The secret reason why Obama's winning

The Drudge Report used a single word headline for its debate coverage - Boring.

And that is a disaster for John McCain.

Yesterday's Town Hall format was widely regarded as the most likely to produce a McCain victory. And it needed to. As I have argued before, if the race goes on smoothly, McCain will lose.

Don't just look at polling figures. Look at this story from the Washington Post online. Here's the secret reason why Obama is winning, the one in small print in a footnote at the bottom of the page:

Barack Obama is outspending John McCain at nearly a three-to-one clip on television time in the final weeks of the presidential election, according to ad buy information obtained by The Fix, a financial edge that is almost certainly contributing to the momentum for the Illinois senator in key battleground states.

From Sept. 30 to Oct. 6, Obama spent more than $20 million on television ads in 17 states including more than $3 million in Pennsylvania and more than $2 million each in Florida, Michigan and Ohio. McCain in that same time frame spent just $7.2 million in 15 states.

Even when the Republican National Committee's independent expenditure spending in Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia and Wisconsin is factored in (a total of $5.3 million), Obama still outspent the combined GOP forces by roughly $8 million in the last week alone.

Big lead, big money, big mo. It's all with Obama.

Comments

[D]

But isn't there a secret reason why Obama has raised more money (a lot of it from small donations)...he's a better candidate, with a better organised campaign.

[Adam]

If you think about it, the biggest thing either of these two men has 'run' or managed and the closest thing to the level of presidential responsibility are their presidential campaigns and Obama's done a far better job of leading/organising/running his than McCain has

[Prudence Eely Bond McGuire]

The reason for all the money Obama is raising is that a lot of it is coming from abroad, something that is not supposed to happen?
Maybe he is winning by devious means and McCain is losing by playing the game honestly.
What a way to win!
The mind boggles!

[JOHN CHUCKMAN, TORONTO]

Your analysis is incomplete, Daniel, and thus inaccurate.

Yes, money always matters. It virtually drives American national politics. An American Senator spends on average about two-thirds of his or her time out trying to get money.

What you leave out: the Republicans traditionally never have any problems getting money. Indeed, they have an old argument that they need more money because their story is harder to tell.

Bush, despite being relatively unknown nationally, entered the 2000 primary with $77 million stuffed into his pockets, and that was only the beginning. He went through truckloads of money.

How is it different now? Because Bush is the least respected President in history.

And because McCain is a tired old man.

He is, in most of his views, indistinguishable from Bush, history’s most incompetent president.

He has selected a bouncy, empty-headed cheerleader for a running mate.

America is in the midst of several disasters, together almost certainly representing an historical watershed, the beginning of the decline of the American Empire.

I do think those facts alone are more than adequate to explain McCain’s position, indeed to explain the near certainty that Obama will win and win big.

[locomotivebreath1901]

The secret reason why Obama's winning?

Geo. Soros.

Plus suspicious contributions which circumvent campaign finance laws.

"Sources of more than $190 million in Obama election contributions are unidentified."

http://lucianne.com/threads2.asp?artnum=429059

McCain opted for public financing of his campaign and disclosed all his resources to the FEC, as required by law.

Obama reneged on his public promise and opted for private campaign financing. He's raised almost one half of one billion (with a 'B') dollars, but has not provided full disclosure of sources required by U.S. law.

Many suspect this $190 million is from overseas (illegal) and wants the FEC to investigate.

[Elizabeth Renant]

Sure, Daniel - you go on telling yourself that - it's money. Not the specter of an old, bitter, short-sighted man who has behaved erratically, failed to address the economic crisis in any coherent way, and sacrificed every principle he ever had in his naked lust to get the one thing he never could till now. It's money - not his race-baiting crypto-fascist running mate, who smiled as someone who yelled "Kill him!" at a Florida rally, prompting others in the crowd to shout racial epithets at a black TV crew member, in a video captured by MSNBC and seen across the globe. It's money - not his flip-flopping on the Bush tax cuts and his health plan, which will reduce access to health care for the middle-class and make the rest more expensive. Maybe on the planet you are living on it's money, but here on Planet Earth it's the specter of a frighteningly insular, borderline pyschotic, religious zealot VP candidate backing up a tired, bitter old man of 72 who has had cancer, who has shown terrible judgment and whose response to the economic crisis was laughable. Get real, Daniel.

[Terry Miller]

Fundraising is only one factor. The Obama campaign also features a disciplined campaign staff, consistent messaging and a talented candidate -- to name just a few. Successful fundraising is as much a consequence of these advantages as it is, as you state, a cause of Obama's success.

[Anizio]

I'm Brasilian e live in Nova Iguaçu,Rio de Janeiro. Follow the campaign that will decide the future from milions of the peoples in US and on world. I believe in Obama. Think what his past in the minore classes can to give one better vision of the real change that people need. If the american people pay per view is why BELIEVE too. Sorry my vocabulary! God Blass for all.

[David]

Elizabeth Renant:

You sound like the embittered person you accuse McCain of being. It also appears that you harbor hatred and prejudice towards religious people (perhaps just Christians?). I'm suprised you didn't cite the hackneyed shibboleth of "wars in the name of religion" as well in support of your views. But, let me ask you: has a life of secularism made you happy? From your post, it is apparent that it (or whatever philosophy you espouse)has not. And, have you ever considered that the secular ideologies spawned over the last centuries have been far more intolerant and deadly than anything done in the name of religion? The French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, Nazism, the Chinese Revolution and the practices of Soviets and Chinese Communists have enslaved and killed millions more than all of the religious wars combined. These facts suggest that social and political problems derive, at base, from defects in human nature, not from any particular religion or ideology. I hope you find what you wish for your life. As my post suggests, I am solidly in the McCain/Palin camp. But, if the election goes the other way (even though such an outcome would be bad for America), I do not fear because my faith lies not in human ability or wisdom, but in Jesus Christ.

