McCain and the Bitter Conservatives

The Republicans' long held position, "We suck, but the Democrats are worse" doesn't fit well on a bumper sticker and isn't particularly inspiring.

I hope someone with McCain's campaign is reading this. KNOCK IT OFF WITH THE GLOBAL WARMING NONSENSE. Global Warming is a fraud. We're not stupid... Why are you making it almost impossible for a smart person to vote for McCain. If I hear about "carbon" one more freakin time , I swear to God.. I'm going to hit inanimate objects. THERE IS NO WARMING. How stupid are you people that you would advocate such an aggrandizing Cap and Trade scheme? Where are your brains?? And then moving onto oil. Stop saying their making "obscene" profits. Their profit margin is perfectly normal. We need MORE oil. That is the only short and mid-term way to get prices to come down. This is an emergency. Do you know how stupid McCain looks when he compares some moonscape in the arctic that NO ONE will ever visit to the GRAND CANYON! You folks are so out of touch.. it's embarrassing.. it's distressing. I have no faith in this country anymore. None whatsoever. You are running against a racist Radical Neo-Marxist.... You know they have no morals or boundaries . they're going to run all over you.... you better get people to be FOR you instead of just being lucky to have people being AGAINST him.

McCain ripping big oil last week really stuck in my throat. I am having huge difficulty swallowing a Republican who attacks markets and business. It just chaps me no end. Hold my nose? We shall see how far McCain moves left.
If we cannot see a difference between the 2 candidates then what do we gain?
SO far I am ready to walk away from McCain and let him lose. Maybe 4 years of a ultra leftist will do enough damage to wake people up, like Carter did?
It is frightening.

RINO McCain is a shining example of "There is no fool like an old fool". He acts like a pompous jerk and runs like a Democrat and expects conservatives to vote for him. He is a vile, arrogant, detestable idiot and I refuse to vote for him and I have voted Republican for over 30 years. At this point I would rather see Obama destroy the country than someone I voted for. Howard

I would suggest that conservatives also have some workk to do. I support conservative positions not because I have sworn an oath to conservatism, but because those positions make sense to me based on my life experience. There is sometimes a shrill tone coming from conservatives that turns me off totally, even when I agree with the position. McCain will have to win independents and moderates to win. Conservatives need to frame their arguments in a way that they can appeal to these groups. I think Gingrich's drill here campaign is a start. It is logical and nonconfrontational, and it points to a solution. The conservatives need to get a broad group of people behind their positions, not an ideology. They should worry less about being dissed by McCain.

Don't be so sure 'my friend.' You are correct that he is detested by us (conservatives). There is a third pary....

McCain is beyond help. His refusal to drill for oil on U.S. soil and offshore, his immigration policy, his sponsoring of the campaign finance reform bill, his favoring of a Cap and Trade tax increase are too much for conservatives to overlook. What makes you think his judical appointments will ever make it through Congress? He has tinkled on the legs of his party's base too many times. Give it to Obama. At least we will know who our enemy is.

Mr. Sumereau has captured the upcoming election in a cryptic nutshell. I do hope that Conservatives will "hold their noses and pull the lever for what is best for the country," Sadly, McCain could win in a landslide with reasonable, data-based positions on climate and energy.

McCain just needs to hang in there. Sen. Obama's prospects may take a turn south after Larry Sinclair has his press conference at the National Press Club. He has had to get a bigger room that will hold 110 guests. The time has also been extended. This event will occur June 18, 2008 from 1pm to 5pm. Standing alone this would probably get ignored, but taken in context of all of Sen. Obama's past associations, who knows where the truth may be. Zach

"John McCain is clearly the preferable option for conservative voters come November"

Really? So, the just because the lesser of two evils is still evil is no reason not to engage in realpolitic and pull the lever for a man who opposes most of what I stand for? Got it.

"McCain is solid on two (alas, two) vital issues that make the difference; spending and judges"

And this is based on what? More hopeful self delusion? I fail to see the adult rationale for encouraging a candidate to properly package himself in order to fool the conservatives into believing that he shares their views on at least SOME things, so he can help the comservatives fool themselves into believing that he would be better than the other Liberal candidate. Solid indeed.

Electing McCain is akin to winning the battle but losing the war. He would make it impossible for the remaining conservatives in congress (note I said conservatives, not feckless venal corrupt Republicans) to make principled stands against all things Liberal, because their president woukd be a self-serving politician who has made his accomodations with the Liberal press and will continue to do so. Putting party interest (staying in power) above principals is a deal with the devil, and I for one am not interested in dancing with the devil this time around.

