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Posts in October 2008

October 1	Obama jumps ahead in three key states The latest round of data from a respected pollster shows Barack Obama leading John McCain in Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Shock: Conservatives preemptively claiming bias A day before the vice-presidential debate, the right is questioning the objectivity of moderator Gwen Ifill. Another Palin-Couric debacle Katie Couric interviews Sarah Palin yet again, and once again ends up with evasion and one truly puzzling answer. McCain: I've gone to Palin for foreign policy advice That whole being able to see Russia thing really is invaluable experience, apparently. McCain gets testy In an interview with the Des Moines Register, McCain shows flashes of his famous temper. Return of the Mack John McCain is expected to make his first vote since April 8, when the Senate takes up the Wall Street bailout tonight. Barack Obama will vote for the first time since July 9. Senate Democrats love Barack Obama The candidate draws a big crowd -- at least from his own party -- for a floor speech supporting the Wall Street bailout plan. McCain talks to gay paper, but doesn't say much The Republican nominee kept his answers vague in a historic interview with the Washington Blade. Senate votes yes on bailout This time, there were no surprises, and the latest version of the bailout plan passed the Senate -- now it faces a tougher test in the House. McCain and Obama cross paths in the Senate As the Wall Street bailout passes, the presidential candidates have a brief encounter.
October 2	Palin and the activist court Maybe the reason Sarah Palin can't name Supreme Court cases she opposes is because the bench is so reactionary. McCain is all smiles today Steve Schmidt and Mark Salter must have dressed down the senator after his grumpy-old-man act in Des Moines. Corsi goes to Africa Right-wing author heads to Kenya to investigate Obama's family and deliver $1,000 check to Obama's brother. Palin: Master of the nonanswer Former Alaska gubernatorial candidate Andrew Halcro pipes up with a useful Palin primer. That's 18 in a row for Obama The last 18 national or battleground state polls show the Democrat leading. Obama and the Jews He loves them, he hates them … the story keeps changing. Millions, billions, trillions How John McCain capitalizes on the innumeracy of American voters. Breaking: McCain bails on Michigan The map for McCain to make it to the White House just shrunk a bit more. McCain, Palin differ on privacy When Sarah Palin flubbed her answer on a question about a right to privacy, she wasn't just breaking with the conservative movement but with her running mate as well. Team Salon live-blogging Biden-Palin debate Stay here for play-by-play and insightful commentary from Salon bloggers Thursday night. Is Sarah Palin just playing dumb? A few hours before the V.P. debate, Democrats point reporters to 2006 clips showing a poised, confident Sarah Palin in previous encounters. Will she surprise the world tonight? Why you shouldn't break out the bubbly yet With Barack Obama's striking advance in the polls, some people are already saying John McCain has little chance for a comeback, but it's still too early to celebrate. Biden-Palin pre-game thoughts Some final observations before the big matchup the world will be watching. Live-blogging the debate, Part 1 Joe Biden and Sarah Palin square off. Live-blogging the debate, Part 2 Sarah Palin delivers the most predictable line of the night. Live-blogging: The robot dance Sarah Palin needs to loosen up, and fast. Folksy Sarah She throws those little words and phrases in there. Live-blogging: Back to the future on Iraq Looking for an argument about the war, Sarah Palin fell back on some old chestnuts, but they didn't serve her well. Foreign policy shift Palin should be shakier now but will probably just go on attack. Iraq and Afghanistan Biden got stuck at one point, but Palin is just too unserious. Shout-outs and there ya go agin She is really getting annoying and undermining her seriousness. Biden's very sincere Questions colleagues' judgment, not their motives.
October 3	Biden wins The results are in, and it looks like voters think Joe Biden beat Sarah Palin handily in Thursday night's debate. Bill O'Reilly vs. Barney Frank Forget Biden-Palin, the real fireworks Thursday night came during a screaming match between O'Reilly and Frank. Troopergate subpoenas upheld A judge has refused to shut down the investigation into Sarah Palin's firing of Alaska's public safety commissioner, and now Todd Palin may testify. Palin's debate flowchart A satirical look at Sarah Palin's strategy for Thursday night's debate. Quote of the day Conservative columnist Charles Krauthammer all but concedes the election to Barack Obama. House approves bailout The second time around, the House of Representatives voted in favor of the bailout plan. McCain camp releases disingenuous ad on taxes John McCain's latest spot repeats a previously debunked claim that Barack Obama "voted 94 times for higher taxes." Mason, Silverman compete for the Jewish vote Two comedians square off in a battle that symbolizes this election's age gap. Palins release tax returns After getting an extension on the deadline to do so, Sarah and Todd Palin have released their tax returns from the past two years. Palin gets another crack at SCOTUS question This time, Sarah Palin's able to recite a list of Supreme Court cases she disagrees with, but her reasoning still leaves something to be desired.
