Suffering from primary election fatigue?
(PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES) Click the play button to see what Jack and our viewers had to say.
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The presidential primary campaign has been going strong for 14 months now – it just seems longer – and there don't seem to be many signs, especially on the Democratic side, that it will be over any time soon.
At the beginning of 2007, people were lining up to run for president. At the height of the silliness, we had a total of 18 candidates between the Democrats and Republicans. There are still four major candidates in the running… although the argument could be made that after tomorrow there should only be two.
The voters have been through dozens of primaries and caucuses, as well as dozens of debates. There are the countless mind-numbing TV reports and armies of correspondents and pundits tripping over each other all around the country in the race to come up with something profound. Mostly they don't.
Millions of us have been bombarded with TV commercials, fliers, mailings, pleas for donations, e-mails and phone calls from the candidates and their supporters.
Russia got a new president in about 8 minutes: Vladimir Putin picked his guy, said let's vote, they voted, and he's in. We're not suggesting that's the way it ought to be done here because God only knows what President Bush would come up with…
Here’s my question to you: How can you tell if you’re suffering from primary election fatigue?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Nick writes:
Instead of counting sheep at night, I find myself counting delegates.
Sabrina from Las Vegas writes:
When you actually want to spend more time with your family.
Dustin writes:
Your wife no longer accepts a simple denial that you have the toilet seat up, but rather insists that you both denounce and reject said action.
Emily from Richmond, Kentucky
When you look forward to a presidential press conference.
Dave from Portland, Oregon writes:
I know I have primary fatigue if I no longer find Cafferty's comments on the primaries incisive and amusing… it hasn't happened yet.
Eric writes:
When I get home from work and turn on MTV instead of CNN.
Yvonne from Charleston, South Carolina writes:
When you can recite a candidate's stump speech better than he or she can, you know you've had enough.
Matt from O'Fallon, Missouri writes:
When you find delegate math on random notepads and sticky notes all around the house.
Michael from Fort Wayne, Indiana writes:
Jack, Thank you for defining it as 'primary election fatigue', I thought I had the flu.
Greg from Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania writes:
I know I have Primary Election Fatigue when I look into the mirror to shave my face and I see you looking back at me.
A. writes:
I know I have it! I am having nightmares of Hillary tripping around over Bill to get to that phone at 3:00 in the morning. The person calling asks to speak to Obama.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Jack. Hmm, to put it very blunt, when you turn on the TV and you see more of the same ol stuff, turn the TV off, grab a beer; murming to your self when will it end as you turn on some music.
I am a lifelong democrat have marched and called and fought for this party...and as many have been a fan of the Clintons but this primary and campaign well...
I am starting to feel like I am stuck in a republican's body because more and more I find myself thinking,
"Are these the people I praised for the past 7 years? ...I don't like them"
It's very sad to have that realization.
When I get home from work and turn on MTV instead of CNN.
every time Hillary Clinton comes on some broadcast, both my Wife and our Schnauzer bark and growl at the TV.
the only thing that sets them off even more is seeing George W Bush on TV and hearing him murder the English language. then the Schnauzer howls and soils the rug.
I lay awake at night thinking of new ways to help my candidate, It is the table conversation at dinner every night, I now make phone calls from my home in the evenings even when House is on and for once? My son and I agree on a Candidate...GO Obama!
Primemary fatigue-When board games are more fun than TV.
If Hillary in any way , shape, or fourm starts to look good you are suffering from something dreadful.
By hearing yet another buzz phrase: today we hear Hillary talk of "cleaning up" the white house , not clear what this is , mopping the floor mabey for which remedial training is needed, or firing everybody and starting over for which there is some experience. We keep asking what's it really mean? no specifics.
Freda O
Beekmantown,NY
I must be. I find myself enthusiatically watching the Cafferty Files for insight and entertainment while watching all the political nonsense on TV
My wife calls it PESD Pre-Election Stress Disorder. It's when you growl, yell, and throw objects at the TV screen. By the way, she has this disorder...but I'm only at the growling point.
Al, Lawrence KS
Some of the signs might be as follows:
You ask your wife to change her name to Hillary.
Your wife asks you to change your name to Obama.
You start to believe what politicians tell you. (That’s a very bad sign)
You sold all your real stock and just concentrate on CNN's Virtual political stocks.
You feel a compelling desire to steal political yard signs from your neighbors lawns.
CORRECTION: My previous comment should have read:
PEF (Primary Election Fatigue): Symptons include, 1) really wishing that Barak will close the door on Hillary, 2) getting that squimmy feeling whenever you hear Hillary speak, 3) noticing that John McCain is getting older by the day, 4) having the opinion that seeing Bush on CNN is a bit of a relief, 5) and… when Jack Cafferty starts looking good, you know its time to either visit a doctor or hope the primaries will soon be over.
When you're tired of listening to every news reporter and their surrogates commenting about this or that candidate and when you'd rather watch Orangutan Island, that's when I know the primary election fatigue has set in.
Bo
Vancouver, WA
You know you're suffering from primary election fatigue when someone mistakes you for Wolf Blitzer, and you punch them in the face.
I know I have it! I am having niightmares of Hillary tripping around, and over Bill to get to that phone at 3:00 in the morning. The person calling is asks to speak to Obama!!!!!!!!!!!!!
When the female candidate resorts to the Republican play book of scare the hell out of us and that will keep us in line.
Bush wants us to be afraid because we have lost critical intelligence by not having the FISA bill. Clinton wants us to be afraid of what happens when a phone rings in the White House at 3:00 am. Amazing how fast she got out of bed and got dressed and darned a pair of glasses to continue her theme of working the night shift.
I think FDR had it right. "We have nothing to fear but fear itself."
When you switch to Daffy Duck and Friends, watch it live and also tape the show for later.
I cannot understand why election in the US drag on for so long. Why is it so complex.
I am fed up of seeing the Clinton's.
Hillary Clinton is full of crap.
She doesn't know what she is talking about.
She talks about NAFTA, the info came from the canadian embassy and then the chicago consulate.
One thing is for sure the jobs in Ohio are not going to Canada, they are going to Mexico. Jobs from Canada are going to Mexico.
Jack, When you get tired of hearing Dave lettermans comments about Hillarys pant suits, but to be honest you cant help but agree with him it wouldnt hurt her to be a little more feminine and less masculine.chuck Indiana
I guess I have campaign fatigue because I look forward to American Idol almost as much as I do your sometimes silly questions.
You develop a nervous tick whenever the word debate is mention. When you close your eyes you can't tell what newscasts you are tuned into because they all describe themselves as the best ever. When the political talk shows on Sunday seems like reruns of shows before. You have to search the Internet for news about the Iraq and Afghanistan war. You stop watching the news and start watching Nick at night.
I know I am suffering primary election fatigue now because I no what to expect everytime from your questions before I even read them. Biased irritating questions. I will say it again, you have offended half of the population with your biased questions during these elections. More then likely I will always hold a grudge. You need a vacation, please take one.
This is lke watching the 9th season of a show you really loved; Its over, you know its over, they know its over but they just keep puting out new episodes and you've already come this far so you just have to keep watching until you get to that sason finale.
Please pull the plug on this phase tomorrow TX, OH, RI, and VT voters!
Adrienne
New York
I`m not burned out yet. I`m having a good time with it. When I watch the events unfold, it isn`t always what I want to see and hear, but that is what keeps me coming back for more. Jack, I`m sure we are not backing the same candidate, but that`s good. If we were, then your questions would not get me fired up. I can`t get excited about things when I am in totall agreement with someone. Thanks for giving all of us political junkies a place to participate.
My house is a mess, I cook prepared foods for meals, Quaker oat bars replace biscuits and gravy with scrambled eggs and juice, my cats' self-watering bowl is empty, I wake up at 4 a.m. (and I don't have a job to get ready for), I feel as though I voted in Missouri 200 years ago, and on and on and on and on...
When the media show one particular candidate, always in a positive light, ALL THE TIME, and the other in the most negative way, it does indeed cause fatigue. I will be glad when it's over, and the relentlessly favored candidate-as-nominee hits the reality of the republican smear wall. Though it will mean a third GWB term, it will at least be entertaining.