Former Hillary supporter here who will vote for John McCain this fall. I get the kicking up the sand in your sand box because McCain is not a conservative purist. However, he would never be appealing to a broader audience if he were a conservative purist, nor would it be practical in application (think of the polar opposite, the Far Left and Obama - disaster!). Second, if McCain is capitalizing on former Hillary supporters, why would Repulicans turn voters away at the door. This sounds like Donna Brazille's "we don't need their votes" - huhhhh??? I'm baffled by the exclusivity mentality given the state of the Republican brand.

Don't bet on it. I can't and won't vote for McCain. Remember 4 years of Carter gave us 8 of Reagan. It is time for a revolution in the Party.

'foreign policy and experience will not decide this election for conservative voters.'

McCain is better than Obama on _almost_ every issue (want me to list all of these issues?). Whether it's the SCOTUS, taxes, abortion, government spending or entitlements, McCain would advance a conservative agenda, while Obama would advance a liberal political programme.

Most importantly, though, McCain must select a good running mate. If he does, he will certainly win. He should choose a guy from a swing state like Florida (e.g. Charlie Crist). Whatever good arguments does he present, liberal states (like Massachusetts and Illinois) will always vote for Obama, while conservative bastions (like Georgia and Arkansas) will always vote for McCain.

Florida is a VERY important swing state. 48 years ago, JFK won the WH even though he lost in FL. But since then, no one (except Clinton, in 1992) won the WH unless he won FL first. It was the swing state that propelled Dubya into the WH.

Therefore, anyone who would like to succeed Dubya must win Florida first.

Nice Article, except I disagree. Two points for McCain - Taxes and judges, are not ones that we can believe in McCain to execute!

He's friends with the Dems, so we have no idea who he will appoint as judges as the Dems won't approve conservative, constructionist judges. McCain's history is against cutting taxes - 'benefit the rich', so why will he now cut taxes???

I for one do not believe anything he says and will write in Fred Dalton Thompson and pray for our country.

Putting another Rino in as President does not help our country. Obama is the worst thing this country needs, but maybe America needs this salp in the face to regain its founding principals of Freedom and Limited Government.
Jerry Christenson

John McCain is clearly the preferable option for conservative voters come November

You must be kidding, right? As a conservative, who happen to vote republican, I can say I see no reason what so ever to vote for this man other than Jersey Politics. He has an "R" on his Jersey, but a "D" in his heart.
As for Judges, he can nominate great Judges, but they won't even get a vote in a Demacrat controlled senate. And just who would win the arguement over judges? The guy who reaches across the isle, only to adapt the lefts ideas? You think he's all of a sudden going to grow a spine and fight for Judges that would be the kind to over turn his own policies? It's sad to see so many conservatives (Alleged) now fighting for a man who shares non of their beliefs. Better to hold on to your principles and go third party or write in, than yet another "Lesser of two evils" vote.
Sadly, those who think Iraq and Afghanistan will work out, obviosly have not studied the history of Islam, nor it's texts. I was once in that camp. After studying Islam, by reading 17 books so far, I can say with faith, that you can not combine Islamic Law with representative government, and expect equal rights for all. If you think that, you need to learn Sharia. It is incompatable. Islam law comes from the Qur'an.
Read Andrew Bostom, Robert Spencer, Bat Ye'or, Diana West, just to name a few.
Sadly, I voted for Bush twice. I did not start studying Islam until 2005. If I had earlier, he would have gotten one less vote.
As for 08, I'm following my principles, and voting for Chuck Baldwin of the Constitution Party. I've compromised enough, look what it's got me!

Mr. Sumereau,
Overall I think this is an excellent column. I disagree with your use of the
word 'bitter' though. I think enlightened anger fits better. Enlightened to what McCain really is now- a liberal, and justifiably angry that he is the nominee. Also, I disagree that it is my duty to vote for him. My duty is the long term well being of the U.S. and in my mind that means rejecting McCain and Obama. Risky, you bet, but necessary in my patriotic opinion.

I am one of those conservatives of whom you speak. There are only two paths for me to vote for McCain. A VP so attractive I would be compelled to vote for the ticket. And the adoption of the message: Democrats want to squander billions on a climate crisis that doesn't exist but won't lift a finger to solve the real oil crisis threatening our economy.
I believe these two actions could save Republicans. Otherwise we are destroyed.

