Hillary suppoter for McCain!!!

I am a republican and am embarrassed to let anyone know. To see how McCain has handled himself these last few days is laughable. He's acting like he's scared. To say he is going to Washington to deal with the crisis and want to cancel the debate, WHO DOES THAT? This is the time you should be showing the bravery you did when you were in the military. What happened? How can we be confident in his leadership when he acts like this. I need him to be able to let me know what is going on even while he is dealing with it. This is a real life situation that the president must be involved in and yet be able to show he is strong in other areas. SHAME ON HIM!! Some military hero he is.

absolutely not. Anyone with two brain cells knows Obama is the only choice!

The democrats made this mess & despite numeours attempts by republicans to enact legislation that would have averted the disaster democrats blocked every single one. Then those very democrats went on to lament how Fannie & Freddie were in great shape and republicans only wanted to harm low income people with regulations. Now, after blocking all additional regulation attempts by republicans, democrats want to claim that the free market is to blame for this. Liars.

McCain/Palin – The only choice.

Since I am not a masochist or an imbecile, no. I will be voting for Obama.

Capitol Hill is crowded enough without McCain showing up while he should be cramming for the debate tomorrow.

There is no doubt in my mind that McCain is the best choice for President. He put his campaign on hold to do his JOB while Obama obviously doesn't seem to care with his lack of comments and presence during the crisis. He doesn't even have one year of experience, McCain has over 20 years... I think the choice is obvious here! It's not about party at this point, it's about who has the right tools to get things straightened out.

I never thought I would see the day when Republicans would act like Socialists............Viva la France !!

Boston

no.
but i hope it changes others. no more sides in this country. vote non democrate and non republican.

america for americans

80 years ago, there were 3 consecutive presidential terms of office that was the 1920-1932 Republican stretch of Harding/Coolidge and Hoover. Which as everyone knows was the roaring 20's turning into the Great Depression.

Now that we have another chance to 3-peat. We now have had 2 consecutive terms of the same 1920's free wheeling de-regulated free for all stock market in the Bush/Bush terms shall we follow this up with McCain?

Have we really learned our lessons or will the fear of Obama, his color and what he represents prevail and keep us locked in to repeat a painful history? Shall we wait for 2012 to hear the updated version of a Liberal Democrat's speech "The only thing we have to fear is Fear itself?"

Turn, Turn, Turn. There is a Season and a time to Every purpose under heaven.

I am 57 years old, a registered Democart, and have voted in every presidential election since I was old enough to vote, and I have never been more confused in my life. I know I can't tolerate any more of what we have been put through over the past 8 years, but I am convinced that neither candidate has a clue as far as how to fix. How about a write in campaign for Warren Buffet? He is probably the best man I can think of to handle the economy and, if we continue to have problems, he can lend the government the money. Just kidding, but I can only hope that whomever we elect, he surrounds himself with lots of Warren Buffets and doesn't take the go it alone approach of George W.

I hadn't fully commited to voting for Obama, but I have now. The Republicans got us in this mess and I do not trust them to get us out of it. After the stunt McCain pulled yesterday, I definitely have no interest in voting for him. This was not the time or place for him to pull a political stunt.

I'm voting for Obama, McCain and the Republicans wanted all this deregulation, they've made their bed!

It won't change my vote. I didn't need a pie in the face to tell me that the Republican party was a bunch of clowns.

Of course...economics change the way we live, so why not change who we gonna vote for

No! I want a Man or Woman in office that has served our Country! Obama has not Served that tells us where he is, And he didn't plege alegions to our flag! that should tell you something, but we dont think that is important, The Democrats think that Abortion is Important, That should tell you something, And Getting Money Off Of the Lobbist in huge amount , like Obama got over 15000.00 dollors that should tell you something, And He is Pretending He is against them, HE got paid already, He talks out boths side of his Face, And He was Born in Africa, And McCain Was Born in the united States!! Hello Should we be concerned! Oh I forgot He is the People Messiah,

no.. I am a democrate. i know who i am going to vote for.wallstreet is a rich mans' "las vegas" and should not be bailed out. everytime the investers get paid, consumers have to pay more for a loaf of bread. FDR

I can't believe the idiots on here.

There is NO WAY IN HELL that I would vote for OBAMA and his tax increases!