October 4	EPA to Americans: Drink rocket fuel! Feds refuse to regulate common toxin in drinking water. Queen Latifah to play Gwen Ifill Betcha Saturday Night Live will mock the veep debate tonight. Quote of the day: Palin on Obama Governor accuses Senator of "palling around with terrorists."
October 5	GOP fallout from bailout vote In Virginia, retiring Sen. Warner refuses to say he'll back Republican candidate Gilmore. McCain-Palin go negative Lagging in the polls, Republican candidates plan more attacks on Obama. McCain's brother: N. Virginia "communist country" Please ignore the goofy relatives pleads McCain campaign. Rove sees Obama win If election were held today, Republican strategist says Democrat would prevail.
October 6	New McCain ad calls Obama "dishonorable" As the campaign gets even more personal, the McCain campaign releases an ad falsely implying Obama slandered U.S. troops, and saying the Democrats are "too risky for America." Seven agree to testify in Troopergate probe A group of Alaska employees will stop challenging the subpoenas they were issued; Todd Palin, however, is still playing games. Palin uses Ayers, Wright to attack Obama Sarah Palin isn't shying away from one line of attack that John McCain had previously condemned. Quotes of the day Two prominent strategists see dark times ahead for the McCain campaign. Virginia is for Obama lovers Two new polls show Barack Obama leading John McCain by double digits in the state, which could seal the deal for Obama. The return of Charles Keating Barack Obama's campaign is fighting back against its opponent by bringing up a scandal from John McCain's past -- is it a smart move? McCain: "Who is the real Barack Obama?" The Republican nominee makes an unusually harsh attack on his rival, and says he doesn't need lessons in telling the truth from "a Chicago politician." Ken Blackwell's warning about voter fraud The former secretary of state of Ohio, who has a shabby record when it comes to protecting the integrity of elections, is now lecturing others. Senate picture looks rosy for Democrats As Republicans face an across-the-board meltdown, is a filibuster-proof majority in the cards?
October 7	McCain-Obama, Debate 2 What to expect from Nashville's town hall-style event tonight. Palin faking her accent? You betcha Check out this video montage of the Alaska governor turning her accent on and off. Jerome Corsi arrested in Africa The author obsessed with Barack Obama is taken into custody in Kenya. The strategically erratic strategist The Los Angeles Times profiles top McCain adviser Steve Schmidt. The Fed and commercial paper funds If all of this bailout talk is confusing, just listen. Senate Majority Leader Hillary Clinton The National Journal reflects on Harry Reid's future as the Senate's top dog. The 269-269 scenario Gaming out a tied Electoral College. Rudy gets a smackdown Obama campaign spokesman slams him for invoking Ayers. Quote of the day Back in 1991, John McCain offered a prescient take on his involvement in the Keating Five scandal. McCain has his own unsavory links In the 1980s, the Republican presidential nominee sat on the board of a group that was involved in Iran-Contra and had ties to neo-Nazis. McCain-Palin rallies turning ugly The Republicans' turn to the negative is prompting some crowd reactions that could backfire on the candidates. Pre-whupping McCain's arse The Obama team is firing on all cylinders right now. McCain v. Obama, the rematch As the two presidential candidates prepare to debate again, here's what to expect. Live blogging: McCain looks at Obama! After a handshake, the two candidates go to their corners and then the debate begins -- on Barack Obama's turf. Live blogging: McCain keeps swinging, but his punches aren't landing If he's going to continue to attack, John McCain needs to get voters to connect with him, or he's in trouble. Live blogging: What was the question, again? Both candidates start getting away from the actual questions to attack and counterattack on taxes. Live blogging: Missed opportunities on energy issue Neither candidate was able to shine during a discussion of energy independence and the environment. For McCain, it's all about earmarks At the second presidential debate, John McCain ramps up the earmarks rhetoric. But that's not really the federal government's biggest budget problem. Live blogging: What Obama doesn't understand Foreign policy may be seen as John McCain's strong suit, but Barack Obama was the one who performed best during tonight's discussion of those issues. Live blogging: I'm just hired help here Tom Brokaw's outburst was the most exciting part of the foreign policy discussion during tonight's debate, at least once Iraq was left behind. Tie goes to the runner Neither candidate ran away with the debate, but Barack Obama still seemed to come away as a pretty clear winner.
