The Hill’s Blog Briefing Room » ‘Joe the Plumber’ Mulling Run for Congress

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October 24, 2008

'Joe the Plumber' Mulling Run for Congress

@ 1:29 pm by Hill Staff

Joe Wurzelbacher, a.k.a. "Joe the Plumber," said Friday he may consider running for Congress in 2010, challenging longtime Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D) in the Toledo-area district.

"I'll tell you what, we'd definitely be in one heck of a fight," Wurzelbacher said during an appearance on the Laura Ingraham show Friday, "but, you know, I'd be up for it."

"There is a movement afoot to draft you to run for Congress," Ingraham said. "Joe, let me tell you something: you decide to run for Congress, and I'll help you with your PR, I'll help you do your ads, I mean, I'll volunteer to help you."

Ingraham's producer, Brad Feldman, said that during the break after the segment, Wurzelbacher told Ingraham that his statements today represent the first time he has acknowledged considering a bid for Congress in public.

Wurzelbacher said he did agree with Kaptur's vote against the bailout, and touted his support for a flat tax on income.

A Springfield, Ohio native, Wurzelbacher became a target of fame and scrutiny after Republican candidate John Mccain referenced the plumber during his third presidential debate against Barack Obama. Wurzelbacher confronted Obama during a campaign spot in northwest Ohio preceding the debate to ask Obama about his tax plan.

Supporters launched a website following Wurzelbacher's rise to prominence encouraging him to run for the seat.

Kaptur has represented Ohio's 9th congressional district since being elected in 1982, and has easily secured reelection in years since. She is expected to easily defeat Republican opponent Bradley Leavitt next month.

Listen to a clip of Wurzelbacher's appearance in which he discusses a potential bid below.

-Michael O'Brien

Archived under: Campaigns, Congressional Campaigns, News

497 Comments »

The Hill welcomes comment from anyone and will almost always post it whether it is favorable or critical, as long as it is substantive and advances debate.

Oh, please do you tax cheat you.

Comment by Noonan — October 24, 2008 @ 1:37 pm
He is such a moron he probably thinks he can run this year. Please do run so we can whup you.

Comment by Yes Please — October 24, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
Go Joe!

We'd be better off with 500+ "Joe's" in Congress rather than all the lawyers who are there for self-interest only.

Comment by ster — October 24, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
I love how Republicans berate us as "stupid," and yet your prized potential heroes are intellectual light weights like Palin and Joe the Idiot.

Comment by Evan — October 24, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
Wow, what constructive criticism 'Noonan'.

The tax lien isn't that big of a deal, if you read about it. The tax clerk said that it's 95% likely that he didn't know anything about it.

Dave

Comment by Dave in Texas — October 24, 2008 @ 1:51 pm
Oh really? It's that easy. Maybe we should give you a law degree and let you represent clients. Or maybe a medical degree and let you operate. This is all about the cynicism of government as if to say "this is so easy anyone can do it." It is the Sarah Palin effect of anti-intellectualism. Try it Joe, see how far you can get. We will all have a good laugh.

Comment by Nahman Umani — October 24, 2008 @ 1:51 pm
God, you people are even hateful when YOU'RE WINNING! I laugh at you. I laugh so, so, so hard.

Tax cheat indeed. The guy missed a payment. If you want to see a "tax cheat", you should look at Rangel and Wexler. Wexler claimed his mother-in-law's Florida residence as his home (not even in his district) so that he could avoid Maryland state taxes. And Joe the Plumber is a tax cheat, right.

Comment by HuckyDucky — October 24, 2008 @ 1:51 pm
Ironically, if he goes into government he would open himself up to the possibility of ACTUALLY making over $250,000 a year.

Comment by Matt Duffy — October 24, 2008 @ 1:52 pm
Good! Run!. I would vote for you or anyone in my voting geographical area. Local/State/Federal. Throw this bunch of never ending, self-grandiozing, idiots out. What have they done for anybody but themselves? Nothing. Vote yes on Term limits and vote against any of these life long grandstanders. Go Joe! Take the Power Back People! Vote for Yourself, Your Son or Daughter, Your Brotehr or Sister, Your Mother, Father or Neighbor. We the people need to get back involved. Hands on. Kepp term limits in place, no life pensions or free medical care pass your term. We could finally get some stuff done. (just look at all the important stuff that the candidates arent even talking about) Excuse me but there is more than the economy that is broken in the U.S.of A.

Get out and Vote! (For anybody who hasnt been in office)

Comment by Sari — October 24, 2008 @ 1:53 pm
What is happening to American politics? Is it turning into American Idol - all theater and no substance? This populist nonsense will run our country into the ground as "Joe the Plumber" handles our foreign policy and Social Security problems (not to mention the economy). Joe the Plumber is not new, he was elected in 2000 and his name was George W. Bush common guy. This is absolute nonsense. Vote Joe the Plumber - Prime Minister of Bulgaria. Republicans have turned into bitter carnies. It's sad to see them like this.

Comment by Dan Thompson — October 24, 2008 @ 1:53 pm
Hey, Joe would make a great congressman. He's really qualified–an uneducated, tax evader.

Joe is a candidate all Republicans can really get behind!!

Comment by Alan — October 24, 2008 @ 1:54 pm
Great Dave, that's the kind of person we want in Congress…somebody who doesn't even know there's a tax lien on his house. Somebody who says he's about to by a $275K business when he's not. Somebody who made $40K last year who thinks his taxes will go up under Obama. Somebody who wants to be left alone but who goes on every radio show and talk show. He's PERFECT!

Comment by Bill in NJ — October 24, 2008 @ 1:55 pm
Why not, If Cindy Sheehan can do it, why not Joe the Plumber. Goooooooooooo Joe!

Comment by Mark — October 24, 2008 @ 1:55 pm
Very soon Barack Obama will be your new President. This is a reality you cannot alter or escape from. It is fact. It is history. It is justice for the world.

Many of you have seen the light and have accepted the truth. And we thank you for your support and aid in electing Barack Obama.

To those who have rejected the truth you have no reason to fear Barack Obama. He is wise and just and he will follow the principals followed by his African forefathers. Barack Obama is the son of Kings and Queens who started human civilization thousands of years ago. Barack Obama remembers his heritage and his obligations to the Truth, Justice and the Future.

Barack Obama understands what is wrong and what needs to be done. Barack Obama has intelligence and vision that has lasted for over a millennium. Barack Obama was born with the appropriate ways of thinking, speaking, and acting and this will inspire you to be liberated for now there is no shackle which can keep you enslaved.

An African Proverb tell us: �Then command the servant, thusly: Make an Elder's staff causing my son to stand in my place I will instruct him through the speech of the listeners and the counsels of the first of the ancients who listened to the divinities. In so doing troubles will be removed from the people.�

Barck Obama is here now to listen, to instruct and will lead you to your new life.

America will have a new start. A change to right itself. A change to correct its wrongs and address its sins. If you support change that will bring forth social and economic justice, you will stand with Barack Obama. Those who have been denied justice in America will get justice. Those will have been denied opportunity will be given opportunity. Those will falsely imprisoned will be freed. Those who are guilty will be punished. America�s salvation is at hand.

Those who have profited in America will play a role helping others. Justice requires equality and fairness and those who have the means will now be fair and will contribute to equality.

Stand with Barack Obama and you will be honored you for your work, sacrifice, dedication and devotion on behalf of all oppressed peoples.

Stand with Barack Obama and you will be honored and celebrated and remembered in song and praise and by your children.

http://truthfirstnow.blogspot.com

Comment by Truth First — October 24, 2008 @ 2:00 pm
Go for it Joe! About time someone knocked that entrenched pol. out.

If it's not too late to run this year… go for it.

Comment by Sue — October 24, 2008 @ 2:01 pm
It just shows what an 'American Idol' society we are.

Comment by Jerry — October 24, 2008 @ 2:01 pm
The guy is so obviously a McCain plant, folks.

As a former Republican, it is deeply disturbing to see the far right take an even stronger hold (a choke hold almost) over the GOP…

Keep it up… and keep letting that Sarah Palin get away with what you're letting her get away with… and the GOP will soon stand for absolutely nothing.

President Reagan must be spinning!!

Comment by MT — October 24, 2008 @ 2:04 pm
Great, run perhaps you will do better than Cindy, the republican who thought she could best Bush by continually harassing him.

Comment by linda in nm — October 24, 2008 @ 2:05 pm
Just what we need, another lying tax evader in congress.

Comment by Nick — October 24, 2008 @ 2:06 pm
uhhhmmmm…does the public demand ANY qualifications for office anymore? It is simply baffling that anyone can be a viable choice by repeating how absolutely ignorant they are of how things work in Washington. THIS ISN'T AMERICAN IDOL YOU FREAKING AMATEURS.

Comment by Alger — October 24, 2008 @ 2:07 pm
Why Not? if a moron like B. Husseine Obama can run why not Joe? Joe finally got the truth out of Obama.. not easy to do. We all now have heard from his own mouth that Obama is a Communist.

Comment by Edward — October 24, 2008 @ 2:07 pm
This is what we really need.
A congress of normal people.
Boot out the likes of Pelosi, Reed, Frank, Dodd

Comment by princess — October 24, 2008 @ 2:08 pm
…"America will have a new start. A change to right itself. A change to correct its wrongs and address its sins. If you support change that will bring forth social and economic justice, you will stand with Barack Obama. Those who have been denied justice in America will get justice. Those will have been denied opportunity will be given opportunity. Those will falsely imprisoned will be freed. Those who are guilty will be punished. America�s salvation is at hand." - obama website

This is the kind of cr*p that worries me the most. And makes me sick at heart. The first line alone, makes me cringe.

America does not need a new start. Our country is not perfect, and many have died, and are dying on the way to get here!!!!!!

Comment by Sue — October 24, 2008 @ 2:08 pm
I'M FOR JOE…YOU'RE A REAL AMERICAN ….MOST OF US ARE IN THE SAME 'BOAT' YOU ARE
DON'T LET ANYBODY STOP YOU …AND HELP KEEP SARAH GOING….

SARAH FOR PRES. AND JOE FOR VICE PRES…..
WINNING TEAM…..

Comment by MY WORLD — October 24, 2008 @ 2:09 pm
"Truth First" sounds like something out of Hitler's Youth Handbook or the Little Red Book of Chairman Mao. What drivel.

Comment by Edward — October 24, 2008 @ 2:09 pm
Remember people (We the People) Checks and Balances are a good thing. Personally I am more worried about a Super 3 Sweep house,Senate, Big House). Anytime that happens, its usually not a good thing. And isn't it funny, it hasn't happened in 30 years since Carter Admin..but boy! is the media being Vary! Vary! Quiet on this HUHHHHHHHHHHHHH! (wink wink)

(whispers) wouldnt want to inform / remind the masses - have them think..aka democracy & maybe get "their" candidate chosen…..

Comment by Sari — October 24, 2008 @ 2:10 pm
THIS ISN'T AMERICAN IDOL YOU FREAKING AMATEURS.

Comment by Alger � October 24, 2008 @ 2:07 pm

YEAH, THAT'S WHY I DON'T UNDERSTAND WHY OBAMA MADE IT PAST THE PRIMARIES…. OR WHY HE'S EVEN A CONTENDER.

Comment by Sue — October 24, 2008 @ 2:11 pm
Oh, the anger of the Left! The name calling: tax cheat, idiot, uneducated, tax evader, etc.

Joe asked a very common sense question and Obama told us what he's really about- "spreading the wealth around." That really hurts the Left because that is NOT what America is all about.
Joe the plumber is going to help cost Obama the election, make no doubt about that.

AND, if the Left is really all that concerned about ethics in Government, exactly where is your anger at Congressman Jefferson William Jefferson and his $100 K in his ice box; Congressman Tim Mahoney in Florida (who replaced the infamous Mark Foley) and his payoffs to keep a girlfriend quiet; and on this blog the aforementioned Rangel and Wexler?

Sad, sad. Call Joe all the names you want.

Comment by Kevin Buckley — October 24, 2008 @ 2:11 pm
For God's sake, Joe, please run for Congress! I am heartily sick of these elite career politicans trying to control my world and my money. I support you!!

Comment by Dgleon — October 24, 2008 @ 2:11 pm
Wow I really wasn't to scared if Obama won until i read what Truth First wrote. Now I am scared.
I make less than 250k a year much less but what Obama plans will directly affect my paycheck. See i work for a profit sharing company. Obama taxes that company it makes less money and i get less bonuses. You tell me how hes not going to tax the middle class.

Comment by Jdfolkerts — October 24, 2008 @ 2:12 pm
I am personally dreading the thought of Oblama-lama-dingdong in the WH with that noob Obiden

Comment by fantastic farce — October 24, 2008 @ 2:12 pm
As Obama-Reid-Pelosi edge closer to a trifecta, world stock markets are expected to tank again today!

I am just completely in utter disbelief that this trio will be in charge.

I can't stand the though of Michelle Oblahblah.

Comment by depressed conservative — October 24, 2008 @ 2:14 pm
These people don't even know what he stands for and they are already tearing him apart. Think for yourself, don't let a party tell you how to think. You should be happy that people are willing to take the dive, and run, instead of constatnly tearing people down.

Comment by Fred — October 24, 2008 @ 2:15 pm
Truth First,

I just checked out your website. You are a racist. Thank you for helping me make up my mind. McCain in 2008.

Comment by JB — October 24, 2008 @ 2:16 pm
hey if that ridiculous al franken can run for senate, why not Joe W???

hmmmmm?
My dog is smarter than Al Franken

Comment by depressed conservative — October 24, 2008 @ 2:18 pm
Truth First (#14): What you wrote is just creepy. You Obombya zealots are scary.

Comment by Pol Pot — October 24, 2008 @ 2:22 pm
It's depressing to see how intolerant and hateful the Democrat base has become. If someone doesn't share their view they're "morons, idiots, a nazi, etc." Very sad you self righteous, ignorant buffoons. The party of tolerance??? Yeah, and the Obamesia was born of a virgin. Don't interupt the lib Dem irrational emotional argument with debate and facts, just yell and use vile names. Very sad indeed.

Comment by ken — October 24, 2008 @ 2:22 pm
Joe Wurzelbacher, a.k.a. "Joe the Plumber," would be an improvement over the tax-and-spend San Francisco values Liberals who have driven this country into a recession and whose Socialist standard bearers want to drive us even deeper. The "tax cheaters" like Charlie Rangle (no need to list them all) in Congress believe the law only applies to the people they rule like an aristocracy. There is a difference between not realizing that a state income tax from a state you departed was owed and making efforts to repay that tax once notified by the IRS or the state department of revenue and LYING on one's income tax returns for years as Mr. Rangle and several other Liberal Democrats have been discovered to have done, not voluntarily admiting an error but being caught as tax evaders.

Many people have been driven into bankruptcy by catastrophic health or economic misfortunes, and with the new ceiling of $250,000 to be established on the American Dream by Obama, that number may increase as businesses simply lay off workers or close down rather than facing the prospect of working harder so the government can take more of their earnings.

Obama thinks it is within his and the government's authority to take wealth and property from those who have created and acquired it and give to those who have not. He believes redistribution of wealth for social engineering is a good idea, even though it violates every principle on which our founders stood when they broke from England to escape an all powerful tyranny. We have fought wars to protect our way of life from tyrants, and now Barack Obama wants us to vote in just such tyranny. Karl Marx described Obama's "share the wealth" philosophy more succinctly:

"From each according to his means; to each according to his needs."

That's "change we can really believe in" if Obama and the Liberal Democrats control all branches of government.

Comment by opaobie — October 24, 2008 @ 2:22 pm
Truth First - Could you be anymore racist? Your website is full of hate. It Obama does loss are you going to declare war? Is the African Union going to Attack America? Why don't you vote on what the canidates stand for, instead of voting for Obama because he is black. Oh and by the way his bloodline is 8% African American 16% white and the rest is 76 Arab. I will vote against him because I do not agree with his vision and his morales. I came to this conclusion by his voting record. There is no B.S. in that - it is what it is.

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 2:24 pm
You have got to be kidding me about the stuff and Africa…Is there just one country in Africa that isn't killing someone or has a GDP above South Dakota? Obiden is the son of Kings? Moron…If he gets elected,,by hook or by crook,,all people paying taxes will pay more…those that don't pay taxes will get more…Healthcare will be devastated…Gas prices will go up…Cats and dogs will be living together…The only good side of this story is that if we survive 4 years of Obiden, the country will throw the bums out and vote in conservatives who hopefully,,this time,,,don't screw it up…

Comment by Greg Williams — October 24, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Hey…all you democrats out there saying your usual, typical stuff about Joe the Plumber not running for Congress….I thought you all wanted "change". Hummm, it must be an Obama thing.

As far as your criticisms of Sarah Palin gos, would you like me to list all the gaffs that Joe Biden has made in the past few weeks? Ha. Biden is Dan Quayle's revenge.

Comment by Andy — October 24, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
Before this tax dodger runs for office, he should first pay back all his taxes with a penalty. Also, how honorable is he to mislead about his income and employment status. His campaign theme should be Joe the tax dodger.

