CNN TV
SCHEDULE ANCHORS & REPORTERS CONTACT US HLN



October 31, 2008
Posted: 05:00 PM ET

ALT TEXT
(PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)

FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:

Voters have a distinct choice between John McCain and Barack Obama in this presidential race– two very different approaches to arguably the most serious set of challenges we have faced in a hundred years. Whoever wins will have his hands full.

But what about the rest of us? Our part is finished after we cast our ballots on November 4th, and after all the votes have been tallied, the excitement will be over.

Most of us will be happy with the outcome, but if you look at the latest polls, a good number of us won't be rushing to embrace the new leadership.

Either way a new administration means new faces at the top and new policies that will trickle down to all of us little people. The form of that trickle will determine the way a lot of our lives will go in the future.

Here’s my question to you: How will your life change if your candidate loses?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?

Craig from Mission Viejo, California writes:
If Barack Obama wins or loses I'll still have to work hard and smart, live unselfishly, spend and save wisely, and hope momentum has been gained which can help right his country and the entire world. On second thought, if John McCain wins, maybe I'll just take up prayer.

Kevin from Dallas, Texas writes:
I'm for McCain, and I work for a big business. But unlike the big businesses that have hurt our economy so, the company I work for is ethical. If McCain loses, my company will probably be hit hard by new policies, as Obama bites the hand that feeds me. I'll make sure to keep my resume up to date.

Brandon writes:
If Barack Obama loses this election then nothing will change for me at all, and that's precisely the problem.

Patti writes:
Perversely, if the candidates' tax plans are followed, my husband and I will be over $8,000 a year richer if our candidate Barack Obama loses. How's that for a silver lining?

Ed from Egan, Minnesota writes:
Jack, If McCain and Palin would somehow win, I'm moving out of the country to someplace that has a real democracy.

M. writes:
Look for me on the next season of "Survivor" from wherever. I will not return.

Kevin from Chester Springs, Penn. writes:
If Obama loses, I will move to Washington D.C. and dedicate my life to making sure McCain lives out his full term.

Filed under: 2008 Election • Barack Obama • John McCain


Faith from Milford, Massachusetts   October 31st, 2008 1:09 pm ET

That's easy – my husband and I have discussed this. If McCain somehow gets elected, go help us all, we are moving out of the country. Toronto seems to be calling us. We can't stand the thought of being in the US if he's the commander in chief.

Cale Fortune (D) Algona, IA   October 31st, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Well Jack, maybe i'll have less people keying my car because of my bumpersticker. i really hope however the outcome people can realize that we need direction, any sort, and recognize that we aren't voting on the life or death of our country, just 2 different perspectives on how to get this change. I'm going obama because i share his perspective much like the majority of Americans by the look of it.

Gary - Woodhaven, Michigan   October 31st, 2008 1:12 pm ET

It is said that the greatest enemy of hope is that which denies the imagination, if McCain and Palin win life will become hopeless.
Another big spending affluent hawk with another unintellectual narrow minded sidekick in the White House does indeed deny any imagination.

Peri W.   October 31st, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Any hope of obtaining healthcare in this country will go out the window since you can't buy a $12,000 health insurance policy with John McCain's $5,000 tax credit. That said, I'm confident my candidate, Barack Obama, will win by a good margin.

taylor plano texas   October 31st, 2008 1:13 pm ET

I would probably move to Canada because if Obama loses, this country will not be the same ever again. If Mccain wins we will no longer have anymore rights. Women will be forced to keep unwanted items in their bodies, we will have our phone conversations listened to and we will torture are prisoners of war. My taxes will proabably go up as well because i do not own a multi billion dollar oil company. I still will not be able to afford healthcare. So really the only thing that will change is the country i live in.

Ralph, Corpus Christi   October 31st, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Probably won't because life will be more of the same old Bush administration only in McCain outfit.

Charlie (Bethpage, NY)   October 31st, 2008 1:14 pm ET

If Obama loses, it will hit hard. We are at a critical point...when I see Obama or listen to him....I see JFK, RFK, and Dr. King...a visionary for the future...a breath of fresh air and someone who I am confident will get this country back to where it belongs. If he loses, I have to prepare for even tougher economic times, and honestly...after this country "elected" Bush twice my faith in the American people was all but lost...if America choses McCain it will be gone for a long long time.

don in naples, florida   October 31st, 2008 1:14 pm ET

we continue to see the same issues over and over in every campaign. Which means that no candidate ever delivers on anything. However if my candidate loses, it really doesn't affect me any differently. Both candidates intend to increase the national debt around 3 trillion dollars. The bottom line does not lie.

James   October 31st, 2008 1:15 pm ET

I will be moving to Canada if McCain wins because he will turn this country into more of a laughing stock than Bush has. OOPS he already is!

Katiec Pekin, IL   October 31st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Jack,
If Barack Obama does not win I will be totally devastated, and,
very fearful for the future of our country.
We have seen what the republican rule has done to our country
and the tactics they will stoop to. How anyone can continue
to support them is totally beyond me.
To survive our country has to have a leader with a plan for the
betterment of our lives, country and future.
Not one who tries to divide our country and has run such
a sleezy campaign.
Gosh, Jack, cannot even let myself think the good will not
prevail.

David in San Diego   October 31st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Not much. I would prbably make out better economically under McCain's policies (based on income level) but am not particularly affected by other differences they have. And let's face it, few Republican initiatives will make it through the Democratic Congress. I don't see how having 1-3 empty Supreme Court seats would affect me–the Senate won't confirm Mccain's nominees.

Beau in Seattle   October 31st, 2008 1:18 pm ET

My candidate is Obama... If he loses, I don't think my life will change much at all. I think the next four years would look a lot like the last eight under John McCain.

The problem is, more of the same is exactly what we DON'T need.

The more important question, Jack, is how will my life change if my candidate WINS?

Beau
Seattle, WA

byhen from Metairie, LA   October 31st, 2008 1:18 pm ET

I'm packing my bags, loading up the wife and kids and moving to Canada. Hopefully Palin cant see me from wherever she'll be.

Sam Pendergrass, Scappoose Or   October 31st, 2008 1:19 pm ET

It will mean we have to wait another four years and GO THRU THIS INSANITY AGAIN......but I talked with the vote fairy and she said: My wish will come true.

Marge in New Port Richey, Florida   October 31st, 2008 1:20 pm ET

I will be in a state of shock and disbelief and outrage for awhile. Initially my days and nights will seem empty without the election to follow. It's amazing how it's consumed so much of my time even though I was never really into politics before. Although it's almost impossible for me to imagine my candidate Obama NOT winning, in reality my life will probably change very little if McCain manages to steal it. Obviously I will find other "hobbies" to occupy my time so that'll be different. I'll get back to reading and scrapbooking and working out...things that have unbelievably taken a back seat to following this crazy election! But nothing happens overnight in our government bureaucracy so whatever changes that occur that will have a direct impact in my life will be slow coming and most probably rather undramatic. The one thing I'm hoping for with either guy is a decrease in my obscene health insurance premium.

Midwest Marge   October 31st, 2008 1:20 pm ET

My life will be more of the same, more of the same last 8 years.... and getting worse... I'll go back to watching reruns of THE WEST WING and say that Jeb is my president.

Jenny Rome Ga   October 31st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Jack,
I have to agree with fellow Obama supporter Beau in Seattle. More of the same. War, economic problems etal. Kind of like the movie "Ground Hog Day".

douglas in minnesota   October 31st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Jack - My candidate of choice is Obama. If McCain/Palin were to win this election, I will be extremely reluctant to travel outside the United States. I can just imagine how uncomfortable and emabarassed it will be facing the ridicule and taunts from other nationalities on how Americans could be so stupid as to elect two unqualified clowns to run the most powerful country in the world. I would have to hang my head in shame.

David   October 31st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Being in the Military, I get to look forward to a permanent presence in Iraq, my children and grand children who may want to serve our Military in the future will get to look forward to a hundred years of deployments to Iraq, but worst of all, anytime I travel overseas, I will get an ear full about the intellectual capabilities of our VP and the close proximity of Russia to Alaska as a qualifying factor for such office.

Mark Smithling   October 31st, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I would probably start memorizing the words to "O Canada".

Stevo   October 31st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Jack, how are ya? My life will not change much , but if my guy does not win that's all i'll have is change in my pockets!!!
GO OBAMA!!!!!! YES WE CAN

John in NC   October 31st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Verry little, I don't depend on the government to supply my basic needs and I am determined to be happy even if Sen. Obama wins.

Sibylle Kettering   October 31st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

If, God forbid, Obama loses, I will leave the country.

Sibylle Kettering
Stanford, New York

Myron in NY   October 31st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Praying a lot. Praying that Palin never becomes a president. With that in mind, let me go to my sanctuary and PRAY.

Ginny   October 31st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Hi from Athens, GA

Well, if John McCain wins, I may just look into options in other countries. I love the US but we have strayed so far from the country I grew up in that I'm not sure what a few more years of Bush politics will make it looks like. This is the country my ancestors fought to come to and it has changed in ways that are not necessarily good.

I hear my neighbors talking angrily about the newest group to arrive on our shores, the hispanics, and it saddens me. I think we should welcome them and help them achieve citizenship. They may well be the group that helps us achieve the status we used to have in the world. I've watched these newcomers and they are hardworking, family-oriented and want, much the same things my grandparents wanted for us, a better life for their children.

I've watched with disgust the ads the McCain/Palin group have run. To suggest the things they have about Barack Obama is shocking. It is fine to attack your opponent on the issues but not the angry, ugly, divisive stuff that encourages distrust of anything different from yourself and encourages the lunatic fringe to think it has almost a mandate to take some action against Obama...well, if that is the legacy McCain wants, he'll have it.

The best of this country has come about because of its diversity. That diversity should be celebrated not sneered at. John McCain and Sarah Palin don't seem to celebrate much of anything but their huge egos.

And to think this is the man who promised a better campaign after he and his wife were treated so badly in the past. He learned a lot though, he hired the same group to help him get elected.

Larry in Florida   October 31st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

It will mean this election is over at last and I can get on with it. Been voting for a president for many years. Some have won and some have lost. The sky won't fall and the sky won't open with magical and wonderful things. Life will go on and America will come out of this crisis like it has before no matter who wins. People act like this is a life or death decision. It's not. It's just yet another phase in American history. We'll either have our first Black President or our first Lady Vice President. Either way, all will be okay.

David in Washington DC   October 31st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Being on active duty in the Military, I get to look forward to a permanent presence in Iraq, my children and grand children who may want to serve our Military in the future will get to look forward to a hundred years of deployments to Iraq, but worst of all, anytime I travel overseas, I will get an ear full about the intellectual capabilities of our VP and the close proximity of Russia to Alaska as a qualifying factor for such office.

Don (Ottawa)   October 31st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I moved to Canada when Bush was elected. I'll just stay here.

Brian Blashfield   October 31st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

If Obama loses I will be part of the largest group of angry people in the history of the United States. A McCain victory given the polls and the overwhelming attitude of the American people and even people in Europe and Asia would destroy confidence in the integrity of the American electoral system for at least a generation. If McCain wins we have elected Karl Rove and his kind to transfer what little is left to the wealthiest segment of our nation. Getting "...ughly out there..." will be an understatement.