[Prudence Eely Bond McGuire]

Do many people even listen to Obama's rhetoric or are they just carried away by the drone of his voice?
I watched some of the debate on Fox last night and was amazed at the rubbish he mainly spouted.
He went on for sometime about the
good he has done since becoming a Senator.
As he has only been in this job for a couple of years, it was amazingly self delusional claptrap.
I'll give him his due, his ego is bigger than the last 'self effacing' deadbeat that went on like this and fooled the people for a time.
Who was that? Tony Bliar!

[Joseph]

I'm a 66 yr old who has always voted for the man and not the party. After watching last nights "debate" I'm truly apalled by both men. Their well rehearsed, oft repeated simplistic mini speeches and their answer to "what sacrifices will you ask Americans (me) to make during these hard times" had me ready to throw a brick at my TV. Do these politicians really believe we are incabable of facing the cold hard truth of these times. I am sick of politicians catering to the greedy, the lazy,the "needy" and so called underprivledged. These are not the kinds of people who will get things done, stop kissing their butts! Pitiful, just pitiful!

[WolfRanger]

Obama's extravagant spending shouldn't be taken into consideration as a win. Rather, who do you think will pay that back in the long run...Us, the taxpayer. I would rather see a candidate do more with less. With the economic crisis as it is I don't want to see someone who throws money out the window. I want to see someone who knows how to budget his money and stimulate the economy....McCain/Palin all the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Tom]

The Republicans want to lose this election. They have put forward a geriatric candidate with an idiotic running mate. They are spending just enough to be visible and to make the Democrats win the election. They see no benefit from winning it after the monumental screw ups of the last 8 years. The next presidentwill inherit such a poisoned chalice that he will be on a hiding to nothing and will probably only last 4 years, then they'll be back in.

[Mike]

It's cynical to say Obama is only winning because he has more money. Obama has more money because more people believe in him and are willing to make some sacrifice to see him get elected.

McCain totally diluted his image in the last few years. He's only committal on Iraq and the rest of the USA wants out.

In contrast, Obama is nuanced, inspired and responsive to the electorate in a way that Hillary wasn't and McCain isn't.

[Lizzie, New York]

This analysis ignores a crucial fact. According to the studies collated in "Freakonomics" there is actually startlingly little correlation between expenditure and electoral success.

The two things that really matter are:
1. How well/badly the incumbent party is doing (or rather, how the country is doing under them, whether or not the situation is their fault/achievement), which reflects on their candidate, for good or ill.
2. How much people like and associate personally with a candidate.

The Republicans are up a certain creek without a paddle and McCain is tarred with their brush (fairly or not doesn't matter).

Obama appeals to a lot of new voters, as well as all the minorities and a lot of women, who having gotten over the Hilary thing, are really excited to see anyone who is not a cookie-cutter white man running. Plus he's a stunning speaker, you'd be hard-pressed not to find him inspiring and presidential (which I say as a Brit expat in NY with no vote here, who preferred Hilary).

Money is a sideshow. The only reason people talk about it so much is because you can't put a figure on likeability.

[eya]

abolish the currency system!!! no more money

[Carl Garrett]

Maybe it is where all Obama's money is coming from:Where all the money came from for the expensive schools and travel has troubled me from the beginning. Has Obama been groomed from the background with money, education, philosophical guidance, and image lessons for this powerful position for years and years? Are the American people being duped and manipulated? I say without a doubt. If it seems so obvious to you and me why hasn't the press brough it to the attention of less inquiring minds?

This election has me very worried. So many things to consider. About a year ago I would have voted for Obama. I have changed my mind three times since than. I watch all the news channels, jumping from one to another. I must say this drives my husband crazy. But, I feel if you view MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News, you might get some middle ground to work with. About six months ago, I started thinking 'where did the money come from for Obama'. I have four daughters who went to College, and we were middle class, and money was tight. We (including my girls) worked hard and there were lots of student loans.

I started looking into Obama's life.

Around 1979 Obama started college at Occidental in California. He is very open about his two years at Occidental, he tried all kinds of drugs and was wasting his time but, even though he had a brilliant mind, did not apply himself to his studies. 'Barry' (that was the name he used all his life)
during this time had two roommates, Muhammad Hasan Chandoo and Wahid Hamid, both from Pakistan. During the summer of 1981, after his second year in college, he made a 'round the world' trip. Stopping to see his mother in Indonesia, next Hyderabad in India, three weeks in Karachi, Pakistan where he stayed with his roommate's family, then off to Africa to visit his father's family. My question - Where did he get the money for this trip? ! Nether I, nor any one of my children would have had money for a trip like this when they where in college. When he came back he started school at Columbia University in New York. It is at this time he wants everyone to call him Barack - not Barry. Do you know what the tuition is at Columbia? It's not cheap! to say the least. Where did he get money for tuition? Student Loans?
Maybe. After Columbia, he went to Chicago to work as a Community Organizer for $12,000. a year. Why Chicago? Why not New York? He was already living in New York.

