During Friday’s post-debate coverage on MSNBC, Chris Matthews portrayed Barack Obama as appearing "more presidential" while he complained that John McCain "was crunched over, almost grumpy in physical manner," as he contended that McCain "may not have been presidential." Matthews also complained that McCain did not look at Obama at all during the debate, a theme which Matthews touched on repeatedly that night. Matthews: "[McCain] may not have been presidential, however. Not once tonight, in an hour and a half, did he look at his opponent. He was crunched over, almost grumpy in his physical manner. I think a lot of people will take that body language as contemptuous of his opponent. They won’t like it. Barack Obama, on the other hand, who kept agreeing with McCain, over and over again, saying I agree with the point you made, I agree with the point you made, looked more presidential, although I believe on points, he gave away too much."
Matthews also characterized McCain as "troll-like" and "grumpy," and asked if Americans "really want to put up with four years of that," and described McCain as seeming "really contemptuous" of Obama. Guest John Heilemann contended that McCain "hates Obama." Matthews: "Do people really want to put up with four years of that? Of sitting there angrily, grumpily, like a codger? Like, like, I don’t want to push it too far, but didn’t he seem really contemptuous of his opponent? Do you want to put up with four years of that?"
Ironically, about 14 minutes after Matthews’s criticism that McCain was "crunched over," former Democratic Congressman and MSNBC political analyst Harold Ford advised Obama to "lean forward a little more." Ford: "One of the things that Senator Obama has probably got to do better going forward here and even in the next debate, is lean forward a little more. It’s funny because, interestingly, because his running mate, Joe Biden, has probably got to lean back just a little bit in his debate with Sarah Palin."
Below is a transcript of relevant portions of the Friday, September 26, coverage of the presidential debate from MSNBC:
10:40 p.m.
CHRIS MATTHEWS: What struck me is the stylistic difference. He was very strong. He was very strong, McCain, very practical, very emotional He hit a lot of people as a very practical man tonight. He may not have been presidential, however. Not once tonight, in an hour and a half, did he look at his opponent. He was crunched over, almost grumpy in his physical manner. I think a lot of people will take that body language as contemptuous of his opponent. They won’t like it. Barack Obama, on the other hand, who kept agreeing with McCain, over and over again, saying I agree with the point you made, I agree with the point you made, looked more presidential, although I believe on points, he gave away too much. I want to bring in Andrea Mitchell right now with your thoughts.
ANDREA MITCHELL: Yeah, I think that Barack Obama missed opportunities, on the economic issues, to show more of a connection. He let the debate focus on taxes and budget cuts, rather than on pocketbook issues that are of key concern to not only Democratic voters, but independent voters, swing voters. So I think he could have been punchier on that. He could have tried to tie John McCain more closely to George Bush. On foreign policy, Obama certainly looked as though he were conversant. He had all the facts at his command. But, again, John McCain was dismissive toward him several times, calling him naive – you don’t understand tactics, you don’t understand strategy– trying to diminish him in the eyes of the viewers and, of course, the voters. And I’m not sure whether that was something that people would find offensive, frankly.
MATTHEWS: And that, I think we agree on that. David, back to you. The big question is, will his obvious contempt in both his wording and his body language towards his rival offend people or give him a sense of strength? We’ll have to see.
...
10:54 p.m.
HAROLD FORD: One of the things that Senator Obama has probably got to do better going forward here and even in the next debate, is lean forward a little more. It’s funny because, interestingly, because his running mate, Joe Biden, has probably got to lean back just a little bit in his debate with Sarah Palin.
...
#From a special midnight edition of Hardball:
12:41 p.m.
MATTHEWS: Let’s talk TV values, because in many ways, subconsciously, when you pick a candidate for President, you not only pick him on, not just on issues, but who do you want to listen to for four to eight years? I mean, it really is part of the way we look at these things. Do you think, let’s start with John McCain, do you think he was too troll-like tonight? You know, too much of a troll?
JOHN HEILEMANN, NEW YORK MAGAZINE, LAUGHING: Yeah.
MATTHEWS: Seriously.
HEILEMANN: No, no, I understand.
MATTHEWS: Do people really want to put up with four years of that? Of sitting there angrily, grumpily, like a codger? Like, like, I don’t want to push it too far, but didn’t he seem really contemptuous of his opponent? Do you want to put up with four years of that?
