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September 13, 2008
Posted: 01:41 PM ET

To tell you the truth, when CNN assigned me to work on this documentary, I was a little surprised. Don’t get me wrong - I looked forward to the challenge, but I am not at heart a political reporter. I do not live and breathe politics.

Of course, I am interested in the issues that affect all of us, but I am more interested in learning how a politician’s personal life has shaped his or her political views. And as an investigative reporter, I am especially interested in holding elected officials accountable when they abuse their power.

During the past couple of weeks, Governor Sarah Palin seems to have stolen the media spotlight. Maybe for good reason - people want to know who she is and what makes her tick. That’s why when I told a couple of people about my new assignment to cover Sen. Joe Biden, they seemed a little disappointed. They really thought the more exciting documentary would be that of Gov. Sarah Palin. But when I asked them what they knew about Biden, they really didn’t know much, except that he’s been around for a long time, and he’s known for his foreign policy experience.

That brief conversation, made me realize how important it was to show people who Biden is - his ups, his downs, his successes and failures. He is a six-term senator. You probably recognize his face - that smile, but what else do you know about Joe Biden, the possible future vice-president of the United States of America?

This documentary will reveal Biden’s dramatic life story. You’ll hear him talk about, for example, his two life-threatening aneurysms and what he told he sons before surgery. I promise you will learn things you don’t know about this scrappy, outspoken senator from Delaware. Of course, there is no way to cover everything there is to know about Joe Biden in one hour. So check out the political page that breaks down the accomplishments and histories of both vice presidential candidates.

I’d love to get your feedback on the documentary. Remember this is a forum for your opinions, ideas and debate.

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Filed under: Abbie Boudreau


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DC from NJ   September 13th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

Sen. Biden is clearly the most-qualifed person on either the Democratic or Republican ticket. Although I would have preferred that he was the Presidential nominee, I am pleased that Sen. Obama realized what Biden could add to his administration. All one needs to know to decide between Obama and McCain is to compare the qualifications of the people they chose to be their VP - BIden was a terrific choice and, despite all the Republican bluster (and lies), Palin is a joke. If your intelligence is not insulted by McCain’s choice, you need to get your head out of the sand!

pbdenver   September 13th, 2008 7:42 pm ET

You got the better assignment Sarah Palin could be summed up in about 4 minutes…

Here it is in a nutshell in my view…

“I agree with McCain & Bush on everything except some slightly irrelevant issues” “Oh and I like to intimidate librarians and cops who get in my way” “Also I lied in every part of my RNC except when I was belittling Barack Obama’s accomplishments…

Assitoum   September 13th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Great idea!

A light should spark on his achievements. Media coverage is been drawn toward Palin not really because she’s accomplished anything to my knowledge but because of her “historic” stance as a female vice-presidential candidate.

I actually would like to see media oriented toward someone who’s overcome great deal. I think Biden deserves the coverage.

Obama/Biden ‘08

Carolina   September 13th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

I love Joe Biden and can’t wait to see your documentary. The more I read about him, the more I like him. I think a lot of Americans will feel the same way.

Billy Nobody   September 13th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

Biden was such a better pick than Sarah Palin. It seems like new things come out about her every day that put me off more and more. Should be a great watch.

Vote Obama!

John   September 13th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

I hope you had the opportunity to ask him how someone who has averaged $250,000 in AGI over the last 10 years only has a net worth of $150,000. Not to mention the other 20 years he has been in congress. It certainly isn’t because of him giving to charities.

RA Crouch, Michigan   September 13th, 2008 7:49 pm ET

About time!

Silvio   September 13th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

Professional pol. Record of only 2% of voters thinking he had anything to say. He was not even smart enough to make it as an also ran. Who is the idiot on Obama’ staff that picked this bozo? Should be a 5 min clip rather than a documentary.

Mlm   September 13th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

That would be a great way to move away from the tabloid journalism that sarah palin has generated.

Need An Unbiasedmedia   September 13th, 2008 7:57 pm ET

Gesh, sounds like another puff piece designed to push Democratic National Committee talking points.

Hillary supporter   September 13th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

We all love him , he is a good father. I just got information about his 10 years taxe returns the record prove that his one of us. He shows that the ordinary peoples can do the extraordinary things. He give me hope such us middle class person.

Jodi of Portland, OR   September 13th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Biden will be the next VP of the United States. Anything less, and we are screwed as a nation.

Biden brings both foreign and domestic policy experience with him–much more than even Hillary had, and Biden grew up in a hard-working, white middle-class area and school system and he represents “middle-America” best and in comparison to Palin, even more so! Biden is also not afraid to answer hard-nosed questions the media likes to feed him; unlike the easy non-sense questions they feed Palin, then only to not get the question answered, or she is olivious to the answer like when she was asked her opinion of the Bush Doctrine.

Biden was not born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and still to this day, takes the Amtrak train home from Washington to Wilmington, DE.

Obama was constantly scrutinized the last year and half for not having any experience on his ticket, and he chooses a guy who is qualified in any aspect that Obama was lacking in.

I look forward to watching the “Joe Biden Revealed” program tonight on CNN

lori   September 13th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Joe’s comment that ‘Hillary may have been a better choice than himself’ sums up the 2008 Presidential race. Such poor judgement will continue to paralyze the dems chances for success.

L Martin   September 13th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Joe Biden is a good husband, a good father and accomplished Senator. Had he been the interviewed by Gibson or any other journalist, he could answer questions with depth and intelligence. None of the material would be new to him…not even the Bush pre-emptive strike policy . I genuinely like him.

Joan   September 13th, 2008 8:16 pm ET

This would be funny if it wasn’t so pathetic. CNN is all democrat and can’t stand it that a woman is so well liked who doesn’t look like a mud fence. Joe Biden hasn’t done anything for this country in 20 years.

dClaire   September 13th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Obama - Biden 2008

I am in full agreement with former Mayor Koch , Sarah Palin scares me-

D.Claire

phillyart2wear   September 13th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

Sen. Biden is an Amazing Man that has served our Country well for all these Years. I bought his book as a gift for someone special.

Obama had many Great choices for which we should all be encouraged and Biden was right there at the top with the Best of them.
I’m thrilled that he has the job and we should all be Very Grateful that he, or Any of them, Really even Want it.

There has been a Lot of Lip Service going around in this Campaign from “Arm Chair” No It Alls and not ONE of them Would have the Guts to step up to the Plate and ttake the Job!

Adriana R Maxwell   September 13th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Tryust me you got the better end of the deal.

Kay   September 13th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

It’s about time someone on the Dem ticket is investigated. Obama is just sailing by without any investigations regarding his not so kosher friendships, let’s see what Biden has hidden in his closet!

Chicagocarol   September 13th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

I’d like to know about his character. What would he do in dire situations? Would he be up for manipulation of the truth to perpetuate the “good face” or religious beliefs or “doctrine” (such as George W. has, that it’s OK to preemptively strike a country, even if for a bogus reason) of his administration or himself, should he become president?

From his years of service for our country he appears to me to be trying for the truth, not trying to convince the American public through
manipulation.

But I’d like to hear the real goods from him. Will you please ask him the tough questions?

CB

PonyGirl   September 13th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

Looking forward to the story. I agree that it is time that we got to know him better.