Brian
Delray Beach, FL

Mark from Oneonta, NY   October 31st, 2008 1:27 pm ET

If Obama loses I will probably throw out my new 2009 calendar and replace it with my old 2000 version.

Linda in Florida   October 31st, 2008 1:29 pm ET

If Barack loses I will probably will be hitching a ride to Canada with Byhen from Metairie, LA and Mark Smithling. The last 8 years have been so bad; I can't take another 4!

Doug - Dallas   October 31st, 2008 1:29 pm ET

If McCain wins I believe our lives will change little from what we've seen over the last 8 years. I don't see him bringing a lot of changes to Washington plus he'll have to fight a Democratic Congress so I don't think he'll make a lot of progress.

Of course that means we'll continue to slide towards chaos in a number of areas such as health care, Social Security, jobs, Medicare, two wars that won't end, housing, credit and the list can continue on.

In four years we'll be listening to the same arguments we've been listening to for the last eight with the upshot that nothing has changed. At least with Obama we have a chance of fixing our problems.

David in Deltona, FL   October 31st, 2008 1:30 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter and if he loses I think my life will not be any better the jobs will remain scarce, the environment will continue to suffer and the poor will be more than double in a McCain administration.

beth   October 31st, 2008 1:30 pm ET

it wont change and either will anyone elses 3rd term of bush im a obama supporter and im praying he will win nov 4th if not god help us all!!!!!

Real K / Omaha, NE   October 31st, 2008 1:31 pm ET

My candidate is Obama…If he loses, thing won't change, it would be more of the same; no job, no loans, no help, no hope. Might as well rejoin the Army and go fight in the next war John McCain will send us...that's a no hope future. What's with this "We'll fight mentality" anyway? Smart people find ways around fighting first. Oh, I just answered my own question. "Time For A Change".

Jerry, Silver Spring, MD   October 31st, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Let me remind all the people who want to move to Canada if Obama loses that they promised the same 4 years ago... Make sure this time you put your money where your mouth is.

Peter   October 31st, 2008 1:31 pm ET

To byhen from Metairie LA
you don't say who you want to win
If McCain wins you're more than welcome here in Canada.

Dave from Prospect Bay, Nova Scotia   October 31st, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Living in Nova Scotia I obviously don't have a candidate, but have become very entrenched in the blow by blow description of the Presidential election. My final act will be Wednesday morning looking to the sky to wave to Sarah Palin as she heads back to Alaska (For at least four years....... I hope!)

Domenic from Montreal, Canada   October 31st, 2008 1:33 pm ET

God forbid. If McCain wins you my neighbours and freinds are more than welcomed to come to Canada. Not perfect but a better political, and heathcare system than the US. If and hope Obama wins, then I'll try to move to the USA.

Richard   October 31st, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Mrs. Palin will have a full line of GI JOE dolls, barbie dolls and a poster that will sell on e-bay. She will all by her self give Fox news a market share to continue their un-abashed propaganda. She will in affect become co-anchor with Carl Rove . Hey, maybe Ann 'Cult-ler ' will arise from her coffin to suck some more blood from the American dream! OH, her future is just awesome.

Tyler F   October 31st, 2008 1:33 pm ET

It will destroy my world.

Republicans destroy the economy and then we vote for them to keep up the good work.

Michael   October 31st, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Jack if my candidate loses the only thing to do is look forward to 2012 and hope that we can correct either mistake that will be made on Nov. 4, 2008.

Mike from NJ

haiticuba   October 31st, 2008 1:33 pm ET

well jack, my life would change in a big when since i'll be leaving the earth like tina fey, if john mccain wins this elections,

please dont delete my comments that really sucks not being able voice your opinion, when you have taken the time to do so

Mike, Cleveland, Ohio   October 31st, 2008 1:34 pm ET

I've been considering other countries to move to for quite some time. Lucky for me, I'm also an Irish Citizen so I can move there if McCain wins. Sort of ironic for one person with Irish heritage to prompt another person with Irish heritage to move.

Sandy   October 31st, 2008 1:34 pm ET

On my goodness! I'm an Obama supporter and I'll be devastated if he loses. It will be sad for our country. The only bright spot is that we'll be seeing a lot more political comedy on TV and it will be highly entertaining, in a bittersweet way. Of course, maybe I won't be able to afford TV (or my house) any longer. I'm not optimistic about a GOP-led economy.
Sandy from Knoxville

Jim, Kansas   October 31st, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Since I've gone and bet the farm on Obama, I guess I'll be headed for the big cities looking for work if Obama looses.

Mac in Truro Nova Scotia   October 31st, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Jack, I am a 74 year old American Viet Nam Veteran. My life would change if McCain gets elected because at my age, electing Obama would have been my last chance to see America regain the respect that it once had. I would feel a sense of sadness knowing that under McCain so many of our young Americans would have to fight in wars with countries that have not attacked us. There are 58,260 names on the Viet Nam Wall, how many would McCain have engraved on a wall to the Iraq War vets?

Henry, FL   October 31st, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Here's what's sad – neither candidate is pulling at best 51% of the ballot – meaning win or lose it won't change most people's opinions. For myself – I am going to continue what I have always done – put my trust in myself and those around me, spend less than I make, and count my blessings. It's remarkable what happens when you don't spend your way into debt and then have to worry about what politicians may or may not do to you. Take responsiblity for yourself and stop believing our politicians have the will to make changes.

Charla in De Kalb, Texas   October 31st, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Consideration has to be given to moving somewhere else, to Canada or Europe, because if McCain gets elected there will not be much left for the middle class that I am in. I fully believe that McCain will be even more of a detriment to the USA than Bush was, and the chances of our country ever getting out of war will never be. It is far more likely that a McCain administration will be "tested", because the foes know that McCain has no interest in peacemaking will blindly and arbitrarily strike back at anybody he can, leading to further economic and military strife for the US from which we would probably never recover.

Arlene, Illinois   October 31st, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Nothing will change as of Nov. 5th 2008, I'll just pull the chair
a little closer to the television and wait for Wolf and Jack to start
talking about the 2012 Presidental election.

Katiec Pekin, IL   October 31st, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Well, Jack, if Barack Obama does not win will build a bomb
shelter, stock up on groceries, if I have any money left, and
sit back and wait for World War 111 and the bread lines.
Will try not to get sick, turn the furnace down to just above
freezing, watch my freedoms go out the door and see the
big businesses, CEO's, special interest and lobbyist take
complete control of our country.
Will try to get into better shape for all the walking I will have
to do.
And, with extra pennies will buy shares in the hock shops.

Brian Becker   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

I don't even want to think about that, Jack.

Conor in Chicago   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

I will be drafted into the military by 2010 in order to die for Haliburton.

Emi   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Life would change very little, and that's a bad thing. The last eight years have been miserable, and four more would send many of us over the edge! This country needs new direction and the leadership of Obama.

Richard   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

If my selection loses we will see the continued fall of a once great and proud dream- called America. We will see evil arise like never before. We will see the world in a free for all , and all will loose, well accept those who profit from fear, war and famine. The person is not important the ideas that others have attempted to make illegal, and in some ways put out the light and the pursuit of individual desires and the good for man kind. is what is at stake. So in other words , every thing we hold dear is a t stake-hope for our future as a Republic striving for freedom.

Louise, Massachusetts   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

I am currently in the process of retiring. If my candidate, Obama, loses, I will be job-hunting or out on the street with a tin cup.

Cori from Colorado   October 31st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

First, I will be asking McCain's God what he was thinking. Second, pray the United States of America doesn't fall like Rome!

Thelma from Ohio   October 31st, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Being retirees our life won't change very much but I worry about the future of my children and grandchildren if McCain is elected. Yesterday McCain was in the small town of Sandusky, OH where with a big smile on his face, he held up a copy of the local newspaper. Obviously he didn't see the irony in the fact that the headline in the paper was about another local factory closing and moving the jobs to Mexico. The man simply does not see the problems facing the middle class.

Malka D. Oceanside CA   October 31st, 2008 1:42 pm ET

IF and its a big word Obama loses I will carry on just like i did when Gore lost when Kerry lost. I love my country I Hope for my country. carry on my wayward son their will be peace when we are done.

John in Santa Barbara, CA   October 31st, 2008 1:42 pm ET

If Obama loses. McCain will have to establish a policy to deal with the economy. Franklin D. Roosevelt did it through domestic work projects, a Republican won't do that. McCain will draw us into a war economy, much like we saw during the Cold War. That will require more scientist and engineers than we now have, there will be a migration of those talents from overseas to the United States. Our own young men around the age of 18, will be drafted and sent to Iraq, Afganistan, and wherever else we decide to declare war (you can't have a war economy without wars) and their former jobs will have to be manned by immigrants, illegal and otherwise. I will pay more taxes, will have less access to material goods, will pay more for gas and food, and because of cut backs on basic services, my neighborhood will become a dangerous place to live. Four more years of the Bush administration.

Leroy from Houston,Tx.   October 31st, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Jack,
If there is a God in Heaven the right man will win (Obama). If not then I will pack my bags and join everyone else going to Canada. If we are stuck with another 4 years of Bush economics maybe the Democrats will gain control of both Houses and impeach them both!!

Malka D. Oceanside CA   October 31st, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I got some nice property in Jordan and I am thinking I might just hit the road Jack

Jennifer T Tacoma, WA   October 31st, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I'm am definitely on board with the flock to Canada. Living in Washington, a couple of hours to move is not a big deal...

Liz in Towson, MD   October 31st, 2008 1:43 pm ET

If McCain wins? Hello, Canada!!

vexact   October 31st, 2008 1:44 pm ET

If McCain wins, my 401k and real estate will be worthless. We are experiencing the results of degruglation on our economy even here in mexico where I live amidst some20,000 expatriate Americans. Next move? south America,

Fran, Michigan   October 31st, 2008 1:45 pm ET

One thing that won't change in the good ole USA is that every four years we have a smooth transition no matter which candidate wins. We are not just Democrats, Republicans or Independents..... WE ARE AMERICANS FIRST!!!!

Paulette,Dallas,PA   October 31st, 2008 1:45 pm ET

I'd be depressed. This war would rage and all of the American people would pay a heavy price. Some even the ultimate sacrifice. I would expect the rich to get richer and the poor to get poorer. The middle class would just get squeezed until completely eliminated. Our world image would still remain the same. Hated and unwelcome anywhere. McCain's election would definitely be the Doomsday scenerio. Obama's election would lift the spirits of most Americans and certainly improve US image globally.

Evelyne (Ottawa)   October 31st, 2008 1:45 pm ET

The real question is, what will you do Jack?

Kelley-Arkansas   October 31st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

It will not change at all. Much like the past few years, I will have to listen to my girlfriend about how good the republicans are for another 4 years.

Marjorie Gadue   October 31st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Jack, I am enthusiastically supporting Barack Obama. If he loses, I will be depressed for a period of time... and then I will commit myself to praying, daily, for John McCain's health and well-being. I have always admired McCain as a person, and I honor his lifetime of service to our country. I believe he has the best interests of us all at heart, although he and I seriously disagree as to how to go about renewing America. After his hypothetical election victory, I would hope that McCain would revert to his pre-nomination personna, the real McCain, before he was co-opted by the right-wing conservatives. The thought of Sarah Palin as VP - and potentially President - is truly terrifying; thus it would be imperative for President McCain to take the best possible care of himself. And I'd be compelled to implore the Almighty on a daily basis to keep McCain safe from illness or harm.

