Obama targets rural voters
Obama targets rural voters Save Email Print
Campaign goes "Barack-a-billy"
Posted: 5:13 PM May 1, 2008
Last Updated: 11:31 PM May 1, 2008
Reporter: Mark Peterson
Email Address: mpeterson@wndu.com

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The U.S. Senator from the big City of Chicago brought his presidential campaign to rural Indiana voters on Thursday.

Barack Obama held a town hall meeting at the St. Joseph County Fairgrounds south of South Bend. The scene could perhaps best be described as “Barack-a-billy,” with bunting hanging in the Dairy Barn, straw bales lining the floor, and an old tractor in the background.

The invitation only event was attended by about 100 people with strong ties to farming.

“I got invited, I was in a coffee shop, The Java Trail in Plymouth,” said Peter Banfich. “The owner said we’re going to see Barack Obama today, would you like to come? I said sure.” Banfich is an insurance agent who caters mainly to farmers.

Senator Obama told the crowd, “we’re going to protect the family farm; we’re going to make sure that’s our priority.”

Obama said it was his belief that rural America represents what is best about America: “Hard work, responsibility, individual initiative, a sense of community, and a sense of family.”

The Presidential contender said the fact that rural America is having such a difficult time indicates that the country had lost its focus on values.

“When we’ve got billions of dollars of government subsidies going to big agri-business for people who live in Manhattan and have never seen a farm…at the same time as family farmers are struggling,” Obama contended that something was wrong.

Among those in the audience was Ruby Bryant, a farmer from Goshen. “To tell the truth, I’m a registered Republican,” she said.

Bryant also added “I don’t really hear too much about the farming end of it from what I heard from Hillary or McCain—either one.”

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Posted by: Jim Beam Location: Raleigh on Jun 6, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Obama's has NO TRUE VOTING RECORD. Unless you count "present" as a vote. He has voted "present" over 100 times. http://www.dontvoteobama.net

Posted by: Mitch Location: Mishawaka on May 12, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Willie...go to the congressional web site, look up Obama's record and get back to us to explain just how liberal his voting is. I think you might be surprised on how well he picks the issues.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 12, 2008 at 02:30 PM
It looks like what would be entertaining would be a debate between Pilsner and Chaz. They both think they're geniuses, but neither is. Maybe a fistfight would break out.

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on May 12, 2008 at 07:46 AM
Ironic that Barack is talking about "hard work, responsibility, individual initiative". While it may describe him personally, it most certainly does not mesh with his liberal voting record and agenda. ---"NEWT '08!!!"

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Here on May 10, 2008 at 01:01 PM
Chaz, your blog posting have proven that you are just a weaker, more diluted and perhaps less brilliant version of my namesake.

Posted by: Todd Location: Mishawaka on May 10, 2008 at 07:44 AM
Y'all can put what ever president you want in office. They are not the problem. It is us. We are greedy, huge oil consumers, want something for nothing, want the most for the least amount of work, want our cake and to eat it to while somebody else washes the plate. How in the world can any president take on that task? We want public services, but we don't want to pay for them. We want them to make laws, as long as they don't effect me. We want the police to do their job, but how dare you pull me over for speeding. America, we created the problem.

Posted by: Milton Location: Michigan on May 9, 2008 at 05:42 PM
Had lunch with a farmer friend from North Dakota today. He was not amused when Barrack tried to give the old " YA Sure You Betha"recently @ a rally in the farm country of the plains. This is more a yuper term from the upper midwest he said. The bottom line for me from , his perspective is that very few people are better off today than they were 8 yrs. ago If Mr. Obama can come thru on just a small portion of his agenda we as a middle class will be much better off.Mark is right politicians dont feel these prices as the normal middle class does! Hey Barack "JUST DO IT" make the tough choices Please change our broken tax code! Lets all try to do our part EQUALLY! I dont condone punishing those who are successful! but they still must pay their fare share!

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 9, 2008 at 05:35 PM
Actually no, Pilsner and I are not the same person. I wish he'd stop telling people to take off. I welcome debate. I support Obama but I would have supported Hillary had she got the nod as well. I am far from living in Momma's basement but with this economy, who knows for how long?

Posted by: mark Anderson Location: michiana on May 9, 2008 at 05:01 PM
I would vote for Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck,Yosemite Sam or Foghorn Leghorn,Bugs Bunny, Wiley Cyote{he is a genius !} or ANYONE on the D ticket! How has gas gone from 47.00 a barrel in January 07 to the record 100. plus per barrel today? Why does it seem that the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer?BECAUSE THEY ARE It must those labor unions "they are ruining our country" Wake up michiana and smell the capacino you can no longer afford.Itis time for a change we can believe in.Please give us something to believe in.Rummy, Chaney ,and Bush have shown us NOTHING to believe in other than the Lies about Saddam,weapons terror, chemicals etc. I seriously doubt whether these gas,bread milk. eggs education,home, auto,healthcare prices affect these disconnected politicians in fact I am sure they do not.... so lets all work for minimum wage another 8 years run our credit card debt up another 25k work two extra jobs,get our wives a 2nd job. Lets all let our families and countr

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obama Obama Obamaland on May 9, 2008 at 02:08 PM
It's interesting. At the start of the year, Hillary had a 100 vote lead in superdelegates over Obama. Now that superdelegate lead has been reduced to only 3 votes!! I think that's very telling in terms of how she has run her campaign. In any case, I think Hill Bill will quit soon and we need to get behind Obama and go after McCain.

Posted by: Tôm Location: South Bend on May 9, 2008 at 10:08 AM
It'll be nice when Obama loses all the support from Hillary backers and falls to McCain in the fall. I think Chaz and Pilsner are the same person. Probably on Section 8, living on the northwest side of South Bend and still running a 486 PC in mommie's basement.