Angela Tacoma Washington   September 13th, 2008 8:20 pm ET

I am so excited to learn more about Joe Biden and his family. I admire his love for his family and country and his strong voice in stating his opinion, .Obama and Biden will pull us out of the gutter and put us back on the road to a new direction,. I am looking forward to, holing my head up, and looking the world in the eyes again with out being ashamed of where we are now standing.

Lynn   September 13th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

Thank God we will be hearing something about Biden and not all the crap about Saah Palin (and her glasses).

Joe Biden has shown that he was a great husband and father and will make a wonderful Vice President. Obama made a great choice and they complement each other.

McCain just chose Sarah (after a few short meetings) thinking that most women would vote for him because he picked a woman Vice President. Well, I take exception to that because I, for one, believe that most women do not pick their candidates based on their gender but instead base their vote on the issues. It’s a shame McCain thought we women didn’t have sense enough to do that.

We do not need more of the last eight years. We need change and Obama will lead the country well!!!!

Go Obama!

Go Barack   September 13th, 2008 8:23 pm ET

We appreciate CNN giving good press to the Obama campaign (including Joe Biden) while denigrating Palin and McCain as frequently as possible. Please keep up the good work to influence the CNN audience into believe Obama is actually the better choice.

Marilyn   September 13th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

I’m really interested in learning more about Joe Biden. I really appreciate someone doing a report to let the american people know more of who he is. I can’t wait to see it. Thanks.

ac   September 13th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

I can’t wait to see the documentary. I think with all the Palinmania going on, we all know too little about Biden, and I guess the general feeling has (unfortunately) been that there’s little to know.

I’ve noticed that he has an exceptional record when it comes to women’s rights, but I’m not sure that message has come across enough.

carelessfills   September 13th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

DC of NJ “All one needs to know to decide between Obama and McCain is to compare the qualifications of the people they chose to be their VP - BIden was a terrific choice and, despite all the Republican bluster (and lies), Palin is a joke.”

OBAMA IS THE BIGGEST JOKER OF THEM ALL. NO QUALIFICATIONS AT ALL AT THE TOP OF THE TICKET. IF YOU’RE SO WORRIED ABOUT PALIN AT THE BOOTOM OF THE TICKET, WHY DON’T YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT THE EMPTY SUIT OBAMA?

Kevin   September 13th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Saying that Joe Biden is more qualified than Sarah Palin is like saying a weekend in Vegas is more fun than six years in a Vietnamese prison camp.

Hillary Supporter for Obama   September 13th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

I can’t wait to see this wonderful documentary. I know for sure that I trust Biden’s judgement over Palin’s. I’m sorry. I just don’t know enough about her to make up my mind. I am also angry that McCain wanted up to make up our mind about trusting the VP person in a matter of weeks.

mj   September 13th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

Anything is better than Hilary

Evelyn in Ala.   September 13th, 2008 8:30 pm ET

Sen. Joe Biden has a really impressive life story and is a very smart man. His years of service on Foreign Relations definitely qualify him for the Vice-Pres.’s job or even the White House. Palen is a religious fanatic who doesn’t seem to believe in science. She could be dangerous if she ever got to the top job. Scares me to death!

Sue Ellen Clark   September 13th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Joe Biden! A perfect pick by Obama, and I know they will make a very strong team.

I believe you’ve surely enjoyed learning about this remarkable man.

Never Again!!!   September 13th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Sen. Biden is a man of integrity, not a corrupt politician. You can tell from the assets that he has. We need someone like him to work with Sen. Obama in the White House.

For the last eight, I have been sorry for the vote that I cast to George Bush. I am a republican but will vote to democrat this time. Never again I will be fooled by people like Bush. McCain has all the George Bush policies and then he claims that he will bring change , with his 7 lobbyists working with him? Give me a break!

tim   September 13th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

how can we be so stupid to vote for a man who is using a woman to get women votes. sarah was chosen just to get women votes. i hope we women are not that crazy to fall in the trap of stupid, idiot old man.

Go Obama/Biden.

Oja   September 13th, 2008 8:38 pm ET

Yes, go ahead and reveal Biden in -full. Americans want CHANGE and they know that only OBAMA-Biden Ticket will bring the CHANGE, but Palin is dominating the media because Americans want to listen to her sharp arguments only for fun, it doesn’t affect the slogan of ”THE CHANGE WE CA BELIEVE IN”.

southern   September 13th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

Joe Biden is a decent man.
I would especially like to see how he backs the Democratic Party Platform, but is supposedly a good Catholic.

But Sarah Palin is a decent woman.
People here who continue to perpetrate DNC talking points about her do not help the national discussion. There really are some partisan hacks that populate these threads. They complain that Mrs Palin is a liar while it is they who are the liars.

I look forward to a fact based documentary on Joe.

CeeJay   September 13th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Looking forward to Sen Biden’s peice. Decent, honest, hardworking people unfortunately don’t get enough attention. Tired of the SP Media Coverage so I won’t watch that one!

Ben G.   September 13th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

You people have yet to look at her accomplishments, and have down played her achievements. She would be great for the economy, considering she cut spending by half a billion, and just think what she could do on a large scale, and no she didn’t cut spending for handicap, she actually tripled it. So we know where she stands. She also redirected the money from the bridge to nowhere to the infrastructure that it takes to improve the economy. She also took on big oil, and gave each and every person in her state $1200.00. She drastically reduce earmark spending, while Obama has spent close to a billion. So people should get the story straight. They should do a little digging on Obama and Biden. She has taken on the issues that Americans have been talking about for way to long.. Failing bridges, excessive spending, and corruption. The trooper gate controversy is a joke…People hate this woman and pre-judged her before they even knew her, and the American people know. So half of the dirt that is being pulled on her wont work. So…Lets be fair…

Jennifer Hull   September 13th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Yea Joe! He has been my favorite from the start! He is smart self-effacing, kind , doesn’t seek to ram his views down anyones’s throat, and yes, he does have that smile that lights up a room. What a beautiful antidote to 8 years of Dick Cheney!

Obama is a gifted young man, but he will surely benefit from the wise council of Joe Biden, a class act to the nth degree!

Janet   September 13th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

I am a huge supporter of Biden and am glad to see he is getting some attention that he deserves. His story is incredible and he has impeccably qualifications. Thanks for bringing his story to your viewers. We need to know who these people are are, what they really stand for, and what their true accomplishments are so that we can make an informed and rational decision this time.

Love of Jesus   September 13th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

The fact that Obama picked Biden over Hillary for VP shows that Obama cares more for the much needed foreign policy experience of the VP than his or her ‘advertisement’ potential. Obama is a responsible man, not a McCain.

Sam Locklear Jr.   September 13th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

I believe that the media should spend more time covering the issues rather than the personalities,. Our health care system, our Banking system, our energy program, our social security system, our home owners market, our tax system and careing for the poor and middle class. Those that have weath need no assistance, but those less fortunate do.

Jodi of Portland, OR   September 13th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Joan—you said:

” This would be funny if it wasn’t so pathetic. CNN is all democrat and can’t stand it that a woman is so well liked who doesn’t look like a mud fence. Joe Biden hasn’t done anything for this country in 20 years. ”

Not only is your comment race-biased obviously, but those who are unclear on what a candidates accomplishments are ( as in Biden ), should just stay home in November. Biden is well-known for the lowest crime rates the US attained in the 90’s in the Clinton admin when he proposed, and was vocal on, the increased police force on our streets. You are ignorant if you don’t believe this. Biden has also accomplished too many, and pushed for even more, bills that help and have helped the middle-class tax-paying citizens of this country.