October 8	Again, post-debate polls give it to Obama The Democratic ticket has now come away with the victory in all three debates held so far. Obama camp releases post-debate attack ad The latest spot from the Democratic campaign uses footage from Tuesday's debate to criticize John McCain's health are plan. Latest McCain ad repeats dubious "most liberal" tag A new anti-Obama spot implies that the Democrat is lying when he disputes a list ranking him as the Senate's most liberal member in 2007. Palin's first press conference -- sort of During an impromptu chat with reporters on her campaign plane, Sarah Palin attacks Barack Obama's association with Bill Ayers again. Since when are poor people allowed to vote? Some conservatives are up in arms about get-out-the-vote efforts in Ohio. Palin's Ayers attack hurts both Obama and McCain After viewing Palin's invocation of the former Weatherman, voters had a lower opinion of the Democratic nominee -- but McCain took a hit too. Cindy McCain goes after Obama The wife of the Republican nominee brings up her son's military service as she attacks Barack Obama. McCain goes completely negative A study of the presidential campaigns' spending on TV advertising shows that all of the McCain camp's money is going to negative or contrast ads. All the world's a stage Sarah Palin went back to Sean Hannity's show, this time with John McCain in tow. What resulted wasn't an interview -- just theater.
October 9	Todd Palin gives his side of Troopergate Palin's written response to an investigator's questions paints a picture of a man obsessed with his former brother-in-law. "His name says it all" A liberal blogger in Ohio gets video of audience members at a McCain-Palin rally worried that Barack Obama might really be a terrorist. McCain camp releases Ayers ad The latest Web ad from John McCain's campaign uses former Weather Underground member Bill Ayers to attack Barack Obama. Shades of Mark Penn? A McCain spokeswoman said she wasn't going to talk about Barack Obama's association with Bill Ayers -- and then did just that. Another look at the ACORN furor The right is trying to link the organization to Barack Obama, but the claims of voter fraud and the facts don't really match up. A disturbing sign about Obama A billboard in West Plains, Mo., depicts Barack Obama in a turban. Quote of the day The crowds at John McCain's rallies are mad as hell, and they're not going to take it anymore.
October 10	Another Ayers ad This time, the McCain campaign says it really will run a spot linking Barack Obama to the former Weather Underground member. McCain co-chairman questions Obama's drug use In another attack, former Oklahoma Gov. Frank Keating raises the Democratic nominee's admitted drug use and calls him a "guy of the street." "John likes to do all his communicating via carrier pigeon" Betty White, of "The Golden Girls," brings a little humor to the campaign. Under the big top The McCain camp is trying to portray the Troopergate investigation as a circus. Christopher Buckley endorses Obama The son of the founding father of the modern conservative movement has jumped ship on McCain. Finally, a chance to vote for Osama One New York county mistakenly lists "Barack Osama" on hundreds of absentee ballots. Guess who called U.S. troops "thugs" Imagine the stink if anyone with less military credibility than Gen. David Petraeus -- or worse, a Democrat -- had described American soldiers this way? "Puck you, Palin!" Sarah Palin is scheduled to drop the puck at an upcoming Philadelphia Flyers game; one Web site wants fans to greet her with that chant. Troopergate report released After hours of deliberations, Alaska's legislative council voted unanimously to release the report of the investigation into Sarah Palin's firing of the state's public safety commissioner. Report: Palin abused her power The investigator looking into Sarah Palin's firing of Alaska's public safety commissioner comes up with one conclusion that will make the McCain camp cringe, but another that will help them.
October 11	McCain camp responds to Troopergate report Sarah Palin denies that she abused her power, while a campaign spokeswoman derides the investigation as partisan. John Lewis: McCain, Palin "sowing seeds of hatred and division" Discussing the Republican campaign, the civil rights icon invokes the memory of George Wallace's rallies. Has Rezko started talking? The real estate developer, who was closely tied to Barack Obama, was convicted this summer -- he's likely talking about other politicians, however.
October 12	Palin booed at Flyers game Philadelphia fans played to type, raising the question -- again -- of why the McCain camp thought it would be a good idea for Sarah Palin to drop the ceremonial puck. Quote of the day When David Axelrod and Rick Davis -- top strategists for the Obama and McCain campaigns, respectively -- met on "Fox News Sunday," it got personal. The "L" word Are Democrats headed for a landslide in November? McClatchy thinks so, and Republicans are going on the record with their worries about John McCain's campaign.