Posted by: Sally Location: South Bend on May 9, 2008 at 12:41 AM
Pilsner, we are totally fed up with your crap. Stop telling people to take off. They have as much right to post here as you do. Big deal, the Kennedy clan backs Obama. I wouldn't back a Kennedy, either. They've made their sad marks on our society. GO HILLARY.

Posted by: Anon on May 8, 2008 at 09:46 PM
Pilsner and Chaz blah blah blah blah blah. I am so sick of it all. Who ever wins wins. Nothing will change for at least the 1st 3 years anyways. Too much is broken to fix it overnight. All the promises they have made will never happen so get over it already....

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Here on May 8, 2008 at 06:16 PM
Anon, take off. Obama is the best candidate and will win the general election.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 8, 2008 at 12:59 PM
i'll give my vote to mccain if obama wins

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 8, 2008 at 08:36 AM
God I hope not Kim but let's face it. The Democrats in congress have no spine and it would only take a few of them like "the blue dogs" that routinely vote with the republicans for that to happen. Unless our country were under direct attack by another nation, any democrat that did vote for the draft should be repealed from congress or the senate. Let's pray it doesn't come to that.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 8, 2008 at 08:32 AM
Read the whole section Anonymous. When he says that, he's referring to when we rounded up the Japanese in WWII. What he is saying is that if we got stupid and decided to round up all the Muslims or try to make racial profiling legal, he would defend their rights. As he and all Americans that value freedom should. The interment camps were a blight on our record and should never be repeated. He's simply stating that he would not sit quietly while we rounded up and ignored the civil rights of that group. The sam way I'm sure he would protect the civil rights of nascar dads, soccer moms, blacks, Hispanics, etc. We're Americans and deserve to be treated as such. But that doesn't make for a juicy ignorant internet sound bite does it?

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 8, 2008 at 08:25 AM
Are you dense Fred? What I am saying is that Obama wants to change the crap in this country that clearly prevents it from working well. What you and others keep doing is trying to bring up statements made by people Obama has associated with. That's fine. But I suggests you look into some of the statements the associations of other candidates have made as well. White pastors have been preaching hate filled messages for years and it was never a big deal. Why is it an issue with Obama. The only 2 differences I can see are that Obama is a Democrat and he's black. Neither one of those is reason to ignore the statements made by the right wing religious leaders when you condemn others. It's like shooting at someone and then complaining that they have a knife.

Posted by: Kim on May 8, 2008 at 07:00 AM
Chaz, do you really think a democratic- led congress would pass a bill that restarted the draft?

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Bye Bye Hillary on May 8, 2008 at 12:41 AM
You’ve had a long run, Hillary. But there is a time for everything, and this is your time to end your bid for the White House.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 08:33 PM
For Chaz & Pilsner, Barack Obama Quote of the Week: From 'The Audacity of Hope, "I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction." The smoke an mirrors have blurred your vision.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: No Extra Innings For Hillary on May 7, 2008 at 05:30 PM
Fred, McCain will probably take all of those Hillary county sucesses that you describe in your email. There's still time for folks to wake up and smell the coffee (vote for Obama) though.

Posted by: Fred on May 7, 2008 at 04:51 PM
I see, Chaz. You rationalize that Obama is good, because somebody else is worse.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 7, 2008 at 03:40 PM
Also, we can talk about Otis Moss if we first address John Hagee, Pat Robertson, Jerry Fallwell, Rod Parsley and others for the hateful disgusting comments they have made. John McCain has actively sought many of their endorsements. He called Rod Parsley his spiritual guide. These men have said and preached things that were every bit, if not more so, hateful than anything that Wright ever said. Yet they and McCain get a free pass. Robertson even called for the assassination of a president of a sovereign nation. Some man of God that is. Remove the beam from your own eye before attempting to remove the splinter from someone elses.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 7, 2008 at 02:36 PM
If you think we can fight another war without bringing back the draft, you're nuts. The vice chief of staff of the army basically said that a few weeks ago. The strength and future of the all volunteer army is at risk was the way he put it. That's without another war. Think it will get better with McCain? As for a McCain landslide, it's possible in this state. We're full of fools. We voted for GWB twice didn't we?

Posted by: Pilsner Location: No extra innings for Hillary on May 7, 2008 at 01:43 PM
I'll give Hillary credit for being a fighter. She's really stuck it out, but it's time to quit. She is wasting democratic party energy. Obama blew her away in NC. She's losing and wants to change the party rules. This is like adding an extra inning during a baseball game just because your team has already lost.

Posted by: Fred on May 7, 2008 at 01:07 PM
Am I reading you correctly, Pilsner? You say "All of the Clinton county victories were in places that will eventually vote for McCain"? So, McCain will get all those that voted for him in the primary, and most those that voted for Clinton. Sounds like a McCain landslide in Indiana.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 7, 2008 at 01:01 PM
Yeah, Chaz, you're right about the kids nearing 18. They might get drafted...except that there is no draft. Chaz, maybe you should worry about Obama's new pastor, Otis Moss and his racist views, which are the same as Jeremiah Wright's.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 7, 2008 at 11:36 AM
I think once the press starts focusing on McCain and his insane foreign policies and ideas for insurance reform and diplomacy, he'll look a lot less attractive to a lot of people. How many people are eager to vote into office the guy likely to start another war with Iran? Not many with kids nearing 18 I'm sure.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obama Obama Obama on May 7, 2008 at 11:00 AM
Well, it was close. Obama actually won the counties that will vote democratic in the general election. That's what really matters. All of the Clinton county victories were in places that will eventually vote for McCain. He did win in South Bend though.

Posted by: Sharon on May 7, 2008 at 10:00 AM
Pilsner, what do you have to say now? I thought you were confident that Obama would win Indiana and the Presidency...