People here, voting for OBAMA are clueless as to what led up to this crisis. Over the past 20+ years, CONGRESS has gradually forced (encouraged) lenders into lending to individuals to increase the number of individuals (families) owning homes. Remember the investigations into lenders treating minorities differently (not lending to them) and illegel immigrants (not lending to them)? Well sure enough the Democrats (remember this is where they get their votes) said this is not right, "more families should be owning homes" and there by removing restrictions and encouraging lending. Well LQQK what happened. If they (the Dems) would had let businesses (lenders) manage themselves (of which they were doing by not lending to these groups) there would be no crisis today.

Jeezuz Cripes man.... you people need to wake up and get e freakin clue. And now you want to vote a socialistic individual (Obama) into office. Hmm how are you going to pay for socialized Health Care? Did I hear correctly raise corporate taxes? Who pays Corporate Taxes? (Let me guess, you Dems think businesses do right?) Wrong!!! Consumers do!

Yes, and I'm a republican. I hate to admit it but Bush has made a mess of this country. So although I started out being for McCain, when I found out he has voted with Bush 95% of the time, I decided to go with Obama. It is time for someone with a different approach.

Jill
Dallas, Texas

No. It has just sealed my vote even more for Obama/Biden and yes I am an independent.

I look forward now to the Presidential and VP debates. Palin can't hide for long.

The definition of insanity is doing the same activity and expecting a different result. So my question is, are McSame supporters stupid or crazy?

Folks look at who is telling you the sky is falling. This bail out does not fix any proplem. Everyone of these people comes from the place they want to bail out. Sounds like disaster capitalism to me. These people must be stopped but be affraid be very affraid. Any politician that votes for this plan should be voted out of office or impeached. Hey guess how many millions Paulson has in Goldmen Sacks? 163 and this is the tip of the iceburg thats about to hit the once great USA

People do not lose their homes because the value of their home goes up or down, but because of the loss of jobs coupled with the rise in the cost of energy, food and staples to exist.
Where is any investigation of the Oil companies charging obscene prices for oil from Alaska and domestic wells in this country when it does not cost any more to pump it out of the ground than two years ago. Why don't the oil barrons pay for the corporate welfare for the rich. What happened to the jobs that bush said the rich would create with the tax breaks the rich received.

No, I will vote for McCain/Palin. I have done a lot of research lately and I am totally disgusted with the fact that Obama has staff members that received millions working for Fanny Mae. I also learned that in 2005 John McCain addressed the senate with his concerns about Fanny Mae and Freddy Mac and nobody listened. Here we are, those of us in our 50s will have a hard time rebuilding our retirement, what there was of it!

No! Ah Ah Ah Ah Ah I have said repeatedly that Ah I would rather have an American as a President. It's still McCain!!!!!

What a mess to inheritl. It keeps getting worse and worse. How can anyone get us out of it? I know the one person I would trust to give it a stab – Obama. Haven't changed my mind since day one. McCain/Palin don't have the smarts to cut it and that's what it's going to take.

NO!! I MADE UP MY MIND WHEN THE DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY WAS OVER. I THINK OBAMA IS THE BEST FOR OUR GREAT COUNTRY.
HE HAS AN EDUCATION AND UNDERSTANDS THE PEOPLE THAT AREN'T FLUSH WITH MONEY.
I AM SO TIRED OF THE POW STUFF. THAT WAS MANY YEARS AGO. WE WOULD HEAR THAT FOR YEARS IF MCCAIN GOT IN. THAT DOESN'T QUALIFY ANYONE FOR PRESIDENT.
PALIN WOULD HAVE PHOTO OP'S WHILE IN TOO. UGH!

Can I just vote for Sarah Palin to be Pesident? That's EXACTLY who we need in the White House, someone who will never answer the question being asked. "Madame President, are we going to invade Iran?" Answer: "I went to Kuwait once and they got some big guns over there". PERFECT

DJ – Detroit

Uhm, one of the reasons I chose Obama in the first place!!

John McCain is a very vocal believer in deregulation. He backed deregulating the financial industry. This POOR judgement of his, Phil Graham (his now ex financial advisor) and many other people has put us in terrible economic turmoil. He is not fit to run the country.

No it has not. In fact the actions that John McCain has taken has only strengthened my opinion that Obama is the only candidate anyone should talk about. With McCain shying away from the debate, it further proved how unprepared, unorganized, and desperate he has become throught this election. He's trying to put off as much as possible going head to head against Obama because he must realize he will be dwarfed by Obama's ability to lead us out of this "crisis" the GOP has put the American people in.

NO NO NO, another joke Jack.