October 13	"My friends, we've got them just where we want them" In a speech delivered Monday, John McCain assessed the state of the race, and sounded optimistic -- Bill Kristol isn't so sure, though. Levi Johnston speaks In an AP interview, Bristol Palin's fiancé says the two "were planning on getting married a long time ago with or without the kid." Economic illiteracy from the WSJ The paper's latest editorial tries to debunk Barack Obama's claims about his tax plans, but makes a laughable assertion in doing so. Foley's successor has scandal of his own Florida Democratic Rep. Tim Mahoney apparently paid more than $120,000 to a former mistress on his staff whom he fired after she broke off the affair. McCain advisor: Obama crowds just as ugly Confronted about the rage at recent McCain rallies, Steve Schmidt cites vicious cries at Obama events — but no one seems to have heard about them. John McCain's own ACORN connection McCain's campaign has been attacking Barack Obama for his ties to the organization, but in 2006 the Republican attended an ACORN-sponsored event. Palin confuses supporters for protesters When people at a Virginia rally began chanting "Louder, louder," Sarah Palin responded with a comeback intended for hecklers. "McCain-Palin Tradition" Hank Williams Jr. records a new song on behalf of John McCain and Sarah Palin, and gets in a slam on the "left-wing liberal media." McCain: Lewis' comments "stopped me in my tracks" John McCain says he was shocked by John Lewis' criticism of his campaign, but so far his response is just to attack the civil rights leader.
October 14	Obama has commanding lead in four key states A new round of polling shows the Democratic nominee trouncing McCain in states that were supposed to be competitive. McCain says he'll bring up Ayers during debate Barack Obama apparently got under John McCain's skin by suggesting he didn't have the guts to bring up the former Weatherman in the last debate. RNC considers investing $5 million in Senate races The committee may borrow money to try to save vulnerable senators, rather than bail out the party's flailing presidential candidate. Obama-loving Hollywood liberals strike again Warner Bros. blocks the release of the DVD version of "Hanoi Hilton," which includes an interview with John McCain about his time in captivity in Vietnam. "Kill him!" again Not for the first time, someone in the crowd for one of Sarah Palin's rallies calls for the death of Barack Obama. Christopher Buckley quits the National Review His relationship with the conservative movement has gone sour since he endorsed Obama; he has now left the magazine his father founded. McCain's little brother throws a tantrum In an e-mail to friends, Joe McCain expresses his displeasure with the way his brother's campaign is being run. Obama leads by 14 in new NYT/CBS poll That huge lead may prove inflated, but there are some other numbers in the results that should be very worrying for John McCain.
October 15	Who said drinking and political advertising don't mix? A liberal 527 goes for the Joe Six-Pack vote. Report: Obama camp moving staff out of Michigan Barack Obama's campaign appears to be taking advantage of its solid position in the state and diverting resources to red states. Bush issues another signing statement Once again, the president asserts that the executive branch is exempt from segments of new laws. Obama up big in Va., leading in Fla., Colo. A new CNN poll is just the latest to show Barack Obama with a commanding lead in what could be the election's pivotal state. Republicans giving up on Wisconsin? The independent arm of the Republican National Committee that handles ad buys has reportedly not booked airtime in the state for the next week. A geography lesson from Sarah Palin New Hampshire residents attending a rally on Wednesday didn't sound happy to hear Sarah Palin say their state is part of the Northwest. More trouble for Florida Dem Mahoney The congressman who rode anti-Foley anger into the House faces his second sex scandal in less than a week. Maybe he's a terrorist -- at least he's not a Republican! How bad have things gotten for John McCain? Bad enough that voters are telling pollsters they think Barack Obama was in a "terrorist group" with Bill Ayers -- but they support him anyway. The Michelle Obama "interview" that wasn't An obscure Web site says it got an angry call from Obama; the story's obviously bogus, but some bloggers on the right took the bait. Republican senator releases gay-baiting ad What are the Village People doing in a campaign ad? Good question. Can McCain perform the miracle he needs? It's time for the final debate -- and the GOP candidate's future is on the line. Live-blogging: Who let Bill Clinton in here? Discussing the economy, John McCain is trying to convince Americans that he understands what they're going through. Live-blogging: Tune in again next time for the Obama show John McCain won't have another TV audience this large again. Barack Obama -- thanks to his prime-time specials -- will. Live-blogging: If at first you don't succeed At an earlier debate, the candidates were asked to give Americans straight answers about what cuts they'll have to make to their proposals; tonight, Bob Schieffer tried again. Live-blogging: What are you, chicken? Debate moderator Bob Schieffer tries to taunt the candidates into attacking each other. Live-blogging: The Ayers card As promised, John McCain brought up the former Weather Underground member at tonight's debate. Live-blogging: Mercy for Palin Barack Obama wisely took a pass on attacking the Republican vice-presidential nominee. Live-blogging: McCain gets angry The temperament gap appears again at the third presidential debate. Live-blogging: Abortion comes up, finally Some on the right had complained about bias in previous debates, citing as one example a lack of questions about an issue they think is good for the Republican ticket. McCain loses the last debate The last debate was John McCain's last chance to change the dynamic of the campaign. If he did change anything, he probably made it worse for himself. Polls: Obama wins again Early results indicate that a majority of voters believe Barack Obama swept his debates with John McCain.