HEILEMANN: He did. He did. And, you know, and he hates, and he hates, and he hates Obama, and maybe ... [PORTION IS DIFFICULT TO HEAR] ... since Obama’s not on the stage, that we won’t have to put up with that anymore.
MATTHEWS: Excuse me. That’s what he thinks of the press.
HEILEMANN: I know. That’s what he thinks of almost anybody who’s not John McCain.
MATTHEWS: Is every press conference going to be like that? A troll-like performance, angry at the world?
Comments Policy
last night's snapshot poll
September 27, 2008 - 13:43 ET by wdhorningTo Chris Matthews:
I guess his troll like manner helped McCain look humble, while the presidental look of Obama was too presumptious. And, Chris, here are the poll numbers to prove it
=============
Both CNN and Fox had "punch in" polling. Here were the numbers about midnight:
: CNN FoxNews TOTALS
McCain 30317 73800 104117
Obama 73250 15300 88550
These results show a few things:
1) for the total of all Democrats and Republicans and Independents,
more voted for McCain where the vote ratio was 44% for Obama, but 56%
percent for McCain.
2) CNN has a viewership that is mostly Democrats, that is a ratio of
3:1 over Republicans, yet Obama only got 7:3 ratio which, when a common
denominator is used, yields 7:3 ratio out of 9:3 proving that many
Democrats switched sides, at least when looking at debate performance.
(A tie ratio would have been 9:3, but Obama only got 7:3).
3) FoxNews viewship is mostly Republicans, and that ratio is about 7:5
over Democrats according to recent viewer's survey. In this case McCain
got a ratio of 3:1 and when the common denominator is changed for
comparison we see that with a viewership of 7:5 McCain got a vote of
confidence of 15:5 which exceeds a tie of 7:5 by 2 to 1
4) There was of course some independent voters in the mix, so the ratios are not perfect, but still close
5) Finally, the FoxNews poll also shows a much larger percentage of
Democrats watch FoxNews than the percentage of Republicans that watch
CNN. Could it be that FoxNews presents both sides more fairly that
CNN?
Ans: I watched the interviews after the debate and very strong
arguments were allowed to be made by spokespersons from both McCain and
Obama camps on FoxNews. I have watched CNN on occasion in the past,
just to compare, and sure enough, CNN lets a Republicn who is a "numb
nuts" speak on behalf of McCain/Palin, but picks the brightest Democrat
to speak for Obama/Biden.
7) I believe it was 6 times Obama had to say something like, "Sen
McCain is absolutely right", while McCain only agreed with Obama ever
so slightly on a few key points (like doing something about the
financial crisis). It seems McCain articulated much better, which was
not just debating skills alone, but he has more knowledge in the
background of all issues.
8) This simple survey shows that all the MSM commentators are clearly
in the Obama camp, because they all said Obama won the debates, but the
combined Democrat-Republican survey I just did proves them to be biased
at bias can get.
9) I watched a discussion afterwards, where Juan Williams could NOT
look anyone in the face when he said Obama won the debate and also
while explaining why, showing Mr Williams, in truth, did not believe
what he was saying. He finally did look the moderator in the face for
those things that were simple statements of fact, however, proving he
was embarassed when he lacked confidence in his support of Obama, but
OK when what he said was just a statement of fact. All the other
commentators looked the moderator in the face, because they all
provided more balanced comments that were fairly truthful, including
those comments favoring Obama. No one looked down or away when
providing favorable comments for McCain.
wd.... That's
September 27, 2008 - 13:52 ET by motherbeltwd....
That's interesting, but this is the third thread you've pasted that into.
We get your point.
It gets annoying.
easy now ...
September 27, 2008 - 13:56 ET by wdhorningWell, it is only that way if you read it more than once.
You see, this is a really important issue to each of the topics I posted too. For example, I did not post to unrelated topics.
It's relevant to how McCain
September 27, 2008 - 14:31 ET by motherbeltIt's relevant to how McCain and Obama looked?
And believe me, I didn't read it more than once.
Yep, kinda like hearing
September 27, 2008 - 15:07 ET by kgYep, kinda like hearing about the Bridge to Knowhere on ABC, CBS and hourly on MSNBC.