Sadly, the Dems will not learn from this one either; if 1988, 2000 and 2004 has taught them nothing, then neither will this.
You spend more time with Wolf Blitzer than your husband.
You are wondering if Hillary has enough pantsuits to get her through the rest of the State's Primaries.
You cringe every time you hear the words "My Friends".
You eagerly watch each debate.... and any video clips to see which of Hillary's "charming" personalities are on display for the day (or the moment).
You are already dreading the 2012 Election.
Jack,
You know your suffering from primary fatigue when you find yourself understanding what George Bush is talking about.
That's quite simple. When you not only feel compelled to, but act on the notion to either cry on national television or attack the media because thing's aren't going your way.
Now this may be a biased statement towards specific candidate, but if someone tell's me they are the only person who is prepared for day one, than I'd trust they'd be prepared for the first question.
Bucks County, PA
Jack, When I see images of Obama while sleeping. I like to watch Hillary speak but every time I turn on CNN I see Obama. The images of Obama dance in front of my eyes day and night. I guess I must be suffering from the dreaded PRIMARY ELECTION FATIGUE.
When you start blogging into questions like this. Thank God it will be spring soon, so I can get outside and be away from the constant information about the primary election.
If you return to your normal schedule and become unglued to CNN or other election news programs.
Listening to all the BS about Obama, the media darling. The man has never had an original tought in the campaign, and problay none in his life. Enough, let us hear more about the other candidadtes, without media bashing and lieing.
Personally I'm tired of all the newspeople stating how votes are going to take place and who should be highlighted and who should quit. You really don't know any more about the election and how it's going to turn out than Joe Blow does. You got rid of some good candidates by ignoring them and stating how Obama and Clinton were the only ones to watch. Biden for one. Now there's a guy that knows something and he tried to tell you guys but you wouldn't listen. You were too caught up in the "I love Obama." I'm still trying to figure out if it's really him or the girl that made the ad, because Obama hasn't shown any knowledge of anything. He sure does have a big wish list, though!
Everytime I look in the mirror each morning before coming to work I see "Hillary Clinton."
jack,
i've been so into this election that i've sat and watched ballot bowl for hours on end since the first week of january. so much so that now, i have barack obama's stump speech memorized! i think i've just about had my fill....
When Hillary's voice begins to shift from annoying to fingernails scraping on a blackboard.
Hi Jack:
By reading your blog and answering dumb questions like this one.
Ron K San Diego
How do ypou know when you are sufferring from primary election fatigue?
When you look at reading the morning newspaper or tuning on your T.V. set with the same trepidation as going your mailbox and retreving the monthly bills you know you are going to have a hard time or unable to pay.
Here lately I feel like I am quite fatigued just because of how ugly it is all getting. Everyday it is a new attack of some sort or another. You think these people are running for president ,don't they think these kinds of things make them seem so immature and petty. It is all getting to be a bit much, so I hope the democrats can stop fighting long enough to nominate someone and then sit back and hope the democratic party is not so destroyed we can't put anyone in the White House. I think the Republican party is gettting just a jolly old laugh about it.
I know i am when i have to hear HRC yelling every time i turn on the tv.This needs to end,i can't take her voice or pantsuits anymore!
When you've suddenly gone from the target of endless political phone calls and heaps of glossy oversize campaign mailings to being completely ignored; that's when you know. What a blessing it is to be an Iowan.
I can tell I have been, yes, have been suffering primary election fatigue
and I can tell easily because I take straw polls and political polls, close my eyes to pick one and answer primary election questions like this.
I have become a gripey old cow.
You know your suffering if you have a recurring dream that its November 5th 2008.
It is really simple... you find yourself answering these kinds of questions ! The fatigue factor sets in when the issues that are important are over shadowed by personal attacks , half truths and exaggerated claims... When the substantive issues are discussed... it is both exciting and important to participate...
You dont care .If you dont care .
I am Tired!!! but I am tired of the Clintinians!!! they need to stop arguing with the rest of the country! The movement of change it is stronger that any thing they can say, yesterday there was a fight in Texas between the Hillary supporters and Obamas... Clintonians are desperate and they are dividing the party!
As long as Obama's ahead. I will remain "FIRED UP , AND READY TO GO." No fatigue here. This has been the most exciting election year in years>
Now before I go to a restaurant, I study the menu for eighteen months ahead of time.
You know the nomination campaign has gone on to long when:
You are watching Obama's speech and you can finish all his sentences for him
You start noticing that Clinton wears the yellow pant suit on Tuesdays
You wake up every morning wondering where Bill Clinton is and if his tie matches his wife's blazer
You watch John McCain on the nightly news and can't refrain from using the clicker to channel hop until he finishes his sentence
You wish with all your heart that all the candidates would take a vacation so foxnews, cnn, and msnbc commentators would have to go back to reporting whether Lindsay Lohan had fallen off the wagon or Britney Spears has started wearing underwear.
Picture this Jack, a reporter goes to his editor and tells him he has un-named source that claims he has information about a Affair between McCain and Barack Obama. Without missing a beat, the editor tells the reporter to tell Hillary thanks but no thanks. How can we not be tired of this primary when things are this predictable ?
Jim Dandy. Lompoc, Ca.
How can you tell if you have PEF? If you watch CNN a lot you are bound to have it. How about a glance at what's happening in the rest of the world for a change.
Jack, yes, I am. I am so tired of hearing about the media darling. Why
do we hear so very little about the other three candidates? I have been
to all of the candidates websites, and, it seems that Mr. Obama, doesn't really have any new ideas. Just keeps talking about the past, but yet he wants to do pretty much the same thing. The only thing different that I can find is, that his health plan, will not cover many,many, Ameircans, and will fine the parents that don't insure their children. Hillary Clintons plan make it affordable for everyoine
and, no she will not garnish paychecks
MCCAN'T wants to keep us in iraq firever, and Huckabee wants to tax us to death with a high sales tax on everything.
The only fatigue I suffer is the persistence on behalf of Hillary and former President Clinton to release their tax returns and White House papers.
The American people deserve better. Let's restore integrity, honesty and good governance to the White House. Don't forget the lingering, debilitating nightmares of Monicagate, the Vince Foster affair and of course, future trading and Whitewater.
Remember: if we do not receive full disclosure prior to TUESDAY's primary, we run the risk of a Clinton "smoking gun" on Wednesday. Don't let this happen. Hillary – for once, come clean, and this does not refer to "cleaning up in Washington," but rather your home court.
You find yourself standing outside a Chili's restaurant asking people what they ordered, why they ordered it, and why they didn't order something else.
If you are watching a basketball game and one of the teams gets ahead by 10 points, you think the refs should call the game, even if its only the first quarter.
When a coworker refers to you and some other people as "my friends", you run screaming from the room.
Montclair, New Jersey
At this point, I wish Clinton would just back out and support Obama. As a registered Democrat, I believe it is time we start focusing on how to ENSURE we have a Democrat in the White House in November.
Clinton had time to prove she was a worthy candidate but she can't even run a campaign. Give the American people a break.
When you are sick of heaing about it and want to know if there is REALLY another part of the world still alive and kicking. In other words how about some real news instead of all the stuck record repeat C–P(junk) over and over and over and over - and you wat to throw somethig thru the TV . Get the idea????
You know you are suffering from primary election fatigue when you spend all your free time wondering which of the remaining three will do the least damage to: "We the people." Alternatively you find yourself starting a write-in campaign for Rocket J.Squirrel and Bulliwinkle Moose.
Yesterday morning I woke up early, made coffee, had a large piece of chocolate cake, and 4 chocolate chip cookies. I knew it was going to be a long day so wanted to have some extra sugar in my system and was hopeful that the Cafferty File would be on soon and then it would be time for Wolfe and his team to be on to report the results of Texas and the others. My wife came into the living room, looked at me funny and said, "What on earth are you doing; it's Sunday morning?"
During other news, my girlfriend is torturing me with "top model" and "project runway" shows as payback for all the politics I make her watch...yipes!