October 16	Obama ad hits McCain's "I am not President Bush" comment The campaign's post-debate spot returns to an old theme, tying the two Republicans together -- and takes advantage of McCain's expressions in the debate. McCain goes positive, maybe After weeks in which his campaign ran only negative ads, McCain releases an extended positive spot -- the question is how much it'll really air. Rove's map shows big Obama win The latest projection from the man once known as "Bush's Brain" is that Obama is in position to capture 313 Electoral College votes, 43 more than he needs. Did anyone really yell "Kill him"? The Secret Service says allegations that attendees at two of Sarah Palin's rallies called for the death of Barack Obama are unfounded. GOP group depicts Obama with watermelon, fried chicken The organization's president says she wasn't aware of the racial connotations of the image, which is of Barack Obama on a food stamp -- "It was just food to me." Scandal-plagued Rep. Mahoney may not seek reelection The Florida Democrat, hit by two sex scandals in less than a week, has been running to return to Congress but may retire instead. Disabled veteran speaks in stunning ad A powerful new spot features a man who speaks using a computer, because of injuries he received serving in Iraq. This time, McCain shows up for "Letterman" The last time he was booked on the late-night show, John McCain (sort of) suspended his campaign instead; Thursday, he tried to make amends.
October 17	The Laugh Factory, featuring McCain and Obama At the Al Smith dinner, it's actually traditional for the candidates to go negative against their opponent, but it's all in good fun. Washington Post endorses Obama Despite rumors that the Iraq war-supporting and McCain-doting editorial board might go the other way, the paper backs Obama. Boss and Billy praise, raise for Obama Bruce Springsteen and Billy Joel headline Manhattan concert and fundraiser for the "next president of the United States." Joe Klein's latest McCain smack-down This time, Time's columnist is pummeling John McCain for his nasty robo-calls. Reporter kicked at Palin rally The list of angry atrocities continues to grow. The 60th senator New developments could make things interesting in Nebraska. Palin implies you're not pro-America The Alaska governor continues to reach for the bottom of the culture war barrel. The declining relevance of white male voters If he wins, Obama's electoral coalition will also break a glass ceiling. Robo bust Looks like nothing is working for the McCain campaign this year. Supreme Court rules in Ohio case Republican attempt to bog down Democratic secretary of state unanimously rejected. L.A. Times, Chicago Tribune also endorse Obama Two more majors join the Washington Post in rolling out endorsements for the Democratic nominee. When talking points go wrong Chris Matthews skewers GOP congresswoman for bringing up Ayers and Wright and saying Obama "may have anti-American views."
October 18	All's fair with drugs and Cindy McCain A lawyer for the beer heiress complains to the New York Times about unfair "cruel hit pieces." Colin Powell endorsement fever Will the former secretary of state declare his intentions on Sunday's "Meet the Press"? And why should we care? A Democratic lesson in job creation Evidence suggests targeted tax credits work. So does electing Democratic presidents. Huge Obama crowd in Missouri The candidate assesses the masses: "All I can say is 'Wow.'" Your "anti-America" is my campaign finance bonanza Michelle Bachman's impersonation of Joe McCarthy raises $400,000 for her Democratic opponent.
October 19	Obama raises $150 million September's campaign fundraising smashes all previous records to smithereens. Colin Powell endorses Barack Obama On Meet the Press: "I will be voting for Barack Obama" Powell endorses Obama with "overwhelming force" The retired general did not mince his words: Obama is "the president we need," and the GOP has gone "too far" to the right. Powell endorsement incites right-wing rage Chorus from the right: Powell's race explains everything.