By 'chance' he met Antoin 'Tony' Rezko, born in Aleppo Syria, and a real estate developer in Chicago. Rezko has been convicted of fraud and bribery this year. Rezko, was named 'Entrepreneur of the Decade' by the Arab-American Business and Professional Association'. About two years later, Obama entered Harvard Law School. Do you have any idea what tuition is for Harvard Law School? Where did he get the money for Law School? More student loans? After Law school, he went back to Chicago. Rezko offered him a job, which he turned down. But, he did take a job with Davis, Miner, Barnhill & Galland. Guess what? They represented 'Rezar' which Rezko's firm. Rezko was one of Obama's first major financial contributors when he ran f! or offi ce in Chicago. In 2003, Rezko threw an early fundraiser for Obama which Chicago Tribune reporter David Mendelland claims was instrumental in providing Obama with 'seed money' for his U.S. Senate race. In 2005, Obama purchased a new home in Kenwoood District of Chicago for $1.65 million (less than asking price). With ALL those Student Loans - Where did he get the money for the property? On the same day Rezko's wife, Rita, purchased the adjoining empty lot for full price. The London Times reported that Nadhmi Auchi, an Iraqi-born Billionaire loaned Rezko $3.5 million three weeks before Obama's new home was purchased. Obama met Nadhmi Auchi many times with Rezko.

Now, we have Obama running for President. Valerie Jarrett, was Michele Obama's boss. She is now Obama's chief advisor and he does not make any major decisions without talking to her first. Where was Jarrett born? Ready for this? Shiraz, Iran! Do we see a pattern here? Or am I going crazy?

On May 10, 2008 The Times reported, Robert Malley advisor to Obama was 'sacked' after the press found out he was having regular contacts with 'Hamas', which controls Gaza and is connected with Iran. This past week, buried in the back part of the papers, Iraqi newspapers reported that during Obama's visit to Iraq, he asked their leaders to do nothing about the war until after he is elected, and he will 'Take care of things'.

Oh, and by the way, remember the college roommates that where born in Pakistan? They are in charge of all those 'small' Internet campaign contribution for Obama. Where is that money coming from? The poor and middle class in this country? Or could it be from the Middle East?

And the final bit of news. On September 7, 2008, The Washington Times posted a verbal slip that was made on 'This Week' with George Stephanapoulos. Obama on talking about his religion said, 'My Muslim faith'. When questioned, 'he make a mistake'. Some mistake!

All of the above information I got on line. If you would like to check it - Wikipedia, encyclopedia, Barack Obama; Tony Rezko; Valerie Jarrett: Daily Times - Obama visited Pakistan in 1981; The Washington Times - September 7,
2008; The Times May 10, 2008.

Now the BIG question - If I found out all this information on my own, Why haven't all of our 'intelligent' members of the press been reporting this?

A phrase that keeps ringing in my ear - 'Beware of the enemy from within'.

[PT MAHONEY]

Obama has NEVER HELD A JOB FOR MORE THAN 3 YEARS! It is outrageous that his first one, may be the US Presidency.

[Marie Miller]

Why do people abroad want Obama as Pres so badly? Surely they could use their money to better their own countries? An ulterior motive here and who is doing the fundraising abroad? Kind of scary as the terrorists are in all those countries.

[Pamela Johnson]

I can't believe people are falling for the McCain campaigns sleazy smear: "Obama got his money from illegal overseas contributions." Puhlease!

Obama has raised so much more money than McCain because he is so much better a candidate. This country doesn't need four more years of moronic leadership.

[Karen in Virginia]

So many fools willing to believe all the scurrilous garbage thrown by McCain. I have donated to the Obama campaign since April 07, an American citizen of modest means. I canvass my neighbors, I make phone calls. Sorry, we simply work harder and care more, that is why Obama is winning.

[Phi Grimm]

McCancer really stepped in it this time. His racist, demeaning referrals to Barack Obama have backfired again.

http://www.thatone08.com/

[Doug Connor]

Couldn't agree more with the preceding comments. We simply cannot afford any further time with the bankrupt thinking of the Bush era. Obama has already demonstrated the ability to grow with the challenge and mature with the demands of public exposure and scrutiny from the press. Money? Of course it takes money. But to suggest that's all it takes would be to suggest Obama is just another W. Does any thinking person believe that?

[Bhoo Patel]

Obama has very succesfully organised his campaign and out-weighed all opposition which in itself confirms his ability to bring about the change and new leadership in Washington.

[Bhoo Patel]

Obama has very succesfully organised his campaign and out-weighed all opposition which in itself confirms his ability to bring about the change and new leadership in Washington.

[Beth Yost]

So because McCain is boring it's okay to have a president that 1. we really don't know where he was born and may not even be a U.S. citizen. 2. Has raised Billions to do what? Everybody is blaming Bush for the housing situation but in actuality it was Presidents Carter and Clinton that actually signed the bills! Nancy Pelosi is the one who wouldn't let gas prices go down, it wasn't right for the citizens of this country. But McCain tried to get a bill passed to help before it got this bad. So what is Obama going to do?
3. Taxes are going up just like they did with Clinton... and he promised to lower them and 3 days after election raised them because he couldn't find any way around them. Right!
4. Healthcare..Well, they should put a cap on what we have to pay or do it like Canada, Australia and New Zealand.
5. How does a guy that a few years ago was broke. And has only worked approx. 153 hours in Senate get to be on Presidential ticket.... I'm a professional in the nursing profession and can't do that. Something wiccy about it or?