Alexandra in the urban Northeast   October 31st, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Sell my house, pack up my dogs, and move to Newfoundland, Canada.

Frank H. from NYC   October 31st, 2008 1:47 pm ET

I will either be very proud of my country or very ashamed.

Obama/Biden 08

Jan from NW Iowa   October 31st, 2008 1:47 pm ET

I'm really afraid that not matters who is elected we won't see much of a change. I really want to see our government work together for the betterment of the country as a whole – not for the betterment of the Republicans or Democrates or a few people in a pork barrell spending. I'm afraid that has as much of a chance as all of us joining hands and singing
Kum Ba Ya"

Barb New Port Richey Fl   October 31st, 2008 1:48 pm ET

If Obama looses, I just hope my children can care for me and my husband. Bush has taken most of our retirement, and McCain will take the rest of it just for health care. God help us all!

Tom, The Heart of Democracy, Avon, Maine   October 31st, 2008 1:48 pm ET

If my candidate loses, I suspect small towns like this will lose even the few remaining jobs, and then the small businesses have to close, and then hundreds of years of history dry up and blow away. All the while, Iraq will get 10 billion dollars a month for a hundred years.

Michael in McAllen, TX   October 31st, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Jack,

My life will be greatly affected by the continuing downward spiral of the last 8 years of Republican rule for at least 4 more. By the time McCain's first term is up, the rich will be richer and more good people will be out on the streets, unable to make ends meet.

Obama is our only hope for true change. He is a true visionary with a dream.

Mac in Truro Nova Scotia   October 31st, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Why are all my postings awaiting moderation?

Ray in Nashville   October 31st, 2008 1:49 pm ET

It won't. I will go on being a poor ol' southern boy. Of course, the same thing will happen if my candidate wins.

jon hoffman   October 31st, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Jack: As a historian, If Obama wins, we will see a fairly rapid restoration in the economy; my serious business slowdown will be reversed. We see from the 1893 crash and the 1929 crash that the immediate means to recovery is building out of the infrastructure with the government creating worthwhile jobs. This has to be done very soon. Cleveland (1894) and FDR (1933) reversed their national crisis; now its Obama's duty. McCain wil be just another Hoover/Bush. Listen to them say they do not really truly believe the Gov't should help. If elected McCain will do nothing more and we will go down the economic rat whole. The rich get the elevator and the working guy and gal gets the shaft.. I am worried sick over a McCain win-God Help Us
Lord hear Our Prayers.
Jon in Calif.

sully,, forest park ga   October 31st, 2008 1:50 pm ET

well jack I came to this country six years ago, just became a citizen, voted for obama two weeks ago.If he loses i hope that my maternal country took me back or i'm in trouble.

Robert Fischer   October 31st, 2008 1:51 pm ET

I have another question. Didn't all of our representatives, from Bush and Paulson, to Obama and McCain, as well as all of Congress scream that we needed a $700 Billion Mortgage Bailout Plan. I thought that the Treasury would buy up these Mortgages and either sit on them into the future or renegotiate and resell them. Why then was the first $250 Billion used to buy Preferred Stock in Banks who are then going to either not use the money at all, or simply use the money to buy up other Banks. Isn't this a fraud? Haven't we taxpayers been cheated by our elected officials and shouldn't these people be going to jail?

Blaine   October 31st, 2008 1:52 pm ET

I think it just wont effect my life but also yours. These rediculous republicans just need to give it up

Mark - Asheville, NC   October 31st, 2008 1:52 pm ET

If McCain loses nothing will change in one respect: still all we will hear and see on TV is Obama, Obama, Obama, except that the media will be even more obsessed with him if that is possible. But I will read the news online and hear and see it on Fox, the only network that did not drink the KoolAid.

But this election cycle has done one thing that has indeed changed my life: for decades I was a devout liberal. No more. I have seen a side of them that I never knew before.

Svein from Oregon   October 31st, 2008 1:52 pm ET

If my choice loses, I will be clinging to my guns and religion because of the rioting over Obama's loss. I don't think America will accept another "stolen" election.

John, OH   October 31st, 2008 1:52 pm ET

If Obama loses I will move to the UK. My wife and I discussed that already. I will not live four more years in a totalitarian state, that violates international laws, civil rights, endless spending, jobb losses and helth care disaster. Obama/Biden

Joe in DE   October 31st, 2008 1:53 pm ET

The question is moot, my canidate will not lose. I just hope Barack is really up to cleaning up the mess and restoring the US economy including making imports meet US Health & saftery standards.

Nora Corpus Christi Texas   October 31st, 2008 1:53 pm ET

It will just be another Wednesday, with the same guy in office, just quite a bit older and a lot more confused!!!

Happy in Arizona   October 31st, 2008 1:53 pm ET

If Barack loses, my life will change because McCain/Palin are idiots like Bush and things will be the same or worse.

Obama/Biden in 2009

mayaka From Bloomington MN   October 31st, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Jack! Please wait until Nov 5Th and ask this Question. But since you asked this is what i will on Nov 6th i will be on my way to Africa, if my candidate Obama loses i will CRY all the way to Africa. How about that?

Connie   October 31st, 2008 1:53 pm ET

If my candidate loses, I'll pray the other one lives at least 4 more years so we won't have a complete idiot in the White House

Alan from California   October 31st, 2008 1:54 pm ET

If my candidate loses, I will finally apply for citizenship somewhere else, realizing that America will never grow up in my lifetime. Realizing that we have become that which we fought against in 1776. What was his name?
George the III.

Matt in Las Vegas, NV   October 31st, 2008 1:54 pm ET

If Barack doesn't win, I will turn my back to the American Political world like John McCain has turned his back on America. Then I will get back to work on moving to a small island nation.

Jan Davis, Knoxville, TN   October 31st, 2008 1:54 pm ET

If Barack Obama loses, I am going to be extremely depressed about the direction of this country. The audacity of hope and the possibility of peace in our day will be lost at least for four more years.
Please America, think about how bad things have been the last eight years–surely you don't want four more of the same or even worse (e.g., Sarah Palin). We need to restore America's reputation in the world by electing Obama our President.

Jose from Colorado   October 31st, 2008 1:54 pm ET

First , I am a Barack Obama supporter. My life probably won't change that much, however my faith in the American people will be significantly diminished. It will be very apparent to me and everyone else that if John McCain some how wins, that we, the American people are not interested in the issues, but only in sound bites. From the Leadership question, John McCain has clearly demonstrated that he is NOT a leader, but a follower. A true leader, like Barack Obama has the wisdom, judgement and intelligence, to comunicate a vision, and strategy on how he wants to solve the problems we have, and move this country forward into the 21st century "UNITED". John McCain on the other hand has demonstrated NONE of these traits. His only vision is winning the election by any means necessary. It takes more than talking tough and having scars to be a LEADER.

Susan in Laguna Woods, CA   October 31st, 2008 1:54 pm ET

If Obama loses, I will be raising and donating lots of money to the DNC to fight whatever crimes the RNC has commited at the end of this election. No more stolen election!!

Rosalynd Florida   October 31st, 2008 1:55 pm ET

I will be applying for citizenship in Canada where McCain is going to send my Engineering job if god-forbid he finds a way to win.

Anne from Vero Beach, FL   October 31st, 2008 1:55 pm ET

If Obama loses I'll be searching for an expat location in Costa Rica or Mexico. It will be a strong indication that this country is continuing on a path I don't want to go down. McCain, Sarah Palin and all the other
religious nutjobs and warmongers will run this country into the ground and then find some way to blame it all on Bill Clinton. Hopefully, however, the intelligent majority and working, non-rigged voting machines will come through for us on Tuesday.

Richard Sternagel   October 31st, 2008 1:56 pm ET

If McCain wins it would hurt me immensely because my healthcare insurance would be taxed. I barely make by as it is. Additionally I am tired of this extreme brand of the Republican Party that we have all experienced in the last 8 years and I want a Change! Vote Obama!

Mark Naperville, IL   October 31st, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Jack,

My candidate is going to lose. I am voting third party. Unfortunately most of the country doesn’t vote on principal, they vote for the person they think will win.

Regardless of who wins, my life sadly isn’t going to change for the better. We are all in for more of the same. Obama and McCain are offering the same thing as Bush; the wrapping is just a different color.

Mark
Naperville, IL

V Kittie, San Diego, CA   October 31st, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Well, looks like I won't be getting that extra $1,000 back on my taxes that I was anticipating. Looks like for the first time EVER I will be paying taxes on the health benefits from my husband's employer while only getting a $5,000 credit on the larger portion WE pay. And, looks like I won't have to pay increased capital gains taxes on all of the stocks that have tanked in my investment accounts.

ken - Hudson Florida   October 31st, 2008 1:57 pm ET

If Obama does not win, then I can see the rest of my savings go bye-bye. and the economy really hitting the bottom of the tank.

Chris - Northern California   October 31st, 2008 1:57 pm ET

My wife and I have seriously discussed moving out of the country if McCain wins. We have friends who have said the same thing. I don't know if we will or not but another four years like the last eight are too much to bear. I love my country but don't care much for a large number of the people living here.

Jacquie   October 31st, 2008 1:58 pm ET

If McCain wins I will not pack my bags and move to another country. This is my country in sickness and in health. If she were to endure another 4 years of "sickness" I will stay here, I will divert the energy used during the campaign to keeping this government accountable. I will continue to write letters to congress, email my friends to take action, support the non-profits that are protecting our environment and stay active in local politics. Obama woke us all out of our numbness over the last eight years. Even if he loses the election we will not go back to sleep!

Ron, Centennial, Colorado   October 31st, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Anyone would be better than G.W. Bush! However, I cannot believe that the American voters will again throw away the chance for honesty, integrity, and caring representation as well as a very real potential for greatness as displayed in the Obama candidacy.

Annie, Atlanta   October 31st, 2008 1:59 pm ET

If McCain wins my guess is we'll struggle along, those of us that make under $5m, that is. Retirement plans will be gone. There will be an upper class who will be eating cake, with the rest of us barely surviving, serving the upper class, if we're lucky. We'll be at war with at least 2 additional countries, probably 3, at least my kids will have jobs. Sarah Palin will be modeling the new fall lineup yearly brought to her thanks to the GOP. I don't see how we survive 4 more years of catering to big business & the rich, without imploding or revolting.

Lee in Santa Cruz CA   October 31st, 2008 2:00 pm ET

The most important thing to me is not if my candidate wins, its that the candidate with the most votes wins.

Our democracy has been in question the last two elections and it is very important we get it right this time.

I was a Hillary supporter so I am voting for McCain, but if Obama gets more votes than McCain then I want him to be president.

Gary - Woodhaven, Michigan   October 31st, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Life would not change if McCain wins that is the irony. Same stale economy, same hawkish bravado in a condemning world, same divisiveness at home in the U.S.
Life would change with Obama, as hope is seeing new possibility.