I can certainly hold my nose and pull the lever for McCain. It then becomes my responsibility to hold his feet to the fire, to call him on the carpet, to protest or to rally behind the man, as a responsible conservative and productive member of this society should. It is also my responsibility to do that for every one of my elected officials, from local to national levels. Just because the election is over doesn't mean our work is done. It continues and is never ending.

I'm voting for our troops and their mission and am willing to sacrifice four years of McCain since our men and women in the US Armed Forces have sacrificed so much for me.

I don't really care what happens to me but I am damn sure not going to let the Democratic Party destory the only instituion remaining in America which represents and protects our founding principles with honor, integrity and valor.

Liberals have poisoned law, education and religion, I will not let them poison our military and the liberty for which they stand.

My cape will not cover John even in Gotham City and red states say take a hike-- party turncoat

I dislike McCain as much as the next guy, girl, child, animal, inanimate object (ok - everybody and everything). He is a horrible choice for a conservative voter and even a bad choice for the "new" Republican Party. I too would say "Screw this!" and not vote so that America could see how devastating a President Obama would be to this country. Sometimes though you have to "suck it up" and pick the lesser of two evils, no matter how distasteful it is. With 2-3 Liberal judges retiring/expiring during the next 4 years and with the current court divided 5/4 (them)or 4/4/1 at best how do we take a chance on a President Obama? The Supreme Court is really what shapes this country (Roe vs. Wade, Kelo, Boumediene v. Bush, etc). I am under no illusion that McCain The Moderate-Destroyer Of Parties will pick great judges. But I do know that his choices will be better than Obama's. Is it better to suffer horribly (Iraq, taxes, etc.) for 4 years with the HOPE that the average voter (gulp) will "come to their senses" in 2012 and elect a Conservative or better to shape the court for the next 30 years??? I-holding my nose and wiping my tears-will try to impact this country for 30 years.

"McCain is solid on two (alas, two) vital issues that make the difference; spending and judges."

I don't understand the willingness to believe in this "solidity" against the evidence. McCain was against the Bush tax cuts. McCain was the author of several blatantly unconstitutional pieces of legislation, and was co-sponsor to several others. Why, then, should we trust that he would either hold the line on federal spending or nominate judges that are more conservative than he is?

Jeffrey: Yawn, your a talking point. You regurgitate that which you hear without thought. I have asked you several times to explain your mere rants. Instead your just an ad for Obama.
I have serious issues with McCain but I think and research my reasons. Do you?
Lets take a example; Obama is a known quantity? Really? Explain how?
In fact, I have asked you to explain how your progressive or Marxist policies (I see no difference) make me more Free. Can you do that? I doubt it.
McCain is mean. Is hurling your associates under the bus nice?

Jeffry Pages- except for calling conservatives idiots who have ruined the party and reactionaries, I think you charaterized McCain perfectly and you are right on the money. Although, Obama may lose a lot of normal Dem voters due to his radical associations and condescension to clingers.

Amnesty John is a frickin joke....a moderate Democrat at best, at best.

He may still win cuz Osama/Obama is a straw-man, a puppet put up by non-Americans like Soros. But I hate Amnesty John and his 24/7/365 "Hispandering" to Meh-hee-co and their illegal amigos that they push into our country.

"Also, conservatives, though unhappy, will do the right thing for the country if only through a sense of duty." Not quite; for some conservatives and libertarians, neither choice is "good for the country." To assume that McCain is the better does not make him "right" nor "good." There are other choices which to some might well be for "the good of the country" in the long term.

I am a conservative voter who would NEVER vote for McCain. Real conservatives are sick and tired of the Republican party taking our votes for granted and completely failing to implement a conservative agenda. Have you forgotten that President Bush has done NOTHING for eight years to improve border security or stop illegal immigration? President Bush and Senator McCain are Davos style globalist who no longer believe in the sanctity of the nation state. They are traitors to the United States of America. A vote for McCain just tells the Republicans that they can keep giving us nominees who only pay lip service to conservative principles. Stand up for the United States of America and vote for a third party candidate or just stay home. Don't keep voting for dumb and dumber candidates.