Can you imagine Sarah and her husband trying to navigate us through this financial crisis. This job is not a PTA meeting, folks are being killed over seas, losing jobs and suffering a great deal. And Mr. deer in the headlights himself asked us for 700 billion dollars last night. He is trying to make just as much going forward as he and his cronys made in the last 8 years. ENOUGH. The figure head mccain sold out to them. How could you ? Obama is providing some decency and integrity. Something our country badly needs. The trick-a-roo politician stuff will not work this time. The stakes are too hi. I am voting for Obama, and I am a proud republican. I want my country back!!

My God you people. You just go ahead and vote for the Rockstar and help close my small business with the tax increase on the RICH. I am not at all 'RICH" but part of small businesses, that are the only thing holding up this economy together.

Find your own news people. Don't listen to FOX or CNN. Look deeper.

It has definately strengthened my reasoning to vote for Obama. At least if McCain had chosen a VP candidate such as Lieberman who actually has some experience with something other than being a mother of 5 and shooting stuff, I wouldn't have cared as much...

Anyway, hopefully the US realizes that voting for Palin is NOT the same as Clinton, and realize that losing your house or job is more important than having a gay neighbor....

Absolutely NOT! I was voting for Obama and this just solidifies my decision.

Firstly, the Republicans created this disasterous mess we're in. Secondly, they politicized it yesterday with their "grave and dire" announcements (like they didn't already KNOW what was going on – give me a BREAK!). And finally, they showed absolutely no calm and controlled leadership whatsoever! Make the problem, over-react at just the right moment and then panic. SAD!

McCain's over-dramatizing the situation, frankly, scares me. He's been an unsteady hand thru this entire campaign, throwing curve balls when he is stuck and then waiting to see what everyone will do. This is NOT what a leader looks like. IE. Bush's address last night ... typical drama and scare tactics "this could happen to your very own bank!!". Starting fear and panic in Americans, esp. the older generations who take their money/retirments VERY seriously, is TOTALLY IRRESPONSIBLE! They should be ashamed of themselves ... that is IF they had a conscience!

I've said it before and I'll say it again ... I'm voting for the SMART one! And now I'll add the CALM, COOL, COLLECTED and able to MULTI-TASK one!

OBAMA/BIDEN
YES WE CAN!

My vote is going to Obama. For all those who vote for fewer taxes and less government interference, who begrudge sharing their tax dollars with the poor and downtrodden, here is our government sending our hard-earned tax dollars to support the corporate welfare and golden parachutes of the Wall Street fat cats. Meanwhile, the laid-off employees of those companies exit the buildings with nothing but a stricken look and a pink slip. The Republicans need to realize their elected role is supposed to be a commitment to the nation's citizens, not just the rich!!! We a re fed up.

Let them eat cake!

No way my vote is changing. Obama got it right – the president of this country should be able to mulit-task and with the events of this crisis it has proven that McCain can not handle more than one thing at once.

Just hope the rest of the country starts to notice this and make a logical choice - obama/biden 08

I want better choices ... that being said, although my mind is not made up yet, this will not have an effect on who I cast my vote for.

I was on the fence until the recent financial crisis. McCain's decision to halt his presidential campaign shows that he is quick to put one important issue on hold for another. Personally, I wouldn't want the President of the United States throwing any issues under the carpet just because everything else might not be stable. How many times in our country's history has there only been one important issue at hand? After McCain's recent actions, I have made my decision to vote for Obama.

Jack, more than ever now, as Hillary put it "No Way, No How, No McCain and Paline."

Pauline
Oldsmar, FL

Jack, in case you didn't notice, the only people who blog on your site on Democrats. From this ticker you'd think Obama had 90% of the vote and McCain has 10%. But I'm sure you want it that way, I just look at your posts once and a while to get a laugh to really see what CNN"s and your core audience is...

Regardless of the nonsense that McCain likes to spout on the campaign trail, I firmly and wholeheartedly believe in Senator Obama's judgement and ability to handles the pressures of Commander and Chief.
John McCain has proven to me over the past 6 months that he is "in bed" with alot more criminal bankers than Barack would ever be.
Remember The Keating Five Jack?
He helped Mr. Keating cheat. PERIOD.

Nope no change because of the economoc situation. My choice all along has been for BO.
McCAIN has hade 26 years to sway his fellow members in the congress and senate to CHANGE the situation and since nothing has improved-What does that say for his LEADERSHIP???

Very clear that better education deserves a chance for leadership.

Get this wacky guy out, but with a good fight – so that the best comes out from the winning ticket...

No, it has not changed my mind at all! McCain will still get my vote! Obama supports murdering unborn and partially born babies!!! And he wants all of the hard working Americans to supports all the sorry, lazy people who want a hand out! I can't believe you people, you must not be Christians! God help us if Obama is elected!