October 20	Powell's lesson Section 60 and the Muslim patriot who gave his life. Noonan: Palin is new vulgarian Former Reagan speechwriter puts Palin pick in perspective. Early voting results George Mason prof has preliminary data on early voting patterns. Bachmann turning into overdrive The Minnesota congresswoman tries to deny McCarthyite threats. McCain camp questions Obama fundraising Rick Davis complains of pattern of nonresponsiveness and lack of transparency and disclosure. Foxy Judy Former New York Times reporter Judith Miller to join Fox News. One-third chance of filibuster-proof Senate FiveThirtyEight's Nate Silver raises the probability of 60 seats to 32 percent. Barack the closer His stump speech is gradually narrowing to essential points. "Office Space" star campaigns for Obama With TPS reports done, Ron Livingston hits the trail for the Democrat in his native Iowa. McCain campaign reconsiders Rev. Wright Though the candidate ruled out use of Obama's pastor as an issue, he may be one of the last bullets in the McCain team's gun.
October 21	The real sore-losermans The reason for all this acting up is that the GOP is losing. Letter from a Texas Republican Add another voice to the list of those who have had enough. Obama's own campaign suspension This time around, it's Barack Obama who's leaving the trail briefly, to visit his ailing grandmother. Obama's big advantage Barack Obama has much more money available to him than John McCain does, and can raise even more. McCain "absolutely" proud of RNC 9/11 mailer John McCain says he has no problems with a pamphlet that asserts Barack Obama believes terrorists "just need a good talking to." The lobster dinner that wasn't Page Six retracts a report that Michelle Obama ordered a lavish meal while at one of New York's most luxurious hotels. Real Americans and the liberals who hate them A Republican congressman is caught lying about whether he said "liberals hate real Americans that work and accomplish and achieve and believe in God." Obama ad goes after McCain's leadership, temperament The new spot, airing in at least one key swing state, calls the Republican nominee, and his response to the economic crisis, "erratic."
October 22	How real Americans dress The Republican National Committee has spent more than $150,000 on clothes and accessories for Sarah Palin and her family. "I'm Joe the Plumber" Hoped his 15 minutes of fame were up? Sorry -- the McCain camp's newest ad is all about him. McCain: Western Pa. "most God-loving, most patriotic part of America" Palin apologized for similar remarks, but the GOP ticket now has a long record of denigrating areas of the country that don't support it. Protester tries citizen's arrest of Rove At an event in San Francisco, a woman tried to slap handcuffs on the former Bush advisor, but he fended her off. Anthrax scare at New York Times Police are investigating after an envelope containing white powder was sent to the paper. Photo of the day You can't claim to be really devoted to John McCain until you've applied some body paint. McCain and the media: Is the romance over? A new study finds that the media's recent coverage of John McCain has been decidedly negative. NRCC cuts off Bachmann In the wake of her comments on "Hardball," the controversial Minnesota congresswoman can no longer count on help from her party's campaign committee.
October 23	Chairwoman of N.M. GOP group calls Obama "a Muslim socialist" Marcia Stirman is defending a letter to the editor she sent to a local paper in which she writes, among other things, "I believe Muslims are our enemies." MoveOn says if McCain wins, it's my fault The liberal advocacy group produces a customizable Web ad that allows people to encourage their friends to vote in a very personal way. No love for "Joe the Reporter" from McCain crowd McCain supporters tell the press what they think as they leave a "Joe the Plumber" rally in Florida. Latest polls point to Obama landslide New data from several pollsters shows him up big in some surprising states -- but what do the numbers really mean? Gingrich: Palin could sue "SNL" for slander The former House speaker could use a lesson in First Amendment law. President of GOP group resigns over racist image of Obama Diane Fedele apologizes for including the image -- Barack Obama on a food stamp with fried chicken and watermelon -- in a newsletter, but defends the message. Sarah Palin's polar bear pin What to wear when you're driving species to extinction. Palin releasing medical records -- or not Sarah Palin told NBC's Brian Williams she would make the records public, but the McCain campaign is now walking that promise back. Checking in with the Wasilla Project A team of filmmakers visited Sarah Palin's hometown to learn about her leadership style from those who knew her as mayor.