As a conservative the prospect of voting for McCain makes me gag. Am ready for a third party candidate regardless the historical lack of success. The Republican Party elites are in need of a lesson - badly. How about a draft Thomas Sowell-Walter Williams ticket? They are both highly capable individuals and neither is a politician. Their candidacies would show everyone one side of the political spectrum racism does not reside. Would vote for that ticket in a heartbeat. And who knows, as nonsensical as so many of both Obama's and McCain's positions are maybe that ticket would even resonate with many conservative Democrats. It could get historically lucky. At this time, surely as both God and the conservative base know, America is in need of some serious luck. It's a pipe dream but we need our dreams, too. And sometimes, as they say, dreams do come true. That ticket, my fellow conservatives, represents true "hope" and one that likely would lead to true "change" - win or lose.
I had a dream and it has passed. Now unfortunately back to reality and Mr. Sumereau's column.

Jeffry, funny named boy. When you call someone an idiot, be prepared to back it up. Those of us (me included) that are thinking of letting the Marxist get in by default, please read this column:

http://www.theothersideofkim.com/index.php/tos/single/18789/

"Therefore, anyone who would like to succeed Dubya must win Florida first."

That explains Obama's proposal to eliminate income taxes for seniors.
Right now, I can think of only one reason to vote for McCain: Joe Lieberman joins him on the ticket.

"As Chief Executive of the federal branch they must protect our borders and command the military by constitutional decree."

That means every single president beginning with LBJ should have been impeached for failure to live up to his duty under the Constitution. It means McCain will open himself up to the very same charge unless he renounces McCain-Kennedy.
I would implore the base not to stay home in November. If you can't vote for McCain or Obama, pick someone else. It may "send a message" to Washington. Staying home saves gas, and that's it.

Much as I despise John McCain (and I do with a passion that burns white hot), I will pull the lever for him in November. It is not a vote for McCain, but a vote against Obama. While I'm convinced that McCain is too arrogant and stupid to listen to anyone but himself and he is every bit the liberal, I will say this in his favor - he won't knowingly dismantle our national defenses. I can't say the same about Obama, and that is why I won't vote for Obama. Otherwise, I see little difference in the two.

I want to second what syn said.

I wrote the 2nd comment, so you could tell I am very disappointed with McCain.. However..

I could never in good conscience contribute to having Obama be our military's Command in Chief.

Screw the future of Republican Party. I am an American and the American Military is the only thing holding the world together right now.

I hope those of you so invested in your pride and anger really consider what will happen if Obama and the Nation of Islam get into the Defense Department.

Our Soldiers, Marines, Sailors.. put under that sort of leadership!

You may as well start spitting in their faces now.

Hey Vinny,(Vince P)
I am with you all the way in your "vent" and only wish the McCain campaign is listening. Only time will tell. Thanks for putting a smile on my face today.

The first paragraph of this article worked as a parody. How dissapointing.

Blake B - Sowell/Williams '08. Great suggestion. They would definitely get my vote.

Not ever voting for McCain. Republicans should have nominated a libertarian conservative. Look,the Democrats stuck to their principles and nominated a marxist. The republicans sold out their base and nominated a "maverick". Screw the Republican party. Now that Reagan-appointed Anthony Kennedy has ruled that the Constitution protects the rights of foreign terrorists, quite frankly, I don't care what happens in this election, and I doubt I will ever vote for another Republican. We don't need a 3rd Bush term. Don't vote for the evil of 2 lessers. Stay home - America will be better served by boycotting these phony elections. America is a dictatorship of judges. Elections are meaningless.

The Conservatives have allowed themselves to become a minority and they have no one to blame but themselves. One tipping point was the Terri Schiavo affair. They have allowed Social issues to become primary and neglected fiscal

There is no way I can vote for McCain ever. He is an opportunist and has always played to and accomidated the leftist press. They loved him because he would scorn and betray other Republicans. He loves taxes and open borders. He will not be good on judges. He voted yes for Ginsberg, Sueter, Brier and Kennedy. He certainly would have voted for Stevens had he been able to. He is a leftist populist and not a strict constructionist at all.
We did not get Reagan in '80 till after 4 years of Carter and we did not get the conservative congress revolution in '94 till after 2 years of Clinton. Bring on Obama and let the country and the world experience an incresingly socialist US for 4 years and we will have the opportunity to rebuild the Republican Party with young idealalist who are real Patriots not Washington SCUM BAGS as most Dems And Republicans in DC have proven themselves to be.
BRING ON THE REVOLUTION IN SPADES.
Let not a Republican President be blamed for it.
Thanks and God Bless.
Bob Pl
Cumberland, RI

To paraphrase SecDef Rumsfeld, you go into an election with the candidates you have, not the ones you want. Complaining about McCain will not change him or our circumstances. Can we stop whining now? The Democrats are full throttle to win: what are we prepared to do about it?