[MB]

There's no secret to Obama winning: he's just a better candidate and his policies make a lot more sense. McCain's latest blurted out statement on the economy is that he plans to set up a scheme for the US Treasury to offer people renegotiated mortgages at an affordable cost and let the government suck up the $300 billion shortfall between the amount outstanding on these mortgages and what people can really afford. For someone who wants to cut govt spending that doesn't make the slightest bit of sense.

Bush is a lame-duck president and McCain is a lame-duck candidate with no fresh ideas or solutions. All he has left are attack ads and the Palin pitbull making up stories about 'that one's' alleged past associations.

[Dawn]

Maybe the reason Obama is winning is because he is offering to "fix" all of our problems with government.

In a world where personal responsibility is the exception rather than the norm, who doesn't want someone else to make everything all better.

The only problem with that is, he never really says HOW he's going to fix things. He doesn't tell you that even though he's only raising taxes on the "wealthy", his programs will cost more money than he's bringing in.

It all sounds very much like socialism to me. At least I can find comfort in the fact that 95% of will all be equally poor if Obama is elected.

[Steve HMB]

What I think you all forget is both Obama, and McCain are the bottom of the barrel. They were weeded out of a group of losers. They are the lowest bidders in a high stakes reality show.

Voters need to stop stroking themselves, and start telling these so called "candidates" what WE want from them. Demand it. Stand up for our nation not for bragging rights.

Wonder why the world looks down on us... Maybe because we have a Congress with a 17% approval rate... AND WE KEEP VOTING FOR THE SAME PEOPLE! Wake up.

Hello while I may not like Senator John McCain as a potential president, to bring up the fact that he has had cancer as a reason no not to vote for him is an insult to anyone that has had or have cancer or that knows someone with that situation.

[Jeff Davies]

A brilliant summation in the comment by Elizabeth Renant of how I am sure most of the world feels.
We are sick of the old men who send young people off to war, sick of old men who won't acknowledge the world is changing, sick of old men who won't reach out an open hand instead of a clenched fist to people or countries that are different to their own. I am nearly an old man myself but I still hold out hope. We may not be quite sure what we are getting with Obama but we sure know what we are getting with McCain.

[Mikey]

Money deciding who should be the next President? In the US?... Surely not? There will be a hell of a lot of favours to be handed out to these 'benefactors'.

[Rony]

All money in the Obama campaign is from small donors. He has ignited the fire in the young. He has put millions of Americans into engagement with the electorate. I myself being 33 years old and never donated any money in the past campaigns have donated more than 800 dollars this year. He touched my heart with not taking money from lobbyists. Thats the secret of Obama, he is fulfilling my vision of America, the vision of our forefathers..

PS: the more palin attacks him personally, the better he is on finances. Republicans have no clue whats coming this year

[dan]

WTF!?
Of course money plays a role, what the hell do you take me for?? But that always plays a role, how about the way mccain-palin have conducted their campaign and will do nothing but bring more of the same to DC!?

And Prudence,
i sincerely hope you were as outraged with winning by devious means the last two elections, i mean, you wouldn't want to seem that biased, do you know?

[Rony]

All money in the Obama campaign is from small donors. He has ignited the fire in the young. He has put millions of Americans into engagement with the electorate. I myself being 33 years old and never donated any money in the past campaigns have donated more than 800 dollars this year. He touched my heart with not taking money from lobbyists. Thats the secret of Obama, he is fulfilling my vision of America, the vision of our forefathers..

PS: the more palin attacks him personally, the better he is on finances. Republicans have no clue whats coming this year

[Rony]

All money in the Obama campaign is from small donors. He has ignited the fire in the young. He has put millions of Americans into engagement with the electorate. I myself being 33 years old and never donated any money in the past campaigns have donated more than 800 dollars this year. He touched my heart with not taking money from lobbyists. Thats the secret of Obama, he is fulfilling my vision of America, the vision of our forefathers..

PS: the more palin attacks him personally, the better he is on finances. Republicans have no clue whats coming this year

[David P Hall]

The money is only the tangible expression of a broad appeal Obama has. His intelligence has drawn like minded people to him, energized youth, and tapped into the general dissafection in America, and that is why he has the money. McCain thinks he can use marketing to get elected-that's why he picked Palin to bolster his image. This election, however, is about substance and Obama has it, has the means to communicate it, to inspire people, and they are putting their money where his mouth is. This is a generational change in politics-even the black leaders in America know their time with Martin Luther is now over. This ain't your grandfather's election.

[endalama gasha]

obama is indespensable men for the glob but not only us there for u ability chenge economic crise.

[Syed Khurram]

I think McCain is most better then Obama. MaCain is a experience aged personality and he knows how the financial and terrorism matter should resolve.

MaC. is vast National and International experience. I think he will resolve the financial and other problems of America's better then Obama.

[maz hess]

obamas campaign was called several times the best organized ever and you say it's just money! i think the secret word for you dear Finky should be ignorant.

[get informed properly...]

locomotivebreath1901:

Oversea contributions made to the Obama campaign is FAR LESS than what you're talking about: it's about 3.3 millions (excluding oversea donations inferior to 200$).

Get your facts checked before you speak up please.

More info. on:
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5h8DEzWz6rCzXtX4b6fBYSVsV9ADAD93M0K5G0

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-money9-2008oct09,0,1958210.story

McCain has the same kind of problem anyway. Read the links.