Comment by Raul the Puppett — October 24, 2008 @ 2:26 pm
So a guy who is plumber without a plumbers license is qualified to run for congress? Really? I mean…really?

Comment by nbuc — October 24, 2008 @ 2:27 pm
Much like every other Republican, he's been proven a liar and a cheat.

On top of that, the 'Joe The Plumber' phenomenon won't have the same impact 2-years down the road when he will be directly tied to John McCain's miserable campaign.

You have to love how conservatives are ready to draft 'Joe' for congress even though they have no idea if they guy is qualified to handle such a job. That's exactly how we got stuck with 8-years of Bush.

Comment by KISSman — October 24, 2008 @ 2:28 pm
Of course the GOP will pick him up and support him in his candidacy. They love putting lying, tax-evading, unqualified, crooked people into powerful government positions.

Comment by Rob — October 24, 2008 @ 2:28 pm
Yahhhh Mike O'B. ! Get it boy!

Comment by Rachel — October 24, 2008 @ 2:28 pm
Anyone who believes that the Dems won't raise taxes are nuts. They have always raised taxes, heck, all of them will raise taxes…oh, and you mental midgets out there….the President has nothing to do with raising or lowering taxes…the legislative branch does that….he can direct policy, but not enact it. Morons

Comment by Achon — October 24, 2008 @ 2:29 pm
I am 66 years old, educated (Ph.D. and Ed.D.), WHITE, can trace my ancestry back to the Mayflower . . . and I am leaning towards voting for Obama (partly because McCain chose the idiot Palin as a running mate).

But I can tell YOU, Mr. "TRUTH FIRST", Obama does NOT need mouthpieces like you.

DocChuck
http://profile.myspace.com/docchuck

Comment by DocChuck — October 24, 2008 @ 2:29 pm
Oh, you have GOT to be kidding me. Give me a break. I'm going to re-rent "Idiocracy" this weekend to remind myself of how this is all going to play out.

Comment by Lex — October 24, 2008 @ 2:30 pm
I would vote for Jimmy, the retarded kid that shoves raisins in his nose, to replace the current crop of do nothings in congress. At least if Jimmy became a congressman, we could shrug and say "that's our Jimmy!" and it would sort of make sense at least.

Go Joe! (followed by the theme from the old G.I. Joe cartoon).

Comment by Victor Heck — October 24, 2008 @ 2:31 pm
It is nice to see that the party of tolerance (Democrats) is up to its old tricks again calling people names. I have a few things for you
1) Don't throw stones if you live in glass houses. (i.e. one of your most well known party members (Rangel) is up for tax evasion.) You should not be picking on Joe W for his personal life just because he asks a question. Try NOT to muzzle free speech. (First Ammendment look it up.)
2) BO has yet to prove that he is even eligible to run for office. So even if he gets elected he may be thrown out immediately because he fraudulently purported that he is eligible to run. (i.e. born in the USA to an American citizen)
3) The tax cuts WILL STIFLE our recovery. They are the worst combination of Jimmy Carter and Herbert Hoover. BO's economic plan will set this country back for decades so be careful what you wish for. I know that I personally will not be wearing a brown shirt like the Obama youth in military fatigues.
4) Guess what BO flat out lied when he said that 98% of small businesses make less than $250,000. When you take into account all of the payrolls and benefits asmall business that employs ANYONE has to make more than $300,000-$400,000 minimum. LET'S HERE IT FOR JOB GROWTH NOW!!!
5) It is no secret that they are planning to tax all of us into oblivian. It is actually discussed in open forum.
6) Stop picking on Sarah Palin. She is probably more intelligent than most of the people out there. You may not agree with her, but that is no reason to speak about her intellectual faculties. It just shows the world how dumb you actually are, and she would probably wax the floor with you in a battle of wits.
And finally, for all of you useful idiots out there that are voting for BO out of white guilt then my apologies you obviously will never understand. For all of the other non-kool aid drinking, non-blindly serving democrats and independants I urge you to do the research and look for yourself. I am sure that you may come to the same conclusion that I did.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 2:33 pm
#14 would be beyond hilarious if the poster weren't serious. Which makes it unbelievably scary.

Comment by Paula — October 24, 2008 @ 2:34 pm
It's funny with this guy. He calls Obama's tax plan socialism, but he takes a radio station's charity to pay his overdue taxes. Guess he's that much closer to buying the business now. Run Joe Run.

Comment by JRinPA — October 24, 2008 @ 2:35 pm
I heard a brief phone interview with Joe the other day on Greta (yuck) and I have to say, he sounds like an idiot. He was going off on some tangent about immigration that really made no sense. I like that his comments made people take a second look at Obama's unrealistic promises but this guy for Congress? No way. Obama and McCain are both going to spend spend spend. neither will bring this country in line with its true values of personal freedom, personal responsibility and a humble foreign policy. Both will bring bigger government infringing on our personal freedoms for the sake of security. Do not vote for either of these buffoons. Vote local and forget about the president…no matter who wins the presidential election, the American people lose.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 2:37 pm
Joe doesn't bother me one way or the other. He's human…thinks his moment in the spot light may position him for greater things. Let him run. Only the people can decide…

The one thing I read in this column that DOES bother me, is a comment from Truth First. It's not Barrack that we fear, it's people that sound like you! Barrack's not a God for Heaven's sake! He's a man with very little experience and a very huge ego! So many people are looking to him as the new "Messiah"…it's pretty freaky. What happened to God? Seems like a good bit of our society has turned into athiest and yet this guy you hold on some pedestal…strange what the world's come to.

Comment by Amazed — October 24, 2008 @ 2:37 pm
The entertainment value of the Obama operatives trying to stonewall Philip Berg's lawsuits on Barry Soetoro's aka Obama's true pedigree before the election is priceless!! Unfortunate that when this "October Suprise" is revealed, that those same operatives are trying to place our country into a constitutional crisis with an unqualified, by birth place, candidate.

Comment by kas — October 24, 2008 @ 2:40 pm
we the people for the people
let me remind everyone all our founding fathers were not educated baffoons
some actually got something done
the difference between a smart leader and an effective leader
honestly would anyone really have wanted
a einstein as pres .
EFFECTIVE LEADER MY FRIENDS

Comment by jefferson values — October 24, 2008 @ 2:40 pm
Step aside Joe the Plumber, here comes Jake the Janitor and I will demolish you in 2010. You know you won't make it through the part of the competition where you have to write your own speech and your opinions won't play well with the token English judge either.

Comment by Jake The Janitor — October 24, 2008 @ 2:41 pm
15 mintues of fame, by 2010 he will be long forgotten. It's sad John Mccain is basing his campaign around this guy, just goes to show you he has no plan & will jump on anything he can talk about.

Comment by Hwc — October 24, 2008 @ 2:41 pm
LETS SEE NOW…TALK ABOUT HONESTY??HES NOT A LICENSED PLUMBER,NOT CURRENT ON HIS TAXES AND YET YOU PEOPLE ARE WILLING TO SUPPORT HIM???
SUPREME IDIOTS THE LOT OF YOU!!

Comment by JOE BLOW — October 24, 2008 @ 2:41 pm
Hey Truth First
BHO comes from people who sold their own into slavery. And that is exactly what he will do to us. We'll be slaves to the almighty state.

Comment by Pam — October 24, 2008 @ 2:41 pm
If you're an avid DRUDGE reader, you should try out blipnews.

http://www.blipnews.com

It's a tool that allows you to sort all of the content from DRUDGE REPORT by most recent articles–so you don't waste another 30 seconds of your life sifting through stories you've already looked at…

Comment by blipnews — October 24, 2008 @ 2:42 pm
Just what we need right now; a complete fraud, a lawbreaker and a liar who wants to destroy the safety net of hard working Americans and chooses the candidate that would LOWER his taxes (when he feels like paying them) because he hates taxes so much.

I hope the idiot runs, and based upon the track record of failures like Joe, he'll rise quickly in the Republican Party.

Comment by JimCT — October 24, 2008 @ 2:43 pm
Yes! I hope Joe the tax-dodging unlicensed fake plumber is stupid enough to run against Marcy Kaptur, my Congresswoman for the 12 years I lived in Toledo, who regularly flattens her Republican opponents with 60 to 80 percent of the vote.

With the choice of Palin, the GOP has embraced, apparently as a core principle, the idea that it should nominate the least qualified people for office. The thing about Joe, though, is that he's not only unqualified to serve in Congress. He's unqualified to fix my clogged drain!

Comment by Union Man — October 24, 2008 @ 2:45 pm
Thank you Joe for succinctly saying what McCain hadn't and we were. Joe is not a One World Government Socialist with which Congress, Cabinet and State, are overloaded. The Socialists are, as usual, using their media in a policy of ridicule, lies and twisted stories about him. What's new? We do not live in Joe's district but will support monetarily. Set up a fund, Joe. Thank you again.

Comment by pjd — October 24, 2008 @ 2:45 pm
Laura Ingraham's voice sounds like one of the adults on the "Peanuts" specials:

"Whuh-waw-whu-waw-waw-waw."

Comment by Paul — October 24, 2008 @ 2:46 pm
That�s Great! Only in America something like this could happened. A common Joe the citizen can run for a seat in the highest, most powerful and complex legislative body in America. I have no problem with that. Thou, I have problem when a liar and irresponsible, law breaker like, �Joe the plumber� thinks they can fool us all, all the time. Let�s remember that �Joe the plumber� lied about being a plumber, he is just a �Jack of all trades�. If you are not licensed as a plumber you ARE NOT a plumber, just like when you don�t have a driver�s license you still NOT a driver even if you are driving your own car. In addition, he lied about the real value of the company he says he wants to buy. He does not pay he own taxes, which makes him a law breaker. In other worlds he does not comply with the legal obligations he has with the OUR OWN government, the same one he wants to be part of. Maybe is because he wants to become another one of those politician (Democrats and Republicans alike) that �misuse public money� or takes it under the table to pay for his taxes, pleasures and luxuries that would make him part of the Washington establishment. Or is it that he wants us to bail him out?

Comment by Luis-Seattle — October 24, 2008 @ 2:46 pm
I heard the interview. Unfortunately us guys are genetically disposed to be moved by attractive women. If the comely Laura had asked Joe to eat broken glass he probably would have smashed a coke bottle and started chewing. She pushed him pretty hard to agree, with the topper being her saying she would personally do the PR and help him campaign. If she said she was personally going to do anything with me, I would consider suggestions to jump out of windows or wrestling water buffalo.

Comment by Manly Man — October 24, 2008 @ 2:46 pm
I love storiues like this one for a very simple reason: It shows how much inner city "elites" hate the everyday American. They come from some disgusting broken educational system where they've been indoctrinated by left wing sycophants to believe that unless you went to Haaarvard or Yaaaale then you just aren't good enough.

Listen up America…this is the way the new political spectrum will be built. Socialist Elistists will try and make anyone not up to their standards be painted as "ignorant" or "redneck" or worse.

What's funny is this; they don't see why Palin is so popular with us, the mainstream Americans. They don't see why Joe the Plumber is popular with us, the mainstream American. I'll spell it our for you, and I'll even speak slowly so you Haaaarvard grads can figure it out: They are a reflection of real America. The housewife who wants to better her childrens education, and the plumber who aspires to own his own company. Used to be we applauded those in our community who stood up and stood out. Now, if they don't have a prius and the obligitory Obama sticker then they must be a racist redneck from Idaho or Ohio or Iowa….

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 2:47 pm
Let Joe run for Congress. He is just another clueless individual in government. He is advocating a flat tax. Yes, what a great idea. You know what would happen if the federal govt change the IRC to a flat tax system. Either the middle class and lower would be burdened with tax rates at 30% or higher or government would have to downsize spending on infrastructure, defense and entitlement programs by around 60%.

I disagree with the GOP on alot of things as a liberal. What I cannot understand is the anti-intellectualism that has taken hold of the party. It is sad when many of the most brilliant minds in the GOP have such serious misgivings about the party.

Comment by Kevin — October 24, 2008 @ 2:48 pm
So much hate in the comments here. I thought America's problems were with politicians - now I know it's really with the electorate (voters).

Comment by Christy Markos — October 24, 2008 @ 2:48 pm
Hey truthfirst! Your ignorance is almost laughable. I know this may sound cliche', but it really is too bad that ignorance isn't painful! I can only imagine the constant pain you would be in!

Comment by terry — October 24, 2008 @ 2:49 pm
I'll bet Joe has a valid birth certificate and proof of citizenship, is over 35 years old, and has lived here more than 14 years. Gee, he is qualified to be president!

Comment by kas — October 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
Isn't Joe the guy who said he does not believe in Social Security and does not want it forced on him???

C'mon Joe, give us seniors a break. Joe, you need to rethink that position for starters!

Comment by Mary C3 — October 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
"I am 66 years old, educated (Ph.D. and Ed.D.), WHITE, can trace my ancestry back to the Mayflower . . . and I am leaning towards voting for Obama (partly because McCain chose the idiot Palin as a running mate)."

Yeah, sure. Your comment is proof the world is full of educated derelicts. No intelligent, educated person would feel the need to describe someone as an "idiot" nor feel the need to make up a phony cv and post on an anonymous forum.

Comment by Sigmond — October 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
So, when's 'Joe the Plumber's' 15 minutes of fame going to be up?

Comment by Mike from NYC — October 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
I understand why "Joe" has become so popular but the anger I don't get. He didn't seek out Obama. But when given the opportunity he asks a legit question and received an honest answer. What is all of the rest of the nonsense about? He owes taxes therefore the question he asked is invalid. Liberals are always fighting for �the little guy� but when a real life little guy appears they do everything to stomp on him. Why? Because he doesn�t suck on the government tit and fall into the victim category? Let him run for congress what the heck do you care. How does it threaten you?

Comment by Joe Blows — October 24, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
DO SOME OF YOU POSTERS HAVE A LICENCE TO BE A MORON
you don't have to be liscensed if you work under
a liscenced contractor morons
whats the deal with morons educated or not educated .
they all think they are qualified but if they look in the mirror , thoer own accomplishments are meager compared to the peole they despise
i would like to mention joe or sam was a soldier also so you should yeild to him for his service
jesse ventura was a navy seal and GOVERNOR , YOU FRICKIN MORONS , WHY CAN'T JOE .

Comment by jefferson values — October 24, 2008 @ 2:51 pm
Nahman, since when does a member of Congress have to have a certain degree to represent their constituents? It sounds like you believe in a "political" or ruling class….that, my friend, is something this country specifically does not believe in. Representing your community is not rocket science, and doesn't take a special education to know how to do what is right.

Let Joe run….let him explain why he believes his ideas are best…let the voter decide.

Comment by patriot — October 24, 2008 @ 2:52 pm
Some of the posters attacking Joe as an idiot seem to forget "we the people" are supposed to rule our government, the "representatives" we elect to congress are supposed to represent "us". When congress is filled with nothing but lawyers, activists, and rich business men/woman who do you think they'll represent? You? Are you a lawyer, activist, or rich business-man/woman? Then I guess you have nothing to worry about…

Comment by teccec — October 24, 2008 @ 2:52 pm
for that matter, Kevin, your ignorance is also laughable. Again, if ignorance was painful, you would be crippled over in agony!

Comment by terry — October 24, 2008 @ 2:52 pm
Can we start the primaries over? I don't like either one of these guys.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 2:52 pm
Joe will fit right in as he has been dealing with sewage for a number of years. Seriously, you have to ask yourself, why not? Being a member of congress should be not restricted to wealthy families, lawyers, actors, and comedians (as it is now.)

Comment by D.W. Graham — October 24, 2008 @ 2:54 pm
Hey Luis, quick question: If it bothers you so much that Joe has a tax lien on his house, how come it doesn't bother you that Obama used to use cocaine. Or the fact that Obama hangs out with a man who BOMBED the US Capital building. Or went to a church where the most vile racism was preached on a weekly basis. Or the sweetheart loan he got for a piece of land from Tony Rezko. Perhaps you're offended by Obama lying about taking public financing. Maybe you'd want to talk about the great lie that Obama has reached across the aisle, or the really big lie that he's written ANY usefull piece of legislation.

Here's a fact for you Luis: In 2005/2006 Sen. Mike Crapo of Idaho introduced a bill in the senate to initiate strict oversight and regulation of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. Guess what Luis, your hero, the Messiah, and the rest of his party voted NO along party lines. I wonder if it had to do with all the money Freddy and Fannie were giving to the democrat party….

I guess not. You'd rather cast stones and then blame the other side for the rock throwing. You are a joke!

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 2:55 pm
This movie should be required viewing for every voter in the USA.

Comment by Idiocracy — October 24, 2008 @ 2:55 pm
Sure, Terry, way to attack my argument. I see you have put forth nothing to dispute what I say. If you a person who lacks ignorance, in light of your failure to attempt reasonable debate and subsist on ad hominem, then I suppose I will live "crippled over in agony."

Comment by Kevin — October 24, 2008 @ 2:55 pm
I love how Republicans berate us as "stupid," and yet your prized potential heroes are intellectual light weights like Palin and Joe the Idiot.