October 24	Was McCain volunteer attacked over bumper sticker? Ashley Todd says she was robbed, and that the assailant then became enraged over her McCain-Palin bumper sticker and scratched a "B" on her face. But there are some questions about her account. Quote of the day James Carville sounds off on Joe the Plumber. Ferrell-Fey '08 Will Ferrell, returning to "Saturday Night Live" to play George W. Bush, tries to help us decide whom to vote for -- "the hot lady or the Tiger Woods guy." Poll: Bachmann trails Democratic challenger The Minnesota congresswoman got herself in trouble during an appearance on "Hardball," and now her reelection campaign is in peril. Report: Todd changes her account of ATM attack Police continue to question a McCain campaign volunteer who claimed a mugger carved a "B" into her face because of her politics. Hate traffic? Joe McCain does too John McCain's brother dials 911 to complain about being stuck in traffic. Report: Todd confesses to making up ATM attack The McCain campaign volunteer who claimed a mugger carved a "B" in her face because of her political beliefs has reportedly recanted, and police say she'll be charged. McCain camp: "He made us go negative" A McCain campaign memo blames the contest's ugly tone on the lack of -- yes, you guessed it -- joint town halls. Palin makeup artist McCain camp's highest paid In the first half of October, the campaign paid a makeup artist who travels with Sarah Palin $22,800, more than any other single person on the payroll. It's hard out there for a Republican House member Bad tidings for the GOP: A leaked memo says 58 of the party's 202 seats are at risk on Election Day. Palin won't call abortion clinic bombers terrorists Sarah Palin has used the phrase "domestic terrorist" to refer to Bill Ayers, but won't apply the same terminology to those who target clinics. Fake hate crimes: not just for liberals anymore Ashley Todd's faked beating and mutilation by an Obama supporter recall the hate crime hoaxes that have so irked conservatives.
October 25	Whasssuuuuuuuup Those guys from the famous series of Budweiser commercials are back ... for Barack. Obama defines the moment With just over a week ago, Obama moves toward his closing message. Charlie Cook: Obama Grand Slam National Journal columnist says Obama, Democrats on cusp of majority victory. Remembering Wellstone six years later Rarely do people like him make it to the Senate.
October 26	McCain says he's not losing On "Meet the Press," John McCain argues with Tom Brokaw about polls, George Bush and Sarah Palin. "Saturday Night Live" ignores McCain The late-night comedy show has, apparently, decided there's only one candidate left making fun of any more. Quote of the day Steve Schmidt offers a prediction, in the form of a pep talk to McCain campaign staffers. Is McCain even in trouble in... Arizona? A new poll shows Barack Obama has cut way into John McCain's lead in his own state.
October 27	Who spray-painted anti-McCain smears in Northern Virginia? It's more likely an isolated act of deranged expression, like the Ashley Todd episode, than a GOP dirty trick. McCain-Palin play "the cocky card" Desperate, with time running out, McCain-Palin try to paint Obama as overconfident. Palin 2012 begins With McCain and Palin feuding, speculation about 2012 commences. Another Republican backing Obama Former South Dakota Sen. Larry Pressler jumps on the Obama bandwagon. Controversial Obama radio interview surfaces A 2001 interview on Chicago's WBEZ is used to echo the "radical redistribution of wealth" meme. Dangerous threesomes John McCain depicts an Obama-Pelosi-Reid Washington as dangerous. Obama live from Canton Watch the candidate give his closing argument, on the campaign trail in Ohio. Sacking Saxby: VoteVets goes on attack The veterans group uses its visually powerful body armor ad to attack Chambliss. GOP group launches Rev. Wright ad You just knew it was coming, and now here it is. "Dangerous threesomes": The finalists Finalists of the "dangerous threesomes" contest for your consideration. Sen. Ted Stevens guilty on all counts The Alaska Republican is convicted on seven charges relating to gifts he received from an oil contractor. A skinhead plot to kill Obama? The ATF arrests two men in an alleged plan to assassinate Barack Obama and 102 other African-Americans, but the allegations seem overblown. Who's responsible for Palin's new wardrobe? Conflicting stories and finger-pointing over the decision to buy new clothing for Sarah Palin and her family hint at tension inside the Republican Party.
October 28	E-mails to Jews link Obama, Third Reich E-mail campaign continues the nastiest of nasty electoral tactics. Lowry: McCain's campaign failure The National Review columnist explains the paradox that doomed the Maverick's campaign. Michelle Obama, a new force in politics With so much focus on her husband, Michelle Obama's emergence has gone unnoticed. Montana in play Democratic governor, new Democratic senator ... and 3 new Democratic electors? Obama's lead widens in Pew The poll shows McCain's support tanking, early voters favoring Obama. Obama and the Hispanic vote If Obama can keep support at 65 percent or above, McCain is likely sunk. Pat Buchanan yells boo! The conservative commentator tries to scare people with predictions about Obamaland. Fawning over Palin Jane Mayer's devastating piece on Palin's courting of the court of conservatism. Palin didn't have to run She can finger-point all she wants, but the blame rests ultimately with her. Florida governor extends early-voting hours "He just blew Florida for John McCain," a Florida Republican says of the decision made by Charlie Crist, a fellow Republican.