Jack,
Primary fatigue can't hold a candle to the fatigue I feel every time I hear this administration is legally buffered once again from answering the questions Americans want answered! And that fatigue won't fade until they're all behind bars.
When you start watching the Jim Lehrer Report on PBS instead of the cable news channels. Refreshing. No pundit opinions, just reporting of the facts and the news of the day.
I spend tooooo much time trying to COMBAT your NEGATIVE barbs to both Huckabee and Hillary. You obviously have a problem with people with " H " in their name.
GO HILLARY
GO HUCKABEE
You let the answering machine pick up your calls because you are afraid you'll lose your cool with the next Democratic volunteer who dares to invade your privacy.
You’re suffering from primary election fatigue when you find value in the way Putin deals with media coverage of opposition campaigns...
After March 4th, I will no longer watch the news.
Well Jack, McCain is a good example of the primary election fatigue. As a matter of fact, McCain was already fatigue even before the primary started. As a christian and fellow veteran who just served in Iraq three months ago, i think there should be an age limit for the U.S. presidency. The guy is walking like a living dead, he looks so stiff. I know it's a partisan thing when it comes to vote, but health wise, McCain looks like a disaster waiting to happen. McCain should consider his health or age situation, go home and enjoy his grand children with the little time he has to live.
If your the typical American you get fatigued once all the bright lights and loud whistles that drew you in the in the first place stop going off. After that you should exspress little to no interest.
I don't know about primary election fatigue - but I do know that I'm suffering from primary election fear. This is the first time I've really paid attention to the primary process, and until now I hadn't realized that the anchors, pundits and debate moderatiors are essentially controlling who we vote for by the way they spin information. We look down on Russia for not having open elections, yet fail to realize that we have less choice than we realize. The information we receive is filtered through corporate media outlets, and pundits and politicians with hidden agendas, and facts are often difficult to discern. Of course, we are also subject to misleading advertising and marketing which muddies the water even more. So, if we were to take Russia's approach, we would be getting just about as much choice, while saving millions of dollars in the process.
It's ridiculous that candidates start campaiging for their next office the minute they're sworn into their current office. I'm sick of the media and sick of the candidates. This crop of candidates is all hat and no cattle. So, what else is new? Bah-humbug.
I know I have primary fatigue. If I hear Hillary Clinton say "ready on day one" Ione more time I'm going to puke.
The TV is on CNN. The political ticker dashes across the screen. Wolf Blitzer announces.......breaking news. This just in. Blah blah blah Hilary Clinton. Blah blah blah Barak Obama. Yada yada yada John McCain and Mike Huckabee. CLICK! Reruns of Seinfeld.
When you're sure the process is designed to produce a narcissist that will say or do anything to get their parties nomination. That accomplished, they'll say or do anything to get elected. Then they'll have to pay back their high dollar supporters.
Jack
I am an avid CNN news fan especially you and Wolf and Lou, however its getting tough to watch, there are more important issues Americans are currently facing then Clinton, Obama, McCain and Huckabee. At times I have to switch channels and watch bass fishing in Montana.
When I start dreaming of poll numbers. Talk about your nightmares!
I guess Jack it comes down to the same old thing. After awhile we get the same stump speech over and over again. Lets change the questions so they don't have the same pat answers. Good Luck!
Jack,
Primary election fatigue is rearing its ugly head with these personal symptoms:
SLEEPINESS every time I hear the experience claim and no admission of mistakes made during those years.
MALAISE every time I hear about millions of campaign dollars wasted daily by the candidates, dollars that could help Americans with limited or no health insurance.
NAUSEA every time I hear how we're having success in Iraq.
Those are the symptoms–the prognosis is more flatulent behavior until the whole shebang is over.
Twentynine Palms, CA
You start answering questions in the blogs of commentators who clearly have primary fatigue.
When you can't even watch your favorite show anymore, "The Situation Room".
That's an easy one Jack, "when the other party starts to look good."
Jack
When does the campaign start for the 2012 Election?
Can't wait!
Jerry
Roselle, Illinois
First of all the 2008 election started November 3, 2004. That's like 40 months ago and not 14. Every day since then someone, somewhere has pondered what will happen when George W. Bush is required by law to leave the office of the Presidency.
Second of all, I started showing signs yesterday of Primary Election Fatigue. It presented as Political Junkie Disorder. I listened to the talking heads my DVR recorded from the Sunday morning talk shows while I surfed the net reading political blog after political blog. NAFTA. NATO. McCain. Ohio. Texas. Last Stand. Red phones. For a while it was really, really interesting.
And then I had an epiphany.
It doesn't matter. None of it really matters. I'm not going to remember a damn thing anyone is talking about in a week. None of this is going to come up in November. It doesn't change anyone's ability to be president. Noone has ever really been qualified or ever really known what it was like to be president when they took office (except Grover Cleveland, but that's a long story). And even if they're a major league screw-up, we'll be okay, at least for a while.
Color came back into the world.I turned of the TV and shut down the computer. The sun was shining. I played with my son. It was a beautiful day.
Hell, I wasn't even going to post to the Cafferty File today, but I just had to when you asked this question.
Have honestly been having nitemares for a week, wired to the max! Pretty sure i'm not the only one. It's time.
BJ Seminole, FL
I don’t have primary fatigue. I have media fatigue. We do need change – a change in the self-serving media. They all but colluded in national brainwashing to convince people to vote for a less qualified candidate just because it was the new story they wanted to write.
Primary election fatigue was caused by the news media and know-it-all political commentators. Stop the madness…The constant harassment of Hillary Clinton and coddling of Barack Obama. Don’t blame it on Hillary!
I know I have fatigue because instead of constantly checking CNN and Google News at work, I'm actually starting to work again even at home!
You know you've got primary election fatigue when you doubt you can make it through months of the general presidential election because you've heard it all before.
you shut your cable off and force yourself to local coverage.
thank god for the attenna.
missouri
You know you are suffering for election fatigue when you email Jack Cafferty about putting all the candidates into a no-holds-barred cage match and giving the presidency to the last one standing, AND you're only slightly kidding.
Jack,
When you get down to as few candidates as we have now, I think primary fatigue becomes inevitable. That's because we hear the same words, the same "ideals" and the same attacks over and over again.
I, for one, wouldn't mind if we could shorten the primary season. It gets so tiring to turn the news on to see more of the same. Let's wait until March Madness is over with and start the primaries on April Fool's Day.
I am frantically searching for the mute button every time I hear Hillary.That did not happen with GW until after he was in the Whitehouse.
I was looking forward to the end of the Bush years but if Obama does not end this thing soon I may be looking back fondly on mission accomplished.Now how friggin sad is that?
When you STOP feeling homicidal towards the Hillary-hating pundits. As for the Hillary-hating bloggers? What's your REAL problem?
When I have to hold my nose to vote, Jack. Thank goodness I haven't had to that this year.
I know I'm suffering from primary election fatigue when I find myself reading some of the posted comments just for laughs.
Jack, seriously this a true story! It just happened.......... last night i had a nightmare about a horrible phone call at 3am! No lie..... now that is what i call primary election fear! It doesnt help that i live in Washington,DC! Now i will start watching "America Next Top Model"! I cant look at my DSM IV Book anymore! I know all of CNN reporters by there First names now! I think I rather watch the Discovery Channel! LOL
Corin
Washington,DC
I totally agree with Sharon
Absolutely Jack, it's annalogus to the final "Two Minutes" in a Basketball Game, the real game doesn't start til then. The adrinalin kicks in, and starts to flow, with no fatique what so ever. I'm ready for more Primary's ,are you?
Jack,
You can tell when election fatigue has set in if the media (especially Chris Matthews) no longer get "love shivers" at Obama rallys and actually start focusing on reporting to us on Rezko, Farrakhan, Wright and his Canadian NAFTA blunder.