Forget change, I want improvement!"
Just wait......
September 27, 2008 - 13:46 ET by TexndocAttractive, beautiful, and natural vs. hair-plugs, capped teeth and phoniness coming up soon. Wonder which one will be more "vice-presidential" to Missie Matthews, the body-language expert?
Well, if he can get Chuck to
September 28, 2008 - 08:14 ET by tomnkikiWell, if he can get Chuck to stand up, Biden wins hands down. Although, Sarah can haul in a net of fish and kill, skin and cook a moose. Ok, close call here.
obama could have ...
September 27, 2008 - 13:49 ET by pmohbuckpulled his pants down and dropped a load on the podium and the networks would have lauded this behavior as "presidential" ... no one should be surprised by the desperate attempt of the media to give obama "the win" last night. it is obvious that matthews is hoping to bring back the contrasts between nixon and kennedy in 1960 ... doesn't work though.
i graded obama a "c" and mccain a "b" ... both showed nerves from the onset, but mccain gathered steam and obama stuttered and stumbled.
i honestly felt mccain was ambushed by being lured into a debate over foreign policy that ended up focusing on the economy from the start. considering mccain held his ground while obama agreed with mccain on several points and openly admitted that biden would be handling foreign policy ... mccain totally came across as someone who could the job from day one ... obama still comes across as a kid who just got his driver's license and his dad is dangling the car keys in front of him ...
You think he's that far
September 28, 2008 - 08:12 ET by tomnkikiYou think he's that far advanced?? I was thinking more along the lines of a 4 year old being taught how to ride a bike with training wheels on it.
Jeez, Chris, he's not
September 27, 2008 - 13:52 ET by motherbeltJeez, Chris, he's not "hunched over." He's short!!!
And if he had looked at Obama while disagreeing, I have no doubt you would have accused him of "lecturing Obama!"
And what about Obama mumbling under his breath, and smirking and shaking his head while McCain was speaking? The only thing missing was the big Al Gore sigh!
Chris, it's time for you to quit your job and go to work on the Obama campaign.
Oh, I forgot....to steal Obama's phrase: You can do both.
Sen. McCain couldn't look
September 27, 2008 - 14:06 ET by cocodrieSen. McCain couldn't look Hussein Obama in the eye without running backstage to throw up.
financial crisis question
September 27, 2008 - 13:55 ET by wdhorningI like how McCain spelled out a few programs that might have to go because of the current financial crisis. On the other hand, Obama spelled out the programs he would add.
anyone else notice
September 27, 2008 - 13:58 ET by Jnoble..a couple times when McCain was talking and The Messiah wanted to interject he kept gesturing and putting up his hand to Leher like an excited third grader who knows the answer and wants the teacher to pick him:
"Ooooooh Ooooooh!<waves arm and hand wildly> I know! I know! Oooooooh!"
I noticed how Lehrer not
September 27, 2008 - 15:15 ET by Indiana JoeI noticed how Lehrer not only let Obama interrupt McCain, but also Lehrer interrupted McCain more than once... and not to say he was out of time, either.
OTOH, didn't see Lehrer or McCain interrupt Obama once.
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
Korshack??
September 27, 2008 - 15:51 ET by CpickeringHe looked like Korshack from the old "Welcome Back Kotter" series!!
Obama is also so predictable
September 27, 2008 - 14:04 ET by Jnobleblah blah blah "the last 8 years of Bush" blah blah "investment in alternate energys wind, solar, bio-diseal", blah blah "took our eyes off the real threat Bin Laden" blah blah "tax cuts for the middle class not those who don't need it" blah blah blah
Yep
September 27, 2008 - 14:05 ET by BlondeSo McCain looked trollish?
Obama looked idiotic, particularly while raising his hand.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
"Obama looked idiotic, particularly while raising his hand. "
September 28, 2008 - 08:05 ET by tomnkikiTEEAACCCHHHHEEERRR!!!! WHHOOO!! OHOHOHOHOHOHOH!!! I KNOW THIS ONE!! I GOT IT...I GOT IT...I GOT IT!!! OH...OH...OHHHHH..OH..OH...TEEEEEAAACCCHHHHERR!!!
