What does 72,000 at Obama rally mean for GOP?
Barack Obama spoke to an estimated 72,000 people on Sunday in Portland, Oregon. (PHOTO CREDIT: AP PHOTO)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
Barack Obama was a part of something pretty amazing yesterday – an event that looked more like a Rolling Stones concert than a political rally.
Obama drew the largest crowd of his campaign so far in Oregon, estimated at about 72,000 people. The pictures look like Woodstock, with cheering supporters going on and on as far as the eye can see.
"Wow, wow, wow” is how Obama summed it up when he got on stage and checked out the crowd. Tens of thousands crammed into a riverside park... with another 15,000 left outside.
Obama has achieved many "firsts" in this presidential campaign: the first African-American with a serious shot at his party's nomination, the first candidate in a long while to mobilize this nation's youth and get them to the polls, and now crowds that could fill a football stadium.
Obama says he's planning to go to Iowa to await the results of tomorrow's primaries because "it would be a terrific way to bring things full circle". Of course, the Iowa caucus is where he scored his first big win over Hillary Clinton. He says if things go "as we hope” after Oregon and Kentucky vote, he'll have a majority of pledged delegates which would be a "pretty significant mark."
Obama insists he won't be declaring victory at that point, but it does bring him one step closer to being the Democrats' nominee for president. In the meantime, his campaign has already stepped up attacks on John McCain – primarily tying him to President Bush, and has sent teams into battleground states hoping to sign up millions of Democrats in the next 6 months.
Here’s my question to you: What message does it send the GOP when 72,000 people show up for a Barack Obama campaign rally?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Ron writes:
I am not yet an Obama supporter, but this certainly sends a message that there is a desperate desire to turn the page on these heavy-handed, fear mongering, dishonest politicians who have been leading this nation into an abyss of fear, debt, divisiveness, and just general economic ruin.
Matt from Omaha, Nebraska writes:
All I can say is McCain better have one hell of a ground game if he expects to win. I'd anticipate the Obama campaign being able to force John McCain to spend money in places he once thought safe because of excited volunteers like the 72,000 strong in Oregon.
Kyle writes:
72,000 people in most states would be impressive. But it’s Oregon, one of the most liberal states in the nation. Of course the most liberal candidate is going to be treated like a rock star there. If happened in a state like Texas, I'd say just go ahead and give him the presidency.
M.R. from North Carolina writes:
When I watched news clips of McCain's speeches last week, I couldn't decide if he thought he was addressing a room of 3rd graders or mentally challenged adults. Obama, on the other hand, challenges and inspires the adult in each of us.
BJ from Seminole, Florida writes:
It seems to say people are looking for themselves to see if Obama may have plans to change politics in America. There are millions of us hoping that he can and we want to be part of it. He comes to Florida soon. It will be interesting to see how he will be received here. Many of us are just so sick of the old politics as usual.
Pat from Oregon writes:
Jack, I am an Oregonian and could not be prouder to see that awesome crowd turnout for Obama yesterday. We have tons of retirees in Oregon (me included) and the Portland area has only about 6.6% black population… The Republicans can only hope they would ever see anything CLOSE to the turnout for Obama yesterday. Good job, Oregon.
Paul from Columbia, South Carolfroma writes:
Jack, Pretty slow TV sports day.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
I don't know how this affects McCain, but it does mean that we could get the Rolling Stones to open for Obama! Now we just have to teach him to move his hips like Elvis!
JAck,
It means that people are interested in hearing what Obama is saying.
JEnny Rome GA
Jack,
It means that people are gut full of what the GOP has allowed to happen to our great county and how they did not stand up to Bush and company. I don't know how much of a real change we will get but Obama has made the younger generation start using their noodle and are sick and tired of the same old song and dance and they want Cinderalla to leave the ball and PDQ.
Sen. McCain may be a fine American, but he is old Washington politics. Jack, clearly the American people are standing up and asking for their voices to be heard. Sen McCain embraces Bush politics for the most part. This has been the most secretive administration in the years I have lived. And no wonder–they have something to hide.
Sen. Obama has lived the live many of us have lived and his story of success is an encouragement for young people. Work hard, get an education, give back to the community! He listens not only with his ears but with his heart. John McCain still shows the side of him that says "don't question me–you little twerp!". How presidential was that?
Carol C
Knoxville, T
No Country for Old men, period!
Peter Ikiriko
Dallas, TX
It means Mccain's wife will save some money on jet fuel,becuase there's no sense for him to fly to Oregon it would be a waste of time and feul.
Jack –
For the sake of this nation please try and stop this Obama madness. The crowds Obama is drawing and the attention he is getting is no more than the old Rock Festivals, the only thing missing is the loud band and a guitar in Obama's hand. I've got friends in other states who would never vote for him but go to all lengths just to say they went to one of his rallies. These crowds have nothing to do with him being the best presidential candidate. It's a fad and I fear for the future of this country if he's elected.
75,000? Isn't that the entire population of Oregon?
I'd like John McCain try that. Actually, he's so old that he can fill a stadium with just his descendants!
Combined with the massive amount of voter registration going on for Democrats it means he needs to really look at invigorating the GOP grass roots.
When the gas is at 4 dollars a gallon, you choose to economize your entertainment dollar. There must e a lot of cheap political junkies in washington, not DC.
It means we will have a change at the end of the election. It will be nice to have a new voice and hopefully he can communicate with all nations and not be a bully as some of our politians are now. Making threats just like all the rest of the bullies around the world. We need to defend ourselves but we should not be starting the wars over false information. As Bush made so clear when he was looking under chairs in the Oval Office and finding no weapons of mass destruction, then laughing at his joke. He evidently has no shame! Hooray for the large crowds, hope they all vote for Obama!
Hey, Jack. The temperature was in the low 90s, the sun was shining, the river was sparkling. The park was green and lucious, the boats were dancing. The ice cream stands were open, the band was loud and clear. The people of Portland hadn't seen such a day in many moons and were deliriously happy just to be able to get outdoors and enjoy the sun.
The message to McCain is simply this:
If you want huge crowds, come to Portland on the grandest day of the year. P.S. It would help if you didn't say anything.
Jack it is plain and simple, we are tired of the republicans and grandpa needs to know that and he needs to pass the word along to Bush. And by the way who taught Bush that big word, appeasement. I bet that tired him out.
It means that Oregon has had time, time to watch this primary play out, time to see how each candidate handled themselves in tough situations, how ethical standards held up, time to re-evaluate what is important to us, and what we desperately need from our next Chief. It means that Oregon chose wisely, and we came out to see our next President.
Jack, it could only mean one thing.... He needs another infusion of Rev. Wright to scare half of them death and the other half to defect to him.
That he missed his chance in 2000.
Jack
It means one word, TROUBLE !
Jack, It tells me people are really watching and listening and I put watching first because it really tells a better story. Obama has the heart of the people and we can feel it. McCain had better know the same old lie is dead upon arrival and it's starting to make my stomach sour. It should tell the GOP something when that many people come out to hear a true word. He (McCain) couldn't get that many people to come out and listen to him if if it came with free hotdogs and soda
Jack, it means that MCcain, a seventy-two years old presidential candidate is not fit to climb the political mount everest with a fourty- six years old presidential nominee who is fire up and ready to go after convincingly defeating the Clintons.
Hello JackI emailing you from Eugene Oregon. And I feel that a 75,000 person showing for Sen. Obama spells trouble for Sem. McCain period! I was lucky enough to be one of those 75,000 and turned out at every other rally in Eugene Oregon often the 1st in line @ 5am. to partake of this Historical event, This is a Phenomenon Barack Obama is a Rock star or close to it he has so many followers for change, That want a new Breath of fresh air and that new breath of fresh air is Sen. Obama. I am no Penn & Teller but I predict he will win not only the primary Election in Oregon but also be The next President of the United States. If Sen. McCain wants even a chance he best step up his game! And quit practicing these same old Bush tactics and rederic!
Bettie Chestnut-Allen
Eugene, Oregon
Atlanta, GA
I believe that this mean McCain can hang it up. People are sick and tired of politics as usual and are looking for something/someone that has fresh ideas and unite America finally. We have been divided way too long.
McCain seems to be able to fill a conference room with 75 to 100 followers, imagine what that would look like in an outdoor arena that seats many thousands. Obama's problem is that he frequently has crowds so large that they don't fit even in the larger arenas. In fact, a lot of football stadiums would have an over flow of 10,000 on the field! That should make it easy to count McCains votes in Nov. How many of Obama's staff have had to resign for ethics? None! Only for hurting Hilary"s feelings. SO FAR, the count for McCains staff is 5!! How many more are covered up?