You know you have Primary Fatigue when you dress up like one of the candidates when the next "umteenth" debate comes on and, while watching it – you mouth the words of their canned response you have memorized form the numerous prior debates – like Rocky Horror Picture Show!
akron ohio
I think we need to stop the process. I think we should have secret meetings to pick the canidates and hide them away like virgins for sacrafice. and then like a beauty pagent have them to talent shows and have bath suit contests. really i want to end the electrol college i want my voice to be heard in my one vote. popular vote wins and just maybe next election we can just do a reality show who wants to be President and have Howie Mandel with the suitcases and let them pick it and see who is the winner.
You may have election fatigue when you look at your spouse and ask What do you think Wolf?
You may have Election fatigue. If you go for a job interview and answer the experience question with, you had the judgment not to vote for the war in Iraq
You may have election fatigue, if you end every paragraph with "the best political team on TV."
You may have election fatigue, if you count delegates to go to sleep.
You know you are suffering from Primary fatigue when you are wishing, hoping, and praying that your candidate wins big on tomorrow and the other one finally gets the message to bow out gracefully. I said gracefully, not kicking, screaming on reinventing herself "again"!
Pam
If you start having the same dream over and over where Clinton, Obama and McCain are having a debate on the set of JEOPARDY, I think you might be suffering from primary fatigue.
I have Caller ID and don't answer if it isn't familiar. I have given up on the debates and just catch the short blurbs on the news programs and the Situation Room and let it go at that. They have run what should be a good thing into the ground. If people haven't decided who they are voting for by now, they never will. It's all been so over done it's like watching reruns.
Jack,
His name is Senator Mike Gravel, and if the corporate media would stop shutting him out of the debates maybe Americans would realize this doesn't have to have another "Pick Your Poison" Election.
Yeah, im tired of all the low cowardly lies, sexism, racism and bigotry that has been apparent in these campaigns. America still has a long way to go.
When your partner is about to leave you because you keep watching CNN's election coverage...you know you're suffering from primary fatigue.
Uh... I have started to respond to your comments???
Harry,
Carlisle, Ky.
More that I'm suffering from pundit fatigue! Stop the madness – less pundits prognosticating. Let the voters decide if they want Obama or Clinton. I'd like exercise my right to vote (PA _April) for whomever I choose, not necessarily for who the pundits have anointed!
Here is when you know your suffering fatigue...you dream of Hillary Clinton actually winning the nomination.
Ken, Bennettsville, South Carolina
I know I have Primary Election Fatigue when I look into the mirror to shave my face and I see you looking back at me.
I can always tell when fatigue sets in. It usually happens about 15 minutes into any campaign and is signaled by an uncontrollable grab at the remote to switch channels as soon as any talking head begins to talk about any campaign.
When I turn to CNN and MSNBC and there goes Hillary & Bill [Hillbillies] singing their favorite tunes – doing the down-low on Obama! More annoying than anything else is Hillary degrading Obama repeatedly, [I have never heard Obama attack her] viciously and with such vengeance and animosity. Interestingly she is always "wrong" and he points out her "screw-ups" with lightening speed and with a flair. Jack,she is no match for him.
Fatigue sets in only when she occupies air time ranting on and on she is boring yaaaawn.
Obama is smart, interesting, yes eloquent, brilliant, knows what he is talking about and the perfect candidate for President... My husband and I wish him the best and pray he is nominated by the DNC.
You have primary election fatigue when candidates (Hillary Clinton) have to scrap and dig for negative attacks. Their only hope is to go negative and that is pathetic. Why can't she just stay on top of her issues and her message. Oh yeah, probably because she hasn't had a consistant one! I have fatigue because everytime I see her I want to throw up!
How can you tell if you’re suffering from primary election fatigue?
When you know how to complete the sentences or storys from anyone representing any candidate or news program.
But I know you'd ask this.
Seriously though, after the last debate it started setting in.
We know the issues and positions of each candidate by heart.
The only news from now until the final elections will be about the attacks and the rebuttals.
And we want change from those too...
When you are tired of telling people that Hillary Clinton and Kwame Kilpatrick are cut from the same cloth!!!
Not electionl fatigue, Jack Cafferty fatique...
Buyers remorse happened months ago, when democrats realized we did not want another Clinton era of divisive politics. Hillary is just proving us right, redefining the word is. First you must win all, then win one, now just show up, if just showing up mattered John Edwards would still be running. The Clintons don't care about the democrats moving this country in a new direction only Bills' legacy and Hillary becoming the nominee to secure his forgiveness. Hillary can't overtake Obama, so why is she still trying because they (the Clintons) don't want to realize that America doesn't want them to give us another Bush era after their era divide up this country once again like a day old thanksgiving turkey. There is one thing we can thank Hillary for, going negative has just made Obama a stronger general election candidate.
Just win baby, just win at the cost of the party, the country and a new direction for America.
Jack,
You can tell when people are suffering from primary fatigue when SNL begins to put itself into the political arena, AND people take it seriously.
Jack, You know there is priamry election fatigue when you watch an obama or hillary speech and find your self feeling in and compliting their statements while you are absent mindedly going through your stash of junk mail.
When you try to find the "self-ban" button on the remote control.
Bud Curtis
Miami, OK
When you switch to the Comedy Channel.
How can you tell if you’re suffering from primary election fatigue?
When you line the kitty litter box with te poliical section of the paper and it no onger matters if it's Bush.... um... coverage. And when seeing Hillary Clinton's huge molars no longer gets me angry- just slightly sick at the stomach. And when I stop reading what Obama says in any article and stare at his ears.
Election fatigue has hit hard, I'm a democrat and I've started t thinking that we should do away with term limits so that George W. Bush can stay in office for another 4 years.
You turn on the TV and you see Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama debating the issues on FoxNews Channel, moderated by Bill O'Reilly and Obama actually answers tough questions, John McCain on an old episode M*A*S*H, dressed in drag, and Mike Huckabee, Ron Paul, and Ralph Nader on an episode of Lost. Wait, did I just say that I turned FoxNews Channel on and watched O'Reilly, boy, I must really be fatigued....
I'm not fatigued. I use Obama's monotonous drone to fall asleep at night. I am quite rested, thank you very much.
No primary fatigue here...I can't get enough! For once we've had real choices for president, and precisely because of what you call the "silliness" of so many running for office, there's an energy and enthusiasm not seen since 1968. I'm excited to stay up and watch the returns from TX and OH tomorrow night!
Oakdale, CT
I think voters have fatigue from the negative slanting of facts from CNN and the other media. Example, you cite Clinton having had a 20 pt lead a month ago, leaving out the fact that 25-30% of the electorate was UNDECIDED. It's hardly been where Clinton has lost 20 pts of her support, but the "undecideds" have finally made a choice.
GET REAL!
The definition of primary fatigue is when a person decides they don't care anymore and says whatever they want, regardless of the repercussions.In other words....Bill Clinton.
The election process specifically right now is very exciting however, I am feeling more distracted and disinterested with what's happening as Hillary Clinton becomes nastier and downright just plain vicious with each passing day. I look at a person I once greatly admired and am just shocked to find out that she's really just a vain, dishonest, empty shell. How sad.
Thought that there would be someone who would be good for the economy, war in Iraq, amnesty, health concerns, NAFTA and checking imports before they get to our mouths and children, but unfortunately, they all sound the same. Amnesty will be having a field day, no one has come up with a solution to the economy and stopping of sickening imports. Guess I have had it now.
Last comment from me! How can people think Hillary is favored in the media. They are still giving her the benefit of the doubt! That is not bias thats dillusion.
When my glazed-over eyes skim the surface of our hardwood floors and see dust bunnies the size of Kansas tumbleweeds, I suddenly realize that I have been watching/surfing CNN political coverage for far too long!
Primary fatigue = when all the pundits have nothing new to say.
Primary fatigue = when you switch channels between CNN, Fox, MSNBC and they all sound the same.
Primary fatigue = when Hillary has a new campaign theme every day, but no one cares.
Jack, Humm Here is a question. How do we beleive in Obamma when he says I did not know what ricco was involve in when I bought the cheap Home? How can he make the best decission for us in the private sector. Jack I do not trust Him.
jim
When you start imagining Obama saying 'add the 10 commandments to the constitution', Clinton saying 'my friends' and McCain talking about broken souls.