[Richard Milne]

Given the amount of American money the Republicans have lost or squandered, this seems fair enough!

[Erich]

the secret reason Obama is winning is the not so secret reason that Mc Cain is crap

[D.McGregor]

It is not about money.Republicans have traditionally relied on dirty tricks ex Lee Atwater to win at any cost, and they have nobody who is up to playing that dirty, not even Atwater's pupil Karl Rove.Then there is the Bush family. and the past 8 years..and Iraq Iran,Israel and Russia etc.....There are far more reasons than money here.
Having said that, if I was in USA I would vote for an Independent, as neither of these 2 is out of corporate pockets and nothing much will change whoever goes in .Obama simply offer a faint hope of change.

[dave]

The reason McCain is falling behind is this: have you noticed that when he debates he takes small steps to punctuate what he's saying? Each step not only looks like it'll be his last but he also looks like he's moving with aid of an invisible zimmer frame. He looks seriously DODDERY, I keep expecting a nurse to appear saying "Now Mr. McCain, you know you're not meant to be on your feet, let's get you back in your chair." Subconsciously voters are thinking "there's no way this guy's going to make it through one term let alone two, and that means the scary lady takes over." Just looks at the ravages of leadership on the faces of Thatcher & Blair - they both appeared to age double the amount of years they served, which would put McCain in his nineties if he miraculously made it to a second term (that would take vote-rigging on a Mugabe scale).

[Peter]

Be aware that a good deal of the Obama money is coming from the Middle East.

[Erich]

The problem with the USA system of democracy is that the skills the politicinas use to gain office have really very little to do with the skills they'll need to run the state. A game of chess would be a better measure of who is the best man.

[livingpower]

The time is near for the king to born- first of it kind. Mccain has lost most of his idea because of his age and what can he possibly give @72

[AngusH]

"The secret reason Obama is winning is the not so secret reason that Mc Cain is crap"

Oh my, how I laughed at that one!

Have you considered running for office Erich? You got my vote ;-)

Posted by: Erich | 9 Oct 2008 10:55:10

[Jo]

And, of course, Obama is better looking. Never underestimate the power of looks. We are all still primitive beings; we just don't like to admit it.

[AngusH]

As Peter mysteriously says
"Be aware that a good deal of the Obama money is coming from the Middle East."

How on earth do you know that?

On the other hand we do know that doddery McCains money comes from the religious zealots of the Middle West.

Obama may not be the 2nd coming, but he HAS to be a better choice than Loony Tunes McCain.

[AngusH]

As Peter mysteriously says
"Be aware that a good deal of the Obama money is coming from the Middle East."

How on earth do you know that?

On the other hand we do know that doddery McCains money comes from the religious zealots of the Middle West.

Obama may not be the 2nd coming, but he HAS to be a better choice than Loony Tunes McCain.

[Diogo]

McCain? HONEST?
Are you kidding me?
I'm surprised Obama isn't winning by a larger margin, but after watching GEORGE W BUSH get reelected, I believe anything can happen.
The keyword in this campain is really CHANGE.
McCain represents a follow-up to George Bush's legacy... and who wants THAT!?
Republicans are making money off war and oil while the US and the world suffer the consequences. I go mad thinking that people are dying, losing their jobs and getting underpaid so that the fat cats can have a few more millions. The gap between rich and poor is widening and we're slowly going back to the slavery days. I'm in my 20's and I have a grim prospect of the future. I'll be working 10h a day so I can try to support a family that I'll hardly get to see.
We're all just a bunch of slaves that have no life so that millionaires can become billionaires. Sounds like slavery to me.

[drfrank]

Money talks, but to sustain an advertising of this intensity, Obama needs a message that resonates. If it didn't resonate, the message wouldn't gain traction and the money would be wasted. Because his message is resonating, his money isn't wasted. In his case, the money is pouring in because he's saying what Americans need and want to hear... Romney outspent McCain in the Republican primaries, but fell flat.

[PF]

The problem as always with US politics is it comes down to who gets & spends the most money - whether raised here there or anywhere.
This is always unfair on candidates who simply don't have the backing to fund huge campaigns to get their voice heard more loudly than the other's.
I'm not sure of the best solution however one might be to set a limit on how much any candidate in either primaries or presidential elections is 'allowed' to spend by law - then it wouldn't matter if one or other happens to be backed by huge conglomerates or wealthy tycoons since at least such a cap would provide a chance for others. Admittedly they would still have to raise enough to gain sufficient national awareness but it's a start.

[JOHN CHUCKMAN, TORONTO]

Daniel, I don't know what you've done wrong, but you've got the Sarah Palin crowd commenting, the political fan club from hell.

Carl Garrett, how interesting to learn that the spirit of J. Edgar Hoover is still alive and well. Your words bristle with his withering spirit.

For her fan club:

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_NtgXlrcvXZA/SOzHoLybSKI/AAAAAAAAQFs/_xthSEX6Z5c/s1600-h/CHUCKMAN+-+PALIN+-+SIX+PACK+-+VERY+LIGHT.jpg

[John]

“McCain has vast National and International experience. I think he will resolve the financial and other problems of America's better then Obama.”

Are you talking about the McCain who admitted he knows nothing about economics? Is it the same McCain who said the fundamentals of the US economy were sound?

[Brian]

"The Republicans want to lose this election."