Okay, Barry, you may answer.
Thank you. ummmm....I..uh...I would....ummmm...for the economy...to...ummm...turn around...I would....ummm...make sure...w-w-w-w-we...uh.uh.uh...ended our...ummmmmm...dependence on foreign oil...And, I-I-I-I-I-I-I...ummmm...would use....uh.uh.uh...Healthcare Reform...ummmm...to...uhhhh...to that. uh-uh-uh..You know, we...uhhhh...have...um...a..um...financial crisis...o-o-on...uh...Wall Street. I-I-I-I told Congress...ummm...uhhh...20...20 years ago...uh...that if they...uhhhh...wouldn't reform....uh...Healthcare, then...ummm...there would be...uhhhhh...a m-m-m-meltdown...uhhhhh...of our f-f-f-financial....uhhhhh...markets in-in-in 2008. I was right, and JOHN just didn't get it!
I'm sorry, Barry, that wasn't the question I asked. Take your seat, please, and next time, raise your hand politely and without screaming that you know the answer. Thank you.
P.S. Next time, only answer
September 28, 2008 - 08:09 ET by tomnkikiP.S. Next time, only answer the question I have asked, and only if you know the answer, Little Barry Jr.
Lol, I turned on my TV today
September 27, 2008 - 16:12 ET by SRPwrdLol, I turned on my TV today and CNN was on(I know!), and it had the line on the bottom saying that "Obama said that..." and I said to my self, "McCain is just like Bush," and what did it say? "...McCain is just giving us more of the same from Bush." No s*** CNN, Obama is giving us the same Obama.
Desparation!
September 27, 2008 - 14:05 ET by ThisnThatWow. That's the main criticism? They couldn't find anything that Obama said that was Presidential or better than McCain, so they try to invent something regarding looks and manners?
I knew Obama lost -- but I didn't realize that the MSM recognized how much he lost by. Very, very telling.
___________________________________
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If it is in English, thank a Soldier. - My barber
The MSM love presidential
September 27, 2008 - 15:11 ET by kgThe MSM love presidential looks.
2004 - Kerry looks soooo presidential.
2008 - Obama looks sooooo presidential.
"Forget change, I want improvement!"
THE Exception
September 28, 2008 - 20:14 ET by mom_roxThe MSM didn't care for Mitt Romney "looking presidential".
What's the difference between Barack Obama and Sarah Palin?
One is eye candy while the other kills her own food.
Can McCain even stand
September 27, 2008 - 14:18 ET by FishFace222Can McCain even stand straight up after getting the crap beat out of him for 5 1/2 years? I know he can't salute the flag as he would love to do because he can't raise his hands high enough.
Is this Matthews' John-McCain-doesn't-know-how-to-email moment?
Matthews just can't stand the fact that McCain was courteous enough to let Obamy finish his answers while Obamy constantly shook his head and muttered "that's not true" as he was looking down during McCain's responses.
Debating rules
September 27, 2008 - 15:08 ET by KC MulvilleThe "traditional debate" comment is nonsense. Debates come in different flavors. It all depends on the rules. In a court of law, for example, lawyers arent supposed to bicker with each other - their comments are always intended to be for the jury or the judge.
What happened last night is that McCain defused the Obama strategy, and the pro-Obama people were pissed about it. We all heard that in the debate preparation, Obama was going to try and bait McCain into getting angry, then claim McCain's temper (which he had artificially provoked) disqualified him to be president. So McCain was determined not to take any of the bait that Obama offered.
The media's reaction? McCain didn't fall for it, so they tried to attack him for not falling for it. Matthews' reaction is just cheap.
Poor little Chris and all
September 27, 2008 - 14:18 ET by bigtimerPoor little Chris and all his brethren....
McCain got under the under-developed Chosen One's skin, it showed more that once and they just can't handle it...
I think the whole thing is hysterical with the msm, they didn't expect McCain to be like he was last night...nor did I....it was a pleasant surprise for me....(not that I liked all of the answers, that isn't the point) they are still whining with spin at this moment...
Wittle worry warts all...
Keep punching them all McCain...especially the messiah...your are suppose to fight the enemy who is contemptuous.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
BT, Chris is the observer of the frivolous...