A few years ago when Gray Davis was recalled from being the Governor of California, his two of the major runners to fill his position was Ahhnold and Tom Mcclintock. Ahhnold was obviously going to be more popular because of his centrist views and his popularity as an actor. However, Tom Mcclintock was, and still is, a true conservative. In fact, because of his views it was very likely he would not beat Schwarzeneger. Most people in California, especially conservatives knew this. Micclintock knew this too, so his campaign slogan was, "Vote your conscience." As voting time grew nearer, it was very obvious that Mcclintock did not have a snowball's chance of winning the election, but I voted for him just the same. Mcclintock lost and Schwarzeneger since has been totally bowled over by the libs and has passed almost every bit of legislation they wanted. I rest well at night knowing I voted for the right person. The same thing happened again when Mcnerny ran against Pombo. I voted for Pombo and he lost. I still have Pombo's campaign sticker on my pick up. When you vote for who you really want to vote for, you have spoken your mind. When you vote for someone else's strategy, you aren't really voting. This is more than being able to say, "I told you so" after the wrong person is elected. One of the reasons we are in this mess is because, we conservatives have compromised time and time again on who we thought might be the most "electable" guy rather that who we really thought could do the job. I applaud John Mccain for standing firm on the war, I really do. As a fellow veteran, I respect his service in the military, especially the fact he was a POW. However, I think his lack of time in the private sector (living like a normal person) combined with his career in politics has really detached him from the reality of the average citizen. His social policies are the same as Obama's. What are we truly to gain or avoid if he is elected? The same people pushing for Cap and Trade, ban on drilling and many other issues will achieve their objectives should either he or Obama be elected. I have served this country for 16 years. I have shed blood for it. I have been shot, blown up, tossed out of aircraft, kicked, thrown and many other things during that time. One of the things that has kept me coming back time and time again, raising my right hand is the success of Americans in their pursuit of Life, Liberty and Happiness and the stark contrast of that which I have observed in other countries. This American Exceptionalism has formed a desire in my heart to help ensure that no one could ever take over this country and subject its citizens to the same, often horrific conditions and take away what makes this country special. Both candidates have stated policy positions which would slowly, or rapidly, begin to unravel this American Exceptionalism. There is a third candidate who is better than both; Bob Barr. While not perfect, I believe he is much better by an order of magnitude to the main contenders. Does he have a chance of winning? You tell me. I believe we have a voice bigger than all of the media; we need to use it. Word of mouth has often proven to be a better advertising tool than TV ads. We are only powerless because we choose to be. I will vote my mind. I will tell everyone my mind in the hopes I can convince them to do the same. Bob Barr is who I am voting for regardless. When I look at my children's future, they will see that I chose who I thought best would serve, not according to someone else's hollow political strategy. It's not always whether you win or lose. Sometimes you can do everything right and still lose. Sometimes, it's whether you chose to step in the ring in the first place. I am asking my fellow conservatives to step up. The Republican Party is expecting us to elect John Mccain because we have kept them in power despite their constant betrayal of us. Step up, if the election goes to Barrack, oh well, we really don't have a lot to lose that way. But, we might just get a winner by stepping up. I will speak with my vote in November when I mail it from overseas. Whether it is heard or not; you tell me.

I had to lift this comment from the link that I posted above. My apologies to it's original owner.

"I don't agree with McCain on everything, but I agree with Obama on NOTHING. The O'Bigot has sworn eternal emnity toward all that I hold dear - my liberties (including but not limited to the Second Amendment), my property, and my life.

Yes, I said life. Go look at what this twit has in mind for the Armed Services. Then remember that every oil state in the Middle East is trying to get nuclear weapons.

I live downwind of Washington. In the fallout pattern. And about 4 miles from a major Naval installation.

McCain may not be entirely reliable on all issues, but I can trust him to do his utmost against America's enemies."

As I was sitting on the porch of my mountain cabin in the Pennsy wilds, bitterly cleaning my assault rifle, eating dangerous fried foods, my pet squirrel 'Skippy' on my shoulder, Clint-squinting into the western horizon for malefactors and interlopers--- a dark sulfurous cloud of antipathy (toward clueless liberal snarkballs) rolled up from the valley and my Bible slid from my lap to the floor. It miraculously opened to 2 Timothy 3:3:
"Know also this, that, in the last days shall come dangerous times. Men shall be lovers of themselves, covetous, haughty, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, wicked, without affection, without peace, slanderers, incontinent, unmerciful, without kindness, traitors, stubborn, puffed up, and lovers of pleasure more than God: having the appearance indeed of godliness, but denying the power thereof. Now these avoid..." (Roger that.) Uh...my beloved squaw 'Stands With a Credit Card' is yelling out to me that 'Skippy' just got into my peanut M&M stash. Gotta go.( Vince P...cool guns and great quotes!)