We dont want to lose in a sense because of what Nobama will do to this country(make it just like yours) but when his term is up, if he doesnt decide to make himself supreme dictator and lifetime ruler of Obamerica, people might have a whole different view of the conservative side running this country. BTW, Bush has been one of the greatest Presidents to run this country, the propaganda and misunderstanding of the people have made him "look" the way the perceive him now.

[WorriedCollegeStudent]

I am a college student with student loans. I don't care about name calling or middle names or personal attacks. I am concerned with which candidate is going to ensure the best pay back rate possible for me? I do I have to kept closing my checkig and savings account at failng banks who deserve to fail because of greed. I am I the only person with these concerns? People get so caught up on who raised what money and how. Who cares? Money is money... the root of all evil.. Right CHRISTIANS! Don't we believe that? Was this nation founded on those beliefs. Funny how we tend to stray away from GOD until it we are trying to prove a "pointless" point. So what does it matter where one has obtained his funds from or how much he does or doesn't have. WORRY ABOUT YOUR OWN MONEY AND HOW IT WILL BE SPENT AND ITS VALUE IN THE NEXT FOUR YEARS!

GOOD DAY! GO Back to work people.

[Desmond Taylor]

One reason Obama the Magnificent the Merciful is in front is because the Media is in the tank for him. Throw in the fact that McCain is running a pathetic operation, my dog could do better. There is not a great deal of difference between them. Obama is a Marxist and McCain is a Socialist. With Reid and Pelosi we need a miracle, whoever wins. The only chance is Governor Palin to drag McCain over the line. Remember liberals, Governor Palin has REAL executive experience. She signs Bills, signs cheques makes decisions etc. She governs, that is her job.Semators are a 'deliberative' body. Biden does not even know what the VP's job is constitionally. Obama did not know that the President does not have line item veto-twice. Declared unconstitutional. The Constitution is a mythical document that according to legend, tells us how to run the country. Also all the voter fraud by ACORN,is skewing the polls. This is an organistion where has Obama trained their operatives according to the rules of Saul Alinsky. Maybe this will clear the air, but it is impossible to change a ' vision '.

[Tommy Walker]

Doesnt matter who wins.
Hillary will save the day in 2012.
Obama is funded from outside the US and we are onto him.
US Citizens; read the constitution.
UK Citizens: read the US constitution and learn from it. You have no idea what the political system is in the US. It is (THANKFULLY) not a Social Democracy, but a FEDERAL REPUBLIC

[James]

Carl Garrett - I suggest you read "Dreams from my Father" - Obama's first memoir and written long before he became a Senator and aspiring President.

Most of what you're trying to smear Obama with is very easily explainable and not strange in the least. For example - he got a scholarship to Harvard. No need for a malevolent source of funds.
He went to work in Chicago because he was offered the job - he was working as an unpaid community organiser in NY at the time, so it was a step up!

The question then remains - WHY are you trying to smear Obama? If you think McCain is the better candidate, fine - tell us why. You can't, because his politics have been proven to be bankrupt by the last 8 years. Play the ball, not the man.

[Prudence Eely Bond McGuire]

When George W Bush was reelected I was astounded, but there you go. The American people spoke.
A couple of things in his favour are firstly he has managed to keep America free of terrorist attacks and he honoured the Dalai Lama out in the public gaze which is more than I can say for our 'unelected' Prime Minister who refused to met him at Downing Street in fear that he would upset the Chinese communist government.

[DebnUSA]

to: Carl Garrett
I only have one thing to say," Are you kidding"? Your source is
Wikipedia encyclopedia!!!! Mind boggling!

[isaaco]

obama inspires hope in a falling world, belief in oneself to attain any goal or vision one sets his sights on, resonates passion in a collapsed economy, his role as an organizer and not a divider of the have's and have not's, will bring masterminds together to solve the complex problems that has beset our generation. the complex problems we currently face cannot be resolved at the same level we were when it was created (Einstein). Mccain is part of the problem that is why the American populace consider it wise to go beyond him to elect someone who will bring all the best minds together to resolve, that has nothing to do with campaign funds or middle east money, and what a better world we will have if the middle east and the rest of the world can be one, our world has never seen peace, please lets give it a chance by not voting George Mccain.

[Ricky]

I have a friend who is at Harvard.

His Harvard professor said that there is no correlation between the amount of money spent and who wins the election.

He says purchasing power does not decide elections. Obama is spending 3:1 vs. McCain yet he is marginally ahead in 7 of the critical key swing states.

[L. Lamb]

Beth Yost wrote: "So because McCain is boring it's okay to have a president that 1. we really don't know where he was born and may not even be a U.S. citizen." GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT. Senator Obama is an American citizen and stop believing rumors, lies and half truths. Not every inch of text on the Internet is true including text from newsapapers. However, this bipartisan site will help educate you about his citizenship.
http://www.factcheck.org/elections-2008/born_in_the_usa.html

[Iakobos Karakizas-Greece]

Actually, as many have posted and Joe Klein has written in Time Republicans do not want to win the elections. Thery have messed up things so much that they want the others to clear the mess.Therefore they picked a geriatric candidate team up with an insane VP.In europe McCain wouldn't be elected even in a village with population 500

[Daphne Kenward]

Obama is the modern man to lead, he is technologically abled, he is intune with the modern world. He can understand what globalwarming means to the planet. He understand what is wrong with the economy. And he knows where the country needs to go. It's time the young have a voice, the old has been dragging us all into the grave yard. The young is having their future mortgaged by a bunch of oldtimers. They got their college education and now thinks education should die with them.