Biden is more than a typical politician–he is a statesman too.

Jenn   September 13th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

Abbie, I think your assignment was the better one! At least you got to talk to him as Palin would not talk to CNN. Joe has led a very interesting life and there is alot about him that people don’t know. He was a young father who had to raise two little boys on his own after his wife and daughter were killed in an accident. He also had to bounce back from two near fatal brain aneurysms. He never got rich off of being in politics. Palin may have gotten lots of attention so far but that will change. Her interview with Charlie Gibson showed her to be an inexperienced deer in headlights. Joe has so much more experience between dealing with wars in Kosovo to Iraq. He was the much better choice and is not some flash in the pan.

Independent Voter   September 13th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

Joe Biden is a true reformer: the various legislation he has helped pass into law (e.g. VAWA, etc.) have proven time and again that he can work with both sides in getting important things done in D.C.

Biden has always been a champion of the average working person and his support of labor and working families stands in stark contrast to that of elitist McCain and Sarah Palin. Biden is not by any means a wealthy politician and I know he will help Sen. Obama get things back on track in our nation.

In addition to the aforementioned, Biden has an understanding of foreign policy that makes McCain look like a lightweight. There is no comparison between them. Biden wins handily on the issue of experience.

Thanks for the story about Biden.

God Bless.

Carolyn   September 13th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

As a resident of Philadelphia PA Joe Biden is nearly cosidered to be PA senator, after all he is a Catholic guy from Scranton PA. I think very highly of him for his determination, knowledge and charater. People will see through your documentary that he is really one of us. I had one of those rare experiences to be sitting near him on an Amtrak train from Washington. He does know every conductor by their first name.

Dorothy   September 13th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

The nearly complete absence of coverage of Joe Biden on CNN has been an outrage. Tonight’s documentary doesn’t really remedy the absurdly unequal attention you’ve given him to date, compared to Sarah Pailin. Moreover, your newscasts always seem to lead with a presentation of the latest McCain ad and reaction to it. What is going on here???

adam   September 13th, 2008 8:51 pm ET

I’m glad to hear this documentary will be available. I’m getting so sick of the bickering back and forth and how it effects the media coverage and ultimately public opinion. There are so many serious issues that need to be discussed and explained to voters before this election. I think well thought out, in depth reports about the candidates is exactly what we need.
As for more biased opinions, I am eager to hear about Biden because so little is out there about him. I am not a real fan of policy from the other side, but to be fair I think some concrete, unbiased reports of Palin should be done as well as this piece on Biden. I may not agree with her policies (from what I’ve heard so far) but the vast majority of what is reported has little to do with their plans if elected. Either way, I’m really glad your documentary on Biden will be available, we need more pieces like it available before November!

Liz   September 13th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Kevin, you are sooo right! Palin is a joke and I feel sorry for the idiots that think she isn’t. Lets all have 6 kids and have them all have ten kids and the world will be great.

Callan   September 13th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

Good! I’m glad someone is focusing on Biden. It seems that since Hillary was not picked as VP, and Palin was nominated, Biden has been shoved out of the spotlight because he isn’t “exciting” enough. But why do our politicians have to be media darlings and celebrities nowadays?

I like Biden because he is the most qualified person on both tickets. He does his job, and can back up his words.

Peter Oogu   September 13th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

You’re on a justified cause to reveal the truth about Joe. Joe is probably the dearest blessings Americans’ll have in the next four yrs. But as the old saying goes “empty drums” make a lot of noise, that is exactly the case with PALIN.

CT Voter   September 13th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

The woman who wrote “Joe Biden hasn’t done anything for this country in 20 years,” obviously hasn’t done anything to LEARN about the candidates May I suggest a quick google search for “Joe Biden, domestic violence” followed by “John McCain calls wife a c***.”

codeman1964   September 13th, 2008 8:56 pm ET

Funny how American women vote, they adore Bill Clinton, a known objectivizer of women and they hate Sarah Palin…MEEOOOWW!

George   September 13th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

Wow! What a Biden love-fest.
I would like to know the real Joe too. I guess he is not the condescending, bombastic, sarcastic, narcissistic, pseudo-intellect, presumptuous twit he acts like. He is a male version of Nancy Peloci.
Bravado does not translate into ability; Biden is nothing more than a political bully-boy who seems to have a like following.

ron from Georgia   September 13th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

I have watched and followed politics since , before President Kennedy was assassinated during my 4th grade. I watched conventions on a black and white TV. I voted for Hillary and I still think she will be a driving force in American politics for years to come.
I have tried to find out as much as I can about Obama and Biden and I believe their ideas have the best chance of giving America what it has been missing for the last 8 years.
1. Respect and a leadership role in the global community.
2. Returning our economy and budget to where it was in 2000.
3. I want my children and their children to know what it like to have a quality education.
4. I would to see myself and my fellow Americans enjoy decent paying jobs and be able to walk with our heads held high.
5. I don’t mind paying taxes if it is for the greater good.

As a two Vietnam era vet and a Gulf war era vet, I would like to thank John McCain and I think Gov. Palin did what she had to do for Alaska, but we have to do what is right and not get sidetracked by
sensationalism in our politics.

Barack’s ideas and Joe’s experience compliments each other and I think their truly want to talk about the real issues and how we all can work together to solve them.

to the Republican Party:
My 21 year daughter is excited by electoral process and the way it should be, but recently told me she was tired of the negative poitical ads. Please stop!
thanks

funny guy   September 13th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

whos is this silly guy who said Biden is a Statesman ?

Dear friend, he is seasoned politician, who could merely get 9000 votes in primaries, but he rightly made a assessment that Hillary must’ve been the VP choice.

To me, Hillary must’ve been running for Presidentship.

Look the way Obama paid tribute at Ground Zero by throwing “flower”, someone must have told him that was a sacred place to many, and its a “tribute” to those who died 7 years ago, it was not Rezko’s club.

J, FL   September 13th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

I was excited myself when Obama picked Biden to be his running mate. I was excited until I started remembering what a loose cannon he is, and I don’t want him in office. I took it further and did alot of research. He is as partisan as they come, and has been in Washington for over 30 years. Mc Cain has a history of reaching across the aisle to get stuff accomplished. Palin has done the same thing on a smaller scale, but that doesn’t disqualify her from being able to take on Washington, and do stuff on a national level. The message from Obama is old and worn out for me. His message is old and worn out. I just don’t care what he says anymore.

American abroad   September 13th, 2008 9:04 pm ET

Joe Biden has come across as a great family man, a wonderful public servant, and a clever person.

It would be a blessing to our nation if he becomes the next VP.

Jodi of Portland, OR   September 13th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

CT voter: thank you. That is exactly right. If every woman researched Joe Biden’s record on women’s issues, and John McCain’s, as well as Palin’s record on women’s issues, they’d see what we are referring to.

McCain and Palin both are the most anti-women candidates running!!

Biden Supporter   September 13th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Joe Biden will be a superb vice president and would be a great president. He is mature and knowledgeable. We can trust that he knows what is going on in the world and will do the right thing for this country, not just for himself. The choice of Biden as VP also shows once again how intelligent and thoughtful Barack Obama is. He is not distracted by hype and slander. He thought carefully and chose the best person for the job.

ron from Georgia   September 13th, 2008 9:12 pm ET

here is another story , How many more times will we find out something was said to make her look the part and then we find out the truth. fact are facts and I have had enough. If she telling these half-truths, it is bad for McCain and if the campaign is it also bad for McCain and the country. how can you trust them anymore??