The message sent is "out with the old and in with the new". Change is in the air and Obama is viewed as the only one that can really produce significant change in our political system. These are exciting times, as the crowd in Oregon suggests.
Jack: It means that McCain and his hip attachment, with a moving mouth Lieberman, have a problem.
Lee
Boston, MA
It means along with Senator Bryd's plus two other superdelgates' endorsements and a 16 point lead in the recent Gallup poll, that the race is over and if it was Hillary Smith instead of Clinton everyone would be saying it!!
It means it's a pretty good sign that his campaign is still running strong. The Republicans have tried every rotten dirty trick in the book and they just can't knock him down. He is the Energizer Bunny of politics. Go Obama go!!
It sends the same message I have felt in my heart since he made his famous keynote address at the Democratic Convention. This man is grace, hope and patriotism personified. Now he has the plans to back it up. I am white, 60 and disabled, however, if I were able, I would be attending every Obama rally I could because he inspires me personally and he inspires me with the promise of change for our country, when all I've seen is a dramatic downward spiral for 8 years. Sometimes you just have to clean house and buy new furniture and the 'new room' invites a lot of new company.
The same message he's been getting all along – he's totally out of touch.
It means people aren't looking at a Republican or Democratic candidate in this election. Instead, they are looking for the candidate that will move the country forward. The problems we have now are too big to be split down party lines or stalled to serve special interests.
Jack,,
Ot will mean whatever you mediahyps want it to mean>> I didn't know Oregon had that many people there, guess taht there didn't have anything else going on so lets go see the side show!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It means that people want CHANGE.......
It means that unless Obama had Tina Turner or the Rolling Stones as backup, McCain is in big trouble.
This is another indication of the desire for a fresh face, change and hope in the upcoming election. As McCain possesses none of these qualities, he should save himself time, energy and money by packing his bags and heading back to Arizona now.
Remember the fairy tale about the "Pied Piper"? Why else would all these people follow a candidate with as little experience or substance as Obama?
He is no Jack Kennedy.
His credibility is in question. His beliefs are in question. His judgement is in question.
Now he thinks he is so above the rest of us that his wife shouldn't be brought in to the debate? If so, then keep her off the campaign trail. After all, it's her statement that's being questioned.
It means no matter how many spots McCain does on SNL or The Daily Show, he will NOT win the young vote.
Be afraid. Be very afraid.
It probably shows that, if Obama is the nominee, the election is his to lose.
During the last weekend of the 1984 election, Walter Mondale was getting absolutely enormous crowds. Pundits were asking if something was happening, could Mondale beat Reagan after all? Polls showed that Reagan's margin had suddenly dropped to lower single digits. Mondale himself was elated, but Reagan campaign officials did not comment.
Two days later, Mondale lost 49 states. Huge crowds mean nothing, so far as the general election goes.
It is another nail for the Republican coffin. This is just another sign that people are fed up with long standing Washington politics and are very hungry for real change and especially away from the Bush-McCain war.
It means nothing,its two heavy weights' locked in a fair battle.
David
It means that McCain probably won't win Oregon in November.
Ed Reed
Port Aransas, TX
This means McCain has some work to go. Making fun of your age on TV, does not get crowds.
Jack,
It means that times are changing. Come November, John McSame will only be a distant object in the rear view mirror of history.
Mike
Tucker, GA
It means that 75,000 people didn't have anything better to do on a Sunday afternoon!
The message it sends to John McCain is that if he wants to compete with Barack Obama in the general election–he'd better find 74,000 more people willing to sit through one of his speeches.
It means the GOP must fight harder and dirtier than they ever have before. And that's hard to imagine.
It means Obama is a true leader and McCain is not. One sign of a leader is having followers. I think alot of Republicans are going to skip out on their general election rallies to attend the Obama movement of change. I wouldn't go to a McCain rally if you paid me.
It means that McCain's message can not be "Iraq/Bush Good, Obama Change Bad"... It can not be "Economy/Bush Good, Obama Change Bad"... It will simply not work & that's all I'm listening to. Why?? Because of that "Utopia Speech",(where Sen. McCain is going to have things fixed by the end of his 1st term); it was a crock of broken cookies. I don't listen to candidates that believe with a wave their magic pen they can stop progress.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.
That's another 75,000 less for dinner at his party!!!!!!
Dear John McCain,
I used to love you when you stood against staying in Somalia. You used to look like you could revolutionize my GOP by reminding us of Reagan. I used to vote for you McCain when you ran against Bush.
Now I'm an Obamacan because McCain has assimilated everything that GWBush stands for in his own policies. I'm an Obamacan because Barack is a clean slate of change from GWBush.
The overwhelming message to McCain is letting him know, "No one loves you, no one listens to you, and Obama's crowds are showing the excitement a real Presidential hopefull can drum up."
Thank you,
g'OBAMA
2009-2017
It means that the political climate as he knows it has just passed into oblivion! People didn't seem to want to change the way politics was practiced back in 2000 but it has become increasingly clear every year since then that we are moving in a new direction and Barack Obama is the poster child for that movement! The youth and progressive thinkers of this country are tired of being talked down to by the neocons that have shoved their policies down our throats for the last 8 years that we just have to regurgitate it right back at them. McCain has served his country well but it is time to turn the page!
It means that McCain has a rough row to hoe. To me, it means we have a cult situation going as far as Obama is concerned. It sounds like he should have been a pastor at one of those mega churches giving hope and god to his followers, rather than giving hope, without substance and experience to his presidential followers.
What it means is that despite the early and insignificant polls comparing Obama and McCain, McCain and Clinton, and all the other nonsense that is about as accurate as predicting the Superbowl during the preseason, Obama has shown the tremendous enthusiasm and vitality surrounding his campaign. When it really begins to count in the next couple of months, McCain is going to be in big trouble. Obamas ability to raise money at a grassroots level and draw extraordinary numbers at his rallys spells serious problems for John McCain and the GOP.
Georgia, I guess the crowds that went to hear Martin Luther King, President Kennedy, and Abraham Lincoln didn't mean anything either.
But I'm sure there were a lot of sceptics like you there then too.
It means John McCain be afraid, be very afraid!!!!!!!!!!
The McCain camp must really think they have something the way he keeps trying to hammer Obama in the media for his views on how to handle our foreign diplomacy. Perhaps there are 75,000 reasons for McCain to wake up now and realize that most Americans want a president that can approach foreign diplomacy with an open mind and sound judgement. McCain is proving the point in my mind that all those years of experience he claims to have over Obama amount to diddly squat!
Well It means thats the american people are a hell of alot smarter then McCain and the bush administration gave them credit for. It also means that McCain and the repulicans had better start rasing some serious money and start advertising if they will have any chance of dupping the american people for a third time.
It means that it is going to be an embarrassing general election for him. Photos and video will be limited to McCain closeups (much the way they cover Hillarry now) while panning acres of Obamites when Barrack shows up. Finally the American public is wakening to the incredible, timely energy which is Obama.
I think when all is said and done by the Bush-McCain attack team, Barack Obama will be our President and things will start improving in America. I can't believe the far-out comments Bush and McCain make while claiming to be Christians and pro-life! Both are war mongers.
I just hope Barack Obama comes to Tennessee during the campaign so I can be in another huge crowd to see him. Barack, how about coming to Neyland Stadium at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee!
It means Senator McCain should take his newly purchased fishing gear and head to his private lake on his multimillion dollar estate and enjoy his retirement.
Jack,
Pretty slow TV sports day.
It seems to say people are looking for themselves to see if Obama may have plans to change politics in America. There are millopns of us hoping that he can & we want to be part of it. He comes to Florida soon. It will be interesting to see how he will be received here. Many of us are just so sick of the old politics as usual.
BJ in Seminole, FL
Wow. I am jacked to the highest jack-ticity, Jack. I can hardly wait for the general election Obama rallies. McCain doesn't stand a chance. He can't draw a fly.
When I watched news clips of McCain's speeches last week, I couldn't decide if he thought he was addressing a room of 3rd graders or mentally challenged adults.
Obama, on the other hand, challenges and inspires the adult in each of us.
It means Senator McCain has a lot of work to do.
The message it sends is that the Republican ticket will have to pretend to offer change instead of McSame. That they will have to Swift Boat Obama to a nauseating degree and it also means that the Republicans will come out in boat loads rather than let a Democrat into the WH to try to save the country from Bush’s disaster. The only question is why would anyone want 4 more years, but 100 million morons do according to the polls.
Those 75,000 people that showed up at Obama's campaign rally sure didn't come to hear a message about war. I suggest McCain find another "game" plan because the one he has won't work.
Jack,
Here's what it means (with or without the 75,000 person rally). Futile. The presidency is a futile goal for him.