September 27, 2008 - 14:36 ET by ThalpyBT, Chris is the observer of the frivolous. Andrea Mitchell pointed out that Obama missed a number of opportunities; no one was there to point them out to him.
Exactly right Thalpy...I
September 27, 2008 - 14:45 ET by bigtimerExactly right Thalpy...I think it was something that hurt their ears, let alone any sensibilities...
I could not stomach too much of the talking heads last night...so I got on here, posted a few comments about the msm, example David pickled-mind Gergen on CNN, msnbc goes without saying, which was starting to make me angry, plus I listened to some phone callers on C-SPAN that made me furious...sure glad we have NBs to vent on!
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
bt, do you want
September 27, 2008 - 16:32 ET by DEVILDOCMOMto know what I like best about the site? The level of intelligence on NB's...not only with the editors and staff who write and bring us the stories, but by people who post responses. I have learned quite a bit and look forward to responses by certain people whose opinion I respect.
contemptuous
September 27, 2008 - 14:23 ET by DingbatMc "contemptuous of his opponent"? Duh. Of course he is. I am too. That's why I didn't watch the debate. I can't take 90 min of the Messiah's BS and uh, uh, eh, uh's.
I don't think Americans will put up with 4 more yrs. of Chrissy
September 27, 2008 - 14:23 ET by JayTeeWhatsamatter Chris. . . . your Leg cramps have disappeared ?
I do NOT envision 4 more years of Chris Matthead on the Airways.....if BHO loses. the MSNBC will seek a more Polished Democratic supporter, since Matthead will have proven he can't bring in the goods on the BHO vote, if BHO loses.
The Republican Revolution will not be Televised
McCain Dressed Better
September 27, 2008 - 14:27 ET by mawendtit is apparent that McCain had the better suit, and wore it better than O.
just my nickel. maw
mawendt... This is a bit
September 27, 2008 - 14:30 ET by Clear thinkermawendt...
This is a bit picky, but I agree with you. Obama looked like the limo driver for a Funeral Home in his black suit.
A Breakthrough Night for Obama?
Making Fun of AGW http://giovanniworld.wordpress.com/
But that tie!
September 27, 2008 - 14:31 ET by BlondeNever wear little stripes on TV.
McC's suit may have been nicer, but that tie was sooooo distracting I never even looked. Plus, I prefer dark charcoal.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
candy cane stripes
September 27, 2008 - 15:16 ET by mom_roxB - I agree! (probably someone thought it would look clever wearing blue with red & white stripes, but it was distracting.)
Regarding Matthews' comment: Weren't the MSM upset when the unflattering photo of Sen. Clinton appeared on the Drudge Report?
What's the difference between Barack Obama and Sarah Palin?
One is eye candy while the other kills her own food.
Blonde,
September 27, 2008 - 15:26 ET by Indiana JoeY'know how little memories can stick with you for no reason? Years ago, I remember seeing Johnny Carson point out how his striped tie "strobed" on the monitor. For some reason, I've always remembered that rule: never wear thin stripes on TV.
Someone should have told Mac. ;^)
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
Striped tie
September 27, 2008 - 15:38 ET by BlondeYa'll should have heard the comments about McC's striped tie on the chat last nite.
Particularly the sartorial Mr. Sheppard, who knows about the tv stuff.
That tie had a life of it's own. It was not a pleasant sight to behold.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde... Honest question
September 27, 2008 - 16:13 ET by Clear thinkerBlonde...
Honest question... Is this a feamle thing about ties? Not how they appear on TV but, ties in general?
I spent way too many years wearing ties and hated every minute of it. But in all the years I wore a tie, and in all the years I sat across from other guys with ties, I never paid any attention to this part of the wardrobe. The only ties that ever got my attention were the ones that had a splatter of someones lunch on it. Plus, my wife always bought my ties and picked out what tie I should wear each day.
I once had a funny situation with ties. Some of my employees started to dress more casually and I did not like it. So what I did was send out a memo that simply stated... "only those that are destined for success wear ties" signed by me of course. I was happy to see the very next staff meeting filled with ties!
A Breakthrough Night for Obama?
Making Fun of AGW http://giovanniworld.wordpress.com/
Clear
September 27, 2008 - 16:31 ET by BlondeI think the right tie with the right suit/jacket must be a chick thing, mostly.