CNN) – Sarah Palin did not visit troops in Iraq, a spokesperson for the Republican VP nominee confirmed Saturday, as new details emerged about the extent of the Alaska governor’s foreign travel.

In July of last year, Palin left North America for the first time to visit Alaskan troops stationed in Kuwait. Palin officials originally said her itinerary included U.S. military installations or outposts in Germany and Kuwait, and that she had visited Ireland. An Alaska spokeswoman for Palin had said Iraq was also one of the stops on that trip.

The Boston Globe reported Saturday that Palin visited the Iraqi side of a border crossing — but never journeyed past the checkpoint.

Earlier: McCain defends Palin’s experience level

Earlier, campaign aides confirmed reports that Palin’s time in Ireland on that trip had actually been a re-fueling stop.

Brad   September 13th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Yes, let’s do talk about Joe Biden…about why this old man, who is a lifetime politician, been in DC for 36 years, who’s gaffe-prone, who they’ve been hiding from the media so he won’t make Obama’s falling poll numbers accelerate, would be chosen to be the running mate for the “change” ticket. Let’s grill him on primetime TV like Palin with some stern old crone looking down his nose at him and asking him every conceivable question designed to make him look like an idiot. They won’t do it because it would be a disaster, that’s why.

Clark in Austin   September 13th, 2008 9:17 pm ET

It seems, report or not, people are making their selection based on ideas and beliefs relative to BOTH candidates which are completely false. Palin and McCrutch are no more “mavericks” in the repubilcan fold anymore than Obama is a muslim. But nonetheless, people believe what they want to believe and pay little attention to the efforts of good reporters.

I hope and pray I’m wrong, but these last couple of weeks since the RNC, I’m convinced people today will chose style over substance any day of the week and “twice on Sunday” as my uncle use to say.

John   September 13th, 2008 9:19 pm ET

I’ve heard Joe Biden speak about politics and his family. When he speaks about his family, he tends to ramble, but in a very loving and emotional kind of way. I really like that about him. And when Biden speaks about politics, I get a feeling that he cares about me and my issues even though we’ve never met. I believe I understand why Obama chose Biden as his running mate. Biden is me, the average Joe, except with the power to make his voice heard.

Mike Austin   September 13th, 2008 9:20 pm ET

It will be good to see an in-depth look and interview with Senator Joe Biden. The release of his tax records and his overall senatorial record has shown that he is ready to be a vice-president. I think it is a shame that he is not getting as much media coverage as the flavor of the month(SARAH PALIN) I agree……Obama/Biden 2008!

gracey   September 13th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

thank you cnn.
it is about time.

to hear a bout sarah is so obnoxious.

Solyd   September 13th, 2008 9:23 pm ET

The tides have turned after the introduction of Sarah Louise Heath Palin into this historic race. The tides won’t go back to Pro-Obama constituents. After the final debates in which the shocking prowess of Palin is displayed, we will by a narrow margin welcome our new President John Sidney McCain III and Vice President Sarah Palin.

Todd   September 13th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

It is amazing how the left carries around so much hatred that whenever anyone threatens to bring conservative values into the conversation they go ballistic.
Hypoctrical, hate filled, left wing kooks.
Go Sarah Go!

dyellon md   September 13th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Just the fact that people know him simply as Joe shows you his roots as a man of the people. He says exactly what he thinks and is the most honest politician in Washington. He is extremely knowledgeable about foreign affairs and can relate to the numerous problems that we are having in this country, including lack of health care for all, the loss of jobs to companies that build their plants overseas, the continued loss of 10 Billion dollars a day in Iraq while the Muslim fanatics regroup in Afganistan, and the fact that we are falling behind other countries in new ideas, including a real plan to become energy independent. I wish the American People would wake up and recognize the greatness of one of its own everyday warriors fighting for a better life for all of us.

Judy   September 13th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

Biden, Obama, and McCain started their campaign for President more than 2 years ago. They’ve been working and going through the challenges for a long time. Palin got to where she is because of a phone call. I’m sorry, but just because she makes Walmart moms good reading material doesn’t mean she deserves the nomination. There are other female Republican candidates more qualified and than her: Mary Bono Mack, Lisa Murkowski, Kay Bailey Hutchison, Katherine Harris, Judy Biggert, Deborah Pryce. And each of them had EARNED their credibility.

Michael   September 13th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

How humble and selfless he was when he said ‘Hillary may have been a better choice than himself’ for the better cause for this country?
The most beautiful hearts are always confused like this. Only lunatic has 100% self confidence which could detroy this planet.

Anti-Obama Illinoisan   September 13th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

I think you should have included subtitles. Here are some possibilities:

“Biden Revealed . . . To Be A Plagiarist”

“Biden Revealed . . . As Inferior to Hillary (By His Own Admission)”

“Biden Revealed . . . As Racially Insensitive To 7-11 Managers”

“Biden Revealed . . . As the Running Mate of the ‘Clean, Articulate’ Obama”

Jill   September 13th, 2008 9:28 pm ET

For information on Joe Biden, read his book “Promises to Keep”. I am currently reading it. I am so impressed with him as a person. He is a man who defines integrity. The book is straight from his heart. Unlike John McCain who constantly tells everyone about his being a POW, Joe Biden does not go into detail about the tragedy with his first wife and child. The book does show you just what kind of person he is and what kind of people his family are. His family says “If you have to ask, it’s too late”. They jump in and help. Joe Biden is a man who sincerely desires to help people.

DE   September 13th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

Maybe we will learn about the plagiarism in Biden’s first presidential run, or was it the second, or third I don’t remember which. Iknow it wasn’t the last, because he actually got 9000 votes before dropping out of the race. On the plus side, his son Hunter resigned his lobbyist position while his dad is running for vice-president. And to be fair, I know having a son who has been a Washington lobbyist, to the Senate, for the last 7 years is not near the conflict of interest that having an unmarried 17 year old daughter is. On foreign policy, his so-called expertise, he voted for the war, then declared the war lost, then demanded the USA run away by October 1 of this year, then came up with a plan that would split Iraq into three seperate ethnic regions, all the while loudly proclaming that the surge was an absolute failure. EXPERTISE? With this expertise we just as well buy al-qaeda new airplanes with his and Obama’s tax increase.

steve   September 13th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Biden was NOT a poor choice. Hillary’s tough, but had Obama chosen her, he would’ve been accused of making the choice just to win, particularly given how negative she went on him during the primary. Biden will make it happen. He knows his stuff and is a good man.

Brad Maryland   September 13th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I hope he agrees to have nothing off limits, like Palin did with Gibson. If anything less, I’d be disapointed. Nonetheless it will be an interesting documentary to watch. Also, in terms of lies, I think Palin has the most being spread about her right now. Whether that be leaks from Obama campaign or not, they need to be corrected (as with the ones about Obama). Many are even mentioned on this board as fact, they are not and CNN has indeed disproved the book one.

blaheleven   September 13th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Obama’s choice of Biden is extremely revealing: He wants a colleague who brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He wants a colleague who is not afraid to challenge him on his positions. He wants a colleague who truly has the middle-class’s best interests at heart.

Obama’s choice of Joe Biden shows him to be a forward-thinking, intellectually-hungry, agent of change–change from the shoot-from-the-hip, crony-favoring, short-sighted President who has been in office for the past 8 years.