Iowa
To have such a large crowd is an indication of how excited Barack Obama supporters are about their candidate, and for many, about being first-time voters or brand-new Democrats. All I can say is McCain better have one hell of a ground game if he expects to win. I'd anticipate the Obama campaign being able to force John McCain to spend money in places he once thought safe because of excited volunteers like the 75k strong in Oregon.
john ... who ? isn't he that old guy ?
The message is Davis is right. The Bush years have been as toxic to Republicans as to America.
Only if McCain were as outraged as the voters would he have a chance. He still doesn't see any problem associating with George Bush. Rather than concern over association with Hagee, he should be demanding impeachment proceedings to disassociate himself from Bush.
simple : it means a change is in the air....get used to it !!
P,S, Did anyone call Hillary ??
It means McCain ought to go on Oprah.
It means McBush will have a lot to overcome in the days ahead!! There's not a Republican out there who can generate this kind of interest...maybe if a meeting was called where people could tell Bush about how he has messed up this country, as well as the international community, you would get the numbers who showed up at this rally. That's the only way people this many people would come out.
Jack,
It means people are pissed and we are not going to take it any more. LOOK OUT GOP and the Republican machine! You are in BIG TROUBLE this November!!!!!
It shows the organization skills of his campaign. It shows that Americans want their country back. It shows that this presidential campaign will be more purple than red or blue. If I'm John Mc Cain I'd be worried.
It means that McCain has got his work cut out for him.
First I don't believe there were 75,000 people at this rally, but regardless how many were there I'm sure John McCain already knows that he has a battle on his hands. He will get the votes of the 30 percent that still believe that Bush is doing a good job, but don't see where he will get many more. Looks like poor John has be Bushwacked...
It's a clear signal that we are turning the page. We are hungry for real change. The kind of change that transcends political parties.The days of the ruling class feeding at the trough of the U.S. treasury are going to end. The days of not getting what we want and deserve from our government are going to end. If not Obama, if not the Democrats, then they will be abandoned and thrown out next time. But for now, Obama is the new sheriff in town and the townsfolk are lining up behind him. McCain and his gang had better ske-daddle while they can.
Jitters, Jitters, Jitters. The enormous energy that Obama has brought into this campaign is remarkable but very scary if you were the opponent. To have 75000 people come out to see and hear Obama will, like nothing else, tell McCain what an uphill task the fall will be.
There's 75,000 that won't be voting for McBush. These are folks that probably are better educated and informed than those numbskulls in places like West Virginia and Kentucky. I'll bet some are even good middle class white working folks too. Keep your eyes open Mc Cain, the end is near for you and that Bush thugs.
it means a change is coming!it means we want to be 'really proud' of our country for the first time ,in our adult lives.[i just love michelle obama.so real]
Jack, It smells like McCain's impending doom, to me. There is just no way to inspire that kind of enthusiasm in the American public unless you are the real thing. McCain is probably on the phone with Lorne Michaels as we speak, lining up more guest appearances on SNL to appeal to a broader audience. No matter what he does, though, at the end of the day, Obama's still a ROCK STAR, and there's nothing he can do about that.
Jack, It means that there were more Obama supporters at that rally
than the total number of republicans in the country.
TO ME IT MEANS THAT McBUSH AND HILLARY BOTH COULD SAVE FACE AND WITHDRAW NOW.....
It sends the message that people want CHANGE, not the same old thing. this is a new dawning for the Democratic party and I hope they take advantage of it.
jack it showes that mcinsain or mcbush has no chance to be president. he cant compeat in fund raising,in supporters and most importantly getting out from under george bushs fail term. mccain should thru in the towl now and avoid the embarrasment of a complete blow out election. if the republicans cant win in minor elections on there own terf then mcbush has no chance.
Looks like Obama will be another Teflon president like Reagan. No dirt thrown at him by Hillary or Wright can stick.
According to the Census Bureau, Oregon is 93 percent white and not all whites in Oregon have college degrees. So much for that theory that Barack Obama not attracting white, working class voters. It might be time for John King to get a new map.
It says to the McCain camp and the Republician party that a great many people in this country are prepared to fully embrace the twenty-first century. Both parties which have supported the globalist or internationalist agenda since 1968, have told us to: Globalize yourself. I think that the possible election of the first black president to office may be an excellent indiciation that Americans are beginning to do just that. The movers and shakers want an end to the nation state, I think that if our species are to survive the ego's of those running any country today, (as seen by the actions of ego's of those running their countries, both in Myanmar and China this past week in response to their countries catatastrophes) then an end to the nation state it is. Obama, Clinton, and McCain are for this, so Jack, it really doesn't matter much which person we choose for president.
Geri, Mead, OK
It simply means that there were a lot of people there. Nothing more, Nothing less.
It means Cindy McCain missed out on a whole mess of revenue by not getting a liquor license for the event.
Jack, . . . Goodness knows that John McCain would have certainly lost
his bearings in a crowd of that magnitude.
Simple Jack,
May the FORCE be with OBAMA.
Jack,
It means McCain has more problems than Obama...McCain has less appeal for those of us who already distrust our elected "leaders", less money than probably any modern presidential candidate, less promise for getting out of Iraq and less promise for helping the majority of Americans find a job, see lower gas prices, get better health coverage.
The only thing I see that McCain has more of at the moment is support from those over the age of 70 and those republicans who vote republican regardless of whose name is on the ballot.
Perhaps McCain would be better served if he'd join and register as an Independent and could then get the backing of Lou Dobbs...well, maybe not. Lou already sees through the crusted and aged veneer of McCain.
Have you noticed that McCain's wife is at his side in virtually every camera shot; perhaps she's there to grab his arm in case he missteps or gets dizzy with age. Now that'd be a good question for our viewers, Jack. "Why does Cindy McCain appear to be almost an appendage of John McCain?"
Greg, Sun City West
jack, tell mccain too read my lips. he too old, dont bring anything too the table. and tell him to go get a nite shift jobs at wal-mart. the american people is ready for a new lleader and i thain we found a nice young man in Mr obama
If you can't motivate the majority, you will never lead the masses!!!
Wildwood Crest, NJ
Senator McCain better hope he is not defeated by a landslide, the only
votes are the 1/3 that vote republican no matter what. He might draw that many people in 10 rallies. Barack Obama is going to run over John McCain and the republican smear machine like a runaway train.
From Montreal
Jack, what would happen if McCain would get sick and passed away during the campaign......who would take his place.
Michele
It means he has to work his butt off to do better than Goldwater in 64.
He'll just turn his hearing aid down and pretend they don't exist. Isn't that what Republicans have been taught to do?
Means a lot.. what can he say??????????
It means there is strong enthusiasm for the democrats in the fall, thus meaning that turnout will be high instead of the typical numbers we usually see in the November. The republicans cannot make this argument since there members are voting for democrats and rather be classified as independents.
It means that a record number of people having been voting in the primaries on the Democrat side, the republicans have consistently been out voted in so called red and blue states.
It means that people are dissatisfied with republicans, Bush and McCain, the direction of the country. This administration will be viewed in history as the worst of all time, and the historians can make that judgment today rather then 100 years from now.
It means that using these silly arguments whether we should talk to other nations is ridiculous, since that has been Americas strongest form of foreign policy, its our diplomacy. It was the Nazi's who did not want to talk to other nations, they lied about the reasons for war, they launched wars of aggression, they believed in a stupid leader, they did not read there own propaganda on what they would do, A New American Century by the neo cons.
It means that the neo con agenda will be defeated.
Any one want to doubt Obama's patriotism, just look at the crowds. Anyone want to doubt Obama's hope, just listen to his message. Anyone want to doubt his creditials, look at who is supporting him. Anyone want to doubt change – vote Republican. Obama, is the wave of optomism this country has needed, and thirsted for for 8 years.
Jack, It smells like McCain’s impending doom, to me. There is just no way to inspire that kind of enthusiasm in the American public unless you are the real thing. McCain is probably on the phone with Lorne Michaels as we speak, lining up more guest appearances on SNL to appeal to a broader audience. No matter what he does, though, at the end of the day, Obama’s still a ROCK STAR, and there’s nothing he can do about that.
Jack it means the American people has had enough of Washington and McBush going 2 continue the same bush policies that has hurt us giving tax breaks 2 the wealthiest few and they are not even asking for it! McBush says he does not understand the economy and it shows McSain does not realize is what makes America great is the middle class and we can’t afford 2 stay in Iraq when our own infrastructure is crumbling case and point Minneapolis bridge collapse last August if we stay there we be more in debt and more bridges will follow like the one in Minneapolis beside why should we let our troops give up the American dream when those people not doing what the can to secure the country since the war started only 3 of 18 bench marks have been made 3 and they are not even in our hemisphere let the U.N. or some else deal with this and when the troops come home they are not getting there benefits and in cases homeless come on and I am glad the American people are waking up and saying enough is enough the know my boy Obama will deliver not this other guy from A.Z. it’s time to make America great again not bring us further down like the other guy plans to do and Jack the #’s are only going to get much larger GO OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It means that most people are for a qualified candidate for president and are not concerned about his ethnic background.