Some men just don't have any fashion sense at all (my ex for one, I'd always have to make him change his tie if he picked it...he never got it right). A perfect example is Britt Hume. He has beautiful clothes, a must for his job...but on the nights he dresses himself, my God! He'll wear a pink & white striped shirt with a white collar, gray suit, and a bright green polka dot tie. It's freakish.
And while I'm on the subject, what's with the wide pinstripes on Fox lately? They look like a bunch of 3rd rate gangsters. Shep looked absolutely silly the other day, even my mom said it was the worst suit she'd ever seen.
I can understand why you would hate to wear ties...they must be horribly constricting and buttoned up.
Just my 2 cents, since you asked. :)
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Blonde,
September 27, 2008 - 16:41 ET by DEVILDOCMOMyou are sure right on your discussion here regarding Brit and those wide pinstripes...I could not agree more with your gangster comment. I have never like suits with wide pinstripes and only enjoy looking at the rare suit with even faint pinstripes.
While we are on the subject of clothes...what was with michelle ma belle's dress. It made her rear look a mile wide. She surely did not have a mirror with three sides when she bought that style and pattern.
DDM
September 27, 2008 - 16:58 ET by BlondeWelcome to the NB Fashion Police! LOL.
Michelle O tries too hard, that's her problem. She's trying to be "like the rest of us"....let me tell you, I wouldn't be caught dead in a twin set.
Cindy McCain, OTOH, dresses like I'd love to be able to, if I had that kind of clothing budget. Sarah Palin hasn't put a pump wrong (love those, can't wear them that high, but they look great on her) yet either. I loved her convention suit, and the olive green one is really good looking as well. Poor Hillary, no one ever told her pants are not flattering. A well cut skirt trumps a pair of slacks every time (I wore pants to work once and everyone almost fainted).
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
You are right...
September 27, 2008 - 19:02 ET by DEVILDOCMOMsomewhere I saw that Cindy McCain's "$300,000" outfit was not that expensive and her dress was "off the rack". :) Most likely I saw it here. I just think her "off the rack" is a bit different than mine. I love everyting I have seen Sarah Palin in, especially the shoes. lol
Pictures, people,
September 28, 2008 - 07:49 ET by tomnkikiPictures, people, pictures. You must show us the pictures of the evenings worst dressed, or at least, provide links to said horrors. I wasn't able to watch the debates.
It's a chick thing.
The Moiré Effect and Green Screens
September 27, 2008 - 16:36 ET by mom_roxEvidently the dancing stripes (the moiré effect) only appears on analog sets. I didn't like the tie, period (on HD or analog).
Between this and the green backdrops, someone at the McCain campaign should be in charge of eliminating cosmetic distractions.
What's the difference between Barack Obama and Sarah Palin?
One is eye candy while the other kills her own food.
Moiré Effect?
September 27, 2008 - 17:09 ET by BlondeThx, mom_rox....you rock!
I learn something new every day here. I love new words. So I shall file that one away.
I think you need to join the NB Fashion Police, too.
Now I'm going to get yelled at, I'm sure, for derailing a thread.
But you're spot-on about the McCain campaign being slack on style points. I'm one of those who think image is important, particularly in the political arena. I hated Jimmuh Cahta's nasty old cardigan sweaters...it wasn't dignified at all.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
The NB Fashion Police
September 28, 2008 - 01:10 ET by mom_roxBlonde, thanks for the invite, but the irony is that I care very little about fashion. I absolutely detest shopping for clothes, but I have enough fashion sense to know when something doesn't look right.
You're spot on with your statement about image. It reminds me of the phrase "perception is power".
What's the difference between Barack Obama and Sarah Palin?
One is eye candy while the other kills her own food.
"Jimmuh Cahta's nasty old
September 28, 2008 - 07:40 ET by tomnkiki"Jimmuh Cahta's nasty old cardigan sweaters"
Mr. Roger's neighborhood, anyone? Of course, that was Jimmuh Cahtah's solution for saving energy in the fall and winter. Put a sweater on. Turn up the heat, you freak of nature.