McCain on the other hand….well let’s just say that McCain’s choice of Palin is extremely revealing as well….

Karl Frank   September 13th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

I hope you include his face to face conversation with Slobodan Milosevic when he looked him in the eye and said, “I think you are a damn war criminal.” That was the beginning of the end for Milosevic. :)

Nancy   September 13th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

I think Biden said it right: Hillary would be a better choice. Obama couldn’t even pick a good running mate. How can he run this country??? And why is everybody picking on Palin? I wasn’t registered to vote but this is making me do so. I hope more people wake up, women especially.

Need An Unbiasedmedia   September 13th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

Governor Palin has eight years of executive experience, BIDEN HAS NONE. Palin has supervised people and departments, submitted budgets, created policies and governed people. BIDEN HAS NOT. Biden used someone else’s speech as his own, made a fool out of himself time after time (telling a parapalegic to stand up; making fun of Indian-Americans; ect), used his wife and daughter’s tragic death for his own political purposes. Palin is far more qualified to be NUMBER 2 than Biden.

david   September 13th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

As always, how revealing to see between obama and biden they give $2500 to charity in 2006!! Liberals love to give “our money” but they won’t give their own. For all the talk about how they care for the disenfranchised when it comes to their own pocketbooks they really show they do not care at all. How could we possibly elect two people who by their tax returns show they are so selfish they can’t afford to give the needy any of their money. In that same year on a much smaller salary my family alone gave almost $20,000 to different charities, I not mean it bragging, its what we all should do. The dems are such hypocrites and one final point. What does it say about your management skills when you have been making all that money for over 30 years as biden has and his estate is worth $150,000, you have to try hard to not be worth more than that making what he makes. David

Gadsone's Flag   September 13th, 2008 9:36 pm ET

According to Pew Global:

“Beyond focusing on the historic nature of Palin’s selection to be McCain’s running mate, much of the media’s coverage dealt with Palin’s background - both personal and professional. The public picked up on various storylines to differing degrees. News that Palin’s 17 year-old-daughter is pregnant registered widely with the public. Nearly seven-in-ten (69%) say they heard a lot about Palin’s daughter, making the story one of the year’s top campaign events. More people say they heard a lot about Palin’s pregnant daughter than about speeches by Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Obama’s former pastor, in May (62%).”

The media attacks on Palin and her family have been particularly bitter. Especially since some it has been vectored towards Bristol Palin. A truly devious tactic indeed.

A. Chico   September 13th, 2008 9:39 pm ET

I have noticed that Senator Obama and Sen. Biden are what I call “fair weather” politicians. When they are ahead in the polls, they behave with class but also with an arrogant sense of entitlement. They behave as if the election is theirs by birthright and nobody could question that. But when the polls start to go against them, the attitude changes inmediately. They start to shoot “from the hip”, not prepared for a dip in the polls. Slander becomes the new tactic and a sense of incredulity runs thru their campaign. “How can this happen?”, they ask. “The election was supposed to be the official seal of our coronation!”. Sarah Palin, even if you don’t like her, has accomplished something very important. She has shown the democrats that they are entitled to nothing, no matter how bad things may be. Got it?

Jim Dawson   September 13th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Biden was a mistake. Dems keep shooting themselves in the foot one after another. With no-talent, no-leadership potential, lobby-controlled people like Biden, they cannot win the election. We’re in the middle of a two wars. We don’t need people who have never served their country in uniform to call the shots. You saw what happened with Rumsfeld and his ilk. We need true veterans and patriots. I personally would have liked to see Powell and McCain team up. I don’t know much about Palin, but I suppose we’ll soon find out. Biden is no mystery. The guy was caught stealing another guy’s lines and bio, and still managed to stay in office. Some people have no shame or compunction. It’s people like him that give the politics a bad name.

60 Year Old   September 13th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Well, reading all these comments, I’ve decided to finally send
my first one!

Are you people living in the same country that I am, the great
US of A? When did we lower our standards for President as
we have this election? We’ve got an inexperienced Obama
and an angry old man McCain! Obama runs scared and picks
the old establishment Biden. McCain picks the unknown Palin.

When I look at it, Palin the VP choice, is the only one with any
sort of Executive experience and she’s getting raked over the
“NEWS MEDIA” coals. I knew nothing about her, but she’s
starting to look like the best of the 4!

Forget your political party and look at what is happening in this
world today and make an intelligent choice whatever that is for you.

We need to quit fighting and woory about this great country!

No Mccain Palin   September 13th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

Mccain is not fit for president role in America. He is not change. He cannot reform as “Old dog cannot learn new tricks”, not literally with all due respect to him. His pick of Palin shows how opportunistic he is about his political career, sure not for the best of the country. If truly “country first”, he would have Palin come into public eyes long before so that she can be examed thouroughly. Palin effect is just a distraction from talking about the real issues. Repulicants have nothing to say about the issues as Bush’s record in the past 8 years have said it all.
I hope your coverage on Biden will steer the election back on talking about the issues. We are not voting for American Idols, I hope Americans are smart enought this time to make the right decisions.

congradulations on the coolest assignment you are on and good luck to you, Good luck to all and America ! Good lucks do not just come to us, we need to make educated decisions. Fair media coverage on the campaign can help !

JB in Ohio   September 13th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Joe Biden has been a good life long senator. He also has his baggage…He was a good strategic political pick for Obama who is lacking in the experience category that Joe Biden balances nicely. I am a life long republican who supported Obama in the primary but have since decided that I will go back and vote republican as I don’t feel the same way about Obam since the Reverend Wright story came out. (His lack of honesty in his response to the story is what is at issue for me) I think there is a lot of baggage each side may bring up and it is silly to me when I read these comments. There is mud to sling on both sides.

CNN and MSNBC are embedded in the Obama campaign. I miss Tim Russert as he tried to be balanced in his questioning and reporting. I miss his style of journalism.

Unknown   September 13th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

60 Year Old

I 100% agree with you, finally we have others speaking about what is really right for this great country.

Jesse   September 13th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

Joe Biden: Wrong on Iran, Inconsistent on Israel

A risky choice just got riskier

Washington, D.C. (August 27, 2008) — With the selection of Sen. Joe Biden as Sen. Obama’s vice president, the Democrat’s ticket has now become an even greater gamble for the Jewish community. Throughout his career, Sen. Biden has consistently been wrong on Iran and his voting record on Israel has been inconsistent. Like Obama, Biden fundamentally misunderstands the threat posed by an Iran determined to obtain nuclear weapons. Biden has continuously demonstrated poor judgment on Iran. He has voted against significant legislation that would pressure Iran to stop pursuing nuclear weapons. Biden has failed to recognize the serious threat that Iran poses to Israel and the U.S. and its allies in the Middle East.

Biden Votes Wrong on Iran:

November 2007, Kyl-Lieberman Resolution, 76-22: Like Obama, Biden was one of the few senators to oppose the bipartisan 2007 Kyl-Lieberman Amendment labeling the Iranian Revolutionary Guard a terrorist organization. Democratic senators supporting the bipartisan resolution: Sen. Clinton (D-NY), Sen. Reid (D-NV), Sen. Durbin (D-IL), and Sen. Levin (D-MI).
June 2004, Letter Urging the President to Highlight Iran’s Nuclear Program at the G-8 Summit, 66 Signers: Biden did not sign this important letter which had 66 co-signers.
May 1998, Iran Missile Proliferation Sanctions Act, 90-4: In 1998, Biden was one of only four senators to vote against the Iran Missile Proliferation Sanctions Act, a bill that punished foreign companies or other entities that sent Iran sensitive missile technology or expertise.