Posted by: Hillary Supporter on May 6, 2008 at 10:32 PM
Pilsner doesn't look like all of Indiana adores Obama now does it.

Posted by: Voter on May 6, 2008 at 10:30 PM
I know a lot of Democrats that will vote for McCain in the general election if Obama wins the primary. That is sad that quite a few Democrats do not want Obama. Oh well McCain will have my vote because I will not vote for the green boy. Sorry just my feelings and many othrs I am sure

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obamaland on May 6, 2008 at 10:17 PM
Jay, take off. Your characterization of Obama is incorrect. Your game is pretty lame dude. Obama will win. Toby, you are a creep.

Posted by: Jay Location: SB on May 6, 2008 at 09:32 PM
Chaz,I don't think Obama is a closet Muslim at all. Quite the opposite. The many photos of him wearing the sheet and Diaper on his head tell me all I need to know. We are in bad shape. All three are idiots, just Obama ranks #1. Billary would be #2 and McCain is a close 3rd. (from the bottom) We could find someone just about anywhere better then the three we are now picking from. But I'm far from a liberal so what do I know.

Posted by: Toby Location: South Bend on May 6, 2008 at 08:46 PM
Hey Pilsner....nah nah nah nah nah. Deal with it, sucker.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Meme is Stupid on May 6, 2008 at 05:21 PM
meme, that is just plain dumb. People like you should not even be allowed to vote. The idea that a President should have a military background is incredibly STUPID. By the way, you proved that you can't think beyond the end of your nose because Hillary does not have a military background. So, please remove your uneducated hill billy self out of the blog.

Posted by: meme Location: Indiana on May 6, 2008 at 03:36 PM
I'm republican, but you bet that I will be voting for Clinton in the primary just so that's one less vote that Obama will get!! Why is that you NEVER here him talk about his parents. Hmmm probably because he doesn't want us to know where they are from!!! I think in order to be president you should have to have a MILITARY BACKGROUND!!! Therefore when it comes to the final election in November my vote will be for McCain!!! The military does not want Obama there at all!!!

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obama Nation on May 6, 2008 at 12:49 PM
Sharon, I don't hate women. I happen to be married to the most brilliant and beautiful woman in the world. I won't tell you to take off. You can debate me as long as you like. I'm knocking on Hillary because she is not qualified for the job. She was tasked with reforming the health care system back in the early 90's and it was a complete disaster. If you base her ability on her past work and the way she has run her almost bankrupt campaign, you should agree that she has not even passed a trial period that shows suitability for the Presidency.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 6, 2008 at 08:54 AM
So now Jay thinks that Obama is a closet Muslim. Let me guess? You watch Fox news a lot right?

Posted by: Sharon on May 6, 2008 at 08:23 AM
The main reason Pilsner hates Hillary is because she is a woman. He's probably been turned down all of his life, which causes him to hate women and in turn, hate Hillary. Obama says he wants change, but never states what his specific plans are. Hillary does. Obama doesn't have enough experience to be our President and would lose the race against McCain. So Pilsner, "Take Off."

Posted by: Mitch Location: Mishawaka on May 6, 2008 at 08:21 AM
Well Mary, you seem to forget that Hillary did in fact vote for the war, and is now back tracking. She has quite a track record of doing this...like her support of NAFTA. I would disagree on your bill statement, but that is really personal preference. What is her largest bill plunder? The 10 or so years she has been working on Universal Health Care and never has once come up with a solid plan worth presenting. That is a whole lot of wasted time on the peoples dime. Good Thinking...I wouldn't ever step into a small town cafe and make that remark if you want to walk out on your own. Never degrade farmers. They work far harder then you do in your factory job and many are ver y intelligent. It is no where as easy as you might think and farming is a huge risk game that takes skill. What a stupid remark.

Posted by: DUH! on May 6, 2008 at 07:17 AM
Yes - vote for Obama - it's shown that McCain does better than him in the polls so we want an Obama win! McCain all the way!

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obama Obama Obama on May 5, 2008 at 11:27 PM
Indiana just adores Obama!! Obama/Richardson in 08!!!

Posted by: CreamCake Location: Here on May 5, 2008 at 08:29 PM
Not so good thinking, nice try. It's actually quite the opposite. The uneducated rural folks seem to be leaning towards Hill Bill. I think a lot of republicans like Obama too.

Posted by: Jay Location: SB on May 5, 2008 at 07:37 PM
The sheep need to do a little homework. Wake Up. Remember not to long ago. Muslims flying planes into our buildings. From the Koran, "The best way to defeat the enemy is from within". What better way to fight for his Muslim beliefs then be the Commander in Chief of the Military that is fights his people.

Posted by: GOOD THINKING OBAMA Location: SB on May 5, 2008 at 05:28 PM
Good thinking obama. The county fairgrounds was a good place for you to speak. Those farmers probably could'nt think of a relevant question. HILLARY for PRESIDENT.

Posted by: Mary on May 5, 2008 at 01:29 PM
Betsy, Obama didn't vote against the war, now did he? The answer is no, he didn't. He wasn't a senator when the vote was held. What are these Obama solutions you know all about?

Posted by: Anonymous on May 5, 2008 at 01:12 PM
It sounds to me like CS Nelson is an elitist. Is this Christopher Nelson, MD from Elkhart?

Posted by: Betsy Location: Obama on May 5, 2008 at 12:21 PM
Mary, you are wrong. Hillary voted for the war, but now says that she is against it. She is only doing what she needs to get elected without regard to what will actually work. Obama is proposing hard as nails solutions that will work and add value for the American people.

Posted by: Mary on May 4, 2008 at 11:02 PM
I'd say Hillary's list of bills is more impressive than Obama's. If you go to the article, you have to ignore the text and just read the list of bills. The author is very biased.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 4, 2008 at 10:54 PM
CS Nelson, I'm going to have to say that his most important one was "A resolution celebrating the life of Bishop Gilbert Earl Patterson." Wouldn't you?