How America has fallen! We are faced with a choice between the "untried" and the "untrue."

If the results of 7+ years of Bush represents the values and policies of the conservative republican, then I'm really glad that we have a different choice this fall. Lets take stock in what Bush and the neo-conservatives have provided this country. 1) A foreign policy based on the needs of big oil. 2) A war started under false pretenses. 3) An erosion of our constitutional rights with the passage of the Patriotic Act. 4) A program (NCLB) to turn our children into "widgets" and our teachers into "assembly line workers" that is a disaster in the making. 5) A federal government that can no longer provide needed assistance during natural disasters. 6) An economic policy based on tax cuts instead of a more comprehensive approach. 8) Policies that support movement of our jobs overseas. 9) A real attempt to corrupt our constitution with amendments that would specify the definition of marriage. 10) Policies that have 1 out of 6 Americans without health insurance. I could go on, but the picture is clear.

This a real list of the accomplishments of the conservatives and Bush. It is these policies that are turning the American people toward Obama. We gave the conservatives their opportunity to govern but I feel that we were duped! None of the above represents a positive outcome for our country. Quite the contrary, this list makes me ill and very concerned for our future! Make no mistake, it will probably take many years to undo the damage done by these policies, but we can start by letting the other party have their opportunity.

I agree with Vince P and Jeff above. I have been a Democrat all my life but this year, they have finally pushed me to the other side. It's been a long time coming, since 2000 with Al Gore.

I am appalled by all the childish nonsense I am seeing written here. Posters are saying they will just let Obama take it and maybe his fiasco of a presidency will bring another Ronald Reagan. Are you f'ing kidding me? Obama is a national security risk. If he gets the White House there may not be another four more years. This man has ties to terrorists and we know he is all about appeasement. Why do you think so many of the bad guys around the world are hoping he becomes POTUS? They see an opportunity to bring us to our knees. And you folks would just let it happen.

You guys sound like big babies. I believe in my principles too. I am black and do you know how much flack I am taking from my community because I refuse to support the Messiah and am speaking out against him? Grow up. Can we put the country before party, please? Pretty please?

If you don't like how McCain got nominated, fix what's wrong with the nomination process in the party over the next four years. I doubt if McCain will serve more than one term. Maybe then, we can reclaim our country from the depths of fiscal irresponsibility, bad policy, and entitlements. Frankly, though, I think it's McCain's centrist views that have allowed him to keep the contest this close so far, as people are tired of the right wing.

Do some research on Obama's background. I bet that what you will find will frighten you. And it should. That man is scary.

I agree the only two issues which may attract conservative and independent voters to McCain are taxes and judges. I am just wondering if you ever heard him to emphasize his intentions to lower taxes over and over again. The author is right by stating that McCain problem is the fact that he is an arrogant elitist, a friend of Hillary, and Ed, and he does not care about uncouth unwashed populace, you and me. I think that Obama is much closer to his heart than we because Obama is a member of the same elite, and we, in McCain's opinion, will vote for him no matter what. It is impossible to forecast what will happen in November but I think that McCain wins only if Obama makes a tremendous mega-folly. It is difficult to imagine what this folly could be because so far people devour everything he did. McCain would have a chance to win if the population had a tendency of voting for a lesser evil versus the much bigger one. Most probably it does not happen either because to act this way the generation should have fascism, communism or any other -ism experience and we do not have it so far. A tax, as I said, is a good point but without hammering this point over and over voters' heads he will not succeed. Most people do everything to lower amount of money they owe to the government, but only rare few makes connection between tax rate and amount they owe in taxes, and even less people will vote based on taxes issues. Unless the candidate does not explain how much average voter could save in taxes nobody ever try to connect dots. If you do not believe me please make a quiz for your friends, and see the results. The fact that your friends are well educated people does not make any difference. Usually, blue-collar folks are much smarter in such matters.