Biden’s Inconsistent Record on Israel:

June 2008, Landrieu/Collins Letter to President Bush Supporting Israel’s Quest for Peace; 77 Signers: Biden did not sign this pro-Israel letter that had 77 signers.
December 2005, Talent/Nelson Letter Urging President Bush to Press Palestinian Leadership to Bar Terrorist Groups from Participating in Palestinian Legislative Elections; 73 Co-signers: Biden did not sign this letter barring terror groups from participating in Palestinian elections. The letter had 73 co-signers.
March 2004, Schumer-Hatch-Clinton-Smith Letter Urging Kofi Annan to Reverse Support for ICJ Hearings on the Security Fence; 79 Signers: Biden did not sign this letter urging Kofi Annan to reverse support for the International Court of Justice Hearings on the Security Fence. The letter had 79 signers.
November 2001, Bond/Schumer Letter Urging President Not to Meet with Arafat until the Violence Ends, 89 Signers: Biden did not sign this letter urging President Bush not to meet with Arafat until Palestinian violence ceased. The letter had 89 signers.
March 1998, Mack/Lieberman Letter Urging the Clinton Administration Not to Pressure Israel; 82 Signers: Biden did not sign this pro-Israel letter that had 77 signers.
May 1993, Kennedy/Grassley Letter Urging President to Press Syria let Syrian Jews Leave; 73 Signers: In 1993, Sen. Biden refused to sign this letter calling on Syria to allow Syrian Jews to leave Syria. Ultimately, 73 signers approved.

Joe Biden Threatens to Cut Off US Aid to Israel in 1982
(Commentary Magazine, Aug. 26, 2008 citing the Jerusalem Post, March 13, 1992)

“In a conversation with Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, after a sharp confrontation in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on the subject of the settlements, Begin defined himself as ‘a proud Jew who does not tremble with fear’ when speaking with foreign statesmen. During that committee hearing, at the height of the Lebanon War, Sen. John Biden (Delaware) had attacked Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria and threatened that if Israel did not immediately cease this activity, the US would have to cut economic aid to Israel. When the senator raised his voice and banged twice on the table with his fist, Begin commented to him: ‘This desk is designed for writing, not for fists. Don’t threaten us with slashing aid. Do you think that because the US lends us money it is entitled to impose on us what we must do? We are grateful for the assistance we have received, but we are not to be threatened. I am a proud Jew. Three thousand years of culture are behind me, and you will not frighten me with threats. Take note: we do not want a single soldier of yours to die for us.’ After the meeting, Sen. Moynihan approached Begin and praised him for his cutting reply. To which Begin answered with thanks, defining his stand against threats.

Joe Biden on John McCain and Barack Obama
(From National Review Online, Jim Geraghty, August 20, 2008)

Biden, on a post-debate appearance on MSNBC, October 30, 2007: “The only guy
on the other side who’s qualified is John McCain.”

Biden appearing on The Daily Show, August 2, 2005: “John McCain is a
personal friend, a great friend, and I would be honored to run with or
against John McCain, because I think the country would be better off, be
well off no matter who…”

Assessing Obama’s Iraq plan on September 13, 2007: “My impression is [Obama]
thinks that if we leave, somehow the Iraqis are going to have an epiphany”
of peaceful coexistence among warring sects. “I’ve seen zero evidence of
that.”

Also from that Observer interview: “But - and the ‘but’ was clearly
inevitable - he doubts whether American voters are going to elect ‘a
one-term, a guy who has served for four years in the Senate,’ and added: ‘I
don’t recall hearing a word from Barack about a plan or a tactic.’”

Around that time, Biden in an interview with the Huffington Post, he
assessed Obama and Hillary Clinton: “The more people learn about them (Obama
and Hillary) and how they handle the pressure, the more their support will
evaporate.”

DLG   September 13th, 2008 9:53 pm ET

Sounds like from reading many of the comments here that the Obamaites are reading from the same script trying to convince us all that they’re excited to learn about Mr. Biden. Do they not have enough wherewithall to research and find out for themselves rather than to take the media’s twisted word on what their views are of the man. Come on people! Grow a backbone and learn for yourself. The media & the Obama camp will only will tell you what THEY want you to know. When I read what people have written and try to feel their ’so called’ enthusiam, it makes me feel like I’m viewing a commerical on television with very poor actors trying to convince me to buy a product that they’d never use a day in their life.

Jody Mcg   September 13th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

Sarah Palin did not give an interview for this piece. Other than the Gibson interview and limited appearances doubt we’ll see much of her since she is only able to repeat the same lines over and over and she can’t think on her feet. She only knows the answers she has rehearsed and practiced covering her up for her lack of experience.
For a woman she adheres to the “ole boy network” in her state which she will carry into Washington same as Bush. See the in depth article in the NY Times “Once Elected, Palin hired Friends, Fired Foes.” I guess we’ll end up with other unqualified appointies like FEMA director during Katrina “heck of a job Brownie”. Oh yeah, and she declined the interview with the NY Times also.

Reese of NC   September 13th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

I am really looking forward to Joe Biden’s documentary. I got a taste of what he was like from the DNC convention and a stump speech he gave last week and I really like him. I seems very kind hearted and passionate about changing the state of this country. I love how he is with his family. I am watching Sarah Palin’s story now and unfortunately I am not getting much out of it.

MOONMAIDEN FROM LAKE MICHIGAN   September 13th, 2008 9:54 pm ET

TO THOSE OF YOU THAT SAY BIDEN KNOWS NOTHING OR HAS NOTHING, PLEASE DO SOME STUDING, GET INVOLVED AND QUIT SHOOTING OFF YOUR MOUTH BECAUSE YOU LOOK PLAIN UNAWARE. I HAVE LEARNED MORE ABOUT POLITICS IN THE LAST 8 YEARS THAN ALL MY LIFE TIME. START READING, INVESTIGATING AND QUIT LOOKING FOR OTHER PEOPLE TO GIVE YOU THE ANSWERS.GET INVOLVED, READ, STUDY BECAUSE YOUR LIFE DEPENDS ON IT AND NOW AT HTIS HISTORICAL TIME IS THE ESSENCE.
TO BE NAIVE IS JUST PLAIN LAZY AND MAY I SAY IGNORANT.
THINK FOR YOURSELF.

D Hawk   September 13th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Biden was actually very honest in his response that Hillary may have been a better VP choice. Some say that signifies poor judgment on the part of Obama in choosing Biden over Palin. However, Barack’s choice demonstrates sound judgment in that while he would have been wise to choose Hillary to win the election easily, he would have endured a complex and perhaps counterproductive tenure with Bill and Hillary in the mix. While winning with Biden may be more of a challenge, the White House will be more functional and better for everyone.

Brew   September 13th, 2008 9:59 pm ET

Never having missed a vote in any election since voting for Harry Truman in 1948, and never voting strict party lines.I think Joe Biden was the best nominee in either party and am extremely happy he was chosen as the Dem running mate.McCain is an honorable person but Lord help us in this chaotic world if he does not last his term. Biden will help Obama with his foreign policy experience, and Obama will be a 190 degree turn in all facets of government with what has been the worst administration in this countriy’s history.