Comment by Evan � October 24, 2008 @ 1:45 pm

And, then some lib, like you, chimes in and proves that we conservatives were right all along … you ARE that stupid.

Comment by David B. — October 24, 2008 @ 2:56 pm
Too bad we have all this hatred on here.McCain ran an absolutley awful campaign,now he is going to lose.Lets see what Obama and his congress can do.

Comment by steve — October 24, 2008 @ 2:57 pm
All of you pointy headed elitists are in for such a rude awakening. The Majority of Joes' and Jane's' that are the bedrock of our nation have been awakened. No matter what political stripe you are wearing, it won't matter. Be ready to get your own hands dirty picking up after yourself instead of just paying some poor illegal to do it for you. Check your 401K lately? The Slime in Washington is about to be removed.

Comment by Conservo — October 24, 2008 @ 2:57 pm
We need 500+ people just like Joe in congress…. not the people in there now that are promoting self-interest? I can't believe someone actually wrote that! Isn't the only reason this dude became famous was because he was looking out for himself! He didn't want a new tax bill passed because it might one day affect him negatively, nevermind the fact that that day may never come. This dude was looking out for noone but himself- and even screwed that up by forsaking the very thing that would help him and millions of Americans like him. Anyways, those are my two cents…. LEGALIZE IT!!

Comment by Joe Smoke — October 24, 2008 @ 2:58 pm
Republicans need to take note… If Obama wins you must stop all non-essential spending. I have already cancelled a new steel workshop costing $24K to be built in April 2009. Let's see how many people in "poverty" can keep the economy going. I bet we could collapse the whole thing by Feb. 2009. Hopefully, in time so that April 2009 won't be tax month but completely tax free month.

Comment by bgates1970 — October 24, 2008 @ 2:58 pm
Does Joe understand that to fund the government on a flat tax sales tax, the figure would be about 40% on everything you buy, no exceptions. Try drumming up support for that!

Comment by JR — October 24, 2008 @ 2:58 pm
Funny how you can't access the ASHLEY TODD site
DRUDGE is pathetic as is FAUX NOISE/ InsHannity
and all the talk radio blowhards.That is exactly why we need the fairness doctrine!! These LIES that you republican kooks keep telling to try to steal elections is pathetic!! The McCain campaign worker LIED to smear Obama and attract more racist voters. There s a special place in hell for you nut cases!

Comment by REPUBLICAN DIRTY TRICKS — October 24, 2008 @ 2:59 pm
Speaking of being qualified for office…at least Joe was born in the USA. That alone makes him more eligible for President than obama. obama has yet to prove he is a naturalized citizen. Go Joe.

Comment by Artemis — October 24, 2008 @ 2:59 pm
First, he should:

- get licensed to be an actual plumber
- he should settle his tax lien
- expand his narrow view b/c he will pay less taxes under Obama than McSame!

Comment by TJ Andrews — October 24, 2008 @ 3:00 pm
Look, if this guy's going to run, we should just give up and elect our leaders by lot, like jury duty.

There's a reason why we don't. Think about it.

Comment by flerp — October 24, 2008 @ 3:00 pm
First Joe the FAKE plumber tax cheat…Now,
Ashley Todd the FAKE victim of attack…you people are pathetic!! No wonder your party is going down in FLAMES!!!!Drudge sucks!!!

Comment by REPUBLICAN DIRTY TRICKS — October 24, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
Hey JR… I already pay over 40% now if you combine my income tax, SS tax, property tax, sales tax… etc. I pay about 70%. I would welocme only 40.

Comment by Joe Blows — October 24, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
Yes, that Obama will "follow the principals followed by his African forefathers" is so reassuring, seeing how well the continent of Africa is doing.

Comment by Mike — October 24, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
You guys should really review the founding documents of this nation. Joe the Plumber is exactly who our Founding Fathers had in mind to fill seats in Congress. They envisioned men (sorry ladies) sacrificing their private lives to SERVE THE PEOPLE for a limited time and then returning to their private lives after SERVING THEIR COUNTRY. Serving in Congress, as envisioned by our Founding Fathers, was akin to serving in the military. It was not supposed to be a retirement plan for career politicians.

Comment by Dr Mikey — October 24, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
I don't think it would be quite that high JR, but probably around 30% for a flat tax. The highest rate now is set at 35%. I cannot see why it would be more under a flat tax. The number of people living in poverty would certainly increase.

Comment by Kevin — October 24, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
That post by Truth First (#14) gives me the creeps. It sounds like Nazi propaganda promoting Hitler. The religious overtones make me wonder if people really do see Obama as a divine being. (shiver)

Comment by sirmatthew — October 24, 2008 @ 3:03 pm
Artemis, ditto and #73 above.

Comment by kas — October 24, 2008 @ 3:04 pm
Fake? Use that word for Obama!

Comment by Conservo — October 24, 2008 @ 3:04 pm
Hey TRUTH FIRST, it must be hard walking on water all day with Obama, eh ?

Comment by Ratt — October 24, 2008 @ 3:05 pm
Dear Doc Chuck #48:

If you believe Palin is stupid or should I say "less smart than Joe Biden". Then you better ask for your money back from the internet degree scam diploma mills you bought your degrees from.
She is running for VP not President.. Currently Nancy Pelosi is third in line to be president and you call Palin stupid!

WAKE UP AMERICA!

Comment by Richard of JAX — October 24, 2008 @ 3:05 pm
Oh God. The moron would probably get elected. This whole country is turning into one big group home for the retarded.

Comment by CH — October 24, 2008 @ 3:05 pm
Look you can all move to Alaska,suceed,and elect Sarah your President and Joe the Plumber your V.P. or accept the Obama Presidency and try working together to make this country better.

Comment by steve — October 24, 2008 @ 3:07 pm
This story distorts how Joe came to ask the messiah a question. Joe didn't "confront obama during a campaign spot", Obama "confronted Joe while Joe was out throwing a football in the front yard of his house" to use your inflammatory language. By claiming Joe confronted Obama, you make it sound as if Joe sought ought Obama's campaign and then attacked him. All Joe did was ask Obama a question. I know the press feels Obama is the chosen one who shall not be questioned, but you could at least try to get the story right when one of the unwashed masses decides to do your job for you by asking the messiah a tough question…

Comment by Tex — October 24, 2008 @ 3:07 pm
Our country is going down the rat hole, but instead of giving us the best and brightest they keep giving us the dimwitted and telegenic. It's no wonder Republicans think government is "the problem, not the solution." Of course it's a problem if you elect MORONS to run it.

Comment by GET REAL — October 24, 2008 @ 3:07 pm
"… This whole country is turning into one big group home for the retarded."

Ya…we've noticed.

Comment by Artemis — October 24, 2008 @ 3:08 pm
#14–Those must be some gooood mushrooms!!

Comment by Heatherfeather — October 24, 2008 @ 3:08 pm
I love this! Democrats are outraged; first at Sarah Palin, and now at Joe the Plumber. Why? Because both these people are gifted celebrities/politicians, and they thought they ha a monopoly on that with Barack Obama.

Many of you on the Left have used the word "substance" when attacking Joe. Substance? Where is Obama's substance? How is "hope" and "change" substantive? In fact, Joe has been clearer on his views than Barack has!

You guys really need to be careful when showing you teeth. Sarah Palin? Yeah, she's running for VP - attack her all you want. But Joe the Plumber? He offhandedly said he'd run for Congress on a radio show. Gimme a break.

Comment by Concerned Citizen — October 24, 2008 @ 3:08 pm
Artemis: what the hell are you talking about? Obama was born in Hawaii in 1961:

http://fightthesmears.com/articles/5/birthcertificate

Note the "STATE OF HAWAII" and "HAWAII U.S.A.". If you still somehow doubt that Hawaii was a state in 1961, see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawaii:

"The state was admitted to the Union on August 21, 1959, making it the 50th state."

So how was Obama not "born in the USA"?? Have you done *any* of your own research on this, or did you just believe what someone told you?

Comment by flerp — October 24, 2008 @ 3:08 pm
Someone said Joe was a republican "plant"…yeah right..the republicans made B.O. go to Joe's neighborhood and dared B.O. to ask Joe if he had any questions…what are they (dems) smokin? B.O. is nothing but an empty suit with someone in the background pulling his strings, instructing him what to say and how to say it. Actually he should be in Hollywood doing scarry movies, because he is just that ..SCARRY! He would be sure to be a hit because he has alot of scarry people voiting for him. To bad you don't have to take an IQ test to vote…dems would be left in the cold, they're stupid!

Comment by Carol — October 24, 2008 @ 3:09 pm
@ Richard of JAX:

I don't believe that the University of Texas gives refunds, Richard.

DocChuck
http://profile.myspace.com/docchuck

Comment by DocChuck — October 24, 2008 @ 3:10 pm
So wait…

Joe the Non-Plumber who is a tax dodger and never intended to buy a plumbing business and isn't allowed to even follow that career legally in his town wants to run for Congress?

Pfft!

The great Bugs Bunny once said, "What bunch o' Maroons…"

Comment by Ren Hoek — October 24, 2008 @ 3:11 pm
Does anybody stop to think about how the democratic community has taken the time, not to mention money, to demonize a man who's only crime was to ask a question that caused Obama to give himself away. Of coarse the head of the Plumber's Union doesn't like him, He is non-Union. Only Union people can have a Union License

Comment by Alumbaugh — October 24, 2008 @ 3:12 pm
You libs on here that work, if you work, better listen up if someone has to read this for you. Your democratic buddies are planning to take over your 401k's and confiscate them. They then will pay you 3% interest and fold it into your Social Security. And when you die your heirs will only inherit one half. Great deal brought to you by your democratic congress.

Comment by David — October 24, 2008 @ 3:13 pm
It is about time that regular citizens of every walk of life took control of gov from professional politicians. We are a country of the people not of some slimy two bit professional politician.

Comment by Lordrobot — October 24, 2008 @ 3:13 pm
I don't normally post, but I happened to read this story and some who don't believe Joe didn't know about the taxes he owed. I too had that just happen to me. I just received a notice from Ohio that my 2001 tax return showed that I still owed 124.00. I don't know what took so long for me to get this, but I did move since 2001 and we know how slow the government can be. I believe Joe didn't know he had back taxes as he said he moved a lot to be with his son. Go Joe!

Comment by Marilyn — October 24, 2008 @ 3:14 pm
flerp:
How are my taxes going down under Obama? Are you talking about a $500 'refundable credit'?

Comment by BDG — October 24, 2008 @ 3:15 pm
Okay you bunch of elitists. What qualifications shouls a person have? Obviously Ivy League education isn't it. Those know nothings have killed this country. McKensey and company is obvious proof of that.

And yes anyone can do this as long as they have the interest of the country in mind as opposed to "win at any cost", and "vote against anything the other guy supports".

You people are living proof that idiots do elect the president. You are all cowards and traitors. You want everything without working for it, and shout down anyone who disagrees. That is why you oppose the 2nd amendment. Then you oppress any who oppose you without fear of retribution.

Considering the direction you people want to take this country, you can have it! Why don't New York and California just start your own communist country and leave the rest of us alone? Oh, but who could you bully around with your snotty, better than you attitudes?

Stay out of my life and away from my property, or you will see what it was that made this country great in the first place.

Comment by gman — October 24, 2008 @ 3:15 pm
Let's see - Joe already has made loud political statements and had to recant (first he said his taxes would go up then he had to say his would go down…), been fired upon by the unions (he's not a plumber, not one of us), hit for licensing issues (he pretends to be a plumber, but he's really not…) and had his tax returns investigated and his failure to ante up his taxes brought to light. Man, he's 3/4 of the way through the campaign process!

Comment by Sheila — October 24, 2008 @ 3:15 pm
Yes, we do need more "normal" people in politics. I totally agree.
But a pretentious lying, tax evading nobody who isn't even a plumber, not even an apprentice!

He's running around on the AM radio waves crying "OBAMA SOCIALISM" because he himself would get a tax cut. He says he doesn't want it, because that's money others have worked for.

I would love to find out if Joe the Plumber cashed a check or accepted a direct deposit he received this year from the IRS.. yes, that SOCIALIST BUSH tax cut, that thing.

Now go back to fixing leaking pipes. Well, I mean, under the supervision of a real plumber.

Comment by Hans Meiser — October 24, 2008 @ 3:16 pm
I heard that Bob the Pool Guy was thinking of running to but was worried about some movies he did in the eighties.

Comment by Mike the Homebilly — October 24, 2008 @ 3:17 pm
Gee, and I thought he was going to buy a business and was worried about how Obama's tax plan would affect him? Guess he changed his mind. Well, it certainly wouldn't be the first time they let plumbers loose in Washington, DC, or for that matter, someone who was used to dealing with brown waste.

Comment by Yooj — October 24, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
No comments about post 51? That is kind of shocking.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
While I don't want JTP to run DC by himself, I would rather see JTP, Fred the pizza shop guy, Ralph the mechanic, Doctor Bob, Pete the piolot, Mary the stay at home mom, and yes even a lawyer or two. The collective body and the ability to resonate with the public would sure serve us better than 500+ lawyers sitting in a room trying to figure out how to best screw the nation while excluding themselves. A great example would be for them to have to live with the same medical and retirement plans as you and I. They have figured out that they can create for themselves what they wish and dam all of us.

Sempre Fi

Comment by I Baja — October 24, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
Qualifications for President? Let's start with having worked for a living, outside the goverment, for more than 5 years. Let's add buying a house like normal folks. I think all Presidential candidates should go through some sort of military training so they at least know how to salute and which insignias represent which ranks if they are going to be Commander in Chief. But most of all - every candidate for President should have all their assets frozen and live on welfare and foodstamps for the duration of their campaign, which will be take care of by Greyhound bus travel. Let them see what it's like to not have hotel rooms and room service and chartered aircraft. Take their campaign money and donate 90% to charity. Don't let anyone spend $50M in less than a month to run for President when the economy is in crisis. Let em live like the poor they want to represent, if only for a month or so.

Comment by Sheila — October 24, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
Joe is and appears to be a decent person with a good grasp on the true effect of socialism on the regular people. He's intelligent and articulate and I would definitely vote for him.

He missed a payment on his income tax. Big deal. It's difficult to keep up with it when you're a contract worker.

Of course, if you're Charlie Rangel and head of the Ways and Means committee, meaning he is HEAD OF THE TAX WRITING COMMITTEE, I guess it's perfectly understandable that he'd "forget" about a mere $75,000 in rental income. Give me a break

Oh, and somebody said Joe was a McCain plant. You need to take off your tinfoil hat because that would have been difficult since Obama made the stop in the neighborhood to go door to door and convince people to vote for him. I seriously doubt McCain had time to buy Joe a house in that very neighborhood where he's lived for a long time. Or I guess you assume McCain researched every single resident in a neighborhood Obama might visit to root out someone and feed him the question.

Some of you are nuts!

Comment by Florida Voter — October 24, 2008 @ 3:19 pm
Sorry dems, but Palin and Joe have you beat already. They radiate with HONESTY. Haven't known any democrats with that asset in a very long time. Go Palin and Joe. We need you!

Comment by Debbie — October 24, 2008 @ 3:20 pm
I just feel that a majority, not ALL, but a majority of Dems seem very naive. They believe whatever their party tells them and nothing more. Too lazy to delve into the kind of research required to think for themselves nor to uncover real truth. For this reason you vote for a developing tyrant. For this you give up yoru freedoms and don't even realize it. You give everything up for the quick fix. The truth is that the people who started this country were not professionals, and this country did just fine on it's own. Those that are in office can say whatever they want, and we won't be the wiser unless we investigate. Put pieces of the puzzle together. What is the easiest way to take over a country single handedly?

Answer…..To cause that countires citizens to VOTE you in then change it ever so slightly until you have taken all their freedoms and they supidly think they have all the freedoms they always have. Time to wake up.

We already HAVE lost many of our freedoms. People like Joe just have the balls to stand up for themselves instead of hiding behind their violence, or threats, or whatever lies people wish to tell him to convince him that everything is ok when NOTHING IS.

You think things are bad now, wait till those of you who vote for Obama get arrested on your way to church…..why?……because you were on your way to church, or because you didn't agree with him and told someone. The mear mention of this bumbling fool's name in a bad way could mean imprisonment.

And a fool he is. Only a fool would take the failed parts of past economic policies and combine them together with a new title and expect it to work…….or does he really expect it to work? Does he mean it to fail, to somehow use it's failure to boost his control. It's happened before. Always keep in mind when you are in that booth about to vote for Obama…….most of the modern day dictators of most communist countries were voted in………AS DEMOCRATS. Remember that you may very well be crushing our future with that vote.

Think about it this way, Joe is one of us, lives in one of our neighborhoods and he believes in freedom because he is loosing it like the rest of us. Kind of reminds me of some of our founding fathers……..like ALL of them.

Comment by Dave — October 24, 2008 @ 3:21 pm
(108) "Look you can all move to Alaska,suceed,and elect Sarah your President and Joe the Plumber your V.P. or accept the Obama Presidency and try working together to make this country better."