Michael, Pensacola, FL   October 31st, 2008 2:01 pm ET

No matter what happens, no matter how extreme the hardship or difficult the course ahead of us, no matter if our language, culture and beliefs are stripped from us, African American voters will SURVIVE as we always have. So a little set back like the Presidency as big as it is both a collective and individual achievment will do as little as it will do a lot either way in the long run for black voters. My life won't change at all, I have farm land, but the rest of you better invest in some seeds because that's where we'll be heading!

Shyam from Pa   October 31st, 2008 2:01 pm ET

If my candidate Obama loses, our country will have lost the opportunity to put the Vietnam generation behind us. I am 62 years old, and don't want to return to war-making with McCain. Most of all, it will sadden me that McCain was able to win an election by causing us to fear what Obama might do.

Debra ~ California   October 31st, 2008 2:01 pm ET

We will sell our home and move to Canada (if Canada will have us)!

Obama/Biden 2008

HOPE and CHANGE WE NEED!

Susan/Bel Air, MD   October 31st, 2008 2:01 pm ET

If the Republicans manage to steal this election like they have in the past two, first I'll be really, really sad. Then I'll be really, really angry. I have already decided that moving out of the country is not practical for me. I have voted in every election for which I have been eligible. However, if Senator Obama loses, I will never vote again, because it will prove that we cannot have an honest election in this country.

Maina, Plentywood MT   October 31st, 2008 2:02 pm ET

I just put my entire mortgage on Obama...... I might be living in a cardboard box come the new year, Jack.

Chuck in Sheboygan, WI.   October 31st, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Jack:
Unfortunately, I've heard they're going to close the border to Canada because of the huge influx, but Norway sounds nice. I'm sure not staying here if there are enough idiots to actually vote them into office. 8 years was more than enough.

Michael Mobile, AL   October 31st, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Jack, I'm not sure how it would be, but If Grandpa takes the Oval Office, i might stop watching CNN for a while whenever it comes to news about the White House.

Chanel   October 31st, 2008 2:02 pm ET

For me it will be the difference between more deployments to Iraq, or more deployments to Afghanistan. I just hope that whoever wins, wins by a landslide so that there is no question of who the American people wanted to be the next Commander In Chief.

Canuck Jerome   October 31st, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Jack
as an ex-pat living here in Canada my life wont change if Obama loses except there will be many more ex-pats here..
Seriously, I think that the world economy will tank as the US can't continue to spent the 10 billion a month in Iraq and help its own people at the same time.
I will probably be even more hesitant to let others know my citizenship as the negative view of the US will continue to grow and I'll probably get my Canadian citizenship after 30 years of living here. It really is amazing how the world sees the US 180 degrees as to what the US thinks it is seen by the world after 8 years of Bush, Cheney, Rove, etc.

Amber - Austin, TX   October 31st, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I will seriously consider moving to Canada or Mexico. If John McCain is elected President – God help us all.

Tina (Texas)   October 31st, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I am one paycheck away from living in a box on the street. So save your boxes please so I can build me a house.

Mike, Albuquerque, NM   October 31st, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Government and politics has never had much of an impact on my life.
They just come, make promises and threats, take my money and leave me alone. But, if they steal this election like they did the last two I may have to by a handgun...
For my job as a security guard sitting in a shack, watching TV.
I will need that extra dollar of pay as an armed guard in this economy.

Chelsea in ME   October 31st, 2008 2:06 pm ET

All these people saying they will leave the country are obviously being melodramatic. I know at the very least, I'd stay because it is my patriotic duty to stand by my President, even if I didn't help elect him. This isn't to say I wouldn't be participating in post-election protests...

Bruce St Paul MN   October 31st, 2008 2:06 pm ET

It won't change.That's the whole point.

Timothy, NJ   October 31st, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Jack,

If my candidate, Barack Obama, loses I may be forced to get a 4th job or to move to a nation like Canada that has Universal Health Care.

My wife suffers from Type 1 Diabetes. We rely on her employer's group medical coverage plan to pay for her insulin and various supplies. Under McCain's proposal, we will either pay extraordinary taxes because of the price tag on her policy or lose coverage because her disease will be considered a "pre-existing" condition.

I refuse to sit back and let this happen. I am union educator and a proud Democrat. I will take this weekend and fight for my wife, the future of my country, and my candidate by canvassing in Pennsylvania.

David, Tampa, Fl   October 31st, 2008 2:07 pm ET

How will my life change? Not much. I didn't vote for anybody, I voted against the Republicans. No matter which canidate gets elected my life wont change execpt for the worse. Spend and tax Democrats, Spend but dont tax Republicans. None of these people are dealing realistically with the major issues that confront this country especially the amount of debt that will eventually crush us economically. Already, company execs are thinking of ways to put bailout monies into their bank accounts with little notice from McCain or Obama. As gas prices fall, for now wait till neat year, less and less will be heard about energy. Sorry, not real enthused about how things are being run right now.

connie   October 31st, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Jack, I will not be moving to any where , as an old white women from Indiana , if Barack Obama does not win my mission for the next four years will be to hunt down all those who voted for McSenile and harass them until the next election. VOTE EARLY, VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN
Connie from "BLUE" Indiana

Mertis   October 31st, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Jack,

Maybe not much right away but that's exactly how the last 8 years were. Earnings, job stability, retirement dollars, health care benefits were all chipped away at litlle by little until BAM most of them were gone.

If McCain is elected he will just finish the job. It will be sad really cause I was actually looking forward to retiring someday...

mariel - sc   October 31st, 2008 2:10 pm ET

If Obama loses, it will be a clear sign that we, as a country, have not moved anywhere near where we should be towards the idea of racial equality. It would hurt our already reeling country if voters stand within the lines of prejudice instead of reaching out toward opportunity.

Courtney, South Windsor, CT   October 31st, 2008 2:11 pm ET

If McCain gets in, by hook or by crook, I'm moving to the UK and seeking citizenship there. It's frightening to hear how many otherwise intelligent, proud Americans will flee from another 4 years of a Republican in the White House (yes, myself included). It begs the question as to how one would propose to fix this nation of ours should those who share my mindset leave. Beware the liberal exodus!

Jeff Brenneman, Sturgis MI   October 31st, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Life would go on as normal for me, Jack. I'm a lifelong Cubs fan; I'm used to losing.

Val   October 31st, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Jack, I am heavily invested in this election emotionally, so I have already taken Wednesday the 5th off and I have advised friends and family to visit me. If Obama/Biden wins they can come over to the house for celebration. If McCain/Palin wins, they will have to visit me at the ICU of the hospital.

Val
San Diego

Jim in British Columbia   October 31st, 2008 2:11 pm ET

It appears, judging by many of the comments on this page, that we will be welcoming many new immigrants from across our southern borders.

And you all are welcome to come up and start new lives here.

In Peace. Remember, we did not join the Iraq war.

And Jack, bring along the Wolfman and start a new television program to be beamed southward. The title could perhaps be something like: WORDS OF WISDOM FROM ABOVE.

Pat in Georgia   October 31st, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I think I'll move to Alaska and run for Governor...

J Kay - PCMO   October 31st, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I'm an exPub living with a staunch Pub husband. It has been extremely trying in our home divided. If O should lose then I couldn't bear to continue living in this environment. Hope would be gone for our country and as the country goes so do I. Perhaps Costa Rica :)

Bev, Los Angeles   October 31st, 2008 2:12 pm ET

If Obama loses, all of our lives will be worse off. Bush/Cheney/McCain politics will have us in more wars, more greed and advancement for the rich and the rest of us will fall more and more into poverty. People will start getting more desperate and divisive politics will be the way Washington will be run.

I'm one of those OFFO'S. Old folks for Obama. What in the world will happen to us older working folks who depend on our 401K's and social security to retire. We'll end up working until we're not able to walk anymore. Please folks, wake up and vote Obama on Tuesday.

Brian, East Hartford, CT   October 31st, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I'll move to the UK.

Ron K.   October 31st, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Jack:

It will be a new adventure in futility. GO BAMA!!!

Ron San Diego

Anthony   October 31st, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I won't have to get sick seeing my neighbors McCain sign in his yard anymore. I can resume waving to him again.

Anthony West Palm Beach, FL.

Carrie - Massachusetts   October 31st, 2008 2:14 pm ET

I have hoped my two sons could begin their adult lives in a country not governed by warmongers. If John McCain wins, I'll guess be a nervous mom. In the meantime, however, I'm making calls for Obama.

Bill the machinist, Quarryville, Pa   October 31st, 2008 2:15 pm ET

It's not my life so much that I am worried about. It's the life of my children and grandchildren and the fear of another Hooverville only by another name. Apparently president Bush isn't quite done changing my life in my life and my family's life. I heard it was reported in the Washington Post that President Bush is planning on deregulating pollution regulations that are currently in place. This will cause people to actually choke on the air that they will be breathing. It said that these changes will we made at a time when they will be hard for the next administration to change them.

Pat,Lexington, Ky.   October 31st, 2008 2:15 pm ET

My Social Security disability may disappear, I still won't have health insurance, and I still won't trust the new administration. This is if McCain wins. But, I have decided that if he wins, I will go into temporary seclusion while I pack for my move to Canada.

Jette in Chattanooga, TN   October 31st, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Jack,
If my candidate does not win, I'm considering getting a job with a military contractor so that I can better provide for my family. The war industry may be the only employers for awhile.

Janis, Lafayette, IN   October 31st, 2008 2:16 pm ET

My life can only change for the better for I have already lost my job, my home, my car and my family. I am a college educated, middle-aged, single mom who tried to keep everything I worked for, but with circumstances beyond my control, I was led to where I am now. I can't imagine how things could get worse for me, so I keep an attitude of positivity. I know if Obama wins, I will definitely be better off and would be able to start over at a higher level than I could with McCain as president.

Terri - California   October 31st, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Jack,

Mentally and emotionally, it would destroy my faith in American voters but I don't see that as a possibility. I have faith that when those curtains close, voters who have listened to the candidates will make the right choice and come November 5th we'll be congratulating President Obama.

robert sulzer   October 31st, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I'll move out of the country.

Emi   October 31st, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Four more years of the last eight would most definitely send me over the edge – the edge of our northern border!

Brett in Oriskany,Va   October 31st, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Well, I think Barack will win, but if he doesn't, my life will change greatly. As a retired person living on on fixed income it's hard enough already. With McCain it mean cutting back more, ending retirement to rejoin the work force.I also have great fears for this nation should McCain win, war will continue and perhaps escalate, the economy will crash even more and the rich will get richer. This nations status as a world leader will begin to fade.

Howard M. Bolingbrook IL   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Other than being mentally disheartened, if Obama should not prevail, it won't have an immediate direct effect on my life or lifestyle.
If McCain/Palin wins this election it will speak volumes to the world, in regards to how they continue view America.

Larry from Georgetown, Texas   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

We are retired and will probably need to go back to work to pay for the spiraling cost of health care, food, and gas as the tax cut under the Republicans for us would be less than 8 dollars a month and we'd have to pay taxes on our health care.

Rex in Portland, Ore.   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I have a nice, secluded casita picked out in Costa Rica in case the moron McSame wins.

LM of Fayetteville   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Everyone I know is moving to Canada.