Obama will snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory in Iraq, flood the bureaucracy with thousands of far lefties we'll have trouble firing, appoint far left judges to the Supreme Court and give trillions to Africa.
I will vote for McCain while holding my nose as his Mom suggested. I only hope he nominates brilliant Governor Bobby Jindal for VP, so I can stir up some enthusiasm.
After the election, the congress will ignore us in favor of special interests with lots of money but between now and the election, we are king. They need our votes more than they need money. Newt's Drill Here, Drill Now petition (I've signed have you?) may stampede the Congress into actually doing something.

When I heard about the biofuel SPLASH AND DASH scandal I went ballistic and called my Congressperson and Senators. I keep their local numbers handy (look in the government pages of the phone book) or call the Capitol Switchboard: 202-225-3121.

Conservatives, if that's what you claim to be, need to get a grip. If you are truly the base of the Republican Party, why didn't you select a more Conservative candidate? Why didn't you draw on the tremendous power you all claim to have and push your candidate through? And by the way, who would have been your candidate...Hunter, Huckabee, Thompson, Tancredo, Brownback? They all have problems and none looked to be electable. Or were you hoping Alan Keyes would save the day? LOL

All this whining about McCain, when you have no one to blame but yourselves for not getting behind a candidate you could vote for.

I said it before, I am a Conservative on most issues and a Moderate on a few, but I will vote for McCain. I have been voting for 40 years and I have always had to choose the lesser of two evils with one exception...Reagan and Carter. Although Reagan was hardly a dyed in the wool Conservative, the thought of Jimmy Carter again was over-whelming. So this year I will do everything in my power to keep Obama from becoming President. I think about the future of my children and grandchildren, and the thought of Obama and a Democratic Congress in control of their lives...especially their security...is too frightening to contemplate. Yes, we survived four years of Carter but I am not so certain we can survive Obama. It would only take one mis-step, one bill into law, one compromise, one judge, to change the future for many years to come. Now some of you don't have a problem with that, but I do.

Spending and judges? That's it? It's not very persuasive.

Even accepting the premise that McCain is "right" on spending and judges, what can he possibly do about either when faced with a Democrat-majority House and Senate?

No sale.

Hey Hugh,

Clinton also said Iraq was a threat to US interests and was building WMD's. Don't forget that. He also said that Iraq might need to be invaded again. The only difference was Clinton didn't have the intestinal fortitude to actually invade Iraq based on his professed beliefs. He was more content to launch cruise missiles from afar, causing our enemies to think we were cowards hiding behind our technology. Interestingly, these attacks seemed to be timed right around the same time personal scandals broke out. In fact, I personally believe those policies served to provoke 9-11 more than anything else. OBL and the Mullahs of Afghanistan were sure as hell surprised when we actually invaded under Bush. They thought they'd get another laughable round of cruise missiles. Second, if Iraq was really about oil, our invasion strategy would have been much different and oil would be much less than $139+ a barrel today. If you understood the details of the actual military and political strategy that went into the planning and invasion of Iraq, you would know this. Second, are you in jail? Do you know of anyone who has actually been arrested under the Patriot Act? No, of course not, so the Patriot Act is a non-issue. Third, you can thank 30+ years of liberal interference with the education system and the horribly liberal NEA for the current crisis in our education system. My mother is a retired teacher's aid and has spoke of their meddling often. 4th, it is not the Federal Government's responsibility to prevent natural disasters and FEMA performed exactly as expected, but was impeded by Louisana's governor and Mayor Nagin (I assume you refer to NE). In fact, the fiasco you refer to was caused by the Liberal-socialist microcosm known as the state of Louisiana and New Orleans. When Nagin was informed of the impending hurricane, he chose to evacuate himself and left all of his citizens behind...how noble. If you remember, Florida, a republican led state, was hit by a hurricane as big as Katrina, shortly after, and was never in the news...because they took individual responsibility and were prepared. You don't even say what a more comprehensive approach to the economy is when you refer to tax cuts, so I spell it out for you. First off, Bush believes in giving back to the people what was originally theirs... Their F@$%$%^ hard earned money!!! Second, would you be refering to the fact that we should have more production jobs to secure this economy? I agree. Why don't you talk to ol' Bill Clinton. When he signed China as a MFN in trading, he sent over 2.5 million production jobs overseas before he even left office. In fact, in 2000 I personally watched General Mills ship an entire production line to China. How about that? They all went to China and have continued to do so. You want to talk about constitutional amendments? How about an attack on the cornerstone of society, the family unit, by a faction that represents less than 10% of the population. They want to make gay marriage legal. Now, last time I checked, it took a man and a woman to bring up a family. You can say different if you want, but the facts don't support you. As for health care, why don't you ask the Canadians about their health care system. Ask them how nice it is to pay more than 50% taxes and then have to wait in line for months what it would take days for here in America. Ask them how they like their health care system. Oh, you don't have to, I already have...they say it sucks!!!!! And they tell us Americans to avoid it like the plague. That 1 in 6 you refer to is a false number. Anyone, including Illegal Aliens can get health care in this country. In fact, I have found myself in the Emergency Room several times behind illegals who were using the ER as a doctor. We have universal health care now! I too could go on and on and on about your wonderful socialist proposals. But one thing I have to say is this: George Bush, while not a true conservative, has tried. I believe he was beaten down by the unrelenting liberal attacks on absolutely everything he does. But, I say this for everyone reading this post out there. Have you ever wondered why Liberal/Democrats consistently want to take away your money and your guns? Think about it.