Can you say submit or perish? WOW, you're very frightening indeed. The Constitution only protects the rights of those who agree with the liberal left? Free speach is only for left leaning ideas? The fairness doctrine must quiet those who would publicly disagree with the left view? The founding fathers are rolling in their graves! Steve, are you suggesting we suspend the election and right to vote and just put Obama in office now??!!

Comment by Fighter Pilot — October 24, 2008 @ 3:22 pm
As a librarian, I am very concerned when I read posts by people who encourage anyone with no background in political thought, government, or law, to run for high public office. You may think that anyone can serve effectively in Congress, but if a candidate has not aspired to the position and worked towards being qualified, he or she may do great damage once elected. The government of a large country like ours is very complex, and requires detailed knowledge to operate effectively. Motivation alone is not enough.

Comment by Just Thinking — October 24, 2008 @ 3:23 pm
Sorry Tex, you obviously have not actually watched the exchange between O'Bamer and Joe the Plum-stupid. Old Baldy approached Bammer and Banner took quite some time talking to him, in a nice way too. If you had listened before making your stupid comment, you might be able to put conversation in true context. Dr Mikey, Joe the Plumber wouldn't have been able to vote with the Founding Fatther: he doesn't have any property. You BassPro republicans are not real conservatives just Bushhuggers and you don't know much about American History.

Comment by charlieboy — October 24, 2008 @ 3:23 pm
Most of the founding fathers were actually very educated and most were, *GASP*, lawyers. Let's see; George Washington: commander-in-chief of the army during the american revolution, certainly not an "everyman"; John Adams: HARVARD EDUCATED LAWYER; Thomas Jefferson: LAWYER, who was well versed in science, philosophy, history, etc. James Madison: PRINCETON EDUCATED LAWYER, "Madison has been called America's first graduate student"; Alexander Hamilton: LAWYER; Benjamin Franklin: Didn't graduate college, but was still more educated than probably anyone reading this (me included); John Jay: LAWYER.

Comment by Jay — October 24, 2008 @ 3:23 pm
Here's how they can still steal the vote by disenfranchising the voters. Yo wait hours in the rain and they tell you that your name is not on the list. ONE IN FIVE voters in Colorado and nationwide may face this.
http://www.stealbackyourvote.org/

Comment by Citizen — October 24, 2008 @ 3:24 pm
Once again I'm amazed how you freakin liberals look down your snarky stuck up noses at we"common" men and women. We are the ones running this country. Prpare to be soundly routed on november 4th.

Comment by marine43 — October 24, 2008 @ 3:24 pm
At least Joe didn't grow up at the knee of a communist/socialist and be mentored by an Anarchist/Socialist. The reason Obambi has no "substance" is that he cannot lt his real ideas be known. Thankfully the polls are turning and a loss is in the "righteous wind" , sad to say we will probably lose a few inner cities to upset "supporters" (new code word everybody) but that will be well worth not having to live under socialist rule for 4 years. (Or until they can prove he really isn't an American citizen) Admittedly it would be kinda cool seeing hi running from the White House yelling "La Migre, La Migre". LOL

Comment by Nobama — October 24, 2008 @ 3:27 pm
You can help reveal the economic disaster that The Party That Wrecked America has created and save money by not spending one cent on anything but the bare essentials until Election Day. Bush's "rebates" are designed to get you to spend. The last eight years have been brutal for working Americans. We have less and less to spend after the food and fuel inflation created by their mismanagement. Our wages are flat since the Reagan years. We can�t afford health care. Now they want us to prop up the last four months of the lame duck Bush administration by going shopping? They�ve taken money from us for almost a decade. Now let's withhold our money from them in the next few weeks just when they are the most vulnerable. The retail sales numbers are closely watched and we can all do our part to affect them to hurt the Republicans. Credit card numbers are tallied and watched daily. Pay cash or use checks when you do buy. Economic warfare can work both ways.

Comment by Citizen — October 24, 2008 @ 3:28 pm
hahahahahahahahahahaha.. is it too difficult for the republicans to get somebody who can think for a change

Comment by Jim Crow — October 24, 2008 @ 3:28 pm
What happened to the party of Lincoln, Eisenhower Goldwater and Reagan? Now you cheer these dimwitted twits like Sarah Palin and "Joe-the-Plumber."

Comment by Merle — October 24, 2008 @ 3:29 pm
WOW! What a courteous bunch of liberals posting here. These same name calling Liberals used to consider Republicans mean spirited. What happens when the "Joes" of this world all stop paying their taxes, many of you socialist democrats may have to get off your lazy A—- and get a job!

By the way, here in NY we have a top aide to the current Democratic govenor that is being investigated, and that aide owes more than $200,000 in back taxes. Rep. Rangle a Democrat from NY and serves on a committee that reviews and writes tax law in Congress owes sevral tousands of dollars in back taxes. However, those people are Democrats and the media seems pretty quiet on those two!

I wish that Obama would walk up our drive way, and speak to my wife (who is a registered Democrat), and let her ask a few questions. Her questions would make Joe's pale. By the way she is voting McCain/Palin! So in addition to the Joe's, there are quite a few Jane's that are not for Obama!

Comment by Rank — October 24, 2008 @ 3:30 pm
I really worry about the state of this country and the future when I read comments from Democrats. Wow! ……..from a firefighter

Comment by Captmit — October 24, 2008 @ 3:31 pm
Come on people. You don't need to be intelligent to run for political office. Didn't you learn anything from the last eight years?

Comment by Ya Can't Get Fooled Again — October 24, 2008 @ 3:32 pm
Can't we all just get along. Dems should stop trying to beat people down because their buddy BO is getting tested by the Fox News network. I mean come on every other media outlet is clearly in the tank for him or else there would EQUAL scrutiny on both sides. Try to take the blinders off and realize what is going on here.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 3:34 pm
Hey Eric. #51 was right on.

Now how bout commenting on this one.

Comment by Gary from Annapolis — October 24, 2008 @ 3:34 pm
As far as Joe "radiating" honesty, pretty much everything we know him for is a lie. Obama would lower his taxes, because he WASN'T BEING HONEST when he asked Obama his question. He and the business don't make anywhere near the amount of money he said. He must have had some idea how much money he was making. The fact that he fabricated a story of how he was/would be making $250,000+ indicates he went out of his way to try to embarrass Obama. I think we've had enough of politicians being more concerned with making their opponents look bad than actually solving problems, on both sides of the aisle. I think I'll pass, Joe.

Comment by Jay — October 24, 2008 @ 3:36 pm
You could take the first three-hundred people out of any telephone book in the country, and they could run the congress every bit as well as the crew currently sitting there.

Comment by Rick Rowles — October 24, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
The more posts you read on the net, the more you realize how bambi came to be the dem nominee.

No amount of rational thought can convince these liberals of the danger this fool represents to this republic.

If you hate this country so much move, but don't screw it up for the rest of us who love it and appreciate the sacrifices of those who handed it over to us for safe-keeping for the next generation.

If you want to give away your money to slugs who think the world owes them a living, go ahead, it's yours, but don't vote to give MINE away.

And this..Biden is right about obama being so un-qualified we WILL be attacked again..you bambi worshiping morons don't have the right to put OUR lives in jeopardy so you can assuage whatever guilt you feel or just to make you feel progressive. You have a responsibility to the country to elect someone whose primary job is to keep us safe. Don't tell us that you can look in the mirror and honestly say this clown is qualified to lead this country when a guy like McCain has a better resume' than IKE had.

You aren't THAT stupid.

Are you?

Comment by Seawolf — October 24, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
KESWAN, please read my earlier comment to understand why

"Most if not all of the founding fathers were Farmers and Business men who worked a regular job while also serving their voting public."

is incorrect.

Comment by Jay — October 24, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
I'm no McCain supporter, but I do have to say it bothers me that so many people see the need to dump on Joe the plumber. Good for you Joe, you're in the middle of your 15 minutes of fame and I hope with all sincerity that you can make it into something lasting. Ironically, even though we'd technically be on opposite sides of the aisle, I think you've got the spirit to make a great Congressman!

Comment by Geoff — October 24, 2008 @ 3:37 pm
I totally object (#134). The process is so full of red tape and BS that anyone who wishes to achieve would have a chance. But it has to be done in numbers 1 or 2 random newbies will be attacked by the incumbant voltures. And i am also going to go as far as to say one does not need to be a lawyer or military officer to run for office. If that was so, it would be in the requirements. Basically, it is age and residency/citizenship. This is why their are advisors and cabinets ect What is needed is effective leadership that does not keytoe to special interest groups. Ideology is important, but when you have carear politicians who are hell bent on their way or the highway philosophies, nothing gets done. And isnt getting done.It is not brain surgery. It is effective representation. Here's a quick list to work on: 1)economy 2) the war issue 3) keep safe from terrorist 4) effectively deal w/ illegal immigration & infrastructure costs associated 5) control healthcare costs. Elected people will not get to put these topics off to after an election cause its "to decisive" -no, that it means it has to be done, no more stalling. Elected people will not get 100% of everything payed for them, it costs me to get to work, why cant it cost them?Elected people will not get pensions…why whould they, this is a high paying job..but -its not dependent on them, someone else can do it if they are not desiring…andthe list can go on.. thsi is just a start, butwether you like her or not for VP -Sarah palin, was a mother who wanted to get involved and did. And for some reason all of Alaska didn't come falling down. I encourage each and every person here to consider running for an office. It won't be easy once in, but its not that hard.

Comment by Sari — October 24, 2008 @ 3:40 pm
If you people so desperately desire to live under a socialist government, move across the Atlantic. Please don't drag the rest of us down with you. Let's open our eyes and look at what this kind of proposed government has done to our neighbors. It doesn't work.
The USA was founded on the principles of free enterprise, a fair days pay for a fair days work, capitalism, and to leave the socialist oppression behind. Have we forgotten what history has already taught us? Are we really that lazy now?
Common sense, good reasoning, and listening skills, those should be the requirements for a leader. A college degree doesn't command anything, let alone respect. Some of the dumbest people I've ever encountered had the 'book smarts', but no skills in the application of it.

Comment by FB — October 24, 2008 @ 3:41 pm
Tax evasion is a felony and I don't think felons can run for congress.

Comment by Betty Sanchez — October 24, 2008 @ 3:41 pm
I think Joe would make a perfect republican congressman!

He can't add, think's he's way richer than he actually is, cheats a bit on taxes and wouldn't want to give more to noone nohow. He misrepresents himself and is a lot of hot n bothered air.

Perfect. Maybe he and Palin on a ticket.

Comment by GaryB — October 24, 2008 @ 3:42 pm
I guess even with the hundred of millions of dollars that Obama has received from who ever and where ever the DNC still can not draft a new script. So many socialists posting here continue to Bash President Bush. I did pretty well, until the Democrats came back in control. If you wanted to check out a few facts you might find that the problems really showed up in the last 18 months, and the previous 6+ years were actually very good.

OH YES, BY THE WAY BUSH IS NOT RUNNING!

JOHN MCCAIN IS OUR CANDIDATE. YOU KNOW HE IS THE ONE THAT VOTED AGAINST THE BUSH TAX CUTS, AS BARACK OBAMA HAS FREQUENTLY POINTED OUT. YOU MUST KNOW ABOUT THOSE BUSH TAX CUTS, AS SO MANY OF YOU CONSTANTLY COMPLAIN ABOUT THEM! SO HOW CAN YOU POSSIBLY SAY THAT MCCAIN WILL OFFER MORE OF THE SAME.

MY FEAR IS THAT WE WILL RECEIVE MORE OF THE SAME, AND EVEN MORE DAMAGE, FROM THE DEMOCRATIC CONTROLLED CONGRESS!!!!!!!!!

Comment by Rank — October 24, 2008 @ 3:44 pm
Alaska awaits you Seawolf,you are in the minority here now!

Comment by steve — October 24, 2008 @ 3:47 pm
When are you libtards out there going to realize that Barry the Messiah-Hussein Obama can not generate wealth?

Do you think that his Robin-hood-esque (Take from the rich and give to the poor) has a good portion of that "theft" staying in Washington DC and going to friends like ACORN and Marxists like Ayers to spend to remodel this country like Cuba?

Actually– this insults Robin Hood. Robin hood stole from the GOVERNMENT (The Sheriff of Knottingham) and gave to the people.

The SOLE PURPOSE of the Democrat party is to get as many VOTERS as possible dependent upon Government. It solidifies their hold on POWER AND CONTROL (which is the true pursuit of these career types). When Bill Buckley said he'd rather be represented by 100 random people from the phone book than the Senate, he had a salient point.

This is why 95% of people get a "tax cut", even though close to 40% of the public DOES NOT PAY INCOME TAXES (due to deductions and Earned Income Credit). As soon as more than 50% of the public is off the "tax" hook. It is game over for America. The Democrats will have the power to do anything they want, as long as they keep the bottom 50% poor and afraid of the other side.

Like it or not, "Trickle down" works. The "rich" invest their money with the hope of making more. They hire people to do more work, they buy things (employing other people).

If the government makes tax policy "unfriendly" to business, business moves. I know a Fortune 500 company that just moved it's manufacturing offshore to save millions in Federal taxes. Can you blame them? It wasn't the lack of unions or fair labor laws or such… It was US Tax Policy. Just as you seek out the "best deals" for your family (would you pay $5.00 for a gallon of Milk if you could get it for $2.50 across the street?), large companies look out for their stock holders and profitability.

The whole economic meltdown was percipitated by the housing "bubble". The bubble was setup by Democrats going back to Jimmy Carter trying to provide loans to the "poor" for housing (Freddie & Fannie GOVERNMENT SPONSORED ENTITIES). The Clinton administration under Janet Reno threatened banks for denying loans to "high risk" customers. Freddie & Fannie allowed banks to "unload" their bad loans to make their books look good, and Carter & Clinton's flunkie Franklin Raines pocketed $90 million over 6 years at Fannie, while cooking the books and funneling campaign contributions back to those overseeing the organization (including Barney Frank, Barry Obama, and Chairman Cristopher Dodd): http://www.opensecrets.org/news/2008/07/top-senate-recipients-of-fanni.html

Destroying the market benefits Democrats. The 401K was the biggest threat to Social Security. Why would you want to "invest" in Social Security with a 3-5% return when you could get 10-15% from a 401K? Social Security is and always was BANKRUPT. Congress spent every penny that ever came in. Bill Clinton used the Social Security surplus cashflow to "balance the budget".

From John Kennedy on– Every tax cut has fueled economic growth and increased revenues to the government. Unfortunately, the government has always increased spending faster. You would think that Democrats would support taxcuts. They would– but it takes away their class warfare approach to divide the nation, frighten the bottom 50%, and solidify their hold on power).

The fact is if every single one of the career politicans were thrown out and common people like Joe the plumber were elected– Like the founders, to spend a short time in public service, then RETURN TO THEIR LIVES, this country would be much better off.

Comment by Jimster — October 24, 2008 @ 3:47 pm
#156 great way to put it intellectually, but you forgot about Chuck Rangel. Sounds similar huh. Stop going by the way of party lines and open your eyes to what is in front of you. I am a registered Republican and I do not always agree with my own party, but I will not subject anyone to paying what they EARNED to people who are to lazy to earn for themselves. Get a clue and stop being so negative about people. Joe sounds like he actually WANTS to make the USA better as opposed to just doing something to get elected.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 3:48 pm
McSame, McLame, Bush's Third Term, Pali-diot, what else does our vastly superior leftist intellectuals have for us. Here's a man who served his country in ways Obama and Biden can only have nightmares about.

Left Wing Kook: McSame can't even use email, how can he be president?

Sane American: Well Kook, McCain was severely injured upon ejecting from his stricken fighter during the Vietnam War (You've heard of it, it was the last time you political leftists caused this country a black eye by abandoning an allied nation which in turn paved the way for yet another communist bloodbath in Vietnam and Cambodia)and was beaten brutally by his captors, shattering both his arms and wrists. You'd think you'd be a little more understanding.

Left Wing Kook: McCain is just another 4 years of Bush!

Sane American: McCain has one of the highest voting percentages AGAINST the current administration of any Republican in Congress. I wonder how often your boy Barack voted against the Democrats. Quit lying to the American people about what an even handed fellow he is. His record doesn't bare that out. His claims to the contrary are just bold faced lies.

Left Wing Kook: McCain tried to get stiff penalties lifted against his buddies in the S&L scandels.

Sane American: Another media induced lie. I wonder which of the two candidates has members of the Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae boards on their staff? Oh, that's right, Franklin Raines, former CFO for Fannie Mae (which is a MAJOR contributor to the Obama campaign) stole a $100,000,000 from the folks yet ends up an economic advisor to Obama.

Wake up America. Look into who and what Obama really is and there's only one choice for President.

Left Wing Kook: You're a racist because you don't like Obama!

Sane American: Fear and hate mongering at its best. If you don't agree/vote/like Obama it must be because you are a racist! What kind of country are we going to be when this kind of thuggish race bating becomes the response to every question asked of the Obama campaign?