I often respond to your file but usually get "awaiting moderation and they are removed in a few minutes. Why?
John McCain's weeds won't tumble out west. We're all educated out here.
This'll never make it on the air, but a certain German got rallies like this back in the 30's
so the question should really ask: "What does this mean about Obama?"
It means being the nicest Republican in the party isn't enough to get you elected.
you are a good guy john, a true hero but this is your lullaby sir, bye, bye john. it is too bad you couldn't have been the president instead of the incumbent, it wouldn't have been too hard to leave this country in better shape than it is in.
hopefully, this large showing at obama's rally indicates that mccain doesn't have much of a chance. McCain's politics of fear, similar to bush's "i will protect you" presidency is a bit antiquated. Jack, the united states has many military bases in the middle east; we are the worlds leading superpower; and there are no middle eastern military bases here in the united states. We the u.s. need to stop acting like victims. It doesn't matter if you proliferate yourself around the world using a nazi army, or with a trojan horse of freedom. We are using the same weapons. Oh and lest we not forget we are the only nation in the world to drop a nuclear bomb on someone. We are not victims. Those who lead this nation need to stop creating a sense of fear. We the people are not really interested in that type of leadership anymore.
I know obama is of the same social class as any other politician; which is one of privilege. and i understand that he really hasn't explained how he is the party of change. To be honest i don't have a clue what obama stands for. However, Mccain has tried to draw differences between he and bush. And on minor side issues there is a difference. But on the issues that matter most to us, bush and mccain agree. I am speaking of spending, taxes, and foreign policy. Mccain is wishy / washy... One day he'll believe this and the next day he flip flops. Mccain is too old to be so indecisive
Doesn't mean anything Jack, look at all those black people in the crowd! If he can't get white support, he can't win.
Jack,
John McCain has claimed to hear the people and change his views accordingly. Well John, can your hear the people in Oregon? 75,000 people cheering get's pretty loud. Maybe he need's it in writing. If that's the case just look at the MILLIONS of votes Obama has that you don't. The era of cowboy diplomacy is over and the reckless policies you wish to continue are coming to an end.
Jack, the message to John McCain is that 90,000 Oregon voters’ hopes and aspirations for change are with Senator Obama; they are expecting something McCain’s Bush like ways can’t deliver.
For most of us closely following your politics and hopiing your country can get back to the great nation, most outsiders believed, you were it signals there is a very good chance the vast majority of people have figured out what the right wing conservative platform stands for and are intent on ending the bush regime after 8 destructive years.
I can't understand why the news medias including CNN don't talk more about McCain going to Iraq, dressed in armour and surrounded by an army stating it was so safe you could stroll to the market and not be in any danger. Of course this is when your great reporter Micheal Ware immediately denounced McCain's statements as lies saying if you ventured out into the streets you would be dead in a minute. Jack you seem to be the only one with the guts and integrity to talk about this event.
It means that people don't believe getting captured and sitting in prison for a decade qualifies you to be commander in chief. It also means he's got a tired old message and Americans are rejecting him and the republicans in huge numbers.
That he's truly out of touch with the American people.
Don't try to make Oregon a swing state.
It means, people have had enough of the Gov, status quo. They want change and they see that change in Obama!
I really fell sorry for the people that think this is a fad, or keep calling supporters "obamabots". Those are the ones who have lost all hope!
With their cynical comments, and bitterness, I really hope they appreaciate the better life we well all have, after the Republican are out of the White House!
According to the Census Bureau, Oregon is 93 percent white and not all whites in Oregon have college degrees. So much for that theory that Barack Obama is not attracting white, working class voters. It might be time for John King to get a new map.
it means that mccain hasnt figured out that he would be employed by the citizens of this country, and we want change. 82% say were headed in the wrong direction, nearly 2/3 of us want out of iraq and his hearing aid isnt working. he is just more of the same old bush ignorance.....and we the people cant afford it! his resume, which is carved on a stone tablet, doesnt measure up.
doug in knoxville arkansas
It means he must have bought everyone a hamburger and coke
75,000 Means Nothing Jack! Remember NH,and PA he Had HUGE crowds did he win, NO!
America needs a new man, a new direction, a clean slate and a new start. The old political Dino's, such as Clinton and McCain don't fit the mold. Barrack Obama is the man of the times, the new generation, the untainted tuna, and the great hope that can restore America's place i the world. 75 000 can't be wrong.
Hi Jack...It shows that 75,000 plus want "Change" & the GOP along with grandpa McBush can go home for the next 8 years! Now if Hillary will bring her group of people behind Obama, we will really get some serious work done in Congress, but wait, Hillary can NOT be the VP.
Jack, I believe it sent cold chills up his old bones. He said today when things aren't going good he doesn't read the papers or listen to the news. I guess he isn't going to be listening to the you guys for the rest of the year hope you don't loose any sleep over it.
Some reporters stated half of those attending were too young to vote.
John McCain couldn't congregate 75,000 people on a sunny day in Portland if he gave away free ipods. The message is loud and clear: Barack Obama is one popular guy. John McCain will have his work cut out for him if he wants to win in November. Obama may not be guaranteed a win in the general election but I'll be shocked if he doesn't atleast win the popular vote. Hillary said it best: it's tough when you're running against a movement.
Well Jack, it sends the message that Sen. Obama is an exciting, energizing candidate. I am not sure it says more than this. Although it won’t, I would hope that it sends the message that Sen. Obama will be the next president. Perhaps that would stem the real negative campaigning and make the campaign season a little nicer for all of us.
It means he is overwhelmingly going to kick his "old" butt in November! people are excited about someone new and not that "politically" savy being our next president. you know, George Bush had been a governor for several years, for one of the biggest states in this country, and I don't see him as "smart in the ways of the world!" Wait Jack, I don't think he has a brain at all!
Jack, it quire simply means America has it's first real chance to truly take the world along with it into a 21st century. Bon chance, good luck we all are in need of positive words.
David
Dartmouth NS
It means – na na na na, na na na na, hey hey hey, good bye.
Its show that me that white americans on the west coast and mid-west are the most opened minded.
THEY WERE THERE FOR THE CONCERT AND TO CHECK IF HIS STASH WAS BETTER THAN THEIR 'S.. EVERYONE HAD A HIGH TIME!!!
In my opinion, the 75,000 at an Obama speech mean that McCain and the Republicans are in trouble. However, it also means that we will be in store for more dirty and underhanded politics during the run up to the general election in November. The only way for the GOP to hoodwink the American public again would be with smear campaigns and relying on divisive issues such as illegal immigration, abortion rights, and all the other minor issues that distract the public from the real issues. On the whole, it means most Americans are ready for something different.
It means there are probaly more Kool-Aid drinking, cult members in Oregon than any other state .... nothing more, nothing less.
Now that you've sufficiently beat up Senator Clinton, Mr. Cafferty, I suppose your new target is Senator McCain. Why don't you stop trying to influence the minds of the "mindless" ..... it doesn't work on me or most intelligent people, but some mindless people are so influenced by the media and you know this, which is why you NEVER say anything remotely negative about Obama. YOU are so in the tank for him, it's actually offensively disgusting!
I know this will never make it past the pro-Obama moderator (and network), but thought I'd at least give it a shot ..... a LONG shot, I know.
Jack what it says is that the tide of change is growing and will wash
McCain and his Bush backed policies into the past where they belong.
It means that Mccain has/got to team up with Hillary to take on this guy. Hillary has already proved that she cannot take him down alone.
The message is the "Revolution has started." The people have had enough of business as usual in Washington D.C.
In a word, it means "trouble" for John McCain.
Barack Obama is leading a movement in this country that is energized equally in it's opposition to the same old garbage we have been fed by the Republicans AND Democrats in the past on the one hand and the breath of fresh air that Senator Obama has brought to the political landscape on the other.
Using a musical analogy, McCain is singing babershop with the Bush Boys & Obama is rockin' like Bono.
It means that Mccain has/got to team up with Hillary to take on this guy. Hillary has already proved that she cannot take him down alone.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Jack, what it means is simple.. There isn't any really good music out there like in my day, 60's and 70' .Kids are aching for a good experience like woodstock ! There isn't much substance or experience behind Mr.Obama, his preaching abilities are good. I choose not to vote for somebody for president who wants "on the job training." I bet there weren't too many people from my age group out there. I will always remain a die hard HILLARY fan. She has a realistic chance against the republican machine.