No, But, I was impressed the other night when I saw J. McCain attending Economics – 101 class at my Community College. He was late. His reason was that he had problems finding parking space for his thirteen cars. AHH!

It has made me ask – - why is it that Republicans are so quick to call for a bail out for large businesses – - they never do this for struggling small businesses. Large businesses can get government grants, government contracts, and government bail outs. Mom and Pops and their businesses be damned. Obama has my vote!

Since we have been made to pay for the party, we are now the boss. You are all fired. Intellectuals and the insanely privileged need not apply for the new open positions. The only collateral required for the job is the hard working integrity and moral strength of a God fearing people. Let the true patriots of our great country move onward to our own future. Ron, CA

I was going to vote for the thoughtful fair reasoned approach of Barack Obama, but now that I have been scared out of my wits, I will vote for the Palin/McCain ticket because this encomy is one big fat pig needing some lipstick.

Ron Paul has my vote for presidency. He is the best choice to help our country.

What financial crisis? Oh, this one? Have you noticed the timing? September. It all have been orchestrated by Republicans the same as 9/11 to seed the panic in American people. There is nothing wrong is going on. Just simple market correction. Bush and his friends just make it more dramatic as it seems. Cool down.
And I am not voting this time. I do not see the right candidates. Both of them are incompetent to lead this country.

This crisis has solidified my support for Obama. I used to respect McCain, but he just flies off the handle too much. McCain panics way too much for my taste. Obama keeps a cool head when the going gets tough. With all of the issues our country faces, we need a steady hand at the helm.

If Americans would simply do their homework they would see that the crisis was caused by the Democrats refusal to fix the problem earlier in the process. Do you research please. No, this does not change my mind, I am voting McCain/Palin because I am an informed open minded voter and have done my homework. This is not about republicans, it is about Democrats who hide their dirt and have the media in their pocket. Obama is a threat to the United States in that he is unprepared and unqualified to be President. That will cause more strife than we have now – especially if he takes his oath on the Koran again and proves he is a Muslim when it is too late for people to change their mind. The only thing that keeps me secure is that I believe in the Amreican people and that they will not be led over the cliff by the media and a fast talker and will elect McCain/Palin. God Bless America.

I recently decided to vote for Obama. I agonized over it for months. I heard specifics from Obama, generalities from McCain. I remember John F. Kennedy was the deciding factor in the Cuban missile crisis to stand alone among most of his advisors who told him to strike Cuba. Would Bomb bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran McCain (I saw the video) who is prone to fits of temper actually use the combination of restraint and force necessary to handle a complex and dangerous situation? To cite a Sarah comment, a bit differently, the presidency is not a place for on the job training ON THE ECONOMY, Mr. McCain. Sure he is a patriot, no doubt, so am I. He is not the right man for the job. My gut tells me I cannot trust him to be the leader of vision and purpose that our GREAT country needs to meet the challenges of 2008 and beyond. This suspension of the campaign I see as political, not a necessity. He can be there, vote on this proposal, and make the debate also, or else he certainly isn't fit to handle our complex world and national situation. Bill Clinton was right, nobody is completely prepared for the presidency, but a man with the right qualities will rise to the occasion. I am confident that man is Barack Obama.

Obama is the man. Isn't it great to see someone with some intelligence, talking to the press and the American people, again. We have lowered our expectations in this country so much, that if they claim Jesus, and are rich enough to have their mistakes removed, We will forgo intelligence for false "Morals" Its the biggest scam ever. Obama would finaly restore the presidency to the head of state and leader of this country.He is smart enough to know that economics is actually about people and money. Not how much is left for the working class after all the good ole boys steal theirs.

Not as much as reading this board and other blogs where you get a first hand view of how most liberal Democrats truly think and feel about their fellow countrymen who disagree with them.

I would never want to harm someone for not supporting my views or want to strip them of their rights, surely the same cannot be said about a majority of Democrats in America today, just listen to them.

I fully respect the very small percentage of the left who just respectfully disagrees with me on how to make this nation better for all Americans. I hope that you will side with me if the Obamabots get thier way and start rouding up thier opposition. I get the feeling jack, along with the majority at CNN are trying to get Obama elected not because they think he will make America great, but because they want to take out those who they see as a threat, no not Al Qeuda like moderates and conservatives, but their fellow Americans who have a different view than them.

No this doesn't change my vote. This problem has developed over years. Palin and Obama have been in DC the shortest amount of time and I always vote for the top of the ticket. Obama '08

NO my vote is the same . But gov. is for rich and not the little people.