Dear Jack ,
And anyone that been listing to anything , It was her Husband that said if she don't win TEX AND OHIO . She will not get the nomanation . Well I say she won't get the nomanation anyways . I just don't understand why why why why in the world would anyone want this BUSH, CLINTONS thing for 4 more or more years . Hum last I count is been 35 years of the same old thing doing the same old lie and cheating . And the same old hiding things . And lets not talk about the smarty remarks and negatives .
I myself can not vote for that again , I did this with Clinton twice . NOT Again.
Well Jack to tell you the truth and not something "cute" or "witty"
I am not suffering from Primary Fatique but rather
Main Stream "Entertainment" Media Fatigue.....
When exactly do you think they will have a vaccine for this??
Jack, since football season is over and baseball hasn't started up yet, this is the best entertainment going. Keep up the good work.
I was a rebuplican and then I turned democrat. Both sides let me down. After a careful review I am going to vote for Ron Paul. I will do a write in vote for him and because I can do a texas two step I will go to the other part and do a write in vote again for Ron Paul again. Both parties have been taken away most of my rights but my voice will be heard! I am Peacefully stating my independence and Remember the Alamo as well as the motto of DON"T TREAD ON ME! I am doing this peacefully with my vote.
This is what I do ? I fantasize that Hillary looks like Pamela Anderson and that Iraq means sex, the economy = beer, and health care= a vacation. When you look at it in those terms one is either becoming delusional or fatigue has set in. Before you rant..try it first...nothing like watching Hillary discuss health care and all you see is Pamela in a bathing suit coming to you with a beer in her hand while youre tanning on some foreign beach with bedroom eyes . Okay it was a good fantasy while it lasted...If I can only keep it up unitl November 4th..lol
When Bill Clinton Shows up.
i shot all of my televisions
Jack, I knew I was suffering from it when I began to replace curse words with candidates names. Also the word "change" now brings me to tears. When is Pfizer going to unveil a pill for it that won't increase my urge to gamble or have sex?
As a repubilcan i hope she will stay in. But for the sake of her party she should drop out. But what do i know have to wait seven years more to vote
Jack
I can tell if I'm suffering from PEF (Primary Election Fatique) because Carl Rove hasn't even started to plan his Red State Strategy (RSS)
yet, and the folks in Texas and Ohio are already counting the ballots with the loose, hanging chads. Will somebody in the Democratic Primary please win by a compelling margin this Tuesday!
Jack, when Hillary Clinton says "i'm just getting started", and the race is all but over; i feel a party of division coming and then i know this campaign has taken it's toll on the whole political process. She's the Mike Huckabee of the Demcratic party. She should bow out and let us begin to focus on beating McCain and the republicans in the fall. Thanks again Jack!
When you vote for the candidates that spend the least bombarding you with their blather, it is a sure sign. If the practice got to be a "movement" it might drive some of them into the used car business where they belong.
When you find yourself sitting in front of the muted tv with earphones on listening to music and watching the "crawl" to get the news.
This is especially true when "Shrillary"'s mean personality is "out".
How can you tell if you’re suffering from primary election fatigue?
When you get tired of waiting for real answers. Then learn Obamma did not reasurch the great house deal with Ricco. You can not trust Obamma. Obamma had to know how Ricco worked after working for him. Dig in and keep him honest. Hes running for prsident.
Jack that's an easy one! Every time I see Hillary I get sicker and sicker!
When your six year old comes home from school and says the talk at recess is to vote for Rock Obama instead of the girl President there has been a bit to much coverage.
When you know, not just the weather report for Ohio for Primary election day, but the weather report hour by hour, by county. . . you have election fatique. (Give him the nomination, already!)
Yes I am tired. Tired of the sound of Obama's voice. It makes me feel like I'm in church so I change the channel. But it's still in my head so I go online and listen to Hillary and I am finally relieved. It's like an exorcism. The Obama demons have been driven out.
I can tell because I turn the TV on only to check the weather and listen to pleasant music the rest of the time. The media beats every story to death and then analyzes why it died. When is "breaking news" finally broken? I know it will never happen but the media needs to learn to report facts and quit the endless, useless speculation. News means: something new not the same thing over and over until it borders on absurdity. One can only hope!
When you look at HILLARY CLINTON dancing and clapping her hands on your TV and suddenly she is in your living room with a beer in one hand and roast beef sandwich in the other hand... ?
Daryl & Daryl , Dickville Notch , VT
I think we're thinking about this primaries in the wrong way. This is the most important job interview process in America. If you get tired of the of deciding who would be best to lead our country, then do your research on each candidate's web site and make an informed decision about who you will vote for. But, if you believe the CV is only one way to judge a candidate then buckle in for the ride. I think a lot of people do not understand the gravity of the decision they are making.
Primary election fatigue? NEVER!!! I am making get out and vote signs as I respond to your question. I am also calling undecided voters to encourage them to vote for my candidate while I bake cookies for the folks that will be taking people to the polls. I am doing all this as I wait for my daughter to get home from work so that we can go out and knock on a view more doors before it gets dark. Fatigued? I am delirious!!!! Vote tomorrow OHIO. End the dynasties once and for all.
When I come home from teaching preschool and see Hillary Clinton acting like my students, then I'm sure she has primary fatigue. It's like..."If I can't be president then you can't be either Barrack Obama. I'm going to say everything nasty about you so that the Republicans can use all my material. Pathetic. We had the opportunity to keep the high road and set a great example. So much for that Hill and Bill.
When I start referring to you, 'Jack' as my boyfriend...
You can tell if you're suffering from primary election fatigue when you start believing what the candidates are telling us.
I'm already there. I find myself thinking "I wish Hillary would just GO AWAY FOREVER"....Ughh...She's like Bush. I can't bear to see her or hear her anymore.
I knew when my PEF symptoms had become critical when I found myself actually trying to understand how the Texas primary voting system works...
I am now going into withdrawal
Anne from NJ
14 months? Consider yourselves lucky. Up here in Canada our leadership has sat on a knife's edge for the last 4 years. Because of the different way our government runs, the current leaders could be forced into an election at any time.
You know it's time to get on to an election when you can hear a subject and regurgitate every candidate's answer because you've heard them all.
Jack. This is so exciting, As an African living in Africa it ia wonderful aspect of what democracy should look like compared with Putin's Russia. We watch CNN religiously from our home and my seven year old daughter is even mimicking Obama. The Obama momentum has even taken over Africa and we are so excited to know where this election will take us, The BIG MO is also affecting us here, WE ARE ON THE CAMPAIGN TRAIL AND FOLLOWING THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS
When I'm yelling at the TV....with all this stupid pettiness!!
Arizona
Jack,
My 9 year old granddaughter was running for class president and she wrote a campaign letter vowing not to 'buy classmates presents' just so they would vote for her. She did not get elected to class president but she did, however, vote for the boy who did. He promised everybody pizza if he won.
Yes, I've (at 55) become a political junkie and equate everything that goes on in my life with the primaries. It's gotten to where I'm actually afraid that I'll miss something that one of them said or did, whatever. Keep being 'crusty'. MiMi
Jack
To be quite honest, we have NOT been bombarded with TV ads, mailings OR calls. It's only those few states where the candidates actually campaign. What we have tired of, is the media coverage which repeats the same message-shows the same sound bite- time after time, day after day. I actually have not tired of seeing the debates simply because I find out a little more about the candidates with each one.
When you sit in front of the tv and can't tell if you've entered the contest ' the biggest loser' or if that's just the candidates pilfering your jeans for extra campaign donations.
When Amy Poehler and SNL make more sense than the candidate.
Also when Hillary runs out of new themes & new campaign staff to switch to.
-Chuck
Lombard, IL
I'm pretty sure it's clear that you're becoming sick of all the political analysis and punditry regarding the primaries and the Presidential Election when you see a clip of George Bush speaking and you actually feel relieved to hear somebody different giving a speech for once.
When I hear Hillary sing the National Anthem on YouTube for the 100th time and start to think that she really should put out an album.