It means he is toast-"OLD TOAST!"
billary and mcshame are screwed
Jack,
The message is to just give up and join the Obama team. I just wanted to be there to see the look on his face when he saw the pictures of this record turnout. McCain has to understand that there is a movement that is shaking the depths of America now and he's on the wrong side of the fence.
Hey Jack,
Oregonians are a progressive lot of people: we are much more than coffee sipping, tree hugging, do things our own way, kind of Americans. You'd think even without a rally of mega thousands, that McCain would realize his journey to the presidency is alot like moving to Oregon when you hate the rain. You can pretend all you want that everything is fine, but in the end, all you've done is put yourself in a place where the sun don't shine. Might as well move on, this is no place for the likes of McCain.
Jack, this means that its to late to fire your lobbiest, to late to change your view on the length of time we will be in Iraq, to late to change your view on the Bush tax cuts for the rich, and to late to learn about our economy. In other words, 75,000 plus says John McCain, its too late for you.
C. H.
Longview, Texas
Have you see that picture of Barack Obama standing in front of a Superman statue, Jack? Yeah, my sentiments exactly.
Jack – you asked what message it sends to John McCain. I'm not sure it sends any messageat all. He hasn't got the message yet and its highly unlikely this will come through to him, either. If the thousands of young people returning from Iraq missing their body parts or, worse in a body bag, doesn't send a message, then what he probably perceives as a rock concert won't do the job. and ,in the words of Dick Cheney when your interviewer said the majority of Americans did not approve of the surge, "So what?".
Jack that was a huge crowd, I had trouble navigating around Portland yesterday. People flocking everywhere, stopping every place they could to watch and listen even from a distance. His first visit to Eugene athough not as big of a crowd, was just as awsome, so many people out side waiting, he actually visited those that could not get in first and thanked them for their support. This only goes to show that McCain has not a chance in H+++ to win this election. By the way, everyone keeps saying he has a problem with Blue colar workers, that is bull, look at the crowds, its not all kids, nor is it all black, there are equal numbers and at times more of those so called blue colar workers there too.
For John McCain it means...........Uh- oh!
Americans are seeking the "Change" that he is talking about and excited to find out more about his ideas to fix the problems the last 8 years have created.....
They already know the only Change the Republicans are offering is "Spare Change".....and that ain't cutting it this year
It means that most Americans are ready for change.If their not ready for change their either rich, or stupid.
Kathy
Jack, There are 75,000 people in Oregon that wanted to see the next President of the United States . I must say there are at least 75,000 smart people in Oregon that do not listen to the pundits that say us white folks and blue collar works won't vote for a black candidate. OBAMA 08
Connie from Logansport,IN
It's a no brainer if you have listened to both Obama a McCain. Obama offers you hope that the politics in Washington can be changed and McCain puts you to sleep.
In a swing state like Oregon I think McCain should be very concerned. Bringing out those types of numbers, on an unusualy hot day, when he's already expected to win the primary is huge. I'm the daughter of generations of lumber workers, part of a family that has trended Republican, and even in my family, Obama is the candidate.
Old politics from the past are over and done. We, the people are amped and ready to go!
Jack it means John McCain should be quaking in his boots. When you can draw that many people to hear your message about hope and change, then the rest of the country will surely be listening. Also, the more he can tie John McCain to the failed policies of George Bush, the better off he will be for the November election.
Just because they showed up at a campaign event on a beautiful OR day doesn't necessarily mean they will vote for McCain – some are probably just out there for the experience. Having said that, McCain has to know that kind of participation is almost certainly out of his reach – something to think about as he plans his national campaign strategy. Dems are the ones generating the real enthusiasm and bringing in the new voters in this election year.
Bow, NH
It should tell John McCain he has a LONG LONG road to the General Elections. Jack, you pretty well summed it up.
Mary from Sarasota, FL
sigh...... Go Hillary (I still think Senator Clinton would make the better President.)
What it means for McCain is he is going down with the other one. What's her name? The one that tells lies all the time and fakes the smile all the time? Hillary or Billary or something like that.
If he needs a bathroom, he better get in line . . . . .
It means the McCain will be smoked in November. Hold on to your seats, repubs. You're going to be blown away. He is no match for Obama when it comes to the debates. I cannot wait.
Jack,
This speaks volume, and means that Americans do not want the relay race barton passing on from Bush to Mcsame. We are tired of speed-dial temper holic, crude washington old politics come January. We want who and what's best for the future of our children. A breath of fresh air!!!
Jack, This means that the American people are using there voice, and expressing their view of the America of the future. The people want, and will have change; in two words Jack, IT'S OVER!!!
75,000 less votes for Clinton
It must mean that there are no white hardworking americans in Oregon. obviously they have all moved to West Virginia and Kentucky, and left only eggheads behind in Oregon. Since eggheads don't go to rock concerts, they go to Obama rallies instead.
What it means is that his time is drawing to a close. Has anyone had a rally as big as this one? I do not think so.
There is change in the air and McCain will soon be history.
If this does'nt kill him, he's healthier than he looks and nothing will.
Raul
Philadelphia, PA.
Jack,
Not much, in some states he's seeing Obama drawing big crowds but in the big states that matter Hillary winning primaries. So the wins by Sentator Clinton and the rumors out there that half of her supporters in the key states saying they will not vote for Obama has McCain dubious of Obama's big crowds...
C.I., New York
Young enthusiatic people like myself enjoy seeing a honest speaking politician, the guy has celebrity status among us.
Khalid,
Norfolk, VA
How many show up to a Barack Obama campaign rally doesn’t mean all will vote for him some go just to see him because he happens to be near their home & he is on TV, I have done it my self, not because I am voting for the person but I wanted to see them in person
It means that if the Senator Clinton supporters can get over there hurt feelings and anger – that John McCain will hit the road Jack and don't come back no more , no more , no more.
It sends the message that the Pied Piper is alive and well and we know how badly that ended.
He's toast!
Brooklyn, NY
It means that George Bush and the Republicans really did manage to united this country.
It means the good people of Oregon, all Americans, want change and they believe that Obama can deliver on the changes we need. Most people want life to be better for their children, grandchildren and future generations. If we don't get major changes in Washington, it won't be a pretty future for the US. While we are at it, can someone bring up the idea of TERM LIMITS for House and Senate members. Twelve years ought to be enough time for anyone to do the public's work. Any time longer than that, and they are feathering their own nest. (Two 6 years terms in the Senate, Three 4 year terms in the House) Let's get a constitutional change to put that in place!!
I think it means big trouble for Mccain. It will be hard for the republicans to use their dirty tactics like they did last week when president Bush was in Israel. They will have a hard time trying to change the issues when they have a president who has the lowest approval rating ever and their opponent is drawing the biggest crowds ever in a campaign.
It means a lot of people are willing to gather to hear about hope and dreams, not recurring nightmares.
Jack, It's very simple what this means. It means people want a change for the good of our country. We are sick of the lies, and fleecing of America that this government has dished out to us for the last 8 or more years. Obama seems to have a honest way about him and how he explain's what he wants to change in this country and we know that it will take a honest and sincere politican in Washington to make the changes this country needs.
Judy; New York
Jack, it means that he better keep praying that Hillary steals the nomination from Obama. Otherwise, he doesn't have a prayer.
It means he is spending the day counting his age spots to see if he has 75,000 because that is the one and only time he'll see that kind of count at one of his own rallies.
it just means that there are 75000 more idiots out there who worship an empty suit.
This kind of crowd shows people are excited about a different kind of candidate–one independent of special interests. McCain sees these crowds and knows he's got to get rid of his lobbyists–that's why they're resigning one by one. If Clinton were the nominee, McCain wouldn't have to clean house, because she's got a bunch of lobbyists just like him. The crowds for Obama are a sign that people want democracy restored, and they're willing to stand up to get it done.
This is what real people support is all about. The people who matters. This is not tyring to "fake" you way through an election hoping that the you will automatically get you party votes. MCain should get Bush and his Neo-Con, war mongering friends to throw him a rally in Texas, and discuss how to attack Iran.
JACK,
I have watched the many thousands of people OBAMA draws` when he goes anywhere to speak because MCCAIN has nothing new to say about what he plans to do about anything! OBAMA is for change and HILLERY goes on and on about everyone having Health coverage when for 7 years she could not sell her plan to the people. She is not going to win and staying in fighing OBAMA is hurting the DEM. Party! MCCAIN is too old to be running for Pres. He had his day against Bush now HE is doing the same issues` as Bush has. People want CHANGE AND OBAMA IS OFFERING THE PEOPLE CHANGE NOW! That is my opinion.