McCain Dressed Better
September 27, 2008 - 14:27 ET by mawendtit is apparent that McCain had the better suit, and wore it better than O.
just my nickel. maw
Chrissy should shut up
September 27, 2008 - 14:30 ET by well99"He was subjected to rope bindings and repeated beatings every two hours, at the same time as he was suffering from dysentry."
Do you think this may be the cause why he slumps over Obama Gurl.Chrissy while you were finding a extra large tampon that would fit McCain was suffering torture.You break a nail and I bet you cry for hours.So you and your butt buddy Olbentover can stick it where the sun dont shine.
I bet that msnbc gets
September 27, 2008 - 14:41 ET by gopsteveI bet that msnbc gets double the publicity when written about here...
just ignore them
why bother telling us what they say...we could just guess anyways
Troll
September 27, 2008 - 14:47 ET by TheAssessor"Tingle" must have been looking in the mirror when he was talking about angry, trolls. What a pathetic piece of garbage he is. He wouldn't last 10 seconds alone in a room with McCain before he'd see what crunched over felt like.
"I have a bracelet too" Barak Obama, political sociopath..
Agreed.
September 28, 2008 - 00:07 ET by RHRobinsonMDIf I were Chris Matthews I would not make disparaging remarks on anyones appearance.
One way or another, what you get, you pay for. - Robert Heinlein
Obama did a nice job.
September 27, 2008 - 15:04 ET by mostlymoderateObama did a nice job. McCain did a better job. Can't reporters like Mathews be honest? I did not see McCain look like a troll and I did not see Obama look Presidential. Personally, McCain came across very powerful and reminded me of a few generals throughout history. Nobody has been truly Presidential since Reagan. Sorry, that's how I feel.
Can't reporters like Mathews be honest?
September 27, 2008 - 15:29 ET by Indiana JoeSeems not.
Besides, Chrissy probably wouldn't claim to be a "reporter."
That's his cover.
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
73 years old and sharp as a tack
September 27, 2008 - 15:41 ET by PaarlI am so impressed with McCains grasp of the facts and issues at his age.....only Newt Gingrich ..to my mind has better command of issues.
I am 56 years old , never spent 5.5 years in a hotel with lousy room service , never spent 18 months on a marathon campaign and I could never even conceive of performing like that. His mind is crisp and most importantly the man is so comfortable in his skin..Obama is not !!! I supported McCain in 2000 and think all would be better for party and country had he been elected then.
Paarl of Rhodesia
Back In '72
September 27, 2008 - 16:17 ET by NoMoreClintonsJohn just turned 72 at the end of August. Let's not make him any older!
MR. SHALLOW
September 27, 2008 - 15:08 ET by MrShy"Looked Presidential"
When does Actor's Studio Barack Obama NOT look presidential?
That's exactly what he is, someone groomed (either by his own talents and ambition, or with the help of others) to *look* like a President.
The man talks*, walks and gestures perfectly and gracefully.
Like most libs, Chris is another shallow-thinking talking head, moved (tingled, to be more specific) most by the superficial exterior of things.
You saw, in stark contrast, someone like McCain. Love him or hate him, he continues to not really GAS (give a sh##) how he comes across. That horrendous tie he wore being just one example. :p
(* just the sound of his voice, I mean, not the words and um-uh-ya-know's eminating from his mouth.)
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Governor Palin Get Your Gun
"Crunched over?" Yea, a
September 27, 2008 - 18:02 ET by Cooltom"Crunched over?"
Yea, a half dozen maltreated broken bones will do that to you.
Matthews would need a few generations of good breeding to even qualify as a troll.
"Matthews also
September 27, 2008 - 15:41 ET by Richard Romano"Matthews also characterized McCain as "troll-like" and "grumpy," and
asked if Americans "really want to put up with four years of that"
Wow, what a nice piece of journalist integrity and objectivity -- nice work Chris! I am sure you're quite proud of yourself.
Mathews Comments on Looks?
September 27, 2008 - 16:15 ET by ChasvsGee, Doesn't Chrissey boy look like a troll himself?
But his Boy Obama, now that's just what a President should LOOK like!
Too bad old Barry doesn't have the brains to be a toad stool much less the President of the United States! I've heard Kenya is looking for a new President, and Barry would fit right in there! Heck, he's even got family in the Country!
Go Barry, Go Barry, Go Barry, JUST GO!