Posted by: Anonymous on May 4, 2008 at 10:38 PM
CS Nelson, obviously you feel the need to start name-calling, because you can't answer the question. So he voted for something. Were those his bills? No, they weren't, were they. How is that him accomplishing anything? If he is a leader, why hasn't he been leading? What bills did Obama sponsor?

Posted by: Todd Location: Mishawaka on May 4, 2008 at 10:07 PM
www.dontvoteobama.net is totally off base. If you want his true voting record, then visit http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/members/o000167/key-votes/ this will give you the actual bills instead of off the wall references with nothing to support it.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: We want Obama!! on May 4, 2008 at 12:35 PM
Take off Joe. Obama is not an idiot. He is the best candidate for President. Sharon, you better not vote Republican. Vote for Obama.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Joe is wrong on May 4, 2008 at 12:39 AM
Joe, you are an idiot. Take off. Obama is the smartest candidate and will win the general election.

Posted by: Joe on May 3, 2008 at 08:10 PM
Obama is a idiot but hey if he is buying the BEER i can listen. Lets talk more politics Barrack!!

Posted by: Sharon Location: South Bend on May 3, 2008 at 07:28 PM
Carries from CA if we vote for Obama we will be worse off than we are now. Are people blind. What has this man really accomplished in the Senate? His commercials were saying My White House till they changed last week and he stayed in a church witha racist Rev for 20 years till it came out into the open then he leaves that church. I don't want to look at no stupid website you people keep telling me to look at they are also made to look better. I have been following all this and if you have listened to all of them you do not need a website you need common sense. And common sense tells me Obama is no where ready to be President. Come back in 4 years after a bit more experiene and he may have my vote. I have always been a Democrat but after all this bickering I may change and become a Republican.

Posted by: Jennifer Location: Middlebury on May 3, 2008 at 07:52 AM
Regardless of who you're for this video is great! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a8lvc-azCXY

Posted by: scary on May 3, 2008 at 06:14 AM
Neither one of these demo Socialist Marxist candidates speaks for me. I am an American who believes in freedom and CAN make intelligent decisions. Not from some tripe I hear from them.

Posted by: C.S. Nelson, M.D. on May 2, 2008 at 10:59 PM
"Uninformed person" Since you have questioned what Obama has actually accomplished, I suggest you look at both candidates actual voting records: http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2008/2/20/201332/807/36/458633%0A I think you'll find it very enlightening.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 2, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Why don't you provide a source for that "fact" that Medicaid and Medicare have the lowest administrative costs?

Posted by: Fred on May 2, 2008 at 09:42 PM
Pilsner, is that how someone with a 170 IQ spells "hillbillys"? It kind of makes everything you say seem unlikely, doesn't it?

Posted by: Tom Location: Leesburg on May 2, 2008 at 09:06 PM
Chaz, LOL, NOBODY complains about Medicare, Medicaid,V.A. care,The military, the highway system or the air traffic control system? I suppose they don't complain about the weather, taxes, gas prices, bad drivers, exspouses or prostate exams in your world either! Thanks for the laugh.

Posted by: Elizabeth Location: Indiana on May 2, 2008 at 07:54 PM
YOU REALLY WANT TO KNOW ABOUT OBAMA GO TO www.dontvoteobama.net it really has some info, now thats scary

Posted by: dave Location: northern IN on May 2, 2008 at 07:33 PM
I find it rather humerous that a chicago lawyer , let alone the other 2,hitlery or mcpain, only give a rats ass about the rural people only when the critters want something called ,,votes, sigh,otherwise, well, we out in the hinderlands are nothing

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 2, 2008 at 05:10 PM
Medicaid, medicare have the lowest administrative costs of any insurance system in teh world. Ask a Dr if they would rather deal with one of them or a private insurance company. Social security works great. People get their checks on time every month. Problem is the government has bankrupted the system. Reagan, Bush 1 and Clinton all robbed the trust fund to continue spending. Had they not done so, it would still be solvent. VA care has gotten terrible recently due to a president that chose to ignore the looming crisis. Spend the money on the war and none for the troops when they get home. I said highways, not roads. You know, the big 4 lane roads like I94? Social programs all off them. But if you don't like social programs, by all means, tell social security you don;t need their money and don't drive on the highways.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 2, 2008 at 04:37 PM
Chaz, am I reading correctly that you claim Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and VA Care work? I though Medicare and Medicaid were full of corruption, Social Security was on the verge of bankruptcy and VA Care was terrible. Nobody complains about the roads? Hello?

Posted by: Uninformed person on May 2, 2008 at 04:34 PM
Rural, since you're informed, what has Obama accomplished as a US Senator? Tell me anything he has accomplished. No, really, anything.

Posted by: rural voter on May 2, 2008 at 03:06 PM
OMG I am astonished at the majority of uninformed people here. If you want to know "how" Obama plans to change things you might want to go ahead and do a little research other than depending on the the 6 pm news. Lord most of you people scare me that you can even make an informed decision. OBAMA IN 08

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 2, 2008 at 02:52 PM
You know, nobody complains about socialist programs when they work. Medicare, medicaid, social security, VA care (for the most part), that military, national highways, air traffic control. All successful socialist programs. Nobody complains about them. Social programs can and do work.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obama kicks back a beer on May 2, 2008 at 02:40 PM
Oh Geesh. Now some of you want to be crtical because Obama was drinking a beer at the VFW. Big deal. He's a down to earth guy. If anything, those hillbillys should not have brought their children into an establishment that serves beer. It's not Obama's fault. He has a right to drink beer!! Parents drink beer in front of their children at restaurants. Who cares!! I don't. I just want to know who will be the best President. Go Obama.!.!