Not at all. I still believe that MCCAIN is the one to lead our country. He has the experience, the record, and the intelligence to lead our country and to improve our economic position. It still amazes me that so many people are planning to vote for a man with VERY little experience, no proven record, and uncertain ties to questionable people. However, as I read these entries, I see that the people who are so pro-Obama are obviously not very educated. The entries are full of poor grammar, spelling errors, and incorrect word usage (i.e. Whitehouse–should be White House; road scholar–should be Rhodes scholar; Ivory League–should be Ivy League........) These people have allowed themselves to believe a smooth talking politician who has his OWN political agenda and his own personal ambitions. It is sad that our country and our society has experienced such a decline in intelligence, morals, and reason.

why? the question is why, not who, when, where, or how much! we have been hearing rumors for 2 years that the economy was in trouble, why now should it matter?! we needed to be proactive and now it dont matter who is president...it will be worse than the 80's for the poor and almost as bad as the 30's for the Rich. why would it change peoples votes?!

In short, NO. I have always been confident in my vote for OBAMA.

I would not vote for someone who, for 20+ years has voted to de-regulate banks and businesses. Nor could I vote for someone who has Phil Gramm as his chief economic advisor. Nor could I vote for someone who has 7 mega lobbists running his campaign or who picked a completely inappropriate person as a running mate. Surely he knows his actions have sealed his fate. I just hope enough other people see it. I loved what Dave Letterman said last night - "You can't suspend being President".

And on a different note, I think Bush has yelled "wolf" too many times. We had to attack Iraq because they had weapons. We had to sign the Patriot Act because the terrorists. Now we have to give away $700,000,000,000 because banks are going to fail. There's a wolf on the mountain...everyone come running.

No it doesn't change my vote.
They are both crooks who chose crooks as their running mate. I'll vote for someone else even if I have to write it in marker on the ballot to make sure it'll go through the machine. Where is Mr. Smith when you need him?

Neither! I'm writing in Ron Paul as he is the only one who has warned us for years of what's happening now. Neither Obama nor McCain will address our massive debtedness and imperial overreach.
Unless we stop spending ourselves into oblivion, the American Empire is doomed!

No change. Obama is the right choice. If anything, it solidified my decision. W. cured me of any Republican affiliation whatsoever forever. Picking Palin was a joke by the way. I am a white women aproaching 60, and I do not feel the need to vote for a hockey mom, nor do I have the feeling of being able to relate to her in any way. Not even when I was 40 something.

No. I've always supported Obama. He and Biden are the most qualified candidates to handle these times, both are intelligent, and have a great team of advisers around them. Considering McCain's farce of a campaign, there really is no comparison.

I will not vote for anyone who votes for this. At least there is still Ron Paul. A bailout is wrong anyone who supports it should just write a $2300 check to Paulsen. I expect to see Congress writing the first checks. Only then will I open my checkbook

Have always planned on voting for Obama.

No, few presidents have ever understood the complex nature of our economy. That's why they have advisers. Neither of these candidates has a clue what this is all about, nor does anyone else, for that matter. If they did, we wouldn't be in this mess. The economy will have to straighten itself out through "economic" means, not legislative decree or bailouts.
What we need in a President is not an economist, but a strong leader who can face the Global challenges that a re-surging Russia and growing China present...Not to mention the on going threat of Islamic terrorists. We need someone capable of making the tough decisions, not political pandering. From this, is where your choice should be made.

A common physical phenomenon that all senior citizens must endure is that there is a continual reduction in the performance capability of of their brains. One of the capabilities that seem to degrade is ‘multi-tasking.’ For example, as a younger person it may have been possible to handle 7 or more simultaneous tasks effectively, whereas as a senior citizen this number of tasks dwindles fairly rapidly to 2 or fewer.

This is why senior citizens are ill equipped to serve as President of the United States, a job where multi-tasking capability is a prime requirement. John McCain, a senior citizen, demonstrated the status of his deficiency in the multi-tasking area when he had to put his campaign on hold while he focused on the current financial crisis.

Larry – - – a senior citizen

Vote? Sure McCain/ Palin

They show up for work everyday. They don't vote present because they have other priorities.

PATRIOT? Be a PATRIOT Obama. Give back every paycheck paid to you for the days you failed to show up for work. The taxpayers can't be freeloaders and your no exception.

Muslim's? Obama please tell the truth. You are Muslim! Liar!

Real Names? Obama's real name is Barry Soetoro. Tell us why the change .

Obama you are far from what America needs. ANYONE BUT YOU! ANYONE!