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 3:48 pm
Let's do some planning Joe! He's a real person, not a politician (in the worse sense of the word)

Comment by fran123 — October 24, 2008 @ 3:49 pm
Bye Fb,you lose YOU move, got it??

Comment by steve — October 24, 2008 @ 3:49 pm
John McCain can hold a blackberry up to his ear. There are people who manage to use a computer who HAVE NO ARMS. It's pretty hard to argue that McCain couldn't find a way.

Comment by Jay — October 24, 2008 @ 3:51 pm
Never did I say that it did not take intellegence to run for office. Nor did I state that our Founding Fathers were not intellegent. I stated that they were not professional politicians. They may have been lawyers but they were here to escape oppression. The same oppression that you may very well be voting into office.

I mean, weather what McCaine says is a truth or a lie, what kind of sick cowardly man does Obama have to be to hide behind the leg of a group of lawyers when he is called names like a sad little child?

And those of you following him and trashing people houses or calling people names…..are you really THAT scared of having a dream and working for success that you would hurt others to put a child in office? I feel sorry for you. I agree with the fireman, this country is falling apart if a childish coward is elected to office for his own ego while people cause violence in the streets over a matter of opinion.

Before you throw the next stone at someones hopes and dreams, remember that things may happen in this country that cannot be undone.

One last thought, You're right, post 14 is scarey by anyones means and I do thing that is one thing most people here can agree on. Sounds like someone has already been "Re-educated." That's a very scarey thought.

Comment by Dave — October 24, 2008 @ 3:51 pm
Wow, the Republican party/voters will really take ANYBODY as a political leader these days. They've gone from the "anti-intellectual party" to the "party of stupid". They might as well start electing their candidates via an American Idol type contest.

Comment by Wade — October 24, 2008 @ 3:52 pm
Evan, it's funny how all of you liberals who claim to care for the "little guy" are the first to look down on them and call them idiots! One of these days, I hope I live ling enough to see it, the minorities in this country, especially, the Africans, will realize that they are nothing more than the "pets" of the Liberal Democrats, as long as they keep their mouths shut, and stay in the ghetto. I can't wait for that day when they go looking for the "pseudo-intellectual-hatefull-idiots" like you who have been keeping them down! I hope you can run fast, Evan!

Comment by Ace — October 24, 2008 @ 3:56 pm
Hey, If Barack Obama, skeletons and all can win the Presidency (assuming he does), and Al Franken can run, why can't a guy who actually works for a living?
At least Ohio would have a blue collar in Washington.

Comment by Geronimo — October 24, 2008 @ 3:56 pm
For all you who say Joe may not be qualified lets look at my Senator his name is Obama. What makes Senator Obama qualified. My liberal friends can't answer. I always ask them what has Obama accomplished, what major laws or legislation has he drafted and passed. Lets talk about Character. If a Republican went around with a known terrorist you would be all over it, but since its the Obama you give him a pass. But its not just about Ayers, There was Rev Wright, Tony Resco, and the list goes on, do you see a pattern developing on poor judgement of character. Do you not judge people on their Character. What because Joe isn't from Hollywood or received the Michael Moore stamp of approval you tear the guy down, its wrong. We know more about Joe the plumber then Obama.

Comment by Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 3:57 pm
Hey Steve,
Patriots have always been in the minority in this country.

Comment by Seawolf — October 24, 2008 @ 3:57 pm
Don't forget, 12 impartial random people (age, residency/citizenship is that requirement) decide fates every day in America.

You then call on ones administration to foster key points of information, but the decission, the power rests in 12 citizens. Not the lawyer (their job is to argue or present-not to decide)
the top jurist/the judge- their job is to preside. It's the 12 people that hold the power.

Comment by Sari — October 24, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
In reference to:
So a guy who is plumber without a plumbers license is qualified to run for congress? Really? I mean�really?

Comment by nbuc � October 24, 2008 @ 2:27 pm

How about a guy who was a community organizer who gave money to ACORN so they can continue with their voter fraud registration, a guy who is friends with an unrepentent terrorist, a guy who sat in a church pew for over 20 years listening to his pastor spew White hatred and anti-Americanism, a guy who can't even come up with a legit birth certificate, a guy who picked a running mate that claimed the candidate wasn't even qualified to run for the Presidency…

Joe the Plumber? HIGHLY QUALIFIED.

Comment by Eileen — October 24, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
Wade;

Isn't that the way you guys selected Obama?

Comment by Ace — October 24, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
I think Mr Magoo should replace Palin as his VP with Joe the want-to-be plumber. That would add one more joke in the GOP run for the White House.

Comment by MG — October 24, 2008 @ 3:58 pm
Just what the country needs another redneck hick who thinks he's smart enough to be a politician. I suggest you pay your taxes and try to become a better person first.

Comment by MarkD — October 24, 2008 @ 3:59 pm
Joe with all the baggage described here represents the core of America, the citizen who willingly serves his country, then returns home. There should be no place for career politicians in our government. Lets hear it for term limits for Joe and all those who may serve in Washington.

The American people get the government they deserve. When we vote a bunch of smart lawyers into Congress, we've got to expect them to write and approve legislation that benefits lawyers. Should we vote a bunch of businessmen into Congress they will write legislation that will benefit business. Since businessmen employ people, I'd rather have a House lead by Joe the plumber than Nancy the Pelosi any day of the millennium.

P.S. What was the employment rate when Nancy became Speaker anyway?

Comment by Tim — October 24, 2008 @ 3:59 pm
David Duke for President! What's the difference?

Comment by Geronimo — October 24, 2008 @ 4:00 pm
I hope he does run. He will get a lot of support from those of us that love this country.

He will stand up to the democrats. Thats what America needs.

Comment by Tom Benson — October 24, 2008 @ 4:00 pm
I think this is great news. I would support a Palin / Wurzelbacher ticket for the White House in 2012.
I'd challenge anyone who is supporting the marxist muslim to say anything about lack of experience.

Comment by Sundance 44 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:01 pm
Hey, Geronimo, How about Karl Marx for president? Isn't that the Democrat party choice?

Comment by Ace — October 24, 2008 @ 4:02 pm
Marine43 said it's jerks like him running the country. He's right, and it shows! Meanwhile, Joe the Plumber doesn't like paying more taxes when he earns more money. He hasn't realized that we've ALWAYS had a graduated income tax; it's not just a recent Obama proposal. I'm sure Ohioans would welcome his candidacy.

Comment by New Yorker — October 24, 2008 @ 4:02 pm
"uhhhmmmm�does the public demand ANY qualifications for office anymore? It is simply baffling that anyone can be a viable choice by repeating how absolutely ignorant they are of how things work in Washington. THIS ISN'T AMERICAN IDOL YOU FREAKING AMATEURS."

"You have to love how conservatives are ready to draft 'Joe' for congress even though they have no idea if they guy is qualified to handle such a job. That's exactly how we got stuck with 8-years of Bush."

Uhhh, does this sound familiar to anyone else (cough*Obama*cough)?

Comment by james — October 24, 2008 @ 4:03 pm
I'm going to run for congress too. You jerk. You stole my thunder.

Comment by Joe Six Pack — October 24, 2008 @ 4:03 pm
This is in response to "Just Thinking"-

You said you were a librarian, so you are surrounded by the very knowledge of American history you now seem to disdain.

American history is FILLED with stories of people like Joe who stand up and do remarkable things. Oh but I forgot, while complaining about the state of education in this country you fail to mention that Public Education has been managed by some of the most liberal people in the country, and what has it gotten us? Our educational system in the country is falling apart. Drop-out rates in inner city schools is alarming.

For 40+ years you leftists have had a free reign in the educational system, and you destroyed it. Why do you think so many (non democrat lemmings) Americans want the school voucher program? I'll save you from expending that last fresh brain cell and tell you why; It's because we don't want to send our children to the local schools to be taught about gay marriage, tolerance for devient behavior, social activism, false enviromentalism, et al. We are sick and tired of the brain washing that accompanies public education.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 4:04 pm
GO JOE!! We need to get rid of EVERY single rep in Washington and replace them with new true citizens (warts & all) then implement term limits to keep us from ever getting where we are today again. Career politicians are the problem with the US today.

Comment by Bob Loblaw — October 24, 2008 @ 4:04 pm
He should pay his taxes first, like all good Americans.

Comment by Flounder61 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:04 pm
I suppose the old guy thinks that keeping the plumber in the news is equal to keeping Ayers, or Wright in the news…….it is with glee that i watch the goppers gop around these days……can only imagine what the next 11 days or so will bring……

Comment by hap — October 24, 2008 @ 4:06 pm
Go Joe! Bring in the Fair Tax http://www.fairtax.org and take the power away from these tyrants in DC! The Fair tax is today's Boston Tea party movement! Downsize the FED! Get them out of our way and out of our pockets!

Comment by Craig in Indiana — October 24, 2008 @ 4:06 pm
Reponding to "james":

We need the lawyers & career politicians OUT of DC and get regular people INTO DC.

So, yeah, a qualification should be NO lawyers, just be a regular people.

Comment by Bob Loblaw — October 24, 2008 @ 4:07 pm
#187 I am sure that he will pay his taxes when Chuck Rangel pays his.

DUDE enough of the American Idol crap. My goodness come up with something original.

Comment by Eric — October 24, 2008 @ 4:08 pm
How about we get Sarah and Joe 2012 as Prez and Veep. Average citizens rising up against crooked elites in Washington. Maybe that's what is needed for the real change that will approve American life for the better instead of a socialist idealism that will take the wealth away from everyone and give the government full control of our lives.

Comment by beerman309 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:09 pm
lets see now…after talking like a big shot on camera we find out hes not a licensed plumber,failure to pay taxes along with other failure to pay issues and some people are ready to get behind this idiot?and some wonder why the worlds laughing at us??

Comment by sgt. stedenko — October 24, 2008 @ 4:09 pm
The courage to speaking truth to power is a far too rare quality these days.

Joe's income level makes no difference. He has a principled belief that taxes should be reserved only to promote the welfare of the society as a whole, and not to promote the welfare of one individual at the expense of another.

Liberals often say that Republicans are greedy, and then they turn around and complain that people like Joe vote against their own self interests. That doesn't mesh, libs.

Comment by KC — October 24, 2008 @ 4:10 pm
Go Joe! After two years of Obama and his minions wrecking everything in this country, the American people will be looking all over to see which Obamatons they can kick out of office!

No more tax raisers! Vote Against Obama the Clown!

Comment by Ed Steinberg — October 24, 2008 @ 4:11 pm
He's eminently qualified to run for Congress; as a plumber, he's used to being around excrement.

Comment by ebd10 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:12 pm
I just saw on Fox that Joe is now dating that crazy McCain volunteer who carved a backwards "B" into her face.

Comment by CH — October 24, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
163. Steve… Are you kidding? You liberals ruined 2 continents already. You are only good for coddling the lazy and keeping crime rates up.

Comment by FB — October 24, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
So? Here on Long Island, Carolyn McCarthy's ONLY qualification for higher office is her husband's ability to stop a bullet on the LIRR, and she's been a House member since 1997.

Spare me the Tax Cheat bulltihs. You Democreeps are well willing to look past such details as male prostitution rings (Barney Frank) and murder (Gary Condit, Ted Kennedy) when choosing YOUR leaders.

So why NOT Joe the Plumber? Kick her ass, Joe!

Comment by Tom — October 24, 2008 @ 4:13 pm
#198, I heard the same thing. Turns out they met at a McCain strategy training session.

Comment by Pleaser — October 24, 2008 @ 4:16 pm
You mean the guy who isn't named Joe who is not a plumber who told Obama he was going to buy a business but he isn't that he said made over $250,000 per year but doesn't, whose taxes Obama would raise except that he wouldn't, and said taxes wouldn't be paid anyway because he doesn't pay his taxes anyway?

That's the Joe the Plumber you meant?

Please, do run: It will be a treat to watch a Dem whup your skinhead arse!

Comment by Skip Toomaloo — October 24, 2008 @ 4:16 pm
Sorry, Joe the Idiot is YOUR candidate, Evan. Besides, it'll take 500 plumbers like OUR Joe here to clean up the mess in in DC (the District of Cesspool)!

Comment by Jim Clings To GodnGuns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:16 pm
Sorry, I meant my comment to be a response to #196

Comment by Pleaser — October 24, 2008 @ 4:17 pm
It's interesting that there was such a flap about Joe not having a plumbers license. I wonder what kind of license it takes to be president, or governor, or senator, or member of the house, or any government position. Seem like the only requirement to have those positions is a license to BS everyone.

Comment by gary stull — October 24, 2008 @ 4:19 pm
Laura Ingraham? She's not dead? No, seriously, I thought she had died. She didn't die? Wow!

Comment by Skip Toomaloo — October 24, 2008 @ 4:20 pm
So let me get this straight, you liberals think Joe the Plumber isn't smart enough to run for congress and handle the job, but Maxine Waters somehow is? Congress should be filled with ordinary citizens, not folks who have law degrees.

Comment by Chris — October 24, 2008 @ 4:22 pm
Your comments, IF approved, may be subject to the new FAIRNESS DOCTRINE - be prepared to contradict yourself or have someone else do it for you - it's BIG BUSINESS in CHINA!

And that's where we're going, Comrades!

Too bad the "RICH" who use taxpayer $ can go to spas like the honchos of the recently bailed-out AIG - no problem there! They're simply "too big" to fail!

But YOU, Joe will be tagged as "rich" to pay for the glorious lifestyles of international bankers and politicians like Obama, Reid, Rockefeller, Pelosi and such… Al Gore flies all over the world in private jets admonishing citizens to change light bulbs; Obama builds a Greek temple in his own honor but admonishes "the people" to "inflate our tires" to save energy…

They are truly reaping the benefits from a public-educated society, Comrades.

Sorry, this was meant to be upbeat, inspiring! Put a poster of the Anointed One in every home, school and business - we'll all feel better.

We'll learn - won't we…?

Comment by frank burns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:23 pm
AMEN Chris!!

Comment by FB — October 24, 2008 @ 4:24 pm
I really liked what Joe said when Alan Colmes tried to tempt him with the fact that he would get a tax cut under Obama. Joe said he was glad that Alan brought it up, because he had been thinking about it. "There are principles involved," Joe said. "I don't want it if it means the government takes it away from someone who worked harder for it or was even just luckier in life than me."

Do you see what he was doing? He was rejecting the class envy the left feeds us to try to get us to vote for those who will steal from others to give to us, and thus by our votes and make us their slaves. I really admire Joe and I do hope he runs for Congress.

Comment by Christine — October 24, 2008 @ 4:25 pm
For all you who say Joe may not be qualified lets look at my Senator his name is Obama. What makes Senator Obama qualified. My liberal friends can't answer. I always ask them what has Obama accomplished, what major laws or legislation has he drafted and passed. Lets talk about Character. If a Republican went around with a known terrorist you would be all over it, but since its the Obama you give him a pass. But its not just about Ayers, There was Rev Wright, Tony Resco, and the list goes on, do you see a pattern developing on poor judgement of character. Do you not judge people on their Character. What because Joe isn't from Hollywood or received the Michael Moore stamp of approval you tear the guy down, its wrong. We know more about Joe the plumber then Obama

Comment by Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 4:25 pm
For those who maintain that being a member of Congress requires great intellectual heft, please consider that very few, if any, of the current members of Congress even bother to read the legislation for which they vote.

Instead, they spend most of their time cutting deals and devising new ways to separate the public from their hard-earned cash. Or posturing on subjects of which they now little or nothing.

And then claim innocence when things go wrong.

Our Nation was founded by men who, in some cases, were little more then shopkeepers. But they believed in liberty and the innate rights of Man to pursue his dreams. And from them came the greatest country the world has seen.

Better the simple man, lacking letters and credits, but holding honor dear and possessed of an honest heart, then the scoundrel who, with flowing words and soaring promises, betrays his honor and his fellows.

Comment by Kicker — October 24, 2008 @ 4:25 pm
I wonder if all these urban and suburban elitist lefties realize that by trying to excluse this person or that person from the political process, they in fact, become Fascists..

Nope, they don't care. Just want Obama to but the election.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 4:26 pm
Frank Burns… Bravo!

Comment by FB — October 24, 2008 @ 4:26 pm
Political discourse in this county has stooped to an all-time low.

About half of the adults in America now think they are entitled to be paid money without doing any work to justify that money.

The top 10% of all taxpayers pay 70% of all federal income taxes, but we are told that the current system is not progressive enough.

The top 50% pay 97% of all income taxes. That means we are close to the point where one half of the people have no stake at all in the efficient operation of our federal government.

Those same folks are about to elect a president who promises to confiscate money from the successful 50% and spread it around in the name of "fairness."

Self-respect and incentive will be further eroded, and the situation will get worse.

This is going to get ugly…

Comment by john meredith — October 24, 2008 @ 4:26 pm
Ya'll are funny. You get so bent over a tax lien, but the young, no-experience feller you want to be head of "the kingdom" got a sweet heart deal on his MILLION dollar home and lot next door but was to STUPID to realizie it? Or maybe he did and is just lying.