Wellington, Colorado
I too agree that our political system does get a bit out of hand and silly at times. But at least we get a plethora of choices and many opportunities to evaluate before we make our choice. A least we don't have a system like Russia, where Putin basically hand-picked his own successor. Just think if George W. Bush got to pick his successor!!!! Jeb Bush/Kenneth Blackwell in 2008. Even though it may get exhausting at times it is still better than the latter.
This is more fun the the O J Simpson trial.
Personally, my first sign was when the boyfriend of 3 years asked me if I was 'like this' every election. The clincher was when I asked the neighbors to put their large Hillary yard sign back up cause it worked as an awesome snowfence.
When you dream of voting for one of these blithering idiots.
Jacksonville, FL
Jack,
You’re sick of all the TV ads, sick of hearing the same old stump speeches, sick of the campaign phone calls, sick of the rhetoric, sick of listening to the news (because it all the same stuff rehashed), and you get to the point that you want to block it all out because you about to vomit – That’s how you know. So why then is it, Jack, we can’t be like England and just do the whole campaigning thing in about six weeks? Candidates spend over $125 million dollars for a $400k a job… It must have one heck of a dental plan!!!
John S.
Bedford, MA
I knew I was suffering from primary election fatigue when, around my 560th call to TX for the Obama for America campaign, I actually forgot what I was going to to say or why I was calling and tripped over my words about the "texas two-step" process and ended the call with Gracias. GO OBAMA!
Karen in Colorado
Jack,
When you would rather watch the TV Guide Channel than listen to the election news
you can tell if you have "election fatigue" If you do any of the following.
Accidentally call your cat Obama.
Call in sick from work, complaining that you feel "Like Hillary after losing 11 in a row."
When watching a Spring training game, after seeing an error, call it a " Guiliani"
Still think Mike Huckabee Has a Chance.
Order an "Obama and Cheese" Sandwich, when you really want a Ham and cheese sammich.
Think any of the Candidates are "Sexy".
Care what the Pundits actually say.
Mike from Staten Island New York
When you turn on the TV and see Hillary getting a little teary-eyed.....AGAIN!
One dislikes Hillary Clinton more and more and more.
I'm tired of all of this. Everytime I see Hillary I have to look away and everytime I hear her voice I gag. Please just drop out already...
When you find delegate math on random notepads and sticky notes all around the house.
O'Fallon MO
You've got PEF (Primary Election Fatigue) when suddenly, listening to self-aggrandizing, bloviative appeals for "Hope" and "Change" don't sound so empty and vacuous anymore. Or not.
O the Humanity!
I know I am tired when all I want to here is Wolf say "and the CNN projected winner is...............Barack Obama!!"
Really thats all I want to hear tomorrow night........then I will go to sleep in peace!
It's not the election - it's the talking heads seeking their 15 minutes of fame - if I hear "I think" ONE MORE TIME . . .
Heck no, there are twists and turns everyday.My patents are tired of hearing me talk about it.
That's easy – I stopped watching CNN.
You know you're suffering from primary fatigue when you screen ALL your calls-even the ones from your mother...
Instead of counting sheep at night, I find myself counting delegates.
When you're wondering and wishing when will this finally end amidst all the negative counterattacks/campaigning., pundits discussing and overanalyzing everything(poll results,etc) and do it all over again when the actual election results come in.In other countries, it takes at the most only a month of campaigning and it's too boring to look at all the candidate;s faces already.
How do you know you're suffering from Election fatigue? When just before defenestrating your television at the sight of yet another campaign ad, you realize that it's an ad supporting YOUR candidate
Darryl Price
Philadelphia, PA
Your face turns as green as all the big oil companies are these days...
Michael
Washington, D.C.
Jack, how do I know?
I know I am suffering primary fatique when i turn even "you" off. And you're one of the sane ones.
Patricia Dumas
Fair Haven, NJ
I think the only realistic way of telling if you're suffering from primary election fatigue is if you already know what the candidates are going to say before they say it. I suppose the fact that I'm answering this question shows that my youthful vigor has not yet died down (I'm 17), but our primary system, both Democratic and Republican, is very drawn out and convoluted. If the government wants to take the people out of politics, they should just tell us, yet I have enough faith in our populace to say that we will stay interested until the fate of our country is in safe–or at least safer–hands.
When animal planet is a damn sight more interesting to watch, at least the animals don't lie and promise you something that they can't deliver. On top of that most of the animals are smarter than John McCain
Did you say primary erection fatigue? No, I suppose you didn't. I am not really that fatigued by the primary "parade". In fact, I am happy that I was able to be exposed (no pun intended) so much to all of the candidates. Some might complain that all of these debates, and hearing so much from the candidates, etc., is overkill and unnecessary. I disagree. This is democracy at its best. If people can't tolerate this, then something is wrong with their tolerance for a maximum amount of debate and self-expression by those who want to, as the cliche goes, be in the most powerful position on the planet.
When Ralph Nader feels like a breath of fresh air...
Thank You Jack!
Most of these trumped-up stories are incomplete or rehashed stories that don't reflect the election, but guide it into the silliness you speak of. Any chance you will be promoted to news director?
When your home phone rings at 3:00am and you take cover because you think that it means you are in danger.
Fatigue!! How about time warp. It's 2000 again. The Supreme Court is appointing a president. Oh good heavens! It's 2008 and Jack Cafferty is appointing Obama president! Somethings don't change much.
Lucie
Las Vegas, NV
I channel surf until I find a 20-year old rerun that I wasn't interested in then...it's less painful to watch.
Do we have to wait until November to be able to get any real news from CNN again?
I can tell I have election fatigue when I turn on CNN just to watch the scrolling bottom line.
How do I know I have primary fatigue? I'm so burnt out that I actually get off my butt and answer this question to tell you how sick of it I am!!
Gosh, Jack, I'm not sure how I'd tell if I had primary election fatigue. But I'm certain you do. Evidence? This stupid question.
I'm exhausted! If the parties expect to have their candidate selected by the primaries, why the heck do they bother with conventions? Let's start over...those running for any office can campaign from August 1 to election day, no primaries (which cost the states a lot of money). We the People vote and decide who wins.
I'd really hate to see Barack get the nomination but I'm so tired of talking about it that I'm seeing Elephants tromp over him. My prayers are with HIllary!
Your wife no longer accepts a simple denial that you have the toilet seat up, but rather insists that you both denounce and reject said action.
You should call your opponet shame on you, meet me in Ohio..
I know I have primary fatigue if I no longer find Cafferty's comments on the primaries incisive and amusing: hasn't happened yet.
Jack, if you've got a body temperature of approximately 98.6, then you're definately suffering from PEF.
jack,
how do i know? hillary looks like i feel.
toni
Jack, we have had enough fatigue with Bush in office for four long years. The battling on television 24/7 is only making it last even longer. Let's get this race over with already, and let's make sure we choose the right candidate this time. Please!
i fiqured i had primary fatique when hilary clinton started looking like a bobble doll.
I'm definitely suffering from primary fatigue. I'm an enthusiastic Obama supporter, but I'm more than ready for this thing to be over. I obviously hope my candidate wins big tomorrow, but ultimately I just want it to be out of the way so I can stop having this cloud of uncertainty over my head. It's definitely silly season in politics and I'd like for everyone to make it END tomorrow. Hint, hint to all you folks in Ohio and Texas.
When you can recite a candidate's stump speech better than he (or she), you know you've had enough.
Fatigue? No way, as new jersey residents, my family and i are disappointed this race is out of our hands. The most qualified canidate that will help the DYING middle class should be president, not the one that can convince the ignorant people in this country that he knows whats best. Jack, no lies, we need her.
Hi jack, I think you know that were ALL suffering from election fatigue since any channel we turn to is about the primaries. The media is clearly obsessed with the issue and now we are too. On that note you as a reporter should be giving equal treatment to every candidate without demonstrating bias. I dont see that many stories running about the memo canada's consulate produced concerning its under the table meeting with senator obama.
However it is our duty as Americans to appreciate the privilege of picking our leaders.
Jack,
In my case, it is not fatigue. I am actually suffering from "electile disfunction". None of the canditates get me very "excited"!
If you are not busy for the next 4 + years, perhaps you could run!!