It will depend HOW he lost. If THEY steal it again, then I will never vote again. I contributed to Obama every time McCain lied about him. Everytime he mentioned "public financing" I contributed again. I see something really good for our country – a man who really wants to heal our land and get things fixed – like schools, roads, infrastructure in our cities and make us happy again. WE HAVE HOPE. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME WE HAD HOPE IN GOVERNMENT?

Dave, Brooklyn, NY   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

My candidate is Obama. Therefore, if he looses, my live will remain the same with President McSame. I will feel for our soldiers in harm’s way who will have no chance of returning to a normal life; I will look forward to continued high taxes, continued bailouts and redistribution of wealth from me to the wealthy, etc., ad infinitum.

Ken in NC   October 31st, 2008 2:19 pm ET

If Obama does not win the election I will join the Exodus to Canada and apply for citizenship as soon as allowed by law.

If McCain wins then this country will have no future other than constant wars in the Middle East and McDonalds selling Moose Burgers instead of Ham Burgers.

Richard, Syracuse, NY   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If McCain pulls the greatest upset and wins I am sure I can find a piece of land to Homestead in Alaska. Since Sarah Palin will be gone I might be able to hide there until I see the mushroom cloud over the US. With McCain's attitude against all other countries, its only a matter of time.

dan in Tucson   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If Obama losses. I am going to buy a gun for the first time in my life because I will not feel safe anymore. Not from foreign terrorists, but from within our own country I feel that continuing on our present path will lead to national chaos and possibly a revolution. Be prepared.

roger dowdle lockhart, tx   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I would be totally humiliated! Imagine living in a country that elected an incompetent like Bush, then after 4 years of demonstrated incompetance, re elected him, and the elected McCain/Palin. I would be tempted to take early retirement, bundle my soc sec and military retired pay, and move to another country out of shame!

Raoul - Lake City, SC   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Well Jack. If Obama loses, it looks as though my kids will have no chance of going to college. My disabiled wife's health benefits will be cut. My real chance of starting my own business in the next year are gone. Jack, to be honest... I don't know what I'll do. Do you have any suggestions?

wally Ruehmann las vegas nv   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

move to Mexico, McCain will want to replace anyone making over 10.00 an hour, so he will be sending for more replacements, I'll take my grand kids , i was drafted for vietnam and don't want any of my family to experience the same for another senseless war.

carol in Oregon   October 31st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I managed to live through 8 years of the Bush mess. A man of no experience (you think we'd learn) and he and we didn't seem to learn anything. So I guess if experience loses again I'll be able to sign up for the walfare program Obama is planning on paying for with all the taxes he is going to collect.

Larry from Georgetown, Texas   October 31st, 2008 2:21 pm ET

We are retired and will probably need to go back to work to pay for the spiraling cost of health care, food, and gas as the tax cut under the Republicans for us would be less than 8 dollars a month and we'd have to pay taxes on our health care.

Karl in CA   October 31st, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I haven't given it much thought, but Windsor, Ontario is 60 miles from my Michigan family. I love California, but if the people in this country allow the Republicans to steal one more election, I'm out of here. They will get what they deserve. I don't deserve that. Direct deposit my SS checks to Bank of Canada, thank you.

Rose in Az   October 31st, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I am 72 years old and have voted in many elections and if the candidate that I am not voting for wins, it will be the first time in my life that I will not be proud and supportive of the President of this Country.
Not all of my picks for previous presidents have won but I have always been proud and supportive of our president, but not this time.
I leave it to you to wonder who I will be voting for.

Marc, USA - Canadian border   October 31st, 2008 2:21 pm ET

If John McCain were to steal this election I'll move across the border into Canada. I couldn't handle 4 more years of listening to Senator McFib and his unqualified sidekick.

Joseph   October 31st, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Hi Jack,
If Obama wins, I will put back my money in the stock market.
If McCain wins, I will prepare for gloomy days.

John in Arizona   October 31st, 2008 2:22 pm ET

If my candidate, Barack Obama, should lose I will probably move to Europe, where the citizenry is more educated, so I could watch the disastrous decline of the United States from afar.

eeclay Atlanta Ga   October 31st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Jack; wow that will be a hard one if Obama don't win I'm moving out of the USA

Rodney of Frankfort, Kentucky   October 31st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

It will be 4 more years of the last 8 years.

Janet, American Abroad   October 31st, 2008 2:24 pm ET

As am American living in Canada, if Obama wins I might move back, but if he doesn't, WELL, I will have an open house to welcome all my fellow Americans!

Mark Austin TX   October 31st, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I will be quite down if Obama loses. I think this country will lose all hope if McCain wins.

Nancy, Tennessee   October 31st, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Life goes on no matter who the rest of the country thinks should be President. If the Democrats lose this one, it will be a long four years until we try again. I will be older, poorer, and maybe still alive.

Raphael in New York   October 31st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Please, I hate to think of the worst if Obama is elected President - high taxes, meeting with other leaders of countries that hate us, and throwing in the towel in iraq. Of course, he may work out if he spends another 12 years working in Congress - 4 years with McCain as President, and another 8 years with Palin as our leader. I agree with Joe the Plumber and so many others with brains that McCain is our only hope to realizing a stable economy and respect among other nations.

MaryJane   October 31st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

As a 20 + years naturalized citizen, I'd move back to my home country if McCain wins. I cannot let my sons be drafted – they're only 2 and 13 right now. If they choose to serve in the military I'll support them, but to be forced to fight a dumb war, I worry deeply.

Dennis North Carolina   October 31st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

My life will not change much because I'm 63 yrs old and the few years I may have left only a world depression or world war could make a change, the ones, I worry for are my children and their children may not have a good life in their future.

Scott - Wichita, Kansas   October 31st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

My candidate CANT lose. I don't have one! I really don't care which screw-up wins, politicians can't fix anything, just make them worse, regardless of party.

linda n carolina   October 31st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Jack; I will weep for my country...for what might have been had we not let the fear and hate rule our decisions. It was our chance to show the world that we could sit with our distractors and work for a common good . This time we come with goodwill and not some secret agenda to make them be like us.That we could acknowledge their religion and their way of life as not something we would destroy but we would all use our common problems to make a better world for everyone. Please America this is our time, our chance to really change things.

Janette,Texas   October 31st, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I made a prediction in 2000 Jack that when Bush gets done
with us we'll be fighting the homeless for space under
the bridge.That's whats gonna happen if Obama loses!

David,San Bernardino,CA.   October 31st, 2008 2:28 pm ET

My wife and I will move to the Philippines.

Lorenzo in Atlanta   October 31st, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Great question Jack,

If McCain wins then Hooray! I will not have to worry about borrowing money to send my children to college. McCain, Palin, as well as Bush, show that you can be as dumb as a bucket of wet rocks and still become President and Vice President. I'll just tell my daughter to graduate at least the bottom 5th of her class, put on some fashion glasses, and wink while saying 'You betcha'. Don't answer any questions, but take a lot of pictures and surely you'll be able to get into the White House.

Sherrol in Canada   October 31st, 2008 2:29 pm ET

I have become such a political junky, that when it's all over I'll be going through withdrawal, thank god I can be cured for free (LOL). I've noticed that many folks commented about packing up & moving to Canada, weeellll come on down! This is what we live every day:

1) UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE (no medical bills piling up in our mail)
2) Regulations on our version of Wall St
3) Drinking age is 19 (and we don't abuse it)
4) Fair & non fraudlent elections, every province (state) runs the federal election by the same rules

...and lots, lots more!!!

Tom in Desoto Texas   October 31st, 2008 2:31 pm ET

If Obama loses it will be a good time to go to Alaska and be without television or newspapers, from all I've seen it's worked well for Palin. I have no desire to see more of the last 8 years.

Dawn   October 31st, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Just the same old same old. I'm 72 with an income of 16,000 a year. I pay a $400 mortgage each month. I don't think I fit in with the middle class as far as income, but I pay taxes and interest on my mortgage just like everyone else.

Casey | Sebastopol, CA   October 31st, 2008 2:31 pm ET

He won't. I voted for Obama/Biden. But when McCain loses, this country will have a lot less hate and lies filling the airwaves.

Annie Kraft Naples FL   October 31st, 2008 2:32 pm ET

on to anywhere but here

George S., New York   October 31st, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Europeans will thing we are losers and next time I am in Europe no girl is gonna give me a chance.

Morad from Stamford CT   October 31st, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Jack, if my candidate doesn't win, I will start saving to survive the next recession.

Paul from Parry Sound, Ontario   October 31st, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Several people have said they would move to Canada id McCain wins. They would be welcome in my neighbourhood, and house prices here are a third of what they are in Toronto.

Steve in Milford,MA   October 31st, 2008 2:35 pm ET

If Barack Obama loses, it will be the end for anything remotely resembling a prosperous America. I have half-jokingly told my family that we would sell the house and move to Toronto. That is, if I can sell the house. The more I think about the prospect, the less I laugh. I would have to seriously think about leaving the country, at least for the next 4 years.

The dirty campaign McCain has run makes it very hard for me to support him as president if, God help us, he does win.

Robert, Detroit   October 31st, 2008 2:35 pm ET

My candidate already lost... I joined the revolution and voted for Ron Paul!

Judy, Exeter, Calif,   October 31st, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I cried when Kerry lost in 2004, because I knew then we were in a great deal of trouble. I will not only cry if Obama loses, but my husband and I have actually talked about moving out of the country. We are near retirement age and do not make rash decisions. After two years of hope, and to see McCain win will be too much for us.

jyll from TEXAS   October 31st, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I'm still holding my breath for the "October" surprise or a "swiftboat surprise" that would derail Obama's campaign for some crazy reason or other...after all it's the last day of October and Halloween...Trick or Treat Jack!!!!

richard a. winkler   October 31st, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Drastically. If McCain wins I am moving to another country. I cannot take anymore of what Bush started.

Melanie in IA   October 31st, 2008 2:39 pm ET

My taxes will go up since I have an employer sponsored health care plan, social security will end up in the crapper since McCain wants to get his hands on that fund. The rich will get richer and those of us in the the middle class will continue to loose ground all while we stay at war in Iraq until we win, not sure what we win, but win.

Brady   October 31st, 2008 2:39 pm ET

My life really won't change much if my candidate loses. I would prefer to keep my vote private, but I won't move to Canada if my candidate loses. I will respect the winner as the President of the United States, even if I may disagree with him.

Brady from Columbus, Ohio

Diane Glasser   October 31st, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I will never be able to retire if McCain gets into office and I will lose all my savings.

Nuwan   October 31st, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I think I will be ok for a while. But if McCain wins a lot of people will suffer before it starts to affect me.

- Nuwan from Houston, TX

Aaron- Chicago, Illinois   October 31st, 2008 2:39 pm ET

If McCain wins it shows that people are ignorant and buy into McCain's personal attacks on Obama. What's great about Obama is that he's trying to get away from making personal attacks. McCain brought up the Will Ayers association, but Obama didn't bring up McCain's association with Gordon Liddy. If McCain wins im moving to Iraq.

David Natchez Mississippi   October 31st, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Since I am voteing for Obama I can't see how this will happen.

Steven (Illinois)   October 31st, 2008 2:40 pm ET

If John McCain becomes president and Sarah Palin has to take over God forbid something ever happens to McCain, I will likely flee the country.