BARBARA FROM FLORIDA
It means that the people from Oregon were glad they have a say in the nomination. I think it also means that those people want a big change from what the GOP has done to them.
Jack,
This is nothing! Wait till you see the 300 million rally to see George w. Bush leave the white house. I'll be the cute one crying tears of joy!
It means that if not all at least a whole lot of people are Mc Cain/Bush fatigued.
It means Mc Cain should drop out right now for the well being of America!
Jack,
It means people liked the free music and a day in the park. Seriously, I am an Obama supporter and I think it is great; however, how many were there and didn't even know what was going on?
Troy Turner
Clemson, SC
It means there's a lot of Democrats in Oregon. Who knew?
Yes we can! The GO who?
It is impressive, but what does it mean when Hillary keeps smacking him around at the primaries?
Oregon has less black people then West Virginia. This is a big problem for McCain. Obama has the white vote, McCain has the white-haired vote.
a lot of people drank the Kool Aid
Barackstock proves very little except one thing. There is nothing much for these Birkenstock and tie-dyed wearing ex-hippies and their offspring to do in Oregon but sit around in their geodesic domes smoking hippie lettuce. They'll do anything to congregate and share their feelings about peace and love and how they can save the world.
It is refreshing to finally hear a real statesman speak as opposed to the stupid elitist rednecks at the Whitehouse and within the Republican Party that America has had to put up with for the last 7 years. Obama has demonstrated that he is a statesman and perhaps he can "restore dignity to the WhiteHouse" since Bush and Republicans did just the opposite.
Liberals love to fill stadiums, the huge conservative segment of this country fill voting booths on election day. Moms and Dads arent going to a stadium filled with thousands of people..Come on. Liberals are loud mouths, conservatives do their talking on Election day.... GAME-SET-MATCH.
It means that the people of Oregon are really stupid. This country is heading for a major train wreck and Barrack Hussein Obama is the train driver.
"President Obama" should hold his talks with the Iranians at the American Embassy in Iran, that's only if the Iranis have given it back. Maybe Tony Rezko can finance the trip....
The message is that a lot of people are stupid!
It simply means that there are at least 72,000 kool-aid-drinking liberals in Portland. That's just the tip of the iceberg, however.
Jack,
It means finally people get it. People can relate with Obama's life journey, it's very American in all aspect, very ordinary.
Jack
This means this is the year of the donkey, and the elephant is endangered ( not extinct) at least for this election cycle.
I believe the large audiences coming to see Sen. Obama demonstrates that American citizens are ready and support a new day. The crowds verify that they want to see and hear our new president.
Trouble.
It means they should be afraid-VERY afraid.
I don't think this is super significant, but WOW!!! that's a load of people.
It means we are sick and tired of the past 7 years. I switched from Hillary to Obama because my children asked me to (just as I asked my parents to switch from Nixon to Kennedy in 1960, but they didn't).
No country for old Men.
It means hillary Clintons thinking that White working class people wont vote for Obama doesn't hold water, There must of been a few of those in that crowd of 72,000 people.
It means that people are definately passionate about a real change in America. Many people look to Obama as a man who can really get the country going in the right direction, and the hope that he has instilled in many people will lead him, our citizens, and our country to great things. It was because of him that I went from an Independent to a Democrat and there are many more like me. I can't wait to have eight years of the Obama presidency!! Yes We Can!!
It says for once people are excited about the presidential race. It means a change is gonna come. Get ready! Get Ready! It's about time we get something new in Washington. the same ole politics is what has us in a tail spin.
Vote Obama 08
In means that Washington DC better start planning for January 20, 2009 for his inauguration. His audience will reach from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and Potomac River. And the cold weather will not deter anyone from witnessing this historical event.
It means that the U.S. is ready to turn the page on 8 years of lees than nothing from this current administration.
Festus in Montana,...that is hilarious!!!!! Best response yet!
A showing like this pretty much tells you who the people are for and gives you a glimpse of what's to happen in November. It is very much over. McCain couldn't get 72K together even he offered free lunch, a tank of gas and a movie ticket.
Go DEMs
Nelson
Miami, Florida
It means even the Democrats can make up attendance numbers. 72,000 wink...wink,
It means that it's only a matter of time before McCain steals a Clinton move and goes on a late-night show to play the saxophone... Maybe he'll try to butter up Craig Ferguson, since they are both Irish...
It means that Superman could be the republican nominee and we still would be looking at a democratic being elected president next!!
It says– Bye bye Bush, No Way McCain. People are ready for a change in a Woodstock kind of way. Get ready for change!
Jack, I read these comments where folks say they fear for the country if Obama is elected President. Well 72,000 at a rally whether they are there just for kicks or for support says to me that they are not afraid if he gets elected, rather, they are tired of who has been elected for the past 8 years. But to those who are afraid, take comfort in knowing that I once shared that same fear when Bush got elected and look what happened. Obama couldnt' be any worse. so get over it and thank God we have someone who is willing to take over this country and the bush baggage.
It means our country is waiting to support a leader that represents all the people of this nation and sends a powerful message to the "international community" about what it means to be american.
Troy Kendal
seattle/san francisco
I think it is a Reality Check for the GOP and they are afraid they will lose the General election in November and are willing to say or do anything including fear mongering just to stay in power.
Jack it means pack it up-pack it in. The paaaarty's oooover and Barack Obama is the prom King!!!
lol
It means, just as it has in many other primary states across the country, that the enthusiasm for a change in the country's direction is deep trouble for the Republicans in this election cycle. These massive demonstrations of enthusiasm toward the Democrats point not only to a highly likely victory for Obama in November, but perhaps also to massive victories for the Democrats in both the House and Senate. The Republican Party could literally be set back a generation.
Jack it says the GOP and Sen. McCain is toast
virginia
Virgin Islands
It tells Karl Rove and his flying monkeys that this candidate may not be as easy to "Swift Boat" as the last one.
Art
West Virginia
It means McCain versus Obama is a classic case of the Road Runner versus the Wil E. Coyote. McCain is the coyote and his same old Acme tricks aren't working!
Jack, as a support in the crowd yesterday, the one resounding thought that kept running through my mind was, WOW, I'm witnessing part of history in the making. That crowd, yesterday in portland meant people want change and fresh views in the white house.
Nicole,
Portland, OR
Change, Change, Change.
Angie
NYC
It means that Obama doesn't have any "preconditions" in ordfer to attend his rallies!
What does it mean when over 75,000 people gather to hear Barack Obama speak? It means that he's the most inspirational leader we've had in decades and that people are genuinely drawn to him. He is a man we'll be proud to call president. We love you Barack! Keep true to your message & show them a thing or two in Washington! We need you there fighting for us all – young & old, black & white, latino & immigrant, democrat, republican & independent. Obama in 08! Many blessings to he & his beautiful family!
When I read that some voters say that Obama is an "empty suit," "not enough experience," etc., then I see stories like this, I want to ask those doubters this: Not that Obama is an "empty suite," but for the lack of a better term, look where filled-out suits and experience got us. (John McCain, George W Bush, Rove, the rest of the "gang." STOP HATING.
GO BARACK!!!!
It means, the party is over for Republicans.......Yes We Can!
Camelot has come full circle.Wellcome to the white house, Obama Family!
If ever there was a doubt that Obama has the real ability to be a transformative leader they have ended today. He's been endorsed by a former Klansman, Sen. Robert Byrd and drawn a crowd of 72,000 in Oregon.
Scott
Jacksonville, Florida
It means that people are fed up with the way Republicans have been running this country for the past 8 years. They're tired of the war in Iraq, and tax cuts for the rich while the rest of us struggle in this floundering economy. I was laid off from my job along with my coworkers a few months ago, and in between jobs I spent my free time volunteering for Senator Barack Obama's presidential campaign! The republicans have an up hill battle this election. Oh and one more thing: Yes we CAN make this country better! Obama '08!
I was there, and the experience was incredible. People were so patient in the long lines that meandered all over downtown Portland, from young infants to senior citizens, people of every color of the rainbow, people from every walk of life, from every faith.
Wow is right.
The message being sent is that the American people have hope for the future of this great nation, people want change from the status quo of the washington insiders, and it will be the democratic party that will get us all there, led by our next President, Obama.
Jack,it means red flag for McBush.Grandpa have a lot of work to do.He needs to distance himself from Bush further.I foresee McBush loosing 40 states in the Fall if Obama is the nominee.
One message is this: Be grateful more than five months remain before the general election!
It means that there are a lot more uninformed sheep out there then I thought was possible. Having lived in Oregon, I know that people there are very liberal and are a bunch of big city wanna-bees, but I never knew they were totally dumb. How can anyone vote for a man who is an unknown, we still don't know what he intends to do if elected except to 'change' the way politics is done in DC. Ha-ha, and folks are buying into this con. Shame, shame on us.....