Jack -

It's been hilarious watching the Republicans rail against the villains in Washington who got us into this mess – as if they hadn't controlled all three branches of the federal government for 6 of the last 8 years. And it would probably be hilarious to watch them do it for the next four or eight years. But then, I don't think most Americans want to be the butt of this joke of a party. I'll be wholeheartedly voting for Mr Obama. The Democrats aren't perfect, but they aren't the schmucks who left this mess here in the first place.

No, I won't change my vote, but I am worried after seeing how McCain is trying to delay tomorrow's Debate using current financial FEARS as an excuse, will the Republicans try to DELAY THE ELECTION in the context of fear and emergency?

Obama is measured, thoughtful and intelligent. His decisions reflect these virtues. He will not make emotionally uninformed decisions.

Mr. Obama is the right choice!

Pam

This one really makes sense to me!! Came to me in an email, but I'm all for it.

Here is a PLAN to embrace for every American from an American. To bad our elected officials are not creative thinkers like this guy.

The Birk Economic Recovery Plan

I'm against the $85,000,000,000.00 bailout of AIG.

Instead, I'm in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in
a We Deserve It Dividend.

To make the math simple, let's assume there are 200,000,000
bonafide U.S. Citizens 18+.

Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman
and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..

So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billon that equals $425,000.00.

My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a
We Deserve It Dividend.

Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let's assume a tax rate of 30%.

Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.

But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket.
A husband and wife has $595,000.00.

What would you do with $297,500.00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage – housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans – what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college – it'll be there
Save in a bank – create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car – create jobs
Invest in the market – capital drives growth
Pay for your parent's medical insurance – health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean – or else

Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.

If we're going to re-distribute wealth let's really do it...instead of trickling out
a puny $1000.00 ( 'vote buy' ) economic incentive that is being proposed by one of our candidates for President.

If we're going to do an $85 billion bailout, let's bail out every adult U S Citizen 18+!

As for AIG – liquidate it. Sell off its parts.

Let American General go back to being American General.
Sell off the real estate.

Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.

Here's my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn't.

Sure it's a crazy idea that can 'never work.'

But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!

How do you spell Economic Boom?

I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion
We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington DC.

And remember, The Birk plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5 Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.

Ahhh...I feel so much better getting that off my chest.

Kindest personal regards,

Birk

T. J. Birkenmeier, A Creative Guy & Citizen of the Republic

Cut and run is what John MCain did yesterday, to quote his old pal. And any woman–let alone a supposed educated woman–who would vote for Sarah Palin is misinformed and a traitor to her gender. Shame on you. A vote for McCain is a vote to rip your rights right out of your body. How can these two–Gilligan and the Skipper–possibly run this country when they can't even show up to a debate?

sara plain want to vp but dont want to people who she represant or press confrence just come on tv and give speach written buy some body else g guys iam prrity convivced that these rupberlican
going to mic in ears on debates to take help from advisers who will be sitting in some room or van please dont let them fool us this time LIKE BUSH DID IN ON 04

Jack and my fellow Republicans,

McCain and Palin have proven they cannot handle much more than toeing the party line. McBush hasn't a clue and since the Silent One is afraid of the press the answer is obvious.

The Republicans of which I am one (at least until tomorrow morning when I will be running to my local election office to switch to independent) have not shown me they can handle much of anything other than spinning the truth, being led by the nose by their party and doing everything possible to hide their incompetence. I had a lot of respect for McCain but he is obviously not Presidential material.

We have had 8 years of a barely educated incompetent President who has put us where we are, enough is enough. Its OBAMA for me...God help us otherwise.

Jack...my mind is made up and I'm one of thousands of republicans voting for Obama. This is a tipping point in our country and four more years of McCain/Bush is going to tip us into mediocritiy.

Jack,

I was leaning towards Obama, but after yesterday's stunt by McCain, I am more convinced than ever John McCain is the wrong choice!

I think McCain doesn't want to debate tomorrow night to gain an opportunity to reschedule (read: cancel) the Palin debate after her performance on CBS, which cemented in everyones minds that she is not cut out for it.

As a first year college student, the next four years of this country will play the biggest role in shaping the way i will be able to live my life after college. I firmly believe someone who is flexible and ready to take others' ideas to heart is what this country needs. People say taxes will increase. honestly if they do I know that the money will be in good hands and will be used to improve this nation. It wont be spent on a war that has brought profit to an elite few (Dick Chaney). ANother thing is that I think its time we stop worrying about "fixing" other countries and fix our own. I think its time for change! and on the subject of change, McCain came to that conclusion far to late. How is someone so stubborn going to be able to bring about change. Obama is young, open minded, and determined. He has my vote.