You can tell when you're suffering from election primary fatigue when you wake up in the morning, stumble in the bathroom, look in the mirror and see Jack Cafferty staring back at you. Talk about a rude awakening...
Well, i don't think anyone should be sick of the election because its something so important, but you can tell you're fatigued when you:
– find yourself yelling at the television when you know it really cannot respond and the candidates cannot hear you...
– see Hillary's face and switch over to cartoons even though you're fully grown
– can practically predict every word out of pundits' mouths but wish you couldn't
– just wish someone would win already, and frankly don't care who it is at this point
ps. Jack, youre the best.
Jack – my 7 month old is screaming for his bottle and I have no desire to grab the remote to turn the volume up to hear more mind-numbing rants and accusations. And that is just a split-screen of the Democrats. I hit the mute button until I saw your smiling face.
well jack.u know when your holding up your eye lids with tooth picks and coffee is dripping off your lips.
It's easy to suffer from fatigue with the nonstop coverage, but no one should lose sight of how important this election is. The idea that either a woman or African-American may be President is right up there with the Emancipation Proclamation, women's suffrage and the Civil Rights Movement in terms of historical significance.
How do you know if you've got Primary Fatigue? If in bed your wife shouts, "Oh, Bama!"
Well there would be no fatique if Obama was the only candidate, it's Hitlary that cause the pain, gosh I just can't wait for her to drop out tomarrow.
When you dream that Barack Obama is in your front yard and you are running around in the house trying to find a journal or something that he can autograph!
You know you're suffering from election fatigue when Hillary's shrill, grating voice wakes you up at 3 a.m. in a cold sweat.
I knew I was burned out with the looong process today when I wanted to give all of the candidates a time out that would last until November(I just retired from teaching after 32 years).
You can tell you're suffering from primary fatigue when you begin to trust the candidates. These folks don't care about any of us. They want us to take our $600 check this summer, and shut up! Have fun this November, I am voting Socialist.
Luke
New York, NY
You're suffering from fatigue when you considder voting for Obama.
I'm developing heart palpitations and a shortness of breath whenever I hear the political news. I've got to stop listeningto this nonsense
When you are watching CNN for twelve hours a day. Turn it off and you are cured!!!
I am not yet suffering from primary fatigue because I was smart enough to stay away from the dribble of election news that has dominated the airwaves for the last 14 months. When it became obvious that the 2008 election season was going to begin in January, 2007, I thought that was all well and good, if a bit rediculous, but I resolved to stay away from it until Iowa. Certainly, the election remained in the periphery for me, but only to the extent that I had some notion of understanding the cast of characters involved when it came time to really begin to pay attention. So no, I am not suffering from primary fatigue, but that is because I did not allow myself to. It is all about moderation. This is what sports is for, after all, right?
from Las Vegas, Nevada
You know you are suffering from primary fatigue when you would rather gamble away your money than get another call to donate money to someone's campaign. At least you know that money spent in a casino will pay for nice hotel rooms where I can wake up at 3am and ignore the phone if it rings!
Hi Jack! I do not have to think much about this, just look at Mike Huckabee. He's not only made me tired but sick too.
You know you are suffering from P.E.F. when a commercial comes on during a debate telling you to call 1-800-555-4PEF for a free trial offer with "smiling Bob" in the commercial. God help us all.
When you start looking at campaign costs and realize that in the busy month of February, you spent $11,000 on pizza and $1,200 on donuts.
Once you have reached the $1,000 mark on donuts, you are suffering from Campaign Fatigue.
This thing has drawn out so long it's ridiculous. It reminds me of the OJ Simpson trial in the sense that you're so tired of it, but can't help keep watching when you turn on the tv. Enough already!!! Pick someone and let's move on. The Democratic party is hurting itself the longer this drags on.
the worst sign of election fatigue is seeing how far HILLARY will go to win at any cost , she is a crooked person who is going to destroy the democratic party ,because she wants to be the first woman president , i say any other woman but her for president . why is no one talking about the innocent girl that she accused of lying in her defense of a man..she shredded this poor girl on the witness stand , so much for womens right ha hillary...
When you start having morning sickness.......this campaign is a lot like pregnancy...it seems to be taking forever, we still have almost 9 long months to go...and most of the time it makes me want to throw up!
JudyO
Easy Jack....I will be watching stupid reality T.V shows starting tomorrow. Believe me, you will notice it in your ratings.
You know your fatigued when you have to deal with Hillary's mood swings and guess which attitude she'll use each week. Will she cry, scream or whine to try and overcome Obama's momentum?
You know you'r suffering from primary election fatigue, when you go to sleep and dream that you have a yellow pant suit hanging in the closet , which then quickly turns into a nightmare.
Primary fatigue? You are kidding me Jack. I live in Pennsylvania and for the first time, we may get a say in who gets to be president. I know that by mid april after non-stop Clinton/Obama mania in my state, I may eat my words but for now I'll just borrow the famous words of GWB – BRING IT ON!!!!
When you walk into the precinct thinking about who you want to vote for, then walk into the voting booth searching for Anderson Cooper on the ballot.
Jack, I'm 60; my husband is 66. We are both retired. We have a television hooked to a cable box in 5 rooms in our house. At lease 2 of them are turned to CNN during all waking hours. We go to sleep to CNN with a sleep timer; we wake up with the TV coming on with CNN with a 6 a.m. alarm. Sometimes we are both awake in the middle of the night and we turn it on and watch Anderson Cooper re-run for the 3rd time. I think we are addicted. It's that syndrome where you start liking your captors. I'm glazed over and live in constant fear that the cable will go off. God help me if we have a power black-out!
If the media actually reported on the actual issues there would be no fatigue. The media glorifies the all the crap and never reports on the actual issues. When is the last time you did an in depth report on an actual issue?
Quite frankly, I'm getting tired if it. Listening to the same old tired rhetoric from the same old tired playbook makes me think that things will never change. Obama is the fresh face ... Hillary has the experience ... McCain is the maverick ....
Is anyone willing to say, "I suck, but I'm still better than the other guy."? That would refresh my interest in the primary.
You know you're suffering from Primary Fatigue if you call your clinic and ask your doctor if Canada is right for you.
(Side effects may include universal healthcare, hockey addiction and use of the word "eh" at the end of every sentence.)
Seth Shotwell
Bothell, WA (the pretty green Washington)
When claims, such as the word "night" in a Hillary add subliminally projecting another word containing the letters N-I-G, start to make sense to you... you might have primary election fatigue.
When I truly believe that I'm a conservative liberal.
Jack,
When I switch to HBO... no candidates/commercials!
Poughkeepsie,NY
tired of the election? i'm tired of this country. All you hear on TV is Obama is talking listen in. Not Hillary spent her ENTIRE LIFE working to benefit people. Not she spent 8 years in the White House trying to fix health care. If Obama carries this nomination, I will finallly realize my home country is lost, and i will look else where for a home.
Jack,
You know you're suffering from Primary Election Fatigue when you start to empathize with the candidates themselves. I mean seriously, how do these people handle answering the daily personal attacks, maintain the facade of a family life, please other politicians for votes and support, and in the end try to appear human. It's no wonder at the end of the day that so many politicians sell themselves to the highest bidder.
I think this particular type of fatigue would take place when we have two different versions of the same commercial.......wait that's already happening..........
jack ,the 2000 election i quit watching fox news , because they were in bushes pocket , this year i quit watching msnbc news because they are in the tank for obama , all i have is cnn left to watch , yes its been going on way to long , but cnn has been there , and not in someones pocket ,,,good show
We've seen this movie before. A "Swift Boat" add against a likely nominee. Several months down the road we'll find out it was all crap, just like the escapade in 2004. I've got a legitimate question for Senator Clinton. Since she voted for the War in Iraq which my Son is fighting at this very moment, why isn't Chelsea over there? Does she think she's better than my Son? Prince Harry doesn't. OBAMA '08!
Jack,
I know I'm in the throes of candidate and media overload when
Amy Poehler of SNL looks more like Hillary then Hillary; when Mike Huckabee's accent sounds Northern; when I know framed pencil doodles by John McCain's children grace the walls of his house and when Barack Obama's underwear is the subject of dinner conversation.