Posted by: BD Location: Nappannee on May 2, 2008 at 02:31 PM
Obama & Billary = Socialism.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: KENNEDY SUPPORT OBAMA on May 2, 2008 at 01:50 PM
I don't think it's fair that these so called superdelegates should interfere with the candidate selection process. However, If Obama is good enough for Caroline and Ted Kennedy, he's good enough for me too. Also, as far as his former pastor is concerned, I don't think he is trying to ruin Obama's campaign, but he ought to just keep quiet. I think Rev. Wright means well, but, in my opinion, he's [Rev. Wright] not too bright when it comes to politics.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 2, 2008 at 01:37 PM
Obama and kids with alcohol? Please... How many of us were getting beers for our dads soon after we could walk?

Posted by: Cathy Location: Elkhart on May 2, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Again...Obama states that he is going to protect the family farm...but never says HOW?????????? I has lots of plans and lots of rhetoric about things that need to "change" but I have yet to hear any solid plan for making the changes. Political rhetoric, as usual. His inexperience is showing!

Posted by: Pat Location: Plymouth on May 2, 2008 at 01:20 PM
We do and should judge people by who they associate themselves with. Obama has been a member of this church for 20 years and you can bet that Wright preached his Anti-America/Anti-Semitic sermons during those 20 years. So unless Obama never went to church why only now is he objecting to what Wright stands for? Obama supporters – open your eyes and look beneath the charisma. This man is not the leader this country needs. Check out what they say about him in Chicago. They know that he WILL raise taxes to throw more money at problems because that is what liberal dems do. I would have voted for John Paul had he remained in the running. At least he addressed the major problems and offered solutions. Not just preached “we need a change” and never offered what he intends to change and how he intends to do this. Except to pull out of Iraq and that will be a big mistake. I just do not trust him.

Posted by: Steve Location: Southside on May 2, 2008 at 01:03 PM
After reading some of this trash talk i'm determined to do my best to vote. Now if super delegates come in and change that , the process will stink as bad as those in washington.

Posted by: A Location: M on May 2, 2008 at 01:02 PM
ADVISOR TO HILLARY '08: QUOTE: "Look at Indiana...it doesn't matter if we win. Those people are sh*t. How would you like to be a worthless white ni**er?" END QUOTE See below: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN_nQOHj__s http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sN_nQOHj__s

Posted by: what a show Location: S.Bend on May 2, 2008 at 12:40 PM
I just seen that Obama was in N.Liberty, Thurs. He went to the American Legion and drank a beer(as told from the news and seen on the news),then with his beer in hand was posing for pictures with a child. Is this his way of showing "he is down to earth"? I enjoy a beer also but as an adult I choose that drinking in front of young children, having pictures with alcohol and children was never really respectful or proper. In todays society, alcohol is and should never be promoted with children. The comments about forgetting about his company he keeps? If he is so American, why would he keep this type of friends? We all have an assortment of friends but we also know the who and who nots to be around, the influence they may give to ourselves and our families, think about it. And for the opinion of read, don't watch. Watch;listen to his past debates and how he cannot answer questions clearly, he changes the subject.Everybody needs to vote! from a "rural" voter.

Posted by: Bonnie Location: Michiana on May 2, 2008 at 12:34 PM
Obama is the candidate I support. I am tired of the status quo of Washington and I feel that Obama is the best choice for all of us. I am tired of the dirty politics of the Clinton Machine. I don't want a repeat of Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton! I would love to see a woman as President just not Hillary Clinton.

Posted by: Jake Rhodes Location: Ohio on May 2, 2008 at 10:43 AM
What do you call a barn full of Obama's? Antique farm equipment

Posted by: redneck on May 2, 2008 at 10:39 AM
I have yet to be impressed by any of the candidates. I agree with Paul, is this all the better we can do? God help us all!

Posted by: ThinkingMom Location: Mishawaka on May 2, 2008 at 08:05 AM
If you understand anything about politics, you'd understand that northern Indiana, South Bend in particular, is the democratic stronghold in Indiana. They must, must take alot of time up here to sway as many democrat voters and the Reagan democrats as possible. The rural areas of the state are far more conservative in nature whether they be democrat or republican in party. This is a political thing....and it doesn't mean it's bad to have a small private group to speak to. It's his choice how he goes about it. Now really, if you are a thinking person....you can't take personally the comments his preacher said or Obama's comment about folks in rural areas 'clinging to guns & religion' when economic times are bad as a 'pacifier'. Google pacifier & religion. You need to only look back to your history & government classes about the 'philosophies & approaches to governing.' It all does matter--Marxism. It's not about color or sex or attacking the person, it's about their true beliefs.

Posted by: Milly Location: Goshen on May 2, 2008 at 07:40 AM
First of all the media should get there facts straight. How can anyone believe what they read anymore! Mrs Bryant is a lovely lady but she is not a farmer as reported--not even a landlord. From what I have read it doesn't sound like there were any "true farmers" in this rural audience.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 2, 2008 at 07:22 AM
Can anyone say what Obama has ever accomplished? He has great promises, but has never followed through on anything I have heard about.

Posted by: Pilsner Location: Obamaland on May 2, 2008 at 12:31 AM
I agree with Barb. Don't listen to mainstream media. Look at the individual candidate messages and who's backing them Caroline Kennedy supports Obama. That means a lot to me because she is the daughter of JFK. Obama reminds her of her Dad.

Posted by: Paul Location: Argos on May 1, 2008 at 11:01 PM
First, is Obama African-American? His mother is white is father African-American so that makes him multi-racial. Stay with the facts. Its not aboout race its about who will do the best JOB. Martin Luther King Jr. said to judge a man on the conduct of his character and see who Sen Obama liked as his preacher I wonder. Second, Since when is South Bend rural? At the Fair grounds? If Sen Obama or Clinton want to see and talk about rural America and farm maybe they need to get out on the family farm. Get out of the city. If they want to win the election lets hear solutions instead of sound bites. Ideas instead of mudslinging. Better yet lets just start over, America needs and deserves better than the current choices we have.