There is a balance of power in this country called congress if we elect conservatives into office in our own home states to send to Washington. Quit electing these liberal democrats who come to their home states and run as conservatives when only the local press is watching and not calling them on it.

Unlike liberals, conservatives have lives and interests outside politics that serve as outlets for the impulse to do good and improve the world.

Whoa, projecting much? I guess it was conservatives that gave women and blacks the vote, established the 40-hour work week, put safety and health protection in the work place, fought for civil rights in the '60s...

Not.

Maybe you should read some history.

I'm a liberal and a United States Army vet (E-5). My friends and I changed the world for the better about 30 years ago when we came up with an idea for a new type of bicycle, which we started building one at a time in a rented garage.

We called them "mountain bikes." Maybe you have heard of them. That multi-billion dollar part of the bicycle industry employs hundreds of thousands of people worldwide, and provides non-polluting fuel-free transportation for hundreds of millions of people.

Conservatives could not have come up with that idea, not in a million years, because it required breaking the mold and thinking outside the box, and that's not what conservatives do.

Save your gratuitous insults for John McCain.

Repack Rider

Changed the world with the "mountain bike"? I own a "mountain bike", and it's not life changing or world changing. A "mountain bike" is a hundred year old invention with bigger tires. Your "invention" rates far below:

Hostess Twinkies
TV remotes
self sealing cup tops
Chicken Mcnuggets

Hallmark of a liberal- unwarranted self importance.

While I agree with every bad rap people are giving McCain I would urge everyone to remember that if you don't vote for McCain you are voting for Obama. Not voting or voting for anyone else IS a vote for Obama and he would cause unrepairable damage in four years.

I wish Obama would win. I like him so much more than McCain or Ron Paul.

In 2000, I thought Sen. McCain was a viable option, but Bush and Rove did a thorough job of shredding his good name.

Now, McCain's relying in part on Mr. Rove to rebuild the nominee's character. That's only one of numerous flaws Sen. McCain has displayed.

If he's not flipping, he's flopping. Even when he's quoted directly, in context, he still says, "What I MEANT to say, my friends, is (whatever I think will unruffle the ruffled feathers)."

Enough.

Any candidate is better than McCain, which is why my money says he'll bow out before the election for health reasons,and the party will rally behind whomever has been chosen (by Rove and company) to replace the Arizona senator.

This is a very sad election for me as a conservative Republican. Obama is a radical marxist and I think he is truely dangerous for the country and to his political and racial enemies. On the other hand, we have McCain who I think is deranged. Pick the evil racist guy or the insane guy...hmmmm How did McCain get the nomination?! I guess I am a maverick now.

There are three reasons for conservatives to vote for John McCain. The first has already been mentioned: he is for a strong national defense. Unlike the Democrats he doesn't want to draw down our military in order to pour money into social programs that have done far more harm than good.

The second is that he is in favor of free trade and has the stones to say so in the middle of a presidential campaign. By taking that position he shows that he has a command of economics that most politicians lack. Protectionism is stupid and self-defeating.

The third reason for voting for McCain is he is on the right side of the great ideological divide in this country. One the one side are what has been called Jacksonians, who emphasize American sovereignty and the need to protect American interests, even if it involves the use of force. One the other side are "transnational progressives", who believe that the US should subordinate itself to international bodies such as the World Court and the United Nations and should place great weight on elite opinion in Europe. They believe that the nation state is outmoded and should be replaced by the rule of enlightened international bureaucracies. In this sense McCain is a "Jacksonian".

Whatever our differences, I suspect that most of the participants in this learned forum agree with McCain on all three of these crucial points.