Chris, Olean, NY   October 31st, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Jack, if my candidate (Obama) loses, I may follow Tina Fey and leave Earth. McCain can talk all he wants about knowing how to win wars. What war did he ever win? Is he going to start a war, say with Iran, just to show he can win one? I don't think he has the temperament or sophistication to handle a full-blown crisis. If he had been President during the Cuban missle crisis we'd all be dead.

Ryan from Indiana   October 31st, 2008 2:41 pm ET

I cannot lie. If Obama loses I will be devastated. I have never felt so motivated and inspired than I have since following Obama's rise. It has brought out a passion that I didn't know was inside of me. I don't think I will leave the country but I will feel burnt beyond belief, so much worse than when Gore or Kerry were robbed. Truly obliterated.

Sarah Louise   October 31st, 2008 2:42 pm ET

If McCain wins I think most people will be digging a nuclear bunker in their backyard's and stockpiling canned food. With his temper it won't be long before the bunkers are needed and I just want to take this opportunity to remind people.... Don't forget your can opener!

tj TAMPA   October 31st, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I'll live, but I'll be on life support for four more years, living with this Republican mess...

Malcolm - Ellicott City, Maryland   October 31st, 2008 2:47 pm ET

If Obama loses, then I think our chances of being united will be lost for a long time. Thus we will be more vunerable for destruction from within.

Janice Pound   October 31st, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I'm glad to see Canadians are offering a helping hand to what will be many desitute americans. Our SS, Health care, and Medicare, medicaid etc will all be owned by Corporate America. And since McPal believe in war as the answer to any country who smiles crooked at us the end is near for this country. Some of our cities now have more poverty than some 3rd world countries. Besides I'm sure the 3-4 countries who own us lock, stock and barrel will shut us down!

JR in Norfolk VA   October 31st, 2008 2:59 pm ET

If Obama becomes president, I guess I will start to say goodbye to my individual freedoms as I turn my life over to Nanny Government. I'll be angry at first, but eventually the re-education will cause me to lose any shred of pride in my country and with it, the will to resist.

Prepare to be assimilated...

Jeff (Roanoke, VA)   October 31st, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Jack...
If Obama looses this election and we end up with another 4 years like the past 8... I will move to Mexico.

Roy - Chicago IL   October 31st, 2008 3:00 pm ET

If McCain wins, I will pay more for my now-taxed healthcare coverage if I can still afford it; I will watch my retirement money go to Exxon-Mobil in tax breaks; I will watch needed federal programs be scrapped to allocate more money to the eternal war; and i will continue to watch the offices of President and Vice President be a sad joke.

Jim Hart   October 31st, 2008 3:02 pm ET

If my candidate loses, I will be packing my bags for Europe. A McCain presidency is a declaration by the American people that they are not ready to join the world community, and prefer to continue to set out on their own. The USA will be a ship without a rudder, and the commander-in-chief screaming, "Full speed ahead!" A McCain win will demonstrate a continued divergence from European countries, a nation that will contract (or implode) in upon itself as it refuses to dialogue with any other nation whose ideological or religious beliefs differ from McCain, of myopic views with political infighting between parties that are split, and further movement towards an ultra-conservative way of life.

ken gifford az   October 31st, 2008 3:02 pm ET

the RICH will get more of my income and benefits.

Garnet, Corning, OH   October 31st, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Jack, my life won't change that much per say, as we are both retired and disabled, but my country wll soon be a third world country with those people in charge. My children and grandchildren will not know what a free America really is, because the rest of our constitution and bill-of-rights will be destroyed with these republicans. And we will never again have any integrity around the world. And Barack won't lose unless everybody has to use the voting machines, period.

Mike Ryan   October 31st, 2008 3:06 pm ET

I won’t vote again if Obama looses this election. Because it will be known for sure that there was vote rigging. Only way I’ll vote again if they change the whole voting system to the same good old casting system. That system was tempered proof.
Mike
Snellville, GA

Dennis, Cleveland ,Ohio   October 31st, 2008 3:06 pm ET

If OBAMA looses, we will see the further separation of the ARISTOCRACY and the POOR. The Middle Class will eventually VANISH!

Paula NY   October 31st, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Move back to Canada....

Jim/Greensboro   October 31st, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Mark-Asheville comments are virtually the only comments that make sense. I, too, will be glad when this race is over. In addition, I truly hope that Obama wins. Let's just see how the media handles this the enormous mistake of backing an inexperienced man that does not have any record at all!! As an American, I will pull for him to bring us out of the ditch. But it will take an experienced equipment operator to do that...GOOD LUCK!!

Sam p   October 31st, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Obama is the loser that isn't able to get a security clearence as I understand; couldn't get re-elected to his only term where he didn't show up except in Africa.

McCain is a clone of bushy boy, but can either change one thing?

Since my citizenship is in Heaven am I qualified to vote with no pick and no selection from which to chose – cast lots.

Dave in MO   October 31st, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I will live everyday terrified because we have elected Obama the most Liberal, unqualified, anti Israel candidate of all time President! God help us all!

Viki from Canada   October 31st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Obama will win and the entire world will be partying!

Ted-toronto,Canada   October 31st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

If Obama losses, I will need grief counseling, followed by looking for waysI can leave the planet. The election of Barrack Obama, would be the greatest chance since John Kennedy for a second Camelot,hope prosperity, & a chance to repair America's damaged image, worldwide. The opposite side of the coin, means more small minded devise leadership, world riducule, worsening of the current economic crisis. The thought to the rest of the world that approximately 45% of America could elect a president with Sarah Palin on the ticket is unimagineable. No other country on earth would allow someone of her low intellect to run for such an important office.

Connie   October 31st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

I truly believe if McCain wins – he will have to bring back the draft with all of his and Govenor Palin's talk of war

Mary - California   October 31st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Happy Halloween Jack:
Not everyone will be happy for the candidate that wins, and the candidate that does not win. Life has to go on, whether we like it or not. We would like to think that the best person would win and be able to lead this country out of it's mess. And no, I will not be so upset that I would leave the country, if my candidate does not win.

Raoul - Lake City, SC   October 31st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

If Obama loses, life for me really won't change much since John McCain is a clone of George Bush and by now I'm used to it. I just hope that those who voted for McCain, who actually would have benefitted had they voted for Obama, realize the monumental mistake they made. I know it's harsh to say but I hope they suffer and suffer hard as I and millions like me have under George Bush. Unfortunately by then it will have been too late.

Terry in Fayetteville, NC   October 31st, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I will either have to adopt the "law of the jungle" or leave this lawless country that the neocons have created.

Jessica   October 31st, 2008 3:13 pm ET

McCain will be more likely dead before his term is over and Palin takes over and leads us into the gate of Hell.

Steve in Utah   October 31st, 2008 3:13 pm ET

If Barack Obama lost I would start researching which country was the best place for me and my wife because I couldn't stand living in a country with people who got it wrong three times in a row despite all the evidence to the contrary. I grew up believing America was the role model for the world and we have been anything but that during the last 8 years. The country I love does not torture others under any circumstance. The country I love takes care of its people rather than ripping them off because of corporate greed. Somehow Obama came along at the perfect time because he is the only politician anywhere that has a chance to correct these horrible problems and to turn around America's image in the world.

Janet & charles Michel   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

I have heard If MCCain wins there will be a revalution in this country. My family would move to another country . Perhaps Canada.
THank you

Steve in Pensacola   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

I'm not sure how it would change my life exactly, but being an Obama supporter, and based on all the evidence I've seen, his losing the election would mean that hate-mongering, racism, bigotry, divisive politics, blatant political lying and bullying, suppression of voter's rights and partisan manipulation of the voting process were able to silence the collective majority voice of the American people.

George in Florida   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

If Obama wins, I'll have a 1 shot of Ouzo that I got from Greece to celebrate.

If McCain wins, I'm probably going to drink the entire bottle and then enter a 12 step program on dealing with loss....

Butch Phelps   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Jack, if Obama loses nothing will change very much. Th economy will continue to falter as we bail out the super wealthy, we will continue to purchase oil at record levels, the war will continue and even grow, and the Republicans will continue to scare the hell out of us so we will continue to vote for them. Remember, nothing scares people more than change.

Chryssa   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

If my candidate loses, my life won't change. And that's what's so scary.

Boise, ID

Kevin, Chester Springs PA   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

If Obama loses, I will move to Washington DC and dedicate my life to making sure McCain lives out his full term.

Conor in Chicago   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

I'll say this much: If my candidate loses (Obama-more a vote against Republicans) and there is significant evidence of voter suppresion and voter fraud from the GOP representitives in swing states there will be chaos. After having two in a role stolen from them the Democrats have tried and waited patiently for 8 years to see if the Constitution could really stand up to the test and remain the essential document that sets the stage for fair elections. If it is determened by millions of people that the Constitution, and therefore American Democracy, has been hijacked a 3rd time, well let's just say it will end in Martial Law. I fully expect the Republicans will be happy about that-it's easier to institute the draft.

Aimee, STL, Missouri   October 31st, 2008 3:15 pm ET

I will want a recount if Obama loses. And unfortunately in several key states there is no paper trail to recount. If McCain wins I will have lost faith in the American government and the American dream. A man who only puts himself first is not a man to put your faith in.

Hugh coldwar vet from California   October 31st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Jack,
I think everyone in this country will have lost a golden opportunity to elect a great leader, who could have rescued us out of a gloomy financial crisis, given us affordable health care, help create new jobs, and bring our brave soldiers home from the war in Iraq.

For me personally, our 401K will be gone, and my wife and I will be unable to retire, so we can forget about the golden years. Despite the fact that my wife has always been very health concious, she has numerous health problems, and has to take costly medications, and she's insulin dependent. If we can't get affordable prescription drug coverage we could lose our home. McCain will do nothing to help us; Barack Obama will.

Alma in Boston, MA   October 31st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

All I can say is that I am in the same boat as most of the people who have posted comments, as I belong to the middle-class. I will vote for Senators Obama/Biden because I believe he will make the changes which are needed to restore America. I would definely consider moving to another country like Mexico or Canada if the election is stolen again. I have voted since 2000 and have been very dissapointed with the results but I will continue to vote because I believe in the principle of voting.

Things have gone from bad to worse for me since the economy tanked and I think the changes Senators Obama/Biden will bring will not take effect immediately but there will be a light at the ensd of the tunnel.

The economy will worsen, I will probably loose my home and my 401K and I will never believe in the garbage McCain/Palin will try to feed us. I am anxious and I can't wait until November 5th, 2008.

By the way I just love the chemistry between Senator Obama and Senator Biden; I see them as the father and grandfather...of America!

George S. - Florida   October 31st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

If McCain wins, I'll be looking for employment opportunities overseas...

haley - ILLINOIS   October 31st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

We will be in a depression. We can't make it on 4 more years of the same. God help our country if they do get in.

lynnej   October 31st, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Basically, I 'll feel that there is no common sense left in this country if McCain wins and we'll be a third world country within the next 10 years.

During that time, I'll have to grin and bear it and hope I come into some money where I can say good bye to silliness that this country has become. Toronoto seems like a safe bet.