Posted by: Denise Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 10:07 PM
Anonymous at 2:18 p.m. No, I do not support Louis Farrakhan. But, I will not say that I would not support Obama because Farrakhan supports him. America is still a racist country, and free an inter-racial man as president. Do, Catholics not support their priest/church even though there are priest sleeping with young boys. Is it right for us to say that all priest are gay and sleep with young boys. Some of the statements Rev. Wright made were true, some were ignorant. People take some statements and spin what was actually being said. Not all black people hate whites and jews, if any thing it is the other way.

Posted by: M Lowe Location: U.S.A. on May 1, 2008 at 10:02 PM
How big is South Bend? If I blink will I miss it? Don't know why Obama when there anyhow, all your comments are racist. He can go anywhere in America and raise the largest crouds ever. Why did he choise South Bend? He came here for you. He cares about you and your family. He has raised more money, receive more poplular votes and is ahead in the delegate total. Also within just 21 point of Superdelegates to gain on Sen. Clinton. I think he is the man for the President and so does the rest of the U.S.A. Vote Tuesday, May 6 for Obama.

Posted by: Joe on May 1, 2008 at 09:59 PM
Obama has figured out all the problems just cant figure out how to fix anything just say he has to overhaul HIS WHITE HOUSE. And all this time i thought home sales were down.

Posted by: Carrie Location: California on May 1, 2008 at 09:42 PM
Where the #!*%* is South Bend, Indiana? Some of your comments are really out-of-touch with the rest of the country. We need change in Washington. Vote Obama 08! Don't be disappointed later.

Posted by: Rick Location: Oregon on May 1, 2008 at 09:25 PM
Hello to Indiana! Hope everyone is voting Tuesday, May 6th. Keep focus on the issues. Listen to what the candidates are really saying to you. The gas tax is a big gimmick. The average family will only save $30 dollars. (Turn the page on the Rev. Wright issue, you can't be responsible for what someone else says or does. Really think about it! Do you want 8 more years of McBush? Oregon is for Obama - We hope Indiana is too! Obama 08

Posted by: anon Location: land of negitivity on May 1, 2008 at 09:19 PM
and meanwhile,,,, there is a candidate that does get it, understands the problems this country faces, and tells people what needs to be done to correct it, but no one wants to hear the truth about things,the mainstream media ignores him, even the party he is running under even shuns him, who is the person Im speaking of, its, Ron Paul, a politician that does not change his words with what ever way the wind blows,compare that to the current 3 stooges in the limelight that change directions several times a day , same old stuff, different day

Posted by: jeff on May 1, 2008 at 08:26 PM
so let me get this straight. this bareback obamma fella is black? i figgured he was a arab with that name. i guess thats okay then. no way was i gonna stand by let a arab run the usa! id vote for that clinton guy first. had a bill clinton in office a few years back, he did ok i guess. better than that nutter bush fella. didnt this bareback guy want to take our guns a couple weeks ago?

Posted by: Pat Location: Plymouth on May 1, 2008 at 08:22 PM
What is it about Obama that people are so attracted to? I don't see it. He has yet to say HOW he plans to change everything. I just have to wonder who is pulling his strings. I am not a Clinton supporter but at least she has discussed solutions to some of todays issues. And McCain? Well at least he's staying quiet. Which is probably the smartest thing he has done yet. Is this all America has to offer us as a leader?

Posted by: Nick on May 1, 2008 at 08:10 PM
How is Osama going to help? By giving more farm subsidies so hat we pay US farmers becase they can't compete on a global market. We need to face the music, the family farm does not stand a chance to remain with globalization. Stop giving money to farmers who don't earn it.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 08:02 PM
As for the Farrakhan endorsement, he didn't seek and doesn't like the man. He's condemned much of what he's said and done. If Farrakhan had endorsed McCain, would he have to explain it? It's not like the guys have ties or anything. If Obama is using Farrakhan's protection I'm sure it's because he's a black man running for president in a country that is still disgustingly racist. In this very thread someone claims that if there isn't a republican president there will be an armed revolution. Nice. Think gas prices are high now? Wait until McCain invades or bombs Iran. And of course since our military is so stretched now he'll have to bring back the draft to do it. If McCain is elected we'll have 8 more years of war, thousands more dead, the world will hate us more and the rich will be richer and everyone else poorer.

Posted by: Brent Location: Ekhart on May 1, 2008 at 07:50 PM
Wow, reading some of these posts is really depressing. Do I really live in a community this full of people who want to judge a man only by what a couple people he knew did and not by the many great contributions he himself has made? Judge a man by his own deeds. Do not be deceived by those that do not want to give up their power. Obama ia a man of unquestionable integrity.

Posted by: wondering? Location: S.Bend on May 1, 2008 at 07:22 PM
Curious. Just who was invited to this private meet with Obama? Why was it such a secret? Are the rumors true that Obama is Muslim? How will he pledge an oath to our country if he were to be elected? Will he recognize the U.S. then? Just what is the truth about his church? and his beliefs. I do know I do not believe he is separated from it after the comments that were said. Things like that are not something that happens overnight. He seriously alarms me in what could happen if he were to get elected. His personal close relationships with people whom most seem to keep an eye on are a large concern. Why and what is it that people see in this person? I am curious. I must be missing something because all I do see is a bad turn down a dead end street.Clinton and Obama do have many of the same views, but, the one thing I have noticed is that she can answer direct questions and Obama does not. Help me out.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 06:56 PM
I have made up my mind, I'll vote for Clinton. At lease she knows urban from rural and she has at least had two open meetings with the people. The man is so stuck upon himself. He can not relate to we the blue collar and veterns who made this country great.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 06:48 PM
And there's Bill from Osceola pushing the Hussein aspect and claiming that Obama is a racist. Classic. Falwell, Robertson, Hagee and Buchanan can be as nutty as they want, call for assassinations of foreign heads of state, damn American left and right, say that aids and Katrina are God's punishment for gays, condemn the Catholic church as the great wh0re, link Catholicism to Nazism and nobody will say a word. Nor will anyone call McCain out on ties with them or specifically seeking their endorsement. But God forbid a black man bring up the racism in our country. God forbid that he bring up the notion that our foreign policy has real effects and say the exact same thing as the white pastors. That makes him an America hater. I say God has d4mned America too but it's not because I hat this country. It's because I love it.