October 29	New McCain ad hits Obama TV special The Republican nominee's latest spot repeats familiar themes, this time pegged to Wednesday night's 30-minute Obama infomercial. Obama ad goes after McCain on economy, Palin The spot portrays John McCain as inexperienced in and ignorant of economic issues, and says he'd need to rely on his vice president. Is Arizona the newest battleground state? Recent polling suggests John McCain shouldn't take his home state's Electoral College votes for granted. Report: Dems planning to take away Lieberman's committee Senate Democrats are considering committee chairmanships for the next Congress, and Joe Lieberman may lose his. What does Palin's future hold? It's not Election Day yet, but discussions about where the Republican Party goes from here have already been planned; Sarah Palin looms large. 76 American Nobel Prize winners endorse Obama In a letter announcing the decision, the Nobel laureates, all scientists, also blasted the Bush administration. Obama hanged in effigy at U. of Kentucky This marks the second effigy of Barack Obama at a college campus in recent weeks; Sarah Palin, too, has been a target. Quote of the day Barack Obama, kindergarten communist? Stop the election, I want to get off Campaign silliness reaches a new height with report that Joe the Plumber might release a country music album. Obama introduces himself one last time Barack Obama's 30-minute long ad wasn't thrilling stuff, but it may have achieved the Obama camp's goals anyway.
October 30	Obama: "The whole socialism argument, that doesn't fly" Barack Obama joked around with Jon Stewart about the attacks against him, the Bradley effect and Florida voters, but they got to some serious subjects too. Al Gore, back in Florida Both Gores will be working to turn out voters for Barack Obama in the state that cost the former vice president his shot at the White House. Columnist: If you vote for Obama, you're going to hell WorldNetDaily's Janet Porter says real Christians can't choose the Democratic ticket, and that God will punish those who do. Obama's closing argument The Obama camp releases two new ads, one positive and one in which they go negative on John McCain. Are young voters flaking out again? Early voting turnout numbers suggest the youth aren't measuring up. Will Dems get to 60 seats in the Senate? It still looks unlikely, but Democrats could lock up a filibuster-proof majority if a few things go their way. Malkin: Win or lose, Obama supporters will riot Displaying her usual subtlety, nuance and understanding, conservative blogger Michelle Malkin says rioting after the Phillies' World Series win is a forecast of what's to come. Ashley Todd agrees to deal The McCain campaign volunteer had already confessed to making up a story about having a "B" carved in her face by an Obama-supporting mugger. McCain spokesman Goldfarb embarrassed on CNN The McCain campaign's blogger, challenged to provide evidence for his claim that Barack Obama is friendly with anti-Semites, had to stay silent. Are the polls tightening? Some polls show McCain cutting into Obama's lead. Others don't. What to believe? A new weapon in the war for yard sign supremacy One McCain supporter had a novel idea for how to prevent the traditional theft of campaign signs -- he electrified his.
October 31	October surprise: Who's Obama's real father? As Election Day approaches, paranoid theories about Barack Obama are getting even weirder -- now, one well-known blog is suggesting that he's the son of Malcolm X. Plouffe sounds confident With four days to go, the Obama campaign manager discusses strategy and early vote returns. Georgia Republican tells supporters: "The other folks are voting" Sen. Saxby Chambliss is out on the trail in a reelection campaign that's tightened up because of high African-American turnout. Will the Washington Redskins predict the election? Since 1936, the result of the team's final home game before the election has forecast the winner accurately in every presidential race but one. McCain on the defensive in Arizona Obama pulls within a point of McCain in new Arizona poll, and goes on the air in the Republican's home state. Palin doesn't understand First Amendment In an interview, Sarah Palin suggests her free speech rights are threatened when reporters criticize her. Former Reagan chief of staff endorses Obama Kenneth Duberstein says he'll vote for Barack Obama, and adds, of Palin V.P. choice, "even at McDonald's you get interviewed three times." Who's ready for the Palin polka? Have election fever? Clearly, the only prescription is more accordion. Big names hit the trail With Election Day fast approaching, prominent surrogates are out drumming up support -- we review where they've been and where they're going.

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