Mary Ann (Paris, France)   October 31st, 2008 3:17 pm ET

As a American who has lived in France since Nixon was in office, I have become passionate about a presidential race for the first time in 40 years. At Democrats Abroad, we've done our share to bring out the vote for Obama, phonebanking, canvassing, voter registration (without wearing our colors – we've even signed up a few Republicans).
It will be great to see Americans benefiting from the healthcare and retirement coverage that we enjoy here. Not to mention the renewal of America's esteem abroad.
If, God forbid, Obama loses, I will finally take out French nationality and will seriously ponder what to do with my US passport.

Kathie, Houston Tx   October 31st, 2008 3:18 pm ET

If, heaven forbid the McCain/Palin comedy hour gets into office my husband and I, along with our 2 children have decided to move out of the country. We are tired of the "holier than thou" Republican party and the ignorant morons that occupy it. Then we can sit back and let China, Saudi Arabia and a whole host of others take over this country as it will no longer be the United States of America. Our fore fathers are turning over in their graves right now.

Kate   October 31st, 2008 3:18 pm ET

If Obama loses, Americans must go on a 24 hour a day prayer vigil for the health of John McCain. As bad as having McCain in the White House would be, the ascendancy of the vice president would be insanity itself. Can anyone in their right mind actually imagine Palin as president? The power mongers would swoop in, eat her alive, and proceed to help themselves to our wallets for the next four years. Through their campain slogans, they have promised to help their friends the oilmen, (drill baby drill!) the bankers, (take our money, please!) and the hawks, (we won't negotiate with anyone!) and there would be no one to stop them.

Kate
Charlottesville, VA

brett mullins Phoenix,Az   October 31st, 2008 3:19 pm ET

The country will be be bankrupt. the country can't spend 250 million a day in Iraq plus almost 3 billion a day just in interest on the national debt. The debt is now 10.5 trillion.

Laura Emerson   October 31st, 2008 3:19 pm ET

No Money, No Job, no HOPE! I'm moving to France!

Tom Davies   October 31st, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Is it true that John McCain was not the only POW offered release in Vietnam? Was it a hard choice given the conditions of release?
Did he crash 4 planes during training? Was he at the bottom of his class graduating as a fighter pilot? What does his fighter pilot training attendance record show? Was he ever protected by his father's position?

Jes (State College, PA)   October 31st, 2008 3:20 pm ET

We'll have to live with four more years of Iraq, high gas prices, a still worsening economy, failed schools, more home foreclosures, health insurance that won't be affordable, and a supreme court that won't protect our right to privacy. We can't afford more of the same.

Simon in Syracuse, NY   October 31st, 2008 3:20 pm ET

The question is not if but when. Since I'm an independent, my life will continue on as always...I'll remain at the mercy of the Democans and Republicrats, and I'll continue to hope that in my lifetime that these two like-minded parties will cease to monopollize the political arena.

Nancy from Indiana   October 31st, 2008 3:20 pm ET

My candidate is Obama/Biden and if they lose I am moving to another country where the economy is good, and that has clean air and water, health care coverage for everyone, fuel efficient energy and happy people!

Susan from Texas   October 31st, 2008 3:21 pm ET

I live in Nederland, Texas and as a Democrat am used to disappointment since Texas turned red and has been gerrymandered for a permanent situation. I will be heartsick because the country has missed a rare opportunity. My life has already changed–401k wise , plus my retirement as a lowly paid teacher must be postponed for another five years, despite the fact that I am a cancer patient caring for my 90 year old father a WW II, Korean Conflict veteran. I care for him at home because he spent all his savings caring for my mother during a lengthy illness. The Bush years have meant medical bankruptcy for me, the loss of a brother working in Saudi Arabia, killed in 2002. They have been years of hardship. I pray Obama wins, as McCain has no new ideas that don't continue to reward those who don't need it. My children are loaded with college debt, work hard at companies with no insurance and my husband is uninsured, so that I can have a good plan to cope with illness. I have been dealing with life changes. What would be new? If McCain wins, I'll feel robbed and know the "fix" was in.

W B in Las Vegas   October 31st, 2008 3:21 pm ET

if McCain wins I am convinced he will steal my PBGC pension to give tax breaks to multimilloinairs just like the bosses at the airline I retired from stole my company pension through a phony bankruptcy then gave themselves multimillion dollar bonuses.

it will be "Welcome to WalMart" or "Do you want fries with that order" for me.

Willow, Iowa   October 31st, 2008 3:21 pm ET

If my choice in Presidential elections does not win, we will probably have less people in this country on health insurance, the recession will continue for a longer period of time, the new cold war will be just as scarey as the last, and the wars will continue for many years, until McCain decides its safe to leave. and that will be when we are completely out of money. We'll all get by. I'm old enough to know that there is a cycle of better and worse. I may end up plowing my entire back yard for a garden to live off of. and walking and biking to work. but we will all get by.

Robert Prescott   October 31st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Jack,

Heaven help us all if McCain/Palin win. I'll be lucky if I'm able to maintain the status quo (which isn't all that great right now). I believe Colin Powell when he speaks about this being a transformation election. McCain is NOT a transformational candidate. For more years of this??? America, wake up and smell the coffee.

Robert

North Port, Florida

Doug - Dallas   October 31st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Based on the comments here, it looks like the population of Canada is going to increase by at least a 1/3 if McCain wins. Better learn to say EH!

Brian from Fort Mill, SC   October 31st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

If Barack Obama loses, then that means that I have been dreaming for the last two years, and I woke up to find that I'm actually a citizen of Russia.

The good news is, I can see Alaska from my house!!

Joe in VA   October 31st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

When Obama wins, I'm clinging to my Bible and my guns.

Joe in VA
Chatham, VA

Maria, Austin, TX   October 31st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

i'll probably get depressed for a year.

terry lickel, scottsdale AZ   October 31st, 2008 3:24 pm ET

if obama loses, i'm heading off to the carribean.............as my good friend jimmy buffett said
"come back, come back, back to jamaica, don't you know, we made a big mistaka"..........which is what a mccain win would be

Al in Tacoma, WA   October 31st, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Borrowed quote: "I will leave this planet"

Dave in Atlanta   October 31st, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I will continue the spiritually happy life that I lead today! my glass is always half full and never half empty.

Vinny Connecticut   October 31st, 2008 3:26 pm ET

If Obama becomes Pres (God help us all!) the US will become a second rate, socialist, Marxist leaning country. Obama will tax everyone to pay for his $1 trillion in spending and will gut the military. Obama has absolutely no experience (he's been running for Pres for 2 years!) It seems like so many people are mesmerized by his speeches which are written for him which he reads off a teleprompter. If elected, we will get to see the REAL Obama. Again, God help us all!

Giorgia, CA   October 31st, 2008 3:37 pm ET

If McCain wins I would probably have to change job, since Gov. Palin doesn't believe in basic research.

Doug in New Mexico   October 31st, 2008 3:41 pm ET

If McCain wins it will mean that a lot of Democrats did not vote and it will mean that I will end my life in my retirement years in the poor house.

John - Cary, North Carolina   October 31st, 2008 3:43 pm ET

I will loose faith in the American people's judgement if McCain wins. I believe that if Barack Obama were white he would win all 50 states with the incredible campaign he has run and the decent individual he is. I can't bear to think that the people of the country I love would sacrifice our future for petty prejudice. I am sure I'd be anti-depressents by January 22nd.

Deb in Colo   October 31st, 2008 3:46 pm ET

I'll probably lose my job, Jack. The tech jobs in Colorado are already being sent to India and South America. I don't see that changing under McCain.

e.j.mohammed Washington state   October 31st, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I f my candidate loses Jack I will be so disappointed in the American people who profess to be Christian and open minded! My candidate is the one of vision and hope for the future a person that will only come once! Someone with heart and spirit of conviction, calm in the face of a storm. Our founding fathers would be in awe of a man so passionate about this country and the Constitution in which they conceived! As you can tell I too am passionate about our country and the future President shall it be Barack Obama!
If it not be Obama for President my life will change, my hopes for this country will fade again! This country that means so much to me and meant so much to our founding fathers will never be able to find another like my candidate!

Elle from Pullman, WA   October 31st, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I will be terrified if Obama loses and McCain wins the white house. We already struggle to pay for healthcare for my kids, I worry I'll lose my small business due to the poor economy and high taxes, and just the thought of Sarah Palin potentially stepping in to run the country is frightening. That's a scary question to ask, even on Halloween Jack!

Frank, Pickerington Ohio   October 31st, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Columbus dispatch endorsed McCain, I dropped my subscription. If the country – my fellow citizens, elect McCain, I will drop my citizenship in this country, period. I will do everything possible to avoid all tax liabilities to extricate myself from this already bankrupt society, and live out my life somewhere else. Enough is enough.

James in TN   October 31st, 2008 3:49 pm ET

If MCcain wins, I'm not hholding my breath that it will get better and i will brace myself for a disappoiting 4 more years.

Sarah, 22 -Illinois   October 31st, 2008 3:49 pm ET

If Obama loses, First: I'll cry. Second: I'll become angry. Third: I'll assess my options in regards to moving to another country. This is not to say the electing Obama will magically solve all of the nation's problems (he's going to need some help from Congress, amongst others to accomplish those tasks) but I just don't feel like a McCain presidency will create an environment in which I want to live and raise a family. It's sad that things have come to this.

Ron in Indiana   October 31st, 2008 3:49 pm ET

If Obama loses, I am moving to Canada. My wife wants to go to Europe. If Obama loses, I am going to miss my wife. I refuse to stay in a country that is purposely being destroyed by a political party. It isnt McCain we are trying to avoid, it is another 4 years of the republican party in general. Our country can not survive a McCain win.

Jeff in Conncticut   October 31st, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Worse Jack. Much, much worse.

Vote Obama!!!!!

Reggie, Atlanta   October 31st, 2008 3:54 pm ET

If Mccain is elected... I'll cash in my chips and walk away.

Deb Minnesota   October 31st, 2008 3:54 pm ET

If McCain wins. God help us all. I will never listen or watch Palin & McCain. Ill have to wait another 4 years for change for the better. It will be the 3rd time in a row that I have voted & the election will have been stolen. How much lower will us go if McCain & Palin get into office.

Sally Saffer, Atlanta, GA   October 31st, 2008 3:58 pm ET

If McCain- Palin win, I'm packing up and heading for Alaska - the one place she won't be!

Joe Rogers   October 31st, 2008 3:59 pm ET

I won't touch this hypthetical....just wanted to see if this, like most all

of my comments (except one that was actually USED, and thank you

for that one) gets assessed for moderation.

Joe Rogers   October 31st, 2008 4:02 pm ET

LOL, I thought so. So even a "non-anwer" comment sometimes

awaits "Moderation".

Paul S. Columbia, SC   October 31st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

When Clinton and Gore were in office, I kept fresh batteries in my remote to avoid the possibility of being unable to mute or change channels in a heartbeat. It will feel like the 90s again.

Joe Rogers   October 31st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

So much for "moderation", hope the staff isn't tied up too much on this one, thanks for an enjoyable afternoon!

TakeAmericaBarack   October 31st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Simple, moving to Ireland before the country falls apart.
C-Ya.

Tony Illinois   October 31st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

If Obama doesn't win, I assume that after a few weeks of deep depression, I'll pick myself up and launch my own campaign to convince people to stop lying to themselves about this country.