Posted by: Tom Location: Leesburg on May 1, 2008 at 05:31 PM
Sounds like Obama has some explaining to do about the company he's kept in the past. It would be convenient to say we should just focus on the issues and his veiws on them but the fact is the people he has surrounded himself with in the past are an indication if what he stands for. We only get so much information about our candidates from the media to make our decisions on who to vote for and since anyone can say anything information like what his pastor has said for the last 20 years and who he's kept company with help us figure him out. It's the old addage- Actions speak louder than words.

Posted by: eh Location: mi on May 1, 2008 at 04:23 PM
rob, you're damn right that if a man doesn't wear an AMERICAN FLAG pin, i do not want him as president. if he cares that little of this country, what makes you think he will care any more about it when he gets in office, let alone care about you?????

Posted by: Al on May 1, 2008 at 02:40 PM
So, Phil, tell us what Obama has accomplished as a Senator and how he will accomplish what he is promising in this "better path".

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 02:18 PM
So, Denise, you don't have a problem with Louis Farrakhan? Louis Farrakhan is a Muslim extremist that hates white people and Jews. Is he someone you back?

Posted by: Bill Location: Osceola on May 1, 2008 at 01:49 PM
Hussein obama has take "racism" back to the 1960s. FYI said it all perfectly.

Posted by: m4 on May 1, 2008 at 01:37 PM
republican president or armed revolution. and we are really going to do it.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 01:21 PM
Can we find out after the fact where he was while in South Bend? I want to go there, so maybe I can breathe some of the air he breathed and walk in the exact place he walked. Maybe I can even use the same urinal.

Posted by: Alex Location: VA on May 1, 2008 at 01:13 PM
I hope that people in Indiana keep a clear head and a sharp ear when listening to what candidates (not Preachers) have to say. Please separate long-term solutions offered from "penny lollypops": we don't need to save 30 cents a day for a few days at the gas pump if it is at the expense of long-term deficiences in our highways and bridges.

Posted by: Phil Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 12:52 PM
Lets see, those that don't want Barack think that either Hillary Clinton or John McCain can put America on a better path. All of a sudden Jeremiah Wright becomes an insignificant distraction again.

Posted by: CS Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 12:48 PM
Rob and Anonomous: Dorks?! How lame is that? Very mature. I hope you're not voting age. Chaz: Whatever, of course you're so much smarter than the rest of us! It still doesn't explain why he had no problem with Rev. Wright for 20 years...until now, when it could hurt his campaign. If my minister said those things our board and the members wouldn't stand for it!

Posted by: Denise Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 12:22 PM
The person who made the comment about Louis Farrakhan must be white. I thought America was moving past racism yet it is still running strong based on these people’s comments. He has denounced Rev. Wright what else would you like him to do “masta”. By the way did everybody forget that Bill Clinton had Rev. Wright as a guest at the white house during his term? I go to church faithfully and I love my Pastor, BUT I have a mind of my own and I do not always agree with everything my pastors says. I make an educated decision based on the facts. I think all voter need to read up on all the candidates and stop letting the media influence your decisions. Sen. Buchanan made racial slurs and all they did was remove from the air for a few weeks.

Posted by: FYI on May 1, 2008 at 12:22 PM
Obama sat in the racists church and listened to the racists rants and went back again and again, choosing to identify by association-UNTIL PUBLICLY CRITICIZED. Then, "whooops-boom" he drops the guy like an electric porcupine. Guilt by association. Obama is a racist. And a socialist by admission-not a good American, either way.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Boy privite event, tickets needed. This sounds like we the people are not good enough for Obama. At least 2 of Clinton's campaign stops allowed the average Joe to see and hear her. Obama will be another JImmy Carter, and we will end up with the same kind of mess he left us with. This whole Middle East Problem we have now is due to JImmy Carter not doing anything when our people were taken hostages in our embassy in Iran. All he did was sit on his hands and talk and talk. It took the Incoming President to get the hostages released. The Iranians knew that he would not sit by and do nothing. Obama is only been in Nationoal politics for four years. He has socilistic ideas, that will not fly in this country. Who does he think will create the 5 million jobs he promised if not businesses.

Posted by: John on May 1, 2008 at 11:04 AM
A presidentual candidate's spiritual advisor, Jeremiah Wright, hates the United States, the candidate had business dealings with William Ayers, a suspected terrorist, and one of the candidate's biggest supporters is Louis Farrakhan. Yet, he might win a majority of votes for president? God help us!

Posted by: Amy Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 11:03 AM
If I didn't know better, I'd think the city of South Bend has the deciding democratic nominee vote! Maybe they (Clinton & O'Bama) will come to my house if I invite them for a cookout! Why South Bend?

Posted by: George Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Currently 17 cents out of every tax dollar go to pay the INTEREST on our national debt which by the way doubled during the last 8 years and yet people choose their next president based on comments made by his FORMER pastor and some flag pins? God help US!