Obama's ears
September 27, 2008 - 19:24 ET by PaarlI have tracked the weather conditions where Obama campaigns and I have discovered that he DOES NOT campaign outdoors in settings that are exposed to winds greater than 30 MPH. I think he is afraid that a strong gust could cause a Benoulli effect near his ears and cause him to lift off the ground..it would be VERY embarrassing!!!
Paarl of Rhodesia
That's why his chin's
September 28, 2008 - 12:28 ET by DarkCurrentThat's why his chin's pitched so far up all the time. He needs to keep his ears in a stall to keep his feet on the ground.
McCain was rude
September 27, 2008 - 16:30 ET by serfer62McCain kept talking while OHbama was interupting
and he did it several times too
Yes!
September 27, 2008 - 16:50 ET by ChaitealoverI was glad to see McCain didn't let Obama lead him into an angry response [mine would have been "shut up"] or take over the direction of the debate. Interruptions were probably part of his handler's strategy to try to make McCain look bad. It didn't work.
Chai
“The beauty of our system isn’t that we have the right to vote. No, the nice thing is that people who are too dumb or lazy or uninformed to bother casting a ballot aren’t compelled to vote.” —Burt Prelutsky
Chai... Couldn't agree
September 27, 2008 - 17:12 ET by bigtimerChai...
Couldn't agree more with your summation...it was grand the way the reverse happened...McC got under The Chosen One's skin...quite a few times.
I enjoyed that so much.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
That was great. Obama
September 27, 2008 - 19:47 ET by GregEThat was great. Obama trying to bust in, and McCain not letting it happen, continuing to speak like brushing a fly off the shoulder.
Of course....
September 27, 2008 - 17:32 ET by Scandimanwe want to see John McCain for the next four years because we also get to see Sarah Palin!
Don't forget his wife
September 27, 2008 - 22:55 ET by BlueCat57And don't forget Cindy McCain. She's pretty hot.
Chris Matthews
September 27, 2008 - 17:59 ET by Edward CropperMatthews is so concerned with McCain's appearance. Here is a guy who worked for Tip O'Neil who looked like an unmade bed. Fat, slovenly, hair in a wind storm and a mumbler. Matthews thought this worn out hack politician was the second coming.
But then Matthews is a hack worn out reporter wannabe so one must understand his bias.
Yeah, hemming and hawing and
September 27, 2008 - 18:31 ET by GrannyGrump42Yeah, hemming and hawing and looking down at your wrist to read a dead soldier's name off the memorial bracelet is very Presidential -- right up there with casually tossing a flower onto the Ground Zero memorial.
Obama's about as presidential as a male model.
Wow, you mean Chris Matthews
September 27, 2008 - 18:41 ET by Chris NormanWow, you mean Chris Matthews liked Obama's performance over McCain's? Why, what a shock - you could knock me over with a feather.
The only one more supportive of Obama than Matthews is Michelle Obama and Matthews is jealous of her.
McNotObama '08
Chris... ...ROFLMAO! "Am
September 27, 2008 - 19:21 ET by bigtimerChris...
...ROFLMAO!
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Funny how there was no
September 27, 2008 - 18:55 ET by ckc1227Funny how there was no mention of Obama's make-up job. He looked like he was worked over by a funeral director.
McCain's posture
September 27, 2008 - 20:53 ET by HappyConservativeI'm wondering how troll like and hunched over Chris Matthews and all his fine, compassionate friends would appear if their bodies had endured the torture and trauma John McCain has suffered.
Senator McCain is remarkably amazing in the way he doesn't let his physical disabilities hinder him from living an energetic and productive life. He must surely suffer pain, but he gives very little indication that is the case, and he apparently doesn't request any special accomodation - even in a debate format where he had to stand for an hour and a half, after an hectic schedule.
Despite it all, he won the debate and headed back to D.C. to continue work on the economic crisis.
Chris Matthews and his ilk haven't a clue about class and character. It is entirely expected that they would find fault and criticize what they have no hope of ever comprehending.
There is reason...
September 27, 2008 - 21:26 ET by JPR1John McCain may look trollish at times. He had the crap knocked out of him on a weekly basis for 5 years.
There is a reason Chris Matthews often looks like a turd....