This shows that we do not want another Clinton or Bush in office enough is enough.
Clinton needs to bow out and lets get on with the race.
means little to GOPs, possibly more of a message to Hillary – time to
move out of the way and let the real race begin!
It means people are tired of paying 3.75 at the pump and rising, it means people are tired of being scared that the sky if falling if the democrats win the election. It means that there is hope for America, and American's that we can bring back jobs lost to oversea's buy doing away with the Clinton's NAFTA garbage, and other free trade agreements. It means that change means change, and Clinton(SMILLARY WHOM NEEDS TO LEARN HOW TO COUNT), and McCain (MCSAME – Bush the 3rd), are a thing of the past and Obama is our only hope of a future!
Knowing the nice weather that was available for the first in a good while was this day, would believe a good number of people came out with their children to enjoy a beautiful day, and just happen to be the same day planned for a political agenda, smart thinking on Obama's Team. He is bringing the word "change" to Federal Government, but haven't actually heard the nuts and bolts of this "change" he has repeated numerous times, and with his lack of federal government experience, some are leary to consider this person to be the Command in Chief, with a lightweight of experience compared to his competitors. I understand the country is wanting / needing change due the poor state our country is in presently due to the management of key programs failing now with our present leadership.
Let's see how the votes count tomorrow for Barack and Clinton, then we'll just see how important this gathering was for him. In ending, he's no John F. Kennedy, but either is Clinton or what's his name, McCain.
The message is: The GOP has BIG problems.
72,000 people in attendance at a Barack Obama rally means that there is critcial evolution that is taking place in politics. This evolution is not only characterized by the historical numbers of people involved in the political process or attendees of candidate's rally. In contrast it highlights how GOP lobbyist inspired agendas and strategies are no longer a good fit for the American people and quite frankly outdated. Americans are beginning to come to their senses. 72,000? Wake up call, Mr. GOP!
Hi Jack,
The rally in Oregon is an ominous sign of what is about to happen this fall. We the people will have our say on the direction we want this country to go. The Republicans have told us time and time again about what they are against. It's time for them to tell us what they are for.... It's easy to create distractions by attacking Obama's family as they did in Tennessee. But what are they for??? What do they plan to do about the war in Iraq? What do they plan to do to fix the economy they broke? What are their plans on healthcare? How about jobs? It's about substance stupid!
It means that America is back! It means that I can look my son in the eye and tell him that I voted for the president! That I am proud of the president!
Jack, It means 72,000 plus more people like myself can’t wait! If the American people wake up and take a step back and look at the other candidate and what he offers more of the same- they too wil be on the Obama wagon. I just hope the majority of Americans who voted for George Bush don’t make the same mistake twice come November. John McCain and the Republican party should be worried not just because of Barack Obama but that they also don’t have anything to offer the American people except for another 4 years of the same reckless policies that we had the last 7.5 years.
It means the tides of change are not oratory alone but a charismatic and visionary leader who hopefully will become the next president. The whole world is watching and the whole world is excited as well.
What does it mean?
That with Obama the Democrats might for once snatch victory from the jaws of History.
It means that this country looks more like Barack Obama's vision than the Republicans'. Here are the facts: support for a disastrous foreign policy that makes us more isolated, LESS safe and LESS credible, braindead rhetoric about corporate tax cuts and free market (if there is such a thing anymore) "solutions" to healthcare, education and the environment that have been tried for decades now and got us into this mess in the first place. These are the support beams of the GOP platform and Americans are about to foreclose on that mortgage. Bet McCain changes his mind about homeowner bailouts once he finds himself "homeless" in November.
72,000 in a park in oregon means americans are waking up. We were fooled by the karl rove republicans twice. Young people for the first time are involved in politics. Imagine black,white,latinos,asians all together changing america. Europe and the middle east will know that americans want a better world not just for americans but for everyone. Elect Barack Obama
This event should make the Republican party very afraid for November. The 72,000+ crowd that Obama gathered is the result of eight years of frustration and disappointment in an unqualified president and the hunger for someone with confidence and new ideas. Like it or not, Barack Obama will be the next president of the United States.
Jack- the message is that even the America people will wake up to the greed, ignorance and arrogance of the current criminal administration and stand for it no longer. Obama, a talented novice, has lucky timing.
By the way, what message does it send that you've consistently swooned over Obama and bashed Clinton without coming out and openly endorsing him? It means the yellow journalism that Bush-whacked us for the past eight years is alive and well.
We tried a president who knew nothing, now we'll try a president we know nothing of.
It means that a good portion of the Democratic electorate are sheep that will follow any one that can say a few flashy words. Honestly it says alot more about Hillary Clinton than it ever would about the GOP.
Hey Jack,
I suggests Oregon has a high concentration of anit capitalist, socialist, tree hugging nut jobs that live there. They are all probably waiting with black high tops on for the hail bop comet again to be taken back to the mothership.
It simply means Republicans, BEWARE, Obama is coming at you...
It means that the inaugural will be held at the Washington Mall.
Doug Edwards
Jack:
Someone should tell Hillary. She's acting as if Obama's crowd was 72 not 72,000.
Perhaps her staff is not good at counting money or votes.
In a state where intelligent people reside, you get a crowd of 72,000 to see our next President. In West Virginia and Kentucky you get a meaningless Clinton win. As much as Hillary tries to make them, the numbers don't lie.
So Jack, You used to be a wonderful newsman, what happened? The way you have fallen all over yourself about Barack Obama and not really digging in and finding out who the man really is, just shows that you have fallen into the same path as many have. So much for being un-biased. Noone really knows who he is, I would have hoped that you would be one person who would want to find out. Will you also do as he asks and leave Michelle Obama out of all reports? My feeling is, if she is out there compaigning for her husband, she is fair game.
It means that when the GOP got the message, the vibration felt on the ground was them shakin' in their boots .....
this reminds me of McGovern! it wont work! Obama is for peace but has no idea that he will have to get the old guard to help him and that is not what he is saying! his backers will be disapopinted obama is too inexperienced to be president! many democrates will walk away from him and many clinton backers will back mccain if she is not nominated!
72K gathering?
It could simply mean that sheep tend to gather in flocks.
I don't think the GOP is thinking. The Bush era is finally coming to an end and they know it. Some of those gop's were probably in the audience to studying Obamas campaign for 2012. Along with another news outlet, The GOP is seeing how far it can go with this new clip propaganda like campaign. They act like the party of the lord, and then clip up any speech and lie to the public about what the other side really means. We shouldn't lie or mislead eachother period. We are hurting.
Jack,
Let us pray that the American people will do what’s right for the country in November. The time for change is now or never. I’m a first time voter and will vote for either Obama or Clinton. 72k people should send a loud signal to the GOP; a freight train is nearing so don’t stand on the tracks.
It means that another 72,000 uninformed people have been taken in by the slick talking man of no substance. We all must be idiots to support any of these candidates!
Jack, the message to Republicans is something along the lines of, update your resumes, you're going to need them. Regrettably, the kind of enthusiasm the Obama campaign has generated is likely to prompt some very nasty tactics from the GOP; let's hope tried-and-true stunts like branding Obama with the dreaded "L" word won't work this time.
B. Cunningham
Toronto, Ontario
Canada
The 72K crowd in B. Obama campaign is a clear massage to the republican nomanee that the democrat nomnee is comiing with powerfull and no republican nomnee can stop him.
Danny S.
Lincolnwood, Illinois
What does it show? It shows style always beats substance when it comes to the electorate. It also shows why lottery jackpots grow to hundreds of millions of dollars-it's easier to hope for riches rather than work hard to earn them. Our country needs a statesman to run for president, not all these petty politicians arguing about wives, husbands and tax records.
YES WE CAN build and have peace in this world! And Mr. Obamma can unite us around this vary basic goal, that our current president so miserably failed to promote with his war and no talk policy. I wonder if President Bush could attracts ½ only of 72000 people that Mr. Obama attracted.
Means that Senator Obama succeded where no one else succeeded before,
convinced 70,000 kids with no jobs and who never paid taxes to come vote for him so he can raise taxes when he becomes a president.
Ironic.
Better one,
there is no shortage of naive, gullible people in this country
George
The people at the rally are like excitement seekers . He is so cute , so good looking in his jeans and repeats Senator Clinton message Forget that he has not completed the first term in the Senate.
After a while some people believe what the Media say and forget that they are looking for ratings.
It means to GOP needs another 71,901 in a crowd to beat Obama's record.
Since when does quanity equate with quality? I am still waiting for Senator Obama to say something I believe. It is a good thing he is not announcing his victory.The simple fact is, he has not won!