Speaking of which, does anybody see the humor in the guy "who would be king" starting constuction on his world stage which Mayor Daily says will cost the city 2 MILLION? Given the state of the economy-yeah-he's gonna look out for the middle class? Wonder how much lobster he will order with that?

Comment by Expert1 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:27 pm
If Joe was a democrat, they'd be making him run for President.

Comment by Steven — October 24, 2008 @ 4:28 pm
That is what it will take ordinary Americans deciding to take this country back.

If Joe had expressed a liberal viewpoint he would be hailed as a "working class hero" by the left. Instead they bash him, call him stupid, etc.,etc. as evidenced by many of the responses here.

Two-faced, just like Obama saying one thing when he is in the heartland and quite another when at a fundraiser in San Francisco with the elite talking class.

Typical, sad and all the more reason why "Joe the Plumber's" all over this nation should stand up and be counted.

Comment by Slade — October 24, 2008 @ 4:28 pm
Go Joe! Keep asking the questions that Americans want answers to!

Comment by USA Man — October 24, 2008 @ 4:29 pm
By the way, Joe never said he was a licensed plumber. He works for a plumber, a job which doesn't require a license. (My cousin's husband does the same kind of work.) He's interested in taking over the business, and he's not crazy about Obama's tax plan and how it will affect his future business. And he owed (and is taking care of) taxes from his previous state of residence.Veteran congressman Charlie Rangel, D NY, FEIGNED IGNORANCE ABOUT HIS OWN TAX OBLIGATIONS FOR YEARS BEFORE HE WAS CAUGHT! AND HE CHAIRS THE COMMITTEE THAT WRITES THE TAX CODE! But then again, TRUTH rarely fits on a bumper sticker, so go with a one-liner lie, right?

Comment by Jim Clings To GodnGuns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:29 pm
Republicans select two average Americans to run for office, a military officer and housewife. Democrats picked two lawyers….

Tells you everything you need to know really.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 4:30 pm
Hey any american who is eligible to run can run. Good for Joe maybe you will learn something in the process, like how to balance a budget, pay for services, raise revenue, and cut taxes at the same time. It is not easy. I have watched you and Barack Obama on youtube. You asked him a question about his tax policy and its impact on small businesses. He talked to you very politely and respectfully explained to you how his plan was to actually to cut your taxes. Not sure why you are a celebrity all of a sudden on fox and amongst the right wing. Seems you lied about being a plumber and owning a business. Obama was polite and respectful and actually plans to make government work for people like you. Not sure what it is you and Fox News think you represent. I think you should run, but I find it hard to believe you would win the nomination by the democratic or republican party. You would have to actually work 10 or 12 hours a day and have ideas, and be able to communicate those ideas to potential voters.

Hi My name is Joe and I am plumber. Well I'm not actually a plumber, I just say I am. Oh also I hate the government because of taxes. I think the government should make everything free and hand out money to people like me who say we work hard, but don't really work. Did I mention I hate socialism. Oh what I just describe is socialism? Well I don't really know what socialism is. I just hate them. you know, those people, the socialists, the main stream media. them those people. Vote for me Joe the make believe plumber for Congress.

Comment by Lindel — October 24, 2008 @ 4:31 pm
Perfect Slade, I agree. It's time the citizens took our country back. I just can't stand being afraid to wake up the day after election and no longer thave the freedom to speak or think the way I want to. This is not why this country was founded.

Comment by Dave — October 24, 2008 @ 4:33 pm
Fighter Pilot - I refer you to line 14 - Check out the website - get back to me.

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 4:35 pm
That's what I like especially about Sara Palin. She's "me"-plain talking, got good common sense and is trustworthy. I believe her. I also feel the same way about Joe. I wish I lived in his state so I could help him. I would prefer those two down to earth folks than most of the folks in Congress who are there for an ego power trip.

We need more folks like them in Congress. And there's been plenty of crooks in Congress writing bad checks.

We need more folks in Congress like the Sara's and the Joe's and take OUR POWER, the People's Power back!

Comment by Expert1 — October 24, 2008 @ 4:36 pm
"So, when's 'Joe the Plumber's' 15 minutes of fame going to be up?"

Probably when Charlie Rangle and Refridgerator Man stand trail.

Comment by Nobama — October 24, 2008 @ 4:37 pm
Just another indication of how far the Republican Party has fallen due to catering to their social conservative minority. Instead of picking candidates based on qualifications, they continue to "dumb down". Put the bible thumpers in their place now or you will continue to lose the votes of moderates and independants, and therefore, lose elections.

Comment by Aston — October 24, 2008 @ 4:37 pm
Do we really need another waste of resources. I'm sick and tired of this hogwash that any ordinary Joe is qualified to run for office. I mean if you required open heart surgery, would you be OK with Joe the plumber performing it? Heck, I'm not even sure I'd trust him to fix a leaky faucet since he's not even a licensed plumber anyway! Comments welcome: http://whenelephantsfly.blogspot.com

Comment by When Elephants Fly — October 24, 2008 @ 4:38 pm
joe the plumber that wants to buy a business that "makes" over 250K a year became joe the "not" plumber who wants to buy out his partner in a business that grosses 100K a year. How bizarre.

Comment by alan — October 24, 2008 @ 4:39 pm
He can't be any worse than that tax cheat and air head Al Franken.

Comment by Joe-not-a-plumber — October 24, 2008 @ 4:40 pm
Has anyone even brought up the fact that economist dis-agree with Obama's plan. Just like they dis-agree'd with Carters Tax Plan. From everything I have read it is going to put America deeper into recession and longer to get out.

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 4:40 pm
Godd idea. Congress has made this mess we are in, and they also make it so an incumbent has an unfair advantage. Not only that, They get to vote on whether or not to put limits on the ballot!
We need new people, and Joe has already had all of his dirty laundry exposed. Go Joe!

Comment by jay — October 24, 2008 @ 4:41 pm
We have Pam Anderson, Maddona, the guy from the Bourne Identity, Opy, Richie Cunnigham, and the rest of the looney Hollywood, expressing their opinions in public, and they have no clue what they are talking about.

You have Al Franken running for office.

I rather have Joe the Plumber for Congress any day of the week. His statements are a lot more intelligent and coherent than Biden's and Matt Damon's.

Plus, he really understand the effect of taxes on the economy, while most left leaning politicians could benefit from an Economics class.

Comment by Joe — October 24, 2008 @ 4:41 pm
Plumber Joe admitted last Sunday on Fox News' Huckabee Show that his parents are on Social Security and from time-to-time during his life his parents were on welfare. For someone who decries paying taxes, seems like he and his family benefited from others paying their taxes!

Comment by JJ — October 24, 2008 @ 4:42 pm
Whenelephants fly, so your saying Obama is qualified are you nuts, the guy voted present how many times while serving as a state senator in IL where I live, because he couldn't take a position. As President my friend you have to take a position.

Comment by Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 4:42 pm
You can bet that Joe the Plumber wouldn't hang out with terrorists, wouldn't get his house financed through Rezko who is on his way to the penintentiary, wouldn't go to a racist church, wouldn't finance an organization that deals in voter registration fraud, wouldn't spend millions to erect Greek columns for his acceptance speech, wouldn't want to be called The Messiah, and he certainly wouldn't want a Socialist society in America!

Joe gets my vote!

Comment by Chippy — October 24, 2008 @ 4:45 pm
Ashton:

I did not know that being a Marxist who pals around with unrepentant terrorists and racist preachers (and swindling slumlords and ex-CEOS!) who worked for an organization that bribed homeless people with money and smokes to vote for their candidates were qualifications for anything other than a prison cell. Then again, I'm talking about life in the SANE part of the universe, not the craziness we are seeing now on your side of the aisle

Comment by Jim Clings To GodnGuns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:46 pm
line 218 ChuckarCory - Answer Republicans Respect the Honesty of everyday people and Democrats kiss up to trial lawyers - Is that what you are saying - or is it because Lawyers are of the elite in the world and should be worshiped as the messiah and his Faithfull sidekick Pope footinmouth Biden

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 4:47 pm
Joe is more qualified than Obama.

Comment by wrd — October 24, 2008 @ 4:47 pm
He lied. The guy confronts Obama as a $250K potential business owner, even though his '06 return shows $40K/yr. Yet somehow, we're fine with liars representing the common man … and running for Congress. Jesus wept…

Comment by Knute — October 24, 2008 @ 4:48 pm
Hey Maw! That there man on the TV screen wants to run for the law house! Any man on TV is good with me! He speaks American and will try to elect Jesus president!

Comment by KC — October 24, 2008 @ 4:50 pm
Re: 234

I'm Jim Clings to GodnGuns, and I disapprove of my grammar in the abovereferenced post. Sorry all!

Comment by Jim Clings To GodnGuns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:50 pm
You Go Joe…………

Comment by Dennis — October 24, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
And how many days was Obama my senator before he started running for President, Sentate was in session 143 days of experience.

Comment by Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 4:52 pm
THIS RIGHT HERE IS WHAT IS WRONG WITH OUR COUNTY. A BUNCH OF VAIN PEOPLE ARGUING OVER NOTHING. INSTEAD OF WASTING YOUR TIME COMPLAINING AND THINKING OF WITTY ATTACKS ON YOUR OPPOSING PARTY HOW ABOUT WE USE OUR MINDS TO BUILD OUR NATION BACK UP. I HOPE YOU REALIZE THAT WITH EVERY NEGATIVE COMMENT YOU MAKE WITHOUT OFFERING A SOLUTION YOUR SET BACK OUR GREAT NATION. WAKE UP PEOPLE. WE!!! MADE THIS COUNTRY GREAT.

Comment by RYAN VDB — October 24, 2008 @ 4:54 pm
Ryan–I don't remember the great leaders of our country hanging around with terrorists and people with radical views.

Comment by Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 4:56 pm
A guy asks a presidential candidate a question and all of a sudden he's qualified to run for public office? For all of you people comparing Sam the Plumber (because Samuel Wurzelbacher is his REAL name) to Obama, try comparing him to Marcy Kaptur first. And when you compare, don't just reiterate talking points that are sound bites without much research. There are too many people in the country now that take talking points or pundits at their word instead of thinking for themselves, reading the information by themselves etc. Such laziness exemplifies why many people believe SAM the plumber is qualified. Not because you know so, but because you FEEL so. Don't know in your heart, know by using your mind

Comment by The Real America — October 24, 2008 @ 4:58 pm
Re 242. Ryan:

We can't do that until people finally wake up to the fact that Obama is 2008's own "Manchurian Candidate", a puppet guided by anti-American forces to bring about the final destruction of the American Dream. My grampa moved here from Poland in 1911. He watched from afar as socialists and then communists raped his motherland, and I'll be damned if his descendants have to endure the same HERE and I don't do my part to stop it!

Comment by Jim Clings To GodnGuns — October 24, 2008 @ 4:59 pm
In response to "Truth First". Fairness is not taking from those who have means, and giving it to those who do not. Fairness is what we all have when we are born, and go to school. We all have EQUAL opportunity to work hard in school, overcome our struggles, and succeed. So, because the wealthy have worked hard and succeeded, you are going to take their money and give it to the poor who have not worked hard? REDICULOUS. Obama is as much a capatalist as he is an American. Go rule China or Russia where you can have your will with the people, and you can silence the opposition media, much like you have already begun to do.

Comment by EB — October 24, 2008 @ 5:01 pm
My name is Brent. I don't have a job or much anything else to do so I exude my passions and spend my time reading comments on blogs and responding. I'm an American who is patriotic. Not an American who hates America like all you Obama lovers. all of you Obama lovers are terrorists because you won't vote for a soldier. All of you Obama voters are anti-American because Obama doesnt wear enough flag pins

Comment by The Real Brent — October 24, 2008 @ 5:01 pm
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur's supporters welcome Joe to be the next sacrificial lamb. But I wonder who is going to pay his bills while he takes a break from being an un-licensed plumber to run. No shenanigans now, Ohio GOP… remember how well that played out for Bush Ranger Tom Noe? He just started serving his 18 year sentence in the pokey.

Comment by Frank Booth — October 24, 2008 @ 5:02 pm
Why "Spreading the Wealth" is such a BAD word?

What government does with your tax dollars? Doesn't Government Spread our welth around?
God Loving Republicans seems so Stone Hearted they do not want to share their wealth with their unfortunate countrymen.
What would you do with John who worked hard for 20 years as a dish washer and gets sick mentally unable to work. He becomes homeless and does not have and could not afford health insurance? You do not want government to help him because it will be Spreading Wealth. You want Joe Likes to keep acccumulating millions upon millions and John likes to die as homeless.
Its a Stone Heart cut throat society that the Republicans want to create.

Comment by Sam Of NJ — October 24, 2008 @ 5:02 pm
Truth First, you are a very disturbed individual. Do you actually believe that garbage? You are a mindless robot operating on blind belief with no basis in reality at all. If Obama gets elected, the world will not change overnight and not four years later. Wait and see. You are an absolute fool. It's too bad Obama's abortion policies didn't apply to you.

Comment by Christian — October 24, 2008 @ 5:02 pm
Jim Clings to GodnGuns, if you actually believe that Obama is going to take down the American Dream, you need to stop cooking the Crystal Meth. Oh wait, your a descendant of Poland. That makes sense now. How's that factory of screen doors for submarines working out?

Comment by JimclingstoMadness — October 24, 2008 @ 5:03 pm
TO DOC CHUCK:

there you go, I could not get into University of Texas….I did't have a buckle big enought!

Comment by Richard — October 24, 2008 @ 5:05 pm
Doc that would be a belt buckle..

Comment by Richard — October 24, 2008 @ 5:05 pm
Truth First, did you just copy that from the communist propaganda sheet? Or do you think if you just keep telling yourself that over and over that it'll come true.

Intellectuals are a dime a dozen — talking heads are a gross to the penny — but show me someone on the left with actual wisdom who holds office any more. The one who at least had some you guys THREW OUT OF THE PARTY (I speak of Lieberman of course).

We don't need "intelligent" leaders, you can buy, rent, or lease intelligent advice. We need someone with some bloody wisdom to use that intelligent advice. Obama is the manifest king of double-speak, and his Orwellian overtones (and the -direct- Orwellian speech from Pelosi, Reed, Frank, etc) are plain as day.

STOP THE NEWSPEAK. I feel like I'm watching the National Socialists (at least they had the courage to call themselves what they were, not 'democrats' to try to pretend) in the 20s/30s. Socialism DOESN'T WORK to produce a vibrant economy and is the gun to the head of the American Dream — you know, the American Dream that we all have the opportunity to achieve? The one that you work for? (you DO know what working for something is, right?)

Considering Frank is saying the democrats want to GUT the military keeping us safe and spend TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS OF NEW DEBT on top of the farce that is the 'bailout' the DEMOCRATS rammed through and DEMOCRATS created the 'need' for with their forced social engineering via Fanny and Freddy (the facts are easy to find) and then to create a "Ministry of Peace" (well, 'Department' but what's the difference? We already have a state department in the first place)… Don't even stop at renaming yourself the Socialist Party or the Marxist Party and just cut to the chase and rename yourselves the Suicide Party and be honest, for once.

Comment by V — October 24, 2008 @ 5:05 pm
Knute:

Liars run for congress, and President, all the time.

–I pledge to accept only Public Financing for my campaign
–Even though I attended Rev. Wrights church for 20 years I never heard the hateful rhetoric
–I hardly even know Bill Ayers
–I want all the votes to count! (then demanded the delegates determine who won Michigan and Florida)
–I don't take PAC money
–I don't have lobbyists (he has 47 of them currently)
–My name is Swahili (can't believe ANYONE would believe this whopper)
–I don't want to ban anyone from owning a firearm (just the ammo or reloading componants to use the firearm)
–Selma got me born! (The Messiah was born in 1961, Selma happened in 1965)
–I'm fluent in Indonesian (teachers from back in the day would really disagree with this one)

The list goes on and on and on….but that should be enough to stop someone so concerned about a candidates honesty to keep them for voting for Obama.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 5:06 pm
40K. thats funny. Joe the plumber isnt even joe the plumber. The one that the Mccain group is talking about doesnt exist.

They fail to mention that the tax increase proposed for those making over 250k is only 3 percent more than now. 39% as compared to 36%. Is that really so much that you have to scare us little guys with being laid off so you can pay that extra? It works out as being 22,500 more in taxes for a milliionaire. Remember, this is taxable income also after all the deductions.

Ridiculous….

Comment by Rick — October 24, 2008 @ 5:06 pm
The Ivy League lawyers have made a mess in Congress, I'll take someone with common sense anyday and someone less likely to become corrupt.

The well educated can still be idiots, just look at well, the Dems in Congress (Pelosi, Reed, Dodd, Frank) Speaking of taxes, how about ya Charlie Rangel.

Ahh, the Libs, those that are supposedly so tolerant of others.