This $700-billion bailout needs principles to conform to the average American worker. Because people are loosing their jobs, this bailout plan might not hold in our economy. I wish I could explain to the president/presidential nominees of several options they need to grasp from my prospective on returning the workforce back to the American people in an agreement for corporation/company bailout! It is critical that these politicians have to make an agreement to ship back employment opportunities to the average American worker if the CEO’s want to save their corporation(s)/company(s)!

Sincerely,
Shawn J. Mushtaq
B.A. Political Science '10
GCSU- 2008 Senatorial Nominee – 2008 “Make It Happen” campaign

I am disappointed that they are going ahead with the bailout. I think it would be better for America to take it on the chin and maybe learn a valuable lessen. It might teach the rest of the wolrd something also

It didn't change my mind I have supported Obama from the begining but it made me realize the greed that exsist in this country.

Let me get this right. Oil companies are making billions of dollars in profit every month, so they are allowed to continue to raise prices. Entire communities have been devastated by natural disasters are left to fend for themselves. The administration has been completely silent on just about every single major topic that has occurred in the past 12 months. Where is Dick Cheney and what is he doing?

Is Barack Obama the right choice? I don't know because he for all practical purposes, appeared out of nowhere two years ago. Nevertheless, right or wrong, change is necessary and John McCain can't deliver that change. Will Obama? Who knows! But again, we are all watching!

Jack ... your column always make for good comedy. Do you moonlight as a SNL writer? No bias here ... McCain is the right choice.

No. I decided a long time ago that putting another Republican in the White House would be a bad, bad idea.

jack, you have got to be sick and tired of all this Obama love fest on here . You get no new ideas from this . Anybody who writes to you are all for Obama, Im not against him but are there no republicans who write to you?

This economic spaghetti hasn't changed my mind about who to vote for, but it has soured my view quite a bit with regards to our government and the way it *sputters* along...ah...runs. With all the vigilent concern about party lines, lagging/lacking education, personal reproductive rights, sexual preferences, etc...what happened to somebody being vigilent about our money? The American Public is good enough to come to the rescue of the ailing financial system over and over again "for the good of the Country and the global economy", but initially there wasn't even a provision for stopping foreclosures or stabilizing taxpaying families who are on the verge of loosing their homes? We're not "taxpayers", we're "financiers". If I remember correctly in one of his parting addresses, Greenspan said point blank "Clean up your mess". He knew what he meant, Wall Street knew what he meant, the Banking System knew what he meant, and Washington should've had a clue what he meant (if they didn't they should've asked). Right now the abbreviation is the best description of our banking system and the way it does business with the American People...BS.

Time for the next generation. It's Obama without any doubt based on his performance and maturity. McCain is desperate.

No but it has confirmed it as the right decision.
McCain has historically made decisions thatbenifitted himself,his 2nd wife's family business ties & his son's banking career.His use of political office to pressure regulators in '89/'90 to benefit his cohort & financial donor Keating (as in"5" ) ,that bail out cost taxpayers over 3 million but worse it set the stage for the current mess & his cohots again are pressing for publis bail out. McCain lied about his invovement & later recanted when facts were presented .So where does it end ? Even his choice for VP is an indicator of his poor judgement &putting his personal desire firstas opposed to country first as he's always saying before the brief ,creeepy smile. Too many illusions & out &out lies.
I feel Obama presents a better track record for honesty,sincerity & rational thinking even when under fire from untruths & double standard attacks. He can Move us forward & his ability has been proven thru out the last 18 microscopic months

It has not changed my mind, I was voting for Obama anyway. However, I am worried that these shenanigans by McCain will affect others' votes. Personally, I am somewhat offended that even though this great country has had presidential elections in the middle of a civil war, a world war, recessions and numerous others wars that McCain thinks that he has the right to call for a timeout. If McCain thinks that he cannot do both of his duties as a senator and a presidential candidate then he needs to resign from one of those positions.

No, I haven't changed my mind. I'm still for Obama. I see him having the intelligence, demeanor, and strength of character to build an administration that has the horsepower to begin the long tortuous process of pulling is from the brink of oblivion.

Not at all Jack. I'm going with the Guy who has handled this crisis with calm.