FAirchild AFB, WA
What it means is that the GOP does not know what is coming in the fall, they are so oblivious to the realities of what an Obama nomination and candidacy will main to the youth, african americans, working class americans, and many others, there is a storm brewing in this country, and a lot of americans are tired of the status quo, we are so inspired about obama, he asks every american to realize that the power is not in his hands but ours, and when people feel that they are apart of something and can that they can make a difference they will come about in force!! The GOP does not know what is coming for them this fall, the only thing that they can do is use old divisive tatctics and what they don't understand and get is, americans are not looking to be divided we are looking for concrete solutions to our problems and because the GOP has none they choose the more destructive path, not realizing it will be the downfall of their party!!!
I guess people like him? 72K thats more then a couple of flakes in bowl of cereal, its a whole box... of i'm a flake too
It means 72,000 unemployed and wasting gas looking for change, I'll keep looking in the couch and be happier.
It means that Sen. McCain will have less than 6 months to build up steam among GOP voters.
I predict it means Senator Obama wins a landslide in November. It won't be close. Not even the democrats can screw it up between now and the election.
Jack, it means that the "GOP" is officially the acronym for "Geritol on Patrol. The GOP is a pathetic, fossil of an organization resistant to change with a lack of any real ideas on how to get this country back on track. Frankly, the entire organization needs to be converted to a hospice center. Make no mistake-with the record turnout that Obama just had proves that he's the real deal.
It means that, in spite of continued strong attempts by enemies from all sides including the Clintons, right wing fanatics, racial bigots , and even the media, to derail Barack's journey his ship is still sailing straight and tall to a successful rendezvous with history in November...what we're witnessing is nothing less than history in the making...be a part of it....get involved...
Hello Jack, It means, Guess who's going to be the next President of the United States?
wow wow wow , time for the fat lady to sang, someone give hillary a application
It means that the GOP needs to start tampering with voting machines earlier than normal this year.
It means that the American people better get ready to hear some astoundingly racist personal attacks on Obama and family soon.
It means that millions of Americans still think that we have a government for- and by the people. They haven't gotten Scalia's/Rove's/Addington's/Cheney's memo yet.
Jack, I hate to tell the GOP, oh wait – no I'm happy to tell them, that it means they are screwed in November!
Jennifer
Wheeling, WV
It means 65,000 more people than any McCain rally will bring.
The message reads: Look out old man. The world is watching while we take our country back! Americans are sending a message of things to come. We're fed up with the status quo. No more chances ... not this time. Obama may lack experience but look where we are now. Apparently, experience means nothing. American people are saying no to the same old song.
Jack, it means those 72,000 people, in Oregon will be part, of a much larger crowd that will be extremely sorry, if Obama becomes president and we finally see the man behind all the protective rhetoric.
Who the cap fits let him wear it!
It means that they will have to consider booking more than the Glenn Miller Band to turn out more seniors for McCains speeches and gatherings. The future is owned by the younger generation. Even younger GOP people are savvy.
The GOP leaning 527 groups will make sure McCain is out of it, because one single brand new GOP voter is smarter than a whole gaggle of 527 swiftboaters. People just don't believe that garbage anymore. The good Senator should kick back and enjoy the good life at his retirement place in Arizona.
With 72,000 supporters showing up at a rally, that indicates Obama is our next President of the United States, and that the Americans are desperately looking for a change in America.
I am a New Yorker that has just returned to the States after living abroad for 10 years, so I know how important it is domestically and internationally that Obama is winning and gathering crowds of up to 75,000 people. The message it sends to the GOP and Hillary for that matter is that their coordination to take Barack out by any means necessary didn't work. He is smarter than they and obviously so are the American people. There may be some folks in politics who are afraid of the Clintons and the fear mongering that the GOP spouts, but not the majority!!!
It means that the Democrats plan to get out and vote for their candidate this year, which spells a lot of trouble for the Republican party.
Barack Obama has raised interest, both positive and negative, in the political process higher than it has been in at least three decades.
If you would have told me 2 years ago that a relatively unknown Senator would derail the Clinton express, I wouldn't have believed you. I think John McCain will be relatively easy to beat compared to the Clinton machine.
We are on the brink of placing the first African American in the White House, and it is wonderful to see!
Obama has integrity and the american people are seeing that. 72,000 should echo a message to McCain and Hillary that Obama has more stings to his bite than their barks. Obama represents what america needs and people are waking up. He is honest and has integrity. He doesn't change his words JUST to become more electable.
To Herb in Texas .....it means that people in this country are SICK and TIRED of the politics of Washington, including that of Clinton and McCain. We want so desperat;y to beleive in a true Leader who can reunite this country again. It might ot be Camelot, but it's close, and it's what we need. P.S. Obama electrified us in Oregon...imagine what he can do for this Country!
Nancy in Tualatin
It means the GOP needs another 71,901 in a crowd to beat Obama’s record.
Monty Stewart Hayward, CA
It means change, it means Oregon and America has enough audacity of hope. Get ready! Get Ready!
It shows you people are sick and tired of the past 7 years and excited about change. It is will more than McCains war focus and his forgetful flip/flopping to be the slightest threat. I am 62 and have some of those meoments, much less what John has been thru. I also have served 30 years of military/government/humanitarian services and that does not make me qualified and someone special to be sympathetic too.
We need a LEADER who will surround themselves with competent and capable people as the Leader CANNOT know better than everone else in all areas...including the military. Jim Webb is just as qualified as McCain if you are focusing on military service.
The Republicans are in trouble, mucho trouble!
I seriously doubt it will send any kind of message to the GOP. McCain is trying to morph into George W. Bush despite Bush's plummeting approval ratings. So why would 72,000 people at an Obama rally send McCain or the GOP any kind of message they would be capable of understanding?
It says its time for the RNC to pack McCain onto Cindy's Lear-Jet, ship him back to Phoenix and save their money for the 2016 race. Perhaps by then there will be enough people that don't remember George W. Bush and his administration that the Republicans may have a chance at the White House again.
it proves that mental health hospitals are needed and in a hurry!
Jack, That means Obama will be our new Commander and Chief!
Once I saw how easily people buy into both the claims: 1) that Obama had no knowledge that his pastor had spoken so fiercely against our government in a building, that is his church and 2) that Bush had knowledge there was no WMD which can be stored in a uhaul trailer within a country the size of California; I realized there is no hope for people to have a clue.
The crowd of 72,000 only confirms it.
Steve
Long Beach, CA
This probably makes them feel good, because alot of them will feel that they predicted this situation. That will make Them rally the troops for 2012. When u feel that u predicted something that fire gets a little bigger. They know that the country is hurting and alot of republicans genuinely care. Bushs backers feel its sacrifice, for the good of the country, in the Iraq factor of the situation. This Starts the brainstorming of the future Republican party. If they win with all that has happened, then they know Their propaganda is working.
Jack, it says that it is almost over for the GOP...Obama has clearly shown that he is the glue that will bring together disenfranchised voters from both parties. Now, if we can just get Hillary and her desparate campaign chair to get the message, Obama can begin the battle that counts i.e., defeat McCain and what is left of the GOP. It is over for that bunch....
Well it likely means they weren't sleeping like they do for McCain events.
Jack,
It doesn't say much to the Repulican GOP because they are deaf...anything and everything thrown at the GOP falls on deaf ears.
However, it does say quite a bit to Hillary...
GO HOME HILLARY!!! THIS PARTY HAS STARTED AND YOU'RE NOT INVITED...
The GOP's best teleprompter better be close to McSame all the time before he flares up and unleashes his usual four lettered words and finger-poking at the American people and mistaking Sunnis for Shiites, Hillary for Obama and cowboy diplomacy for foreign policy.
72000 at a campaign rally? In a primary no less. It means that "inspiration" is winning out over "administration" in the hearts and minds of Americans. I'm not saying we don't need wise and considered policies and practical solutions to complex problems. But being able to inspire others is perhaps the best way to get at those solutions. Liberals, conservatives and independents want to be inspired to work together to find common ground. When Obama speaks, we can see the America we all want to live in, and he's challenging us to make that America ourselves, not promising to deliver it with a magic wand. That's the kind of inspiration that brings 72,000 people to a hear a stump speech. And that's what will motivate the citizens of this country to make history together, not by electing our first President with brown skin, but by finally seeking out and expanding our "common-ground", and improving our country together.
Red states are starting to get the Blues.
It's gong to be a long hot summer for the GOP. It's during this time that the GOP will finally get the message from the majority of the American people that we are fed up with all the games and how that party has been running this country down. Just think...it may be 100,000 at the next event that Obama speak to. Question: Has McCain drawn over 10, 000 at a rally yet?