In 3 short words..TOO MUCH INFORMATION!!!
When you cast a vote for Mike Huckabee, John McCain or Obama...
Libby
Jack, have you noticed that I'm a frequent visitor? We have to stop meeting like this my dear........I'll tell you how you know when you have primary election fatigue. It's when the speeches start to sound like worn out dialogue from a Broadway show that's been running too long, it's when your theme song is "Promises, Promises" and what you really need is "A Miracle Worker."
Today's Question:
How can you tell if you’re suffering from primary election fatigue?
My Commnt:
You know that you are suffering from primary election fatigue when you start reminiscing about the Russian elections with envy.
Hello Jack How are ya? Yes I have PFS I also have nightmares about people wearing pantsuit's the yellow ones scare me the most. Please let it be over tuesday night. If it is over tomarrow night would you please promise to not let all these woman that are for Hillary not be on the news anymore? How long can they talk without breathing? they never stop ,yes I have PFS.....mICHAEL
when you reject and denounce every single candidate. i've decided to write in "Wolf Blitzer" on the ballot in november just so he can answer that 3 a.m. phone call that everyone's talking about by saying "your in the situation room."
Randall
State College, PA
Jack,
These are some of the funniest comments you've had! I thought I was the only one so obsessed by this primary. The longer it goes the more interesting it gets. Haven't seen this much political interest since the turmoil of the 60s! It'll be so anticlimatic when it's over...
Last fall I asked myself, "In whose hands am I willing to put this country?" The answer for me is still, "John McCain's."
Hey, Jack, we better not suffer burnout, consdering how important this election is. And a reliable free press and good journalism is just as important, otherwise a couple of years from now, Like Michael Moore said we'll be asking "Why didn't You Ask the Hard Questions?" We had better get it right!!!!!!!
After seeing your cadidate win 11 states straight in a row and also have more delegates and the the other candidate refuses to concede. Now if it was the other way around she would would ask the other one to bow out.
Jack, I'm almost there beacuse I'm now watching C.Span on the week~end..but I would like to see the World News back on CNN..
Just want Hillary to go away.....thought she was an ammicable individual before. But now (under this primary season), I just see her as mean, manipulating and will do whatever to be nominated. Really hope people can see this......right now don't mind if americans vote for Mccain or Obama.....so long it's not Hillary.
Jack ,
When you go from knowing there is some vague, fuzzy system of assigning delegates to Democratic primary votes to counting unpledged superdelegates in Texas and Ohio and looking up their histories on Wikipedia, you know you've been force-fed in a graduate-level course of primary politics Democrat-style. Here's hoping Clinton or Obama resolve this ever-deepening quagmire and soon before John McCain coasts quietly into the Oval Office.
Mike Meredith
Tuscaloosa Alabama
EASY!!! I'm 81 years old and voted my entire life.
This election has all the earmarks of "illiminating the middle class",
when you reject and denounce every single candidate. i’ve decided to write in “Wolf Blitzer” on the ballot in november just so he can answer that 3 a.m. phone call that everyone’s talking about by saying “you're in the situation room.”
Randall
State College, PA
Here's how you can tell if you've got primary burnout: You are at the point where you don't give a rat's behind who wins this thing.
Once the race is down to 1 Dem and 1 GOP candidate, they should agree to take a 6 month vacation from campaigning, and give us all a break. Start up after Labor Day – 60 days of all that crap is about all we can stand.
I'm not aware that I'm suffering from primary election fatigue (PEF). Even with all the fluff and trivia that inevitably worm their way into presidential campaigns, this is, and has been, the most invigorating, stimulating campaign in memory – and I remember a bunch.
The campaign started early because it was the only way the frustrating majority of Americans could articulate their opposition to the oppressive presidency of George Bush. You can bet that we're going to pick his successor carefully and painstakingly. We're in a state of national introspection and we need it.
Allen
Harbor Beach, Michigan
I know I'm suffering from fatigue when I dream about the candidates every night and wake up more frustrated.
–you no longer listen to the candidates running against your candidate and instead, become childishly amused with telling bloggers who support the other fellow just to "shut up". You no longer bother to give intelligent reasons but laugh out loud as you type in bold.
–you think Jack Cafferty is kinda cute for an old guy. 🙂
Kalamazoo, MI (where the opinions count more than the votes)
You threaten to throw the kitchen sink at your opponent.
Jack I feel something has to be done with our electral process. It is definitely too long and millions wasted. All I hear is I, I, I what ever happened to the word We. How stupid can we be to listen to all these fruitless promises. A whole lot of truth would go a long way to satisfy us morons.
Fatigue? Yes! I even have nightmares about the "red phone". I dream that Obama picks it up and answers "present" and hangs up. It was the Commander in Afghanistan pleading for some over sight and help because they are losing the war and they have Osama in their sights and need permission to shoot. That would really make one tired. AMae, Paducah, KY
Jack
My parents are Clinton backers. My brother and I are Obama supporters. My grandmother is staying out till the general election. Our family debates this election every other day. We are all tired of it. The elders want the Clintons but the younger members want Obama. Why elect someone who is bought by special interest and unites the conservatives? I just want all the bickering to end. How about a one day primary and caucas day?
The fatigue during the primary season is a direct result of the unbalanced coverage in the Democratic race. The only network that seems to deal with issues and let the American assimilate these is CNN. I have been reenergized lately by the fair reporting of the candidates. Why would we want to end the primary season when a candidate is finally being examined fairly. A candidate on the defensive mirrors their judgement and abilities. Fatigue is a small price to pay in order to make an informed decision. The media has a huge responsibility to cover the primary in a balanced measure. The facts and less commentary from so called media experts.
–you no longer listen to the candidates running against your candidate and instead, become childishly amused with telling bloggers who support the other fellow just to "shut up". You no longer bother to give intelligent reasons but laugh out loud as you type in bold.
–you think Jack Cafferty is kinda cute for an old guy. 🙂
Kalamazoo, MI (where the opinions count more than the votes and not too much)
Jack, we realize that you are running out of meaningful questions, thus this question. So, is it you who are suffering burnout? For most of the viewing audience, the primaries have been the best reality show on TV.
Hi Jack,
You know you've got primary fatigue when you can finish their sentences after hearing the first two words they say. It's time to move on and give us a break. Maybe Putin should help out here. An 8 minute primary sounds pretty good right about now.
Ready for it to be over.
My sister gave up TV for Lent. I think it's campaign fatigue and not religion. My husband starts snoring every time the news comes on. I do other things while listening half-heartedly, but I am not fatigued. I can't wait to see what happens next and I am heartened that the youth in this country are interested in their futures. That gives me hope. I wish they could campaign forever. Lynn in Columbia, Missouri
Burned out? This stuff is better than reality TV Jack!
Dear Jack,
I can't answer your question, but I can offer a remedy. Wouldn't we all get over this election fatigue if the candidatates would start campaigning on their own merits and not trying to damage thier opponents with everything including the kitchen sink? Barack Obama has tried very hard to stay above the fray, and I think that is part of the reason why people are drawn to him. But even of late he has been forced to "hit back". And p.s. – campaigning on your own merits means making an intelligent case for why you would be an effective President, not hollow campaign slogans that just mean nothing. This is a case of saying the same thing over and over to the people is just making us all numb.
Keith
Salsibury, MD
I can't get enough ... it is like the best sports playoff in history. Problem is we have an election today in Alberta Canada and I don't even know who's running ... thanks CNN!
Obviously Jack, the AMERICAN VOTER is NOT fatigued yet. Considering we dont have a candidate who is a clear winner yet (except in your wishful eyes), it is about time that the rest of the country had the opportunity to cast a vote for the nominee of their choice!
I'll tell you one thing Jack, if Hillary tries to stay in this race after tomorrow, we'll all be fatigued until Pennsylvania or even Denver.
When you refer to your 2 yr. old's latest tantrum as a "Hillary Moment"
You know you have Election fatigue when you start hearing "change" in your sleep.
At least it's better than Electile Dysfunction.