Barack Obama

No, this Navy vet's been itching to vote for Obama for quite some time. All due respect to Sen McCain's past service to our country, but we need someone articulate, well-educated/spoken to get us through cleaning up the mess 8 years of Elmer Fudd's administration will leave behind. I'd rather be expected to do some homework & research about the issues, not just expected to rely on soundbytes – as the Brit paper stated in 04, "how can 53,000,000 people be so stupid?" Will also be interesting to see how these "independents"/"none-of-the-above"/write-in/3rd Party voters will effect the outcome. Finally, I also hope to see BOTH candidates not only at the Ole Miss Debate, but at the one here in Nashville at Belmont University.

it has not swayed me to vote for obama, but i know who i'm NOT voting for. i still may write-in my own choice, but my vote will not go to a republican.

i'm with a few others on here in saying that i think it's borderline traitorous what congress is considering. bush, bernake and paulson make a good scare-case...if you're into that type thing. sounds familiar to around this time a year in 2002 when we were scared into believing iraq was an imminent threat.

i'm not saying things aren't bad, but if you're taking taxpayer money to bail out the system, perhaps a more effective way to fix the economy would be to give the taxpayers their hard-earned money back to spend in it, or suspend (or gasp! eliminate) the income tax so people could spend more or invest more. already the capital gains tax is proposed to be suspended for a while, i think a bigger more effective step would be to suspend income tax.

No, Jack, it confirmed yet again what I already knew.
I'll be voting Obama.

I was going to vote for Obama. But after really digging into the details of our current financial mess I find that most of the fault lies in the cozy relationship between my Democrats and Fanny and Freddy. Barack you took over $500,000 from them. Sorry sir but that is nothing more than bribe money and you just lost my vote. Stop taking bribes. Start acting Presidential and perhaps next time you will get my vote. This is one more democrat voting for McCain.

Nope – I still don't trust Obama. I just don't think he has enough experience. Tell him to go work in the Senate another 4 years, get on some committees, get some more experience, and then maybe I will change my mind.

Jack, since Obama and McCain say the same thing about the bailout, and the American people say something different, what's to change? Unless we get some third party candidates in the debates, most people won't know that there different opinions out there.

I have always supported Barack Obama and continue to do so. He is the right person to lead the country during this time of crisis. John McCain continues to make off the cuff decisions. Everything from his pick of Palin to suspending his campaign. Through this whole crisis Obama has continued to make rational decisions and has not rushed to judgement. OBAMA IS OUR MAN!

Michael
Tucson, AZ

Here's a thought. While Mc Cains's campaign is suspended is he still able to accept donations? No campaign. No money need.

It doesnt change my mind, Jack. I would vote for a real donkey as long as it was a Democrat. Frankly, a donkey would do a better job than the last 8 years anyway.

No, I am a conservative republican. So John Mccain is who I will vote for.

it hasnt changed my mind at all. it's only reaffirmed what i already thought about mccain, palin and a lot of other republicans. that they take us for fools and will attempt any stunt, regardless of how insulting it is to logically thinking americans, in hopes of accomplishing their end goals.

country first.

haha.

No, I am an independent that is still voting McCain-Palin. Unlike you die hard democratics who vote party lines and try to blame the other party for all of the chaos and problems in Washington, I am voting for a maverick that votes his heart and not his party or his wallet. The last thing we need is another two faced, lying lawyer in the white house.

Nope, hasn't changed my vote whatsoever. I've been for Obama from day one. After this *latest* crisis, I feel very good and very safe about my choice. I think McCain is a very scary, uneven, gamble of a choice and I encourage ALL Americans to truly think about the future of our great nation when they cast their vote on Nov. 4. We haven't had this much at stake in decades. Vote for sanity, vote Obama/Biden.

Not at all. In fact, it has confirmed my decision. But, no bailout for wall street fat cats. I had to eat my loss, they should have to do the same.

Absolutely not. I was for Obama from the beginning and will be with him all the way to the White House.

Kim
Murfreesboro, TN

No it hasn't changed my mind. In fact, it makes my decision firmer. Our country can't be lead by someone who had only 145 days in the senate before he began running for president. And, it can't be lead by someone who avoids making decisions....like voting "present". I will vote for a real leader....John McCain.
Ted Newill
St. Petersburg, Fl

No, it hasn't changed my mind but it has confirmed that Obama has the knowledge, insight and temperment to deal with it.

Absolutely. After watching the Democrats try to politicize this economic crisis at every opportunity, at every twist and turn, I am more certain than ever I could never vote Democrat. Any party and any candidate, like Obama, who puts his own candidacy and his party's advancement ahead of the country is never going to get my vote.

Country first. John McCain is the only candidate who puts his country ahead of his own personal candidacy.