Rick   September 13th, 2008 10:02 pm ET

It’s funny…I could take what a previous respondent wrote, switch the names, and you would see how we Republicans feel about the Dems shallow Presidential candidate:

“A light should spark on his achievements. Media coverage has been drawn toward Obama not really because he’s accomplished anything to my knowledge but because of his “historic” stance as a african-american presidential candidate.”

Funny isn’t it..what a double standard!!!

Bob   September 13th, 2008 10:02 pm ET

Everyone in the country knows that CNN is about as left wing democrat as you can get with the disguise of having some “characters” and some good reporters to create a facade that they are balanced. What Baloney!!!

Senator, Joseph Biden. A face that never goes away in Washington. You always see the guy. Be it CSPAN or at some hearing on a bill, pontificating vociferously! The man loves to hear his own voice. Americans have been seeing Joe Biden for over 20+ years. Bottom line. They don’t care about him one way or the other. Except in tiny, I mean small, Delaware, The American People have NO FEELINGS for the man. Mr. 1% Joe Biden. How many presidential campaigns has he be involved in only to bow out quickly because he does not resonate with the voters. Look at the present, he now has only 5-6 reporters riding along with him. He isn’t even a meat and potato guy, he is just a potato guy. No flavor! Even Al Gore is a bacon guy with some flavor although the color of the bacon looks green.

Let me guess: you folks at CNN will turn Mr. Potato Joe into John Kennedy before its over. Isn’t nice to remake someone’s image into the one you are trying to see blue collar american on. And what will you do with Alaska (Big, very, very big with energy resources to bank on) Governor Sarah Palin. You will remake her into someone worse than the Wicked Witch in the Wizard of Oz. I’m just so glad that the “non- ivy league educated elite, which make up most of this nation, love a woman who can fish, hunt, have a brood of kids, have a blue collar good-looking oil field husband that has won the 2000 mile snowmobile race in the worst weather on this planet on 4 separate occasions and still take on the “real men - politicians” and kick their butts.

60 Year Old   September 13th, 2008 10:05 pm ET

Well, a few more comments to the good, thank you unknown.
DLG, you have it, don’t sit back and have your brain washed
by the news media.

Poeple, please take it upon yourself to look for the facts and
make “your” decision, not what the spin out there tells you
to do. So many of these comments seem so angry or miss
informed based on “the party I belong to” that it’s hurting this
country. Be proud of this great land and do what is right for it.

Tennessee   September 13th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

1 - Obama says He want’s change yet, he pick as VP, someone who is part of the problem. I agree, Biden does have a great smile!

2- Have you heard Gov. Palin say, from HER mouth, she was in Iraq!!
I heard only Kuwait.

3- Our problems for years, we send representive’s to Washington and all at once they forget all the LIES they told us to get there. No way do their actions come close to what they told us they would do.

4- Please, please everyone, the media is lying to us or they use only part of the truth because the entire statement is not interesting enough to keep you watching. iT’S CALLED RATING!!!

5-We have to double check what the media reports and we definitely have to challange them for the truth and hold the US representatives ACCOUNTABLE. The candidates for president are telling you soooooo many things they will do for America but what they are saying is far more power than they will ever have. The REFORM we need is in the Captial building. In deed, the president has power, certainly don’t mean to minimize or mislead that point.

6- We need term limits. Two terms for congress and one term for senators. After one term, they can run again. It’s time, it’s time WE THE PEOPLE take back our country.

7 - We need to be very careful in reading these blogs, I don’t believe I have ever read so much hate, yes, hate!! Our country can survive policiians but we can survive ALL THE HATE!!

Sincerely,

WE THE PEOPLE

Historyguy   September 13th, 2008 10:08 pm ET

I have to compliment Jesse from a few entries up. I am so pleased to see someone citing evidence rather than what is being spoon-fed to them by CNN or Fox. Thank you for doing real research!

Doug   September 13th, 2008 10:12 pm ET

Everyone keeps talking about how ‘qualified’ Sen. Biden is for a top leadership position. He is a career politician who never held a real job. He never actually ‘ran’ anything in his life. How is that qualified?

McCain is a decorated military officer, and Palin has years of experience running a business, a town and a state. At least they have experience actually doing something instead of just talking.

Kennedy   September 13th, 2008 10:13 pm ET

Too bad Biden wasn’t on the top of the ticket. That bigoted church thing was too much for me.

Unknown   September 13th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

Ya, really 60 Year Old, I wish the rest of the country thougth the same way. I’ve been into politics as far back as the 70’s and I think this is one of the most important elections since. To bad the media is all one sided with what the real truth is. I guess people are too busy playing computer games that to know what the real issues are. Country first, believe in our leader even in tough times, support all of our men and wemon in the armed services. Once the world understands that we are all united then they will look BETTER at the U.S., and not so much who is sitting in the Oval Office.

Mary   September 13th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

“Joe Biden hasn’t done anything for this country in 20 years.”

Any woman who was able to escape an abusive husband would strongly disagree with you. Joe Biden wrote and zealously fought for the Violence Against Women Act.

He is the true hero to American women, much moreso than Sarah Palin, who made women pay for their own rape exams when she was mayor of Wasilla. Don’t be fooled by their genders.

In case you can’t tell, I love Joe Biden and I love that Obama put him on the ticket.

Matthew Zavacky   September 13th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

Rumor has it, that now with Sarah Palin in the spotlight, Biden’s media following is a “skeleton crew” of 6 or so reporters following him on the trail.

While the republicans are avoiding talking to the media and “releasing information on their own timetables,” Joe is completely open to talking to the media at any time on the trail. Clearly nothing to hide.

Talk about transpirency of government.

Chris   September 13th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I was very excited about Sarah Palin when she was first announced, and after her speech. And then Senator McCain’s campaigning and ads became so nasty. And then the trickle of Mrs. Palin’s faults started to flow into a stream. I think I want to hear more about Biden because I don’t know much about him. Even though I am a Republican, I think Senator Obama is a decent man. He has been running a clean campaign. To my deep disappointment McCain has not. I would like to learn more about Biden, because I, like many of my friends are beginning to doubt this Republican ticket.

Flo   September 13th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

There is a sense of security in the years of experience a Joe Biden vice-presidency brings to the equation.

The possibility of a 72-year old McCain with a history of cancer leaving neophyte Palin in the position is commander-in-chief is personally terrifying.

It was foolhardy of Sarah Palin not to have hesitated in her response that she is prepared to lead this country during the Gibson interview. For even the most seasoned of statesmen would given have pause to consider the magnitude of responsibility for human life inherent in the sacred trust that this position holds.

This lack of “pause” is a clear indication of a level of ignorance and blatant disregard for human life that in national politics is both reckless and dangerous! There is too much going on in the current political climate to entrust humanity to the likes of a warmongering John McCain who, at his age has nothing to lose or to a mother turned small town governor attempting to live out a Political Cinderella Story.

Though Sarah Palin may be an excellent governor of small Alaska, and I actually agree with some of her positions, my sense is that she is fully aware she IS NOT QUALIFIED for the level of political office to which she is aspiring. However, the fact that partisan politics and ego / testrostrone trumps integrity and honesty is what is so appalling about this deception!

She read the script provided her for the RNC very well and even took ownership of the rhetoric. However, given the limitations of her exposure as a player on the international political scene, it is all too obvious that her persona is a creation of the imagination of Republican handlers who are “pimping” her femaleness to the end of electing John McCain to the presidency. However, there is too much at stake!