Posted by: kt Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 09:13 AM
Yep, Obama sat there and did nothing all those years at church. Not like us good, obedient Catholics. If we saw something happening in our church that we knew was terribly wrong, we would immediately walk out and put a stop to it. We'd never let it go on and on for years, or try to cover it up. Oh wait, nevermind.

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 09:06 AM
I apologize for the tone of my post. As for CS, he's not embarrassed or offended to wear the flag. He just thinks it's a poor way to judge whether or not someone is a true patriot. John McCain wears his only occasionally. Does that make him 1/2 a patriot? Patriotism should be judged on what you believe for and are willing to stand up for. Not a 99 cent flag pin that was probably made in China. If I were Obama I;d start coming to events dressed as Uncle Sam. As for the elitist nature of this event, private events are common to all campaigns like this. Hillary did one here yesterday, McCain does them all the time. The idea that the 2 wealthiest people to ever run for president can call Obama an elitist is comical.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 08:54 AM
Obama is going to be president, all you dorks have 4 years of whining ahead of you. ANY president would be better after the complete loser that we have had for the past 7. OBAMA IN 08! BTW CS, embarrassed or offended? Is that what he said? NOOO!! But keep on making stuff up to prove a "point." What a dork!

Posted by: CS Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 08:37 AM
OK, so he went to that church and had that man as a minister for 20 years...and he didn't know what his sermons were about?! Come on! And if he's embarrassed or offended to wear an American flag then I'd be embarrassed and offended to call him President!

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 08:14 AM
You are known by the company you keep.

Posted by: Rob Location: SB on May 1, 2008 at 08:11 AM
Good, I love how everytime Obama comes all these dorks come out of the woodwork screaming pathetic reasons why he sucks. If you really care that a man doesn't wear an American Flag pin and that is why you dont want him to be president, you are a pathetic loser that obviously knows nothing about America. WELCOME PRESIDENT BARACK!

Posted by: scotland-station Location: WY on May 1, 2008 at 07:48 AM
I attended a caucus in WY for the Democratic vote. It was at a polling place 20 miles from my home. Information was not available from County agencies, nor in town when I arrived. I had been told the caucus was from 1 to 4 or 5 p.m. but not Where. There were not signs in town, several individuals when asked had no idea what I was looking for. Finally, a police officer was kind enough to let me 'trail' him to the polling place. I arrived before 2p.m. and was informed it was too late to vote, it had taken place just after 1p.m. I was not permitted to vote, nor was I the only one. There were at least a dozen people I met personally there that were also refused voting priviledges, including one person who had a ballot that was not collected!! The person in charge of the caucus stated it was a volunteer position and it was the best she could do. (I grateful she's not a doctor) Mr. Obama could have gotten more votes, and consequently more electoral votes that day.

Posted by: Anonymous on May 1, 2008 at 07:12 AM
Is Jeremiah Wright coming too?

Posted by: Elizabeth Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 02:41 AM
Did anyone notice that the Obama commercial that said "in my White House" has now been changed. I am glad because my husband kept yelling at the TV that the White House would not belong to him, but that it belongs to all of us. I hate to say it, but my Republican husband is right!

Posted by: Harold Location: Syracuse, IN on May 1, 2008 at 02:40 AM
Interesting that he claims to want to get the blue collar vote, yet this is an INVITATION ONLY event and the public is NOT welcome. How much more elitist can you get than to exclude the very people you want to vote for you? Not to mention even the location is secret. Wonder how big a donation it takes to get invited?

Posted by: Barb Location: South Bend on May 1, 2008 at 12:15 AM
All three major cable news networks are wasting valuable air time on Senator Obama's former pastor. Why? Is the story newsworthy? Sure. Is wall-to-wall Wright coverage more important than Iraq or gas prices or the climate crisis? No way. But Reverend Wright is a scary, shouting black man and scary shouting black men equal ratings-sweet-ratings. For all of those getting ready to post big nasty comments about Obama PLEASE take the time to truly listen to the issues and read from independent sources about which candidate has the best solutions. In addition, look at the records of the actions of all the candidates. DON'T listen to mainstream media about any of the reporting on the candidates as it's all hype for ratings. The key is that you have to READ not WATCH. Please take the time to read what the independent papers are saying and don't dismiss who the top congressional leaders are backing [Obama]. That alone should be a strong barometer for how badly even Washington wants change.

Posted by: Cindy Location: South Bend on Apr 30, 2008 at 11:02 PM
First a quick correction - Barack Obama is a Senator from Illinois (not New York). Yeah Barack! I just wish it wasn't a closed event.

Posted by: Mark on Apr 30, 2008 at 10:13 PM
Dear Obama: Stay in northwest Indiana, where they don't care what you say, or that you say nothing of substance.

Posted by: T Location: South Bend on Apr 30, 2008 at 10:00 PM
Private event? Doesn't really matter as Rev. Wright's stone is around Obama's neck. Hate is going to cost Obama the election one way or another. A new poll issued today shows Wright is practically burying Obama with his recent appearances. CNN's Soledad Obrien and Roland Martin made fools of themselves for portraying Wright as a great guy at one of those appearances and the very next day Obama ends his relationship with Wright. Which is it? Great guy or hate monger?

Posted by: Chaz Location: South Bend on Apr 30, 2008 at 09:28 PM
When Bill from Osceola comes in here and calls him a racist, tell Bill I said he's a Nazi sympathizing pedophile. If he can make unfounded allegations against a man he doesn't know, with no proof, I can too. If you want to say his former pastor (that he has now denounced repeatedly) is a racist, fine. But to attribute those ideas, thoughts and statements to Obama is wrong.

Posted by: Voter on Apr 30, 2008 at 09:25 PM
Big Deal who cares he is no better than Hillary. Maybe worse and I am a Democrat. They both lie and he is getting on my nerves. All I hear out of him is ME ME ME. Not the people him. What a joke.


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