Rico (Orlando)   October 31st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

My Person will not lose

Walter Durham Yucca,Arizona   October 31st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Reporting today Obama's starting polling in Arizona I saw commercials on TV here for three weeks and robo calls so he is lieing along with his own tv channel 73 on my satalite.Please reply.

Jayden R.   October 31st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Well, if obama loses I dnt really think much will change in the economy and that's not good but still not the worse part, I think if obama doesn't get elected I fear for all our soilders in iraq I'm a ex marine so it hits close to him when I see my brothers getting killed over an unecessary war.I think it would be horrible for me financially and emotionally
Riverside CA

Jessica   October 31st, 2008 4:15 pm ET

I'm moving to Wasila and run for mayor

Dvolk   October 31st, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Due to such negativity and stirring up of the racists by the Republican party , I'll worry on a daily basis that things will stay calm when Obama wins. There will be no peace since the Republicans have made all the far right wing think negative thoughts about our new president Obama. It's a sad state of affairs in this country from a large number of American's that are so worked up negativly by the Republican party.

noureddine dalil   October 31st, 2008 4:19 pm ET

It is very scary . MY answer is I will never vote again for the rest of my life until some president like Obama comes in to be one . But I think Obama will win in a land slide on tuesday . Regardeless because the big riggers of election that gave Bush the elction are not very satisfy with McCain. the bad guys are on Obama's side this time they won't rigg the election .
I will stay put until I have a decision on tuesday . It is impossible that Mccain wins impossible!!!!! Obama is too strong .

Chuck B Coastal NC   October 31st, 2008 4:19 pm ET

I just hope we have a fair election without anything funny goings on (ie: 2000 & 2004 elections and the GOP).

andrea from MA   October 31st, 2008 4:19 pm ET

i did leave the country for the first 4 years of bush !!!!!!! i taught english in the czech republic. i think venezuela will look good to me if obama does not win the POTUS !!!!!!!!! the weather is warm in SA !!!!!!!!!!!

June_from_Jax   October 31st, 2008 4:19 pm ET

I'm with you Sarah, my heart will sink, and my life will never be the same. I will spend the rest of my life thinking about how America passed-up an opportunity to have a dynamic, intelligent commander-in-chief.......instead picking a man that ran a deceptive, racially slurring, risk taking, unstable, undignified campaign. I will spend the next four years fighting hard to make sure America grows-up and opens their arms to Senator Obama in 2012. My stomach will hurt until Senator Obama is declaired the winner; I'll be able to breathe again.

Suzy in Indy   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

first I will be profoundly saddened that we didn't choose the smartest man for the job. Then very nervous that trigger-happy old man & rifle totin' vp are in charge of our great country

Laura Chase, Wasilla, AK   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

What people don't understand, Jack, is that for Sarah it has always been about power and adoration. She will never give up. In 1996 while we were working on her first mayoral campaign, I told her she would be governor in 10 years, she replied "I don't want to be governor, I want to be President." Look how close she has already come to achieving that goal. Nope. She will never give up.

Tony (Michigan)   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

I'm voting for Obama, but if he loses nothing will change. McCain is the standard bearer for keeping things going as they are now. And that's the scariest thing- 4 more years of catering to big business and the top 5% and no end in sight in Iraq. America is the greatest nation in the world and can withstand a lot, but America cannot withstand more terrible leadership in the White House.

D.J.Lauter   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

I will be scared stiff if McCain is president. His temper will make enemies all around the world. He has no right to be in charge of anything.
Doris
Ojai, California

Sherri from Canada   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

If Barack Obama loses, welcome to all those moving to Canada! We totally understand....

Bob   October 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Well, if Obama wins, I'm not getting a tax cut. It's not going to change my life. The stock market could change my life more than my canidate losing the White House.

Lee from FL   October 31st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

i think what will change if McCain wins will be the suicide rate.
unlike the economy,that rate would be going up.
people are jobless,homeless and penniless.
can you imagine 12 years of bush economics?

Jerry   October 31st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Jack, it means another 4 years of not putting my flag up in protest, After 8 years, its time to put my flag up again. Jerry, Iowa

Nissim Sasson San Diego CA   October 31st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Probably if Mccain wins will change for the worst couse the country will be going in the same bad direction or even worst
If Obama wins ta least there is hope that the Country will Improve

Lisa   October 31st, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Unfortunately it won't change for the better, and I will be praying that McCain doesn't croak, so we don't have the #1 most incompetent airhead taking his place! Lisa

Jacqueline Mongeot   October 31st, 2008 4:37 pm ET

It will be a sad day for me, especially when thinking that at the age of 84 this election might be the last one in which I can participate. I have so much hope for a change, not only for me but my children, grand children and great grand child. and for the rest of the country..I am sure that I will continue to be an activist as I have been for the past few years.
Jacqueline
San Diego. CA

Jason in MA   October 31st, 2008 4:47 pm ET

The problem is that my life won't change if McCain wins...

kristi- washington state   October 31st, 2008 4:47 pm ET

If McCain wins I will be burned for a third time and I will not trust the system. It would be easy to go to Canada to live and ski my worries away. But I think I would stay and root for Hillary to finish the McCains off.

Nancy Hickman   October 31st, 2008 5:08 pm ET

It really scares me to think of John McCain winning. I'm afraid I will be a very depressed person if he wins. And there goes the sales increases for the drug companies, sellin anti-depressiant medicine for many people.

Mark Lovett   October 31st, 2008 5:10 pm ET

If Obama loses I am going to become a monk.

Tom   October 31st, 2008 5:10 pm ET

The issue is that my life will not change if my candidate loses. If McCain wins, my life will stay the same as it currently is under Bush's presidency and that is something that I and other Americans like me cannot bear much longer.

Jennifer F., Charlottesville, VA   October 31st, 2008 5:10 pm ET

I don't know what I'll do if Obama loses. I cried when Bush beat Kerry, and I am more involved in this election than the last. Beyond the concern over what happens if Obama loses, what'll I do when I don't have daily polls and political updates. I think I am going to go into election withdrawal.

Bebop   October 31st, 2008 5:20 pm ET

If Obama loses and all these people leave.............who's gonna be here to vote for Hillary in 2012?

Darrin   October 31st, 2008 5:20 pm ET

I'll move to another country. The thought of Sarah Palin in the white house is a nightmare I would never be able to live with.

Mick Hamden CT   October 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

If we can believe the polls, the question applies to the McCain fans. What worries me is they're the ones with the guns.

Lucious   October 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Devastating!!! To say the least. The way I see. As a voter and a personal that is at all famaliar with the economics or foreign affairs, I think you only have one choice. You can either change the way we do things in this country to adjust to changes in the world. Or.....we elect the little brother of the guy who has been the front runner in getting us in this mess. The real question is if McCain wins which countries have the most liberal immigration laws. Unless you are worht $100 million or better is the only way you will be able to afford to live here.4 years from now countries like Ethiopia will be sending us foreign aid.

Darrel McGuire   October 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

How will my life change? America will have taken the test of judging a man by the content of his character and not the color of his skin which Dr. King wrote for it and failed. I will have to look at my son who believes that he lives in a different America and tell that he does not after all.

Darrel
Marietta, GA

Martin Hester   October 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

If Obama is elected, my family will cut back business expansion plans, and will in fact close one location. Jobs will be lost, as there is no desire to expand and expose capital risk with the efforts going to "new taxes".

Neil   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

If McCain wins things will stay the same for me. I will be considered an unpatriotic, lazy, low life, not deserving of citizenship in the "Greatest Country on Earth". In truth, exactly the opposite is true. There is room under the Democratic tent for Republicans, but they have no room in their mansion for us.

Le Agar   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Jack,
It depends on how long McCain would be in office and his wonderful health. God forbid.......Well all bets are off if its President Palin

Katharine Tanksley   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I have been telling people that they better not whip themselves into such a state that they are determined to hate and undermine the president elect if he is not one of their choosing. With all the problems facing this country whoever is elected will need all of our support. We need to work together or nothing will be accompllished.

Debbie   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Are you kidding? McCain's back-door taxation, the taxing of health care benefits, will severely affect not just me, but the rest of the lucky ones who do have a job with benefits. Plus, my anxiety over Palin being one step from the Presidency will, if not giving me ulcers, preclude the necessity of being on a anti-anxiety medication like Xanax.

Jerry Citizen living outside U.S.   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Great perspective from living outside the U.S.
If McCain/Palin win the U.S. will continue on its destructive path of the last 8 years. Which will just lead to the U.S. becoming more and more of a second class nation. That would than make me happier to be living outside the U.S.
Why do Great Nations always have to repeat history?

Toni Roberts   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

If MY candidate loses, nothing will change in my life; it will just keep spiralling down into the abyss, the same way it has been for the last eight years! I don't have much money and what I have is buying less and less; but over the months, I have donated almost a thousand dollars to the Obama campaign...MY campaign, to change MY life for the better!

Tom Batterson-Ecton   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

If Obama loses, our family will be one step further from legal recognition. My partner, Mark, and I recently adopted our son, Gavin, and McCain has stated numerous times that he is opposed to gay adoption. I can't help feeling that even the most basic public validation of our family is at stake. The fact that we were forced to leave our country and travel to Canada just to marry legally is shameful for the U.S., a country that prides itself on civil equality.
Can you imagine explaining to your child that it's illegal for his parents to get married? Think of your parents telling you that their government doesn't believe they have the right to be married.

Tom
Seattle, WA

Curtis   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

If my candidate doesn't win then I will seek citizenship in another country. Obama's loss would just prove that the best candidate can't win in a Eurocentric xenophobic nation such as the U.S. if he is Black. Ironically as an American I can be successful abroad regardless of race. If my candidate doesn't win I probably would embrace Garvey and praise Rev. Wright.

Kevin-Oil City, PA   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I'll probably have to move out of the country if McCain should win, to avoid the bread lines.

Jerry Genesio   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Bush stole the election in 2000, aided and abetted by the Supreme Court, and he stole it again in 2004, aided and abetted by the Swiftboat crowd. I've been struggling ever since with a severe case of cynicism. If Obama loses this one, I'll be convinced that the Republican oligarchy has finally succeeded in turning the US into another Banana Republic. Guess I'll hunker down to wait for the inevitable revolution.

Jerry
Wilmington, NC

Zak- Missouri   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I think that if Obama loses there will be much less of a chance that there will be the fundamental changes that must be made in this country. I think that if McCain becomes president we will stay in the stagnant cycle of economic downturns and and no progress as it has been for the last 8 years.

Alma, Jacksonville, FL   October 31st, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I would leave the planet with Tina Fey. The idea of Republicans being in the White House for 4 more years keeps me up at night.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About this blog

Jack Cafferty sounds off hourly on the Situation Room on the stories crossing his radar. Now, you can check in with Jack online to see what he's thinking and weigh in with your own comments online and on TV.

Send your comments on the "Cafferty File".

Jack's Book

Jack Cafferty: It's Getting Ugly Out ThereJack Cafferty is the author of a new book, "Now or Never: Getting Down to the Business of Saving Our American Dream," now available.

Read excerpts about Jack's battle with alcoholism and Jack's philosophy on parenting.


CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room by downloading this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news including dispatches from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

Powered by WordPress.com VIP