55 Year Old   September 13th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I believe all four candidates are honorable. And I am not going to tell anyone how to vote. In the end, the electorate votes and the result is the government we deserve. If we choose to hide our collective head in the sand and not face the new realities of today, if we are unwilling to sacrifice and work together to help get through our economic vulnerabilities, so be it.

Biden brings a wealth of experience. Obama brings vision, leadership an intelligence. McCain seems reasonable but lacks much vision to get us out of this economic mess we are in. Palin is simply a parochial-minded person, who is governor of a state with a population less than a million and will need to go through a very sharp learning curve to manage a nation of over 300 million, which has suffered loss of allies and assets while Russia and China swim in wealth and pose a huge threat.

We have to face the facts: the popular mantra “cut taxes and tackle the deficit by cutting the budget ” is ludicrous in today’s reality. Anyone who knows about how badly this government is in debt and how bad the economy is becoming should guffaw over this. When the economy is shrinking as ours is, and the government has expanded so much since 9/11, you cannot lower taxes and deficit at the same time. How about all those financial institution bailouts? How about infrastructure? How about the need to protect our food supply, our borders, our ports? There is a lot the government has to do for our national security and we cannot cut that. Otherwise, things will get a lot worse before they get better.

Acesh   September 13th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

I am personally offended by McCain’s choice and the fact that his team is in the process of cleaning up her mess and putting a good face on someone so tainted and power hungry. She’d stab you in the eye
if you crossed her. Her husband is probably her *enforcer*. I am disgusted that McCain thinks so little of the USA that he would choose this woman. What a freakin laugh that she is ready on day one to be
VP. Only if they have a holding room in Area 51 for her.
Biden is a great choice for Obama. A sure win of course would of been Clinton. I like them both.
Biden is seasoned, with such vast experience. I’ll be really happy when they win!!
YES WE CAN!!!

Grasshopper   September 13th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Please, everyone, try not to be distracted by all the noise about personalities, and think for a moment about the challenges that we must face together over the next few years: in the economic, aggressive, environmental, geopolitical and human dimensions.

With those in mind, what qualities must we look for in our leaders? And then, how close to that set of qualities does each of the tickets come?

No Mccain Palin   September 13th, 2008 10:25 pm ET

Bidden may be more humble than Palin. Not sure if that’s good or bad for the second in command.

tish barrios   September 13th, 2008 10:27 pm ET

So please to hear that we are now going to hear about the most decent & intelligence man that is to be our next Vice President!

The last two weeks have been an embarrassment to this country
with the news headlines regarding Sara Palin! Enough is enough on this woman!

I love Joe Biden, he will make us proud!!!

Go Joe Go!

Jim Houstin   September 13th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

If the Republicans are so concerned with national security, don’t they understand that defending Sarah Palin and putting her in office is the biggest threat to national security that this nation has ever faced. In her interview with Gibson, it was as if she was a high school girl working with an interview coach. She is way dumb. This is not American Idol people! This is your life she is talking about screwing with! She will end up with all the security she needs and the BEST HEALTHCARE IN THE WORLD-She will simply laugh at you when you complain. And when you try to organize a grassroots or “community” campaign against her, then you will be looked down on as just a silly community organizer.

60 Year Old   September 13th, 2008 10:31 pm ET

Unkown, thank you, I go back to the 60’s. I keep reading because
this is my first time doing something like this.

It is just amassing to read the comments, some of you are trying to
stay informed so you can make what you feel is the best decision.
Others are still walking the walk down the media and spinmasters
sidewalk and some are so stuck with their party they can’t think even
think about another candidate.

Please people, think and research, read up on them and turn all
of the news channels off.

Notice how I haven’t mentioned my choice? I have mine and have
done alot of research and still am. None of you can make my
decision for me, that is my responsibility! I won’t press mine choice
you and I don’t want your’s pressed on me.

Teena M   September 13th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

Thank you! I’m looking forward to learning more about Biden and why Obama chose him. I’m an undecided, moderate, middle class white woman. The demographic that is supposed to be flocking to the McCain-Palin ticket, but I’m left scratching my head at that selection. She was mayor of a town that’s roughly 1/4 the size of a sold out MLB game. The entire state of Alaska is 1/2 the population size of the county I live in. Heck, I visited more foreign countries on my 2 week vacation to Europe that she’s visited in her life. And she’s qualified to be vice president how? It’s great that she has family values, etc, but how could I elect someone, that I can’t even imagine running a small company, to the huge responsibility run an entire nation, should an elderly cancer survivor would-be president not complete his term?

The Informer   September 13th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

If America wants to become the Greatest Nation in the World again–then Joe Biden is your man. He knows and feels all of your pains–Palin, is such a phony. She doesn’t know a thing about real politics. But, she can tell you that she can “see” Russia from Alaska. Wow, what “great” qualifications. McCain only chose Palin because he wanted all of Hilllary’s votes. In a taped interview, when Hillary and Obama were still campaigning, Palln said that Hillary was such a “whiner.” Didn’t Phil Gramm say the same thing about us Americans? He is the one who McCain wants to govern his economic “plan.” And, again, you want a real person, please vote Joe Biden. Voting for the other ticket is like having a “Trojan Horse” trying to break into the White House. I truly pray that America is smarter than that!

janis brown   September 13th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

Barack Obama showed good jugement when he asked Joe
Biden to be his vice president they make a great team to lead the america people and they are ready to lead THANK YOU JOE FOR SAYING YES WE CAN. GOD BLESS YOU

Professor Frink   September 13th, 2008 10:36 pm ET

Biden?
A plagiarist and well known lifter of other’s speeches, who was ignored during the primaries by the mainstream media, which was far more interested in Hillary and Obama.
No matter though, as the 3 or 4 percent of the voters that liked him were able to look past his car salesman smile and annoyingly long winded style. He was chosen, of course, because Obama’s foreign policy resume is thinner than Biden’s hair-plugged scalp.
Biden, not wanting to look like a wuss, voted to authorize the use of force in Iraq — split it in 3 parts was his solution for that troubled country for during the primaries, which sounds somewhat like the European plan in the early 1900s, which of course was an excellent solution and led to peace and prosperity.
Once the media is able to usher in their longed-for anointed one — payback for the whole WMD snafu — at least there will be an adult in the White House to do the heavy lifting and hard thinking.
I just hope his brain won’t explode again.

Balvant   September 13th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

It’s about time that Joe Bidan get some spotlight and public gets to see how qualified and better choice for VP is than Palin as VP for McCain. I can understand why Palin got so much media attention since she was not known. However, Joe Bidan needs a fair media coverage. Media may have know him for long time but not all public. Once he is heard more, it will be clear why Obama chose him. He is surely a great guy and very wise choice for VP.

dyellon md   September 13th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Sarah Palin-” I told them thanks but no thanks when they wanted to build the bridge to nowhere” NOT TRUE. she was for the bridge in 06 and 07, until the issue of waste of our tax dollars became known to the public.
Sarah Palin-I traveled to Ireland, Kuwait, Iraq. NOT TRUE. you never went to Iraq to visit the troops and your airplane only refuled in Ireland.
Sarah Palin-” I will cooperate fully with the investigation concerning the firing…” NOT TRUE. her lawyer has blocked the legislature’s investigation and wants Sarah’