Comment by Amy — October 24, 2008 @ 5:08 pm
Jim,

Sorry, I'm not a "liberal". I go to church, I own guns, I was honorably discharged from the military. I'm a Republican who just wants his party back. Social conservatives are not "the core" of the Republican Party. They are the loud mouthed little brats screaming for mommy or daddy to buy them some candy in the grocery store. They need to be put in their place quickly or we will have an out of control teenager on our hands. I just want my party back, you know, the one who used to reward people for their hard work. The one who used to tell people to stand up straight and take pride in themselves instead of waiting for someone else to support them. That's not today's Republican Party, and because of that, once angain I am being forced to vote Democrat.

Comment by Aston — October 24, 2008 @ 5:08 pm
Sam of NJ.

Stone Hearted. Conservatives have no problem giving money to help those with mental disabilities. They obviously can't help themselves. We want the right to choose who we give our money to, so that we can give it JUST to those who need it, like those with disabilities, not lethargic people who COULD get a job, but would rather sit on their couch and collect wellfair because it's easier.

Comment by EB — October 24, 2008 @ 5:09 pm
We've "enjoyed" years of a Congress largely filled with attorneys, and party wonks … look what a terrific job they[ve done!

Why NOT have "average" people serve in Congress? They can't do a worse job than the useless bunch of professional politicians we have in there, now!

With respect to qualifications, Obama has soaring rhetoric and a (largely unused) law degree. Other than that, he's far less qualified than any Presidential candidate in history! How ironic you so gleefully trash an adverage guy with common sense, while singing the praises of an overeducated, under-achieving Chicago politician!

Comment by Mike — October 24, 2008 @ 5:12 pm
Joe, you're a cliche and the 15 minutes are almost up. Feel free to run but most of us know this is the truth.

Comment by John — October 24, 2008 @ 5:13 pm
Hey # 248, spreading the wealth…..Republicans are generally more generous with their money than Libs when it comes to contributions. Repubs like to decide what to do with their money instead of allowing gov't to decide. Libs like to spend other people's money. Just look at Joe Biden's less than 1% of his income to charity, sometime less than 0.2%. The typical American gives about 3% of their income to charity….how much do you give

Comment by Amy — October 24, 2008 @ 5:14 pm
ALL HAIL THE GREAT LEADER!! are we really ready to say that? Honestly, I want one liberal to look me in the eye and tell me that Barack Obama isn't a marxist 100% through and through. Let's spread the wealth around. Let's institute the "Fairness Doctrine" and silence the opposition media. Let's start kids programs from the age of 4, so that we can start indoctrinating them in what being American is truly about. (not what those crazy republicans think it is). Golly, how crazy is the idea that someone should work hard and be rewarded for it. Let's reward the lazy and the poor for not working. Good for them! look kids, daddy gets a paycheck for sitting around on the couch, while you were in school!

Comment by Joe — October 24, 2008 @ 5:17 pm
Interesting how so many posters refer to Joe as an idiot. Just remember who you will be calling next time your drain floods your bathroom and ruins your ceiling. You know, that's the great thing about being self employed. When that call comes, I can go or not. You, on the other hand, still have a room full of water.

Comment by billy — October 24, 2008 @ 5:18 pm
Sam of NJ

I'll spell it our for you, and will even be nice about it.

We conservatives (I don't consider myself a Republican) don't believe in demanding more from the citizens then the citizen himself is allowed to take home.

Conservatives believe that the right man for the job should be selected based on his abilities, not on skin color quota systems.

Conservatives believe that sex, god, and morals should be taught at home, not by some nanny state teacher.

Conservatives believe that the vast amount of wealthy individuals in this country got there because of their own hard work, not because of luck.

Conservatives believe that a life is precious and a gift. We also believe that actions have consequences.

Conservatives believe that a robust foreign policy projection on the part of the US adds stability to the world, not weakens it.

True conservatives believe the Government has become too large and unwieldy, basically existing now to feed itself.

Can you wrap your head around these ideals? They are pretty simple and straight forward.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 5:19 pm
Sam,
I forgot to mention that Conservatives believe that charity should be of ones own choosing, not forced by the state.

Comment by ChukarCory — October 24, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
I am convinced that #14 Truth First wouldn't know the truth if it jumped up and bit them in the rear end. By the way I think that is where the liberals brains are located. Why they are not scared to death of Barack Obama is hard to understand. This man will take this country down and the liberals just don't care. Something is terribly wrong with this picture!

Comment by Conservtive Lady — October 24, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
Joe The Plumber For President!
Sarah The Hockeymom For V.P.!
Joe SixPack For Defense Secretary!

You ever hear that expression "Everyone has to get out and vote"? PLEASE, not EVERYONE okay?

How about just those that can tell the difference between slogans and policies.

Comment by Christopher — October 24, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
Joe,

Don't let your fifteen minutes of fame go to your head. You should focus on paying your taxes and getting your plumbing license. The last thing we need is another incompetent blowhard in Congress.

Comment by Matt — October 24, 2008 @ 5:27 pm
Joe's real "crime" was to ask a pointed question to the "One" … which put him on the spot. Barry's answer highlighted his socialist leanings. Rather than face that reality (that the "One" is not perfect), you guys attack the guy who asked the question?

What nonsense! If your "One" can't handle a question from a voter, how do you expect him to deal effectively with international (or even internal) adversaries? (Oh, that's right … we're just going to sit and sing "cum by yah" and they'll all become our FIRENDS!)

Obama has no bi-partisian record (other than asking for votes from all parties), very little experience in government, a lifetime of associations that call his judgement into question, and a clarion call of (undefined) "change." He IS a brilliant orator (perhaps learned from listening to the enthralling sermons by Rev. Wright?) With his past associations, Obama couldn't even get a security clearance for a White House job … and you want him as President?

I'm also amazed at Democrats' criticism of Palin's qualifications. The VP candidate on the Republican side has more executive experience (and more total experience in government) than the TOP of the Democratic ticket. (And the Democratic VP candidate is a gaff-a-minute clown, who's never held to account for his "mis-statements.) Even at that, "Joe the Senator" warned that Obama's not ready (in the primaries, and again last week.)

At the end of the day, you're throwing your unqualified support behind a Presidential candidate who is wholly unqualified, and in the enxt breath criticizing a potential Congressional candidate as unqualified? (I'll never understand Democratic "logic!")

Comment by Mike — October 24, 2008 @ 5:27 pm
Qualifications?! The founders of our country and its Constitution never intended people to be in Congress for life like Biden has. They expected that ordinary people like plumbers, farmers, clerks and so on would serve for a short time and then go back home to their real lives. The problem in Washington is that they are living in a parallel reality with us paying their bills. Send them ALL home before their foolishness causes our country to tank! The only qualifications needed are love and loyalty for the United States of America under God.

Comment by stesse — October 24, 2008 @ 5:28 pm
Stand with Barack and this is what you'll get!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEYu8q71FaM

Comment by The Shadow — October 24, 2008 @ 5:36 pm
He's just as qualified to run for congress as Nobama is to run for president. Even MORE. He's a U.S. citizen. There is a lawsuit in Federal Court as we all read this that contends that Nobama is NOT a U.S. citizen. The mainstream media won't touch it but it's there. Nobama has yet to produce a Birth Certificate. He's produced only a Certificate of Live Birth which you can't even use to register a kid into little league!

Comment by Tony the Salesman — October 24, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
Our Constitution says it all,

Article II, Section 1

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States.

That's all of us who meet these criteria. Most of us qualify… but still have questions about Barry Satoro who has been groomed prepped as the "total package".

Comment by kas — October 24, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
This idea of someone who is not only basically dishonest, but also living in a fantasyland that no real small businessman can afford, becoming a laughingstock candidate for some sort of public office typifies exactly what the Republicans now stand for. It is a walking reason why, even though I make >$250k/year, I would no more consider voting republican than drinking stale sewer water.
Your party has become this. It has abandoned any 'conservative' principles it once had, and, as a proud parent, homeowner, and sucessful professional, I take some pride in saying I loathe everything they stand for.

Have a great day

Comment by MichiganChet — October 24, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
LOL Amusing, Vote lack of freedom, higher taxes, bankrupt economy, and plenty of fines and fees if you don't agree once you've found out what YOU did to this country by voting Obama. so, Do it, Vote him in, I cannot wait to see the train wreck!

Comment by LOVERAGS — October 24, 2008 @ 5:42 pm
Well Loverags, I'd agree with that except Nobama will screw this country up for FORTY years not four when he stacks the Supreme Court with more left wing whacko activist judges like Ginsburg.

Comment by Tony the Salesman — October 24, 2008 @ 5:45 pm
Its really unbelievable how hateful lefties are. Speaking so spitefully and ignorantly about a hard-working man who has been thrust onto the national stage by no doing of his own. Our forefathers never meant for American government to be what it is today. They never imagined "professional" polititians would run this country. For those of you who berate Joe for his lack of education should study history. You all talk about how Obama knows what this country needs. Everything he stands for goes against the fundamental principals of our founding fathers. To all who hate the American way of life, you are the minority. Middle America, the good people who understand the hopelesness of large socialistic government, will not allow such a misguided person as Obama to de-rail the hopes and dreams of the majority in this, the greatest nation that ever has been or ever will be.

Comment by JTG — October 24, 2008 @ 5:47 pm
Run Joe Run!!!

Comment by Random — October 24, 2008 @ 5:48 pm
Sorry, I forgot to add 'as a proud veteran of the Iraq war and 14 years of service in our great U.S army' - I take EVEN MORE pride in stating I loathe everything the Republican party currently stands for.

You all have an even more blessed day

Comment by MichiganChet — October 24, 2008 @ 5:49 pm
politicians, not polititians

Comment by JTG — October 24, 2008 @ 5:49 pm
So a guy who is a fake plumber and owes back taxes wants to be a politician? Hey, why not the rest of them are just as pathetic. The only thing he truly is, is a McCain plant.

Comment by Thadd — October 24, 2008 @ 5:50 pm
In order for Blobama to realize his dream, he must first hijack those of all Americans who beleive in freedom and their own right to life, liberty and the persuit of happiness without the goverment standing in their way and stealing what they earn.

Comment by Tony the Salesman — October 24, 2008 @ 5:51 pm
I HOPE HE RUNS, GOD BLESS JOE, HE IS TRUTHFUL HAS COMMON SENSE AND PROBABLY HAS MORE INTELLIGENCE IN HIS LITTLE FINGER THAN MOST POLITICIANS. MOST SO CALLED INTELLECTUALS, MAY HAVE THE DEGREES, BUT VERY LITTLE COMMMON SENSE. HOW CAN AMERICANS, VOTE A PERSON WHO HAS NO EXPERIENCE ESPECIALLY EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE AT LEAST PALIN HAS MORE EXECUTIVE EXPERIENCE THAN ALL 3 SENATORS. MY GOD, PEOPLE ARE YOU BLIND AND DEAF, WHY ARE SO MANY DEMWITS, SO AFRAID OF PALIN, SHE IS AT LEAST HONEST, PRAGMATIC, AND FRUGAL. JUST WHAT WE NEED AS A VP. SHE WILL BE A GREAT HELPER TO MCCAIN. (WHEN OBAMAMMA SAYS GROW THE ECONOMY FROM THE BOTTOM UP) IS A CODE WORD FOR, FROM THE PEOPLE THE WORKERS THE SOCIALISTS AND THEN GROW TO BE COMMUNISTS, THEN TAKE OVER THE GOVERNMENT. THE REASON HOLLYWOOD GARBAGE IS ALL FOR OBAMA, IS VERY OBVIOUS, THEY DEPEND ON THE PEOPLE TO CONTINUE TO GO TO THE MOVIES, AND CONCERTS, CAN YOU IMAGINE IF THEY CANNOT HAVE THE MONEY TO SPEND ON HOLLYWOOD, ENTERTAINERS WHO EARN MILLIONS OF DOLLARS WOULD BE IN DIRE STRAITS, IF THOSE PEOPLE DID NOT HAVE MONEY TO SPEND ON ENTERTAINMENT. AND THOSE ON WELFARE SPEND A LOT ON ENTERTAINMENT, HELLO. NOW YOU KNOW WHY CORNEY OBIE,THE FONZ MADE THAT STUPID BACKWARDS AD FOR OBAMA, THEY ARE SPOOFING THE BACKWARD, SMALL TOWN, PEOPLE, WHO CLING TO THEIR BIBLES AND GUNS." I LOVE MY BIBLE AND RESPECT MY GUN. AND I LOVE MY SMALL TOWN. THEY CAN GO TO H, MCCAIN/PALIN DOES NOT MAKE FUN OF SMALL TOWN PEOPLE.

Comment by CMHinsley — October 24, 2008 @ 5:51 pm
YES WE CAN!!

YES WE CAN !!

Comment by Thadd — October 24, 2008 @ 5:51 pm
Thadd,

Please explain how Joe could be a McCain "plant" when it was Obama who walked into Joe's driveway?

Face it, your "One" choked on an honest question from an average voter … and you still believe he's capable of being an effective President?

Do you wear a tin-foil hat, or what?

Comment by Mike — October 24, 2008 @ 5:53 pm
"joe the plumber" strikes me as being mildly retarded.

Comment by Jimmy Wilson — October 24, 2008 @ 5:53 pm
Democrat: Obama's grandma confirms Kenyan birth

The Pennsylvania Democrat who has sued Sen. Barack Obama demanding he prove his American citizenship � and therefore qualification to run for president � has confirmed he has a recording of a telephone call from the senator's paternal grandmother confirming his birth in Kenya.

The issue of Obama's birthplace, which he states is Honolulu in 1961, has been raised enough times that his campaign website has posted an image purporting to be of his "Certification of Live Birth" from Hawaii.

But Philip J. Berg, a former deputy attorney general for Pennsylvania, told the Michael Savage talk radio program tonight that the document is forged and that he has a tape recording he will soon release.

"This has been a real sham he's pulled off for the last 20 months," Berg told Savage. "I'll release it [the tape] in a day or two, affidavits from her talking to a certain person. I heard the tape. She was speaking [to someone] here in the United States."

He said the telephone call was from Obama's paternal grandmother affirming she "was in the delivery room in Kenya when he was born Aug. 4, 1961."

Berg said he's pursuing the issue because of "the most important document in the United States," the U.S. Constitution.

"Nothing is more important than enforcing the Constitution," he said. "The Constitution's provisions are very small for qualifying for president. One, be over 35, and he is. Two, be in the country 14 years, and he has been. Three, be a natural-born citizen. He is not."

Obama campaign officials acknowledged the dispute by posting the image purporting to be a copy of his certification of live birth earlier this year. But they've declined to return WND requests for comment on the issues.

WND reported earlier this week Berg's claim that Obama has legally "admitted" the accusations included in his lawsuit, including that he was born in Mombosa, Kenya, by not responding to the allegations.

Berg filed suit in U.S. District Court in August alleging Obama is not a natural-born citizen and is thus ineligible to serve as president of the United States.

His lawsuit is demanding that the courts verify Obama's original birth certificate.

Berg has cited Rule 36 of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, which states that unless the accused party provides written answer or objection to charges within 30 days, the accused legally admits the matter.

Since Obama filed only motions to dismiss the case and did not actually answer the claims, according to Rule 36, Obama has legally admitted he is not a natural-born citizen., asserted Berg, who has taken his information public through his website.

Berg addressed the existence of a birth announcement in the Honolulu Advertiser newspaper, featured on the Atlasshrugs2000 website, that suggests Obama was born in the city Aug. 4, 1961.

But Berg explained to Savage he believes Obama's mother was near the end of her pregnancy and unable to travel by plane, so Obama was born in Kenya. The family then traveled to Hawaii and registered the birth and submitted the newspaper announcement.
Besides Berg's lawsuit, several other court challenges also have been filed, including one in Washington state where petitioners are seeking to have the Washington secretary of state "verify Obama's eligibility" to serve prior to the election.

The claim states, "The 'certificate' that Mr. Obama has posted on his official Website is a 'Certification of Live Birth,' and not a 'Birth Certificate' from Hawaii. There is no indication on even this certificate as to specifically where the birth took place."
Berg also told Savage there is no information available on which hospital Obama's mother used in Hawaii.

The Washington state case also alleges, "Wayne Madsen, Journalist with Online Journal as a contributing writer and published an article on June 9, 2008, stating that a research team went to Mombassa, Kenya, and located a Certificate Registering the birth of Barack Obama, Jr. at a Kenya Maternity Hospital, to his father, a Kenyan citizen and his mother, a U.S. citizen.
When Jerome Corsi, senior WND investigator reporter, recently traveled to Kenya to investigate several questions about the candidate, he was told the records were sealed and would not be made available.

Though it hasn't given Berg the evidence he seeks, the Obama campaign has publicly answered allegations that the candidate was born in Kenya and faked his Hawaii birth certificate.

"Smears claiming Barack Obama doesn't have a birth certificate aren't actually about that piece of paper," says the "Fight the Smears" section of Obama's website, "they're about manipulating people into thinking Barack is not an American citizen.

"The truth is, Barack Obama was born in the state of Hawaii in 1961, a native citizen of the United States of America," the campaign website states. It also includes images of the Hawaii certificate bearing the name Barack Hussein Obama II.