Every one is entitled to a future. And have something to lookford to. Instead of debts that these old fools racked up. America has caused Iceland to be Bankrupt. And may well Bankrupt the British economy. My Answer to McCain no way no day.
Our house prices is falling as well, our pension is vanishing too.
McCain is someone no one in their right mind can afford, and as for that Palin woman it's too much to expect the rest of the world to swallow.

[Kathryn]

I have read enough of these to go cross eyed. Just like the bailout...the President is a face piece and if anyone knows anything about how the government really works they will remember that word called "VETO", As for the President.... what power does he truly have without congress and they are democrats and republicans! Blame yourself for voting all these luneys into office!

[EJ]

We forget that Obama's money has come from the PEOPLE. I know people may find it hard to believe, but he has a lot of support from the the grassroots level and up. People who want change, donate money to their cause.

[Jonathan da Silva]

Look people from abroad think that Obama will be less inclined to invade their and other countries. That is why we prefer him, yes we do.

This is fallacious of course as the only real power he has is who he invades and federal crimes. So my betting is a supposed humanitarian invasion of Cuba or Venezuela.

All presidents invade somewhere and yes sometimes their intervention is not that bad (arguably the Balkens).

The real thing I think will come of an Obama win is that we can cut through some of this race and victimhood stuff that leftist politicians trot out to patronise poor people. The rest will be business as usual and one hope better govt of the economy.

The reason Barack Obama is raising more money is he looks like he will win and have the levers of patronage. Thus he will pay back his backers through other means - see Cheney and co and Iraq or making credit card debt exempt from bankruptcy ala Bush and MBNA. He is now the first choice of US Capital.

[LFforMcCain]

Obama doesn't have more money becuase more people love him! He accepted federal funds for the campaign and McCain did not! McCain has fought for Campaign reform & he's right but unfortunately, he's getting less cash because of it! Good Lord! The republcns are trying to throw as much money as they legally can at McCain and his campaign to save the country & the liberals from themselves....but unlike Obama & ACORN, McCain does things legally and it's not easy to win against the Chicago Political Machine!

[JAMES]

I prefer to vote for the man, not the party. Obama came out of nowhere. I am one who prefers to save rather than spend. Obama is spending a truckload of cash just to get elected. I personally don't care for either of the candidates. But I have to go with the less of the two evils. McCain has more experience than Obama. In the real world, experience speaks volumes. But what really matters most to me is if the candidate does what they say they will do. The answer to that is obvious. "They will only be able to do what Congress allows them to do." I don't support the Republican Party; But I do Support McCain- Palin. I'm not against Obama Due to his race; but due to his inexperience.

[LUCY MIDDLETON]

Well of course he is winning because he changes his mind on issues every week. It is easy to be liked if you flip flop with the popular opinion. Obama would be a terrible leader. I could see him changing his mind continuously. He wants socialized medicine and to increase taxes on the wealthy. This wealthy class includes small businesses which will increase consumer prices. The economy is a cyclical thing. It is failing now, just as it does every 10 or so years. If you take a look at our economy during Bush's term you will see that there was a peak 2 to 3 years age. It was two years ago that the Democrats took control of Congress. This was the same time that the economy began moving down hill. It has taken this course because the Democratic dominant Congress repeatedly legislation allowing low income families to afford homes that were too expensive for them.
Let me sum everything up for you. If you want America to change and increase the role of the government vote Obama. But do not be angry when you are no longer free because you voted for his socialist policies. I will instead blame you for ruining America as our forefathers designed it.

[john]

The RNC is a party of lies and innuendo.This is the 21st century not the 16th century.Obama will win with a landslide!

[Adsark]

He has more money because of people like me. I have for the first time in my life donated to a campaign. This will be my 6th presidential election to vote in.

[Bill M]

Can someone explain what accomplishments and experience qualify Barack Obama to be President of the United States ?

[James]

Obama is winning because he is the most intelligent, thoughtful and visionary presidential candidate we've had in the US for a long, long time. McCain, on the other hand, has been erratic and part of that was selecting Sarah Palin (www.palinomaly.com) as his running mate.

[Saved Girl]

The source of Obama's funding has not been explained. It likely comes from muslim terrorists and moolahs who see a chance to install a sleeper terrorist cell at the heart of the American government.

[SP Phil]

Why is Obama's campaign so successful in raising money?

My answer: Every time I think of a McCain/Palin administration, I go online and make another donation to Obama's campaign. Today I reached $1000 total.

[SP Phil]

Why is Obama's campaign so successful in raising money?

My answer: Every time I think of a McCain/Palin administration, I go online and make another donation to Obama's campaign. Today I reached $1000 total.

[Angus Hammond]

The two of them are of course crap.

McCain is the crappier of the two, mainly for being a war-mongering lunatic.
Vote Obama, even though he is crap, he may not launch WW3.

[Jono]

Can this newspaper please investigate and report objectively and responsibly on the points made by Carl Garrett 8 Oct 2008 20:52:00. People need to know if there is or is not truth in this sort of thing. Thankyou.

[ng]

This empire shall disapear

[Zonke of Zimbabwe]

Actually vote Obama just for change sake, I think the world wants to maintain the "status quo" , the world needs a new dawn, Hack let the young kenyan make mistake but goddammitt give the fella a go!!

p.s. help us Zimbaz get rid of Migabe while you are at it, the old fella is killing everyone regardless of race, colour or creed!!

[Kevin]

It's not really a "secret reason why Obama's winning", you saw it in the Washington post.

[F PIEKARCZYK]

MARIE MILLER

You're kind of scary.

[Jas]

I watched the last debate with other pepole One a lawyer, two accountants, city trader, IT executive and the writer. All agreed that Obama was short on detail and facts often contradicting himself. Obama copied Mccain on many occasions. It was so glaringly obvious and was so regular that we all were amazed he was a candidate at all. All we can think is we are not as emotionally involved and not overwhelmed by huge glitsy advertising. McCain was clearly the Master of detail and facts with proven character while Obama very much the student actor who can read a learn a script.

[Lynda]

I don't agree that it's just all of the ads he's running. I think it's because he knows what the hell he's talking about and the American people are ready for someone like that.

[len]

People might be finally wise to corruption.
Look at Obama's opposition, corrupt mudslingers who are showing thier true colours, and they aren't yet in power. Who would want them to lead your country?
Go Barack and good luck

[j.k. Hoban]

re posting of Carl Garrett: The reason that the press hasn't found out about your "revelations" is that they are completely unfounded and completely untrue. This is the kind of internet misinformation that the republicans and other lovers of the status quo (Arms merchants...oil brokers...organized crime...and God knows who else) have been very cleverly and very discreetly placing on the internet for their poisonous purposes. You are right--beware of the enemy within.....but it's not Obama, it is those who are making a lot of money in the world and don't want anything changed. It's too late....look at the financial markets...the world is changing faster than you think.

[peter aardvark]

all those commments about Obamas plan sounds like 'socialism to me' make me laugh.. Where have you been the past few weeks. The most conservative republican president has become a communist. Comrade Bush nationalized AIG and socialized the losses that all those masters of the universe in Wall Street created - when Wall Street got caught up in pyramid scheme of its own devising.

who created it? Clinton? how about Mcains own trusted economic advisor Phil Gramm who inexplicably dropped out of Mcains Campaign after he called Americans a 'nation of whiners', authored the 1999 repeal of the Glass Steagal act of 1933 leading to further deregulation of the financial industry.. also Gramm slipped into the 2000 budget the Commodity Futures Modernization Act
which de-regulated something called credit default swaps - ring a bell?

all this talk about socialism, John Kenneth Galbraith was right when he said the only form of socialism that is respected in America is socialism for the rich.

[Russell]

Why are McCain supporters so angry and bitter? But especially why do they support a tired, desperate and dishonest old man who shouts hollowly about 'experience' before choosing the most inexperienced running mate in history? Sure, Obama may not be perfect, but he's far safer and has better leadership qualities than John W. McCain.

[Gavin (London)]

The real reason that Obama is winning is because, in a time of crisis, he is the only candidate giving the American people the one thing they truly need:

LEADERSHIP

I truly believe he will change the face of American politics and bring back good old fashioned common sense. The political lobbyists will be running scared, lets hope they don't manage to influence his administration.

[Gene]

Let's face it. The reason Barrack Obama has more money is that wall street has no faith in the neo conservative platform anymore. GE and other corporate giants believe Obama (the Democratic Platform) will deliver global hegemony back to America. Just look at who the top donators are. The very same corporations give money to both sides. This time it is the Obama campaign who is getting the lions share.

[PK Scott]

I like Obama and hope that he will help our country's image in a world that is tired of being treated with distain by "my way or the highway" GW.
I used to think McCain was a man of principals and honor. No more. His choice of Palin for VP was totally cynical. He's as old as my dearly departed Dad would be and this moose shooting beausty queen has a 25% chance of being our President. I'm sorry, but she is GW in drag. A state governer with little executive experience and no foreign policy experience. We are living in a perilous time, and now we have the financial world blowing up. She is NOT ready to be president. How can they say with a straight face that Obama lacks experience but she is ready to serve?
The crypto fascist and racist garbage that she is spewing out is inflamatory and playing to the lowest possible denominator.
It's not working because, gee, the racists weren't going to vote for Obama anyway and it makes any real independant (like myself) want to puke.
McCain has lost any hope of my vote and all my respect.

[Dakota]

There are two other reasons why Senator Obama might be ahead in most polls.

Senator Obama and Senator Biden have much better records of support for veterans issues than Senator McCain.

This site grades all members of the U.S. Congress in such matters.
http://www.veteranreportcard.org/reportcard.pdf

Turns out that McCain gets a grade of D, and Obama & Biden each get a grade of B.

The second issue is Senator McCain is a SNARF. That is a person who is so short; when he farts, he blows sand into his shoes.

For whatever reason, with rare exceptions, short candidates have not done well in election to anything in the U.S.

[expatincanada]

"Peter" should be aware that Dubya's support came also from the Middle East, not necessarily in cash, but in family business connections. Why else was the only plane flying on 9/11 a special flight to get Saudis out of the country?

[patty]

Obama is winning because he is an outstanding candidate, and because Americans are finally seeing the results of too many years of failed Republican policies. I have never given money to a presidential campaign before, but I've given several times to Obama. So have my mother, my friends, my co-workers. And we are all AMERICANS. People are getting involved who have never been involved before. Maybe it makes some Republicans feel better -- it feeds their xenophobia -- to say the money is coming from overseas, but I can tell you from personal experience I have never see as much enthusiasm for a candidate as I am seeing for Barack Obama.