The Washington claim states, "If in fact Obama was born in Kenya, the laws on the books in the United States at the time of his birth stated if a child is born abroad and one parent was a U.S. Citizen, which would have been his mother, Stanley Ann Dunham, Obama's mother would have had to live ten (10) years in the United States, five (5) of which were after the age of fourteen (14). At the time of Obama's birth, his mother was only eighteen (18) and therefore did not meet the residency requirements under the law to give her son (Obama) U.S. Citizenship much less the status of 'natural born.'"

Berg said he believed it also was a complication that Obama's mother divorced his father, married and moved to Indonesia for several years and Obama attended school there at a time when, Berg said, only Indonesia citizens were allowed in schools. Records that are available from Indonesia revealed Obama was registered in school as Barry Soetoro, and his religion was listed as Islam.

When Obama later returned to Hawaii, within the United States, there should have been a government document affirming his citizenship, but that also cannot be found. If that was not processed properly, Berg said, Obama would be in a situation even worse than not being a natural-born citizen.

"[b]If he didn't go through immigration, he now is illegal and has been an illegal alien. He couldn't even hold the position of senator for Illinois," Berg said.Further, Berg said he suspected Obama's college records may indicate he received aid as a foreigner, and that's why those records have been withheld by the campaign[/b].

"I really think it's because it probably indicates he's from Kenya, or Indonesia, or received foreign aid," Berg said.

"I feel very confident saying these things," Berg told Savage

Comment by what if — October 24, 2008 @ 5:54 pm
Michigan Chet, please explain what you think the Republican party stands for now and what you think it USED to stand for.

Thank you for your service to this country. I also am a vet.

Comment by Tony the Salesman — October 24, 2008 @ 5:54 pm
If he plans to run in Lucas County, OH, he's just as clueless on this idea as he is on everything else.;-)

Comment by iconclast — October 24, 2008 @ 5:56 pm
DEMOC-RATS ARE FING IDIOTS….forget getting along…lets start SHOOTING. Somehow we've got to get rid of these rats. I'm praying for a civil war, thats not so civil.

Comment by PETE ROCK, HOUSTON TEXAS — October 24, 2008 @ 6:00 pm
Geez. For 14 years, I have always thought that when democrats lost power, they lost their minds. Now, reading these comments, I see that they are just basically hateful and miserable people.

The whole idea of this countries founding was regular people go to Washington to represent their constituents. If this wasn't true, you wouldn't have 1/2 of those in office.

I bet you don't mind Cindy Sheehan running. What about the Iraqi vet who returned and ran?

Oh, I see. It's only ok for me and not for thee.

It's (obviously) not rocket science. Look whose in Congress. You go and represent your constituents (supposedly). It's certainly easier than the job I do currently.

And the democrats wonder why regular Americans think they are Un-American? Wonder no more!

Comment by Karenina — October 24, 2008 @ 6:02 pm
Tony the salesman

I thought the Republican party used to stand for small but efficient government, the right of people to be left 'secure in their persons, papers and effects' (a poor but reasonable paraphrase of the fourth amendment), financial responsibility (not running up huge deficits) and honest and intellectually robust opposition to such totalitarian forms of government as communism. Today I find the party has abandoned the idea of small and certainly honest government; they have given free reign to religious 'conservatives' who would take away fundamental liberties we posess, and have abetted highly intrusive forays into our privacy in the name of some amorphous 'war' on terrorism (pardon me, I've seen real war; it aint pretty - and I am NOT enchanted by the fact that some of my phone calls from the middle east or Colombia to my wife may have been snooped on and listened to for some beurocratic bug's amusement); furthermore they have abandoned any attempt to intellectually defend principles of free trade (can anyone say 'steel tariffs'?) and I am sorry, but seem unashamed to fob off blatently underqualified individuals in positions of real leadership.
I could go on. . .but you get my drift. I will just add that in my opinion as a citizen, vet, and frankly a parent, the GOP needs a massive TIME OUT (like my daughter, when she acts up and throws tantrums) to sit on a collective naughty chair and actually think about what it means to be a Republican and a conservative (with a small 'c') and not some feeble imitation of a lunatic fringe.
I appreciate the thanks and I cordially return thanks of my own for your service to this country, which I love proudly.

Comment by MichiganChet — October 24, 2008 @ 6:07 pm
He has as much gravitas as Al Franken.

Comment by DF — October 24, 2008 @ 6:07 pm
OH MY GOD I HOPE AND PRAY THAT HE WAS BORN, IN KENYA, MY GOODNESS, AMEN AMEN AMEN IF IT WERE TRUE. PLEASE, NO WONDER HE IS BEGGING PEOPLE, TO VOTE EARLY…. BEFORE SOMETHING ELSE HAPPENS. I WONDER IF THAT IS THE REAL REASON HE IS IN HAWAII RIGHT NOW. HE IS SUCH A LIAR, I CANNOT BELIEVE HIM, INFACT HE LOVES HERE SAY. I HOPE THIS IS TRUE.

Comment by CMHinsley — October 24, 2008 @ 6:08 pm
His problem is that Marcie is the better man, if you know what I mean.

Comment by ck — October 24, 2008 @ 6:08 pm
The last time we had some "plumbers" in the Republican party, it didn't work out very well.

Joe is not a plumber even though he says he is and didn't pay some of his taxes because he just didn't know about them?? The last time we heard that excuse was from socialist Charley Rangel. Yep sounds like ole Joe is ready for Washington.

This is a very bad time for the republic. We have a choice of either socialism via democrats or semi-socialism via a rudderless republican party. Time to find a new party… I'm outta here!

Comment by David in Texas — October 24, 2008 @ 6:08 pm
Too bad he's an unlicensed worker; if he was an undocumented worker he'd be just fine in the mind of Democrats and Lindsay Grahamnesty.

Comment by aw — October 24, 2008 @ 6:10 pm
I love all you libs calling him a tax evader.

Look at your own congressmen then talk.

Hello Rangel, Wexler

Comment by Charhlie — October 24, 2008 @ 6:10 pm
OH I FORGOT, OBAMA, HAS A WOMAN, HER NAME IS VERA BAKER, (HERE SAY…) BUT, I WONDER IF HE IS VISITING HER IN HAWAII????? WE SHOULD ASK MICHELLE.

Comment by CMHinsley — October 24, 2008 @ 6:10 pm
Run, Joe, Run!!

Comment by Jack — October 24, 2008 @ 6:15 pm
Go for it Joe, from all I've heard you and Palin scare the hell out these sissies we have in the Congress now and I can tell you, I could use a bit more of that plain common sense talk from the common guy on his way up than I could from these split tongued bunch of goldbrick lawyers that have managed to pilfer votes for services not renedered.

Get the government out of the way and let the American free market fix this mess, put the crooks in jail, all of them.

Comment by ONTIME — October 24, 2008 @ 6:16 pm
To all those who say somebody like Joe W. is not qualified to represent constituents in government: He's more qualified than just about any of the clowns in Congress right now. Representation should be done by one of the average citizens, not a Poli-Sci major who lost touch with the real world a decade ago. The huge gap between Congress and normal citizens IS THE PROBLEM WITH GOVERNMENT.

Comment by Brian — October 24, 2008 @ 6:17 pm
The liberals are just mad because he got Obama to state what he really believes: that spreading the wealth around is a good thing. Joe isn't perfect, but then again, nobody is. Move to Buffalo, NY, and you could run against my congressman, please, Joe? I've had it with the lawyers and those who consider themselves to be "intellectuals" anyhow. Thank you.

Comment by Tess — October 24, 2008 @ 6:18 pm
GO JOE! Lord knows this country needs the skill of a qualified plumber to help drain all the
sh-t that is Washigton DC. I am quite sure our founding fathers did not intend for just about every senator or congressman to have a law degree. All that has gotten us is a bunch of fat cats who look out for themselves and their donors and after being elected, live the good life for a while, then turn into alterboys / girls when it comes time for election. I would vote for Joe if I lived in his district. From what I have heard and seen, he would be a breath of fresh air, a'la Palin.

Comment by Teflon Bill — October 24, 2008 @ 6:22 pm
I would much rather see Laura Ingraham or Larry Elder run for Congress. For radio hosts, they are more knowledgeable, self-assured, and well-spoken on the issues than any actual political candidates in the running OR currently holding office. It's amazing how often I think to myself while listening to their shows that they could serve the American people so much better in public office rather than just talking all day and night about the fools who already hold those offices. Ingraham/Elder 2012!

Comment by Pat — October 24, 2008 @ 6:25 pm
Obama supporter for Sanity!

–Truth First…your manifesto was creepy, to say the least…and your website is simply not sane. You do in fact appear to be quite racist. If you truly want your candidate to win, stop posting immediately, and take down that awful website.

–Moderate Republicans and Moderate Democrats: This is your election. No matter who wins, our country swings back form the scary far-right to the middle of the road, politically. I ferventlyu hope that the Dems learn from Republican mistakes and use their legislative mandate wisely. We witnessed only too well what happened when the Republican party had Congress and the White House. Bad times, indeed. Learn, Dems, learn!

–Far Left whackos: Please shut up. Your hate and pain and anger hurt your cause.

–Far Right whackos: Read above, please.

–Undecided Voters: Just give up. Stop voting, and please don't operate heavy machinery. If you haven't made up your mind by now, you are woefully underinformed probably planning on choosing at random or something. Just stay home, eat fatty food while watching your favorite show, and gripe about whoever wins the election. You know you wanna!

–"Joe" the "Plumber." Congratulations, man. You have your 15 minutes of fame. Use it well! When the media began to dig into your finances and such, I was quite sad for your sake, then as we learned that this is kind of what you had wanted and intended…well…it's really hard not to feel good for you! You go, bud…have fun with this. Good luck, and learn fast!

–Last, but not least: Whover posted that Biden is Quayles revenge…. LOL!!! I'm lmao…. The funniest jokes have a too much truth to ignore.

If you're wondering why a rational, normal business owner like myself would vote for Obama, I gotta tell you: It wasn't easy. I've long respected McCain, and I adore Obama's rhetorical style and story and smarts. I trusted McCain until he shocked us with Sarah Palin, and then my decision got a little easier. Colin Powell said it best, and I cannot pretend to be 1/1000 of the expert on National Security and Policy that he is. People make noise that he is simply voting by race…. Preposterous. If Colin Powell only cared about seeing America with a black President, we would be addressing him as "Former President Powell" today.

Try to be sane, people; it'll make you happier overall.

Comment by Opinion8ed — October 24, 2008 @ 6:26 pm
JUST SAY NO TO THE NORTH AMERICAN UNION!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAs7XZVgKhI

Marcy Kaptur is a true American Hero. If you don't know what I am talking about, then check the youtube link.

An uninformed novice like 'Joe' probably has no idea the amount of work a true Patriot like Marcy Kaptur has done. He is too blinded by the two party system and would not be an effective representative for his constituents.

Comment by John Bidwell — October 24, 2008 @ 6:27 pm
The very moment it was discovered that Joe the Plumber was a complete fabrication– that his name isn't Joe, that he isn't a licensed plumber, that his claim that being a Middle American business owner would destroy him under Obama's policies (the guys makes 42K and hasn't paid his taxes, IS NOT A LICENSED PLUMBER and therefore could NOT buy a plumbing company)–his name should have been forgotten, and honestly, pi$$ed upon instead of mentioning again. John McCain should have been humiliated, angered and bewildered as to why someone would lie to his face and make McCain look like a foold; and Barack Obama should have NEVER even addressed his claims aftewards. And McCain is still talkling about Joe, renaming his FL bus tour after a poor, un-American (he refused to pay his taxes under Bush, the tax break King, so he deserves NO RIGHT to participate in political dialogue if he can't even do the basic job of paying taxes), non-licensed, BS-er is beyond me. Joe the plumber lied to every American, and both presidential candidates, and the media is continuing to pay attention to him, and now he's gonna run for office? Mike Huckabee on foxnews had him on the other day– Huckabee, the Baptist minister, who now thinks it is OK to lie? And we aren't talking about just a white lie… everything this bafoon has uttered has been a total LIE.
Anyone that would lie like this, then go on TV and continue to lie, belongs in a psychiatric hospital, not in congress. Maybe pursuing a career as spokesmane for Hair Club for Men is more up his alley… afterall, he has no concern about lying, so why not fool the world with a full head of factitious hair! Joe is a moron, liar, and fool, and a perfect example of how white trash America continues to support the Republican party even though the Republican party will do nothing but continue to exploit and injure such people. He's a fool… send him to Iraq to show how American he really it, and then sane America might be willing to listen to what he has to say.

Comment by Alex — October 24, 2008 @ 6:29 pm
I agree with Joe.

He was rushed into the limelight.

He should be running if some people agree with his ideas. I do not but we need all people to be represented.

And McCain does not represent Joe neither does Obama.

I feel sorry for Joe being exploited as a campaign. He needs to represent the people that are actually inspired by him not John McCain a privleged elite.

Comment by Jesse — October 24, 2008 @ 6:31 pm
Well Joe, you probably would do a better job than most the scoundrels already there.

From some of the derogatory comments from the left you must be scaring the heck out of them too.

Just imagine it, a real person who has actually worked for a living sitting in Congress. It makes me understand why the shrieks from the left happened so fast.

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 6:36 pm
To Charles the idiot:

"Just imagine it, a real person who has actually worked for a living sitting in Congress. It makes me understand why the shrieks from the left happened so fast."

A REAL person doesn't lie.

Working for a living means taking the steps to be proficient in your work–that means a plumber, a nurse, a mechanic, a lawyer–ALL GET A LICENSE TO WORK UNDER THAT TRADE IN AMERICA!

A REAL American pays their taxes. Anyone who is a real person working for a living has paid their TAXES. Basic, fundamental American duty.

It's quite apparent that Joe isn't a "real" personal at all… he's a 100% fabrication. On that note, he might fit in quite well with so many other liars in Congress…

Comment by Jen — October 24, 2008 @ 6:43 pm
…He probably has about as much experience as Obama…

Comment by Zphilli — October 24, 2008 @ 6:44 pm
Hey, it's a free country…go for it! Can't be any worse than most of what we already have.

Comment by Leigh — October 24, 2008 @ 6:46 pm
Nice to see all the Obama cult members coming out of the woodwork to attack Mr. Wurzelbacher.

And it's Mr. Wurzelbacher's prerogative to run for elective office if he so chooses. Personally, he'd be a darn sight better than Kaptur.

–Mike

Comment by Mike Bratton — October 24, 2008 @ 6:46 pm
He is as much a plumber the same way Ashley Todd made up the story about being attacked in Pittsburgh. No credibility here.

Comment by MIke — October 24, 2008 @ 6:47 pm
Hey Jen……….Ferk U

Obama's half Honkey, all Donkey.

Comment by Charles — October 24, 2008 @ 6:49 pm
Can't wait for the next "Owe My Balls" episode!!

Reading these posts makes me realize that this country is full of mouth breathing dumbasses.

Get back to the dollar store and STFU.

Comment by President Alonzo — October 24, 2008 @ 6:52 pm
Wow, this really scares some people… so what is it about government by the people that is so frightening? I mean, if he wants to run for office, what is the problem??

Comment by bklyn — October 24, 2008 @ 6:53 pm
Read the Truth First and welcome to your future. They think Obama is the "Messiah" How scary is that? Its an elected position. He's not running for God!!
I can't believe Obama has been allowed to get away with this fraudulent campaign. He has no experience, bad judgment and completely misunderstands basic economics. You cannot build the economy from the bottom up!!! Why can't anyone see this?!?!?

I will not call his supporters names because that is not what this process is about. I respect the office and will support whoever is elected and I know if Obama does win that this will be preparing us for a return to true conservatism, much like Jimmy Carter did for Ronald Reagan.
I just hope that what Bloomberg did in New York by extending his terms, "because of the crisis" doesn�t get brought up by the power hungry Liberals, if that happens, its time to lock and load!

Anyone who is slamming Joe the Plumber or Sarah Palin is just suffering from moral envy. You can�t buy common sense at any College and last I checked Professor Ayers isn�t teaching Common Sense 101.

Comment by Junkyard — October 24, 2008 @ 6:55 pm
#14 is another BRAINWASHED Obama-ite. Obama is a CRIMINAL, he must be removed from all positions of power by ANY MEANS NECESSARY!

Comment by Bob — October 24, 2008 @ 6:56 pm
Hey if he can buyout his boss and turn around the business into a $250k net profit winner, Im sure he could run for congress.

Comment by adam russell — October 24, 2008 @ 7:00 pm
Of course, Joe should run for Congress. But why stop there? In 2012, he'll be as qualified to run for president as Obama is now. He's got game on the airwaves just as Obama. All that matters is his ability to speak to the media. His past is irrelevant, the American people don't care whether he cohorts with radical terrorists, anti american preachers… Go Joe!

Comment by Pam — October 24, 2008 @ 7:03 pm
Wurzelbacher isn't a native of Springfield, OH … Springfield Township, yes, but they're nowhere near each other.

Comment by Rink Rat — October 24, 2008 @ 7:06 pm
Um, Joe….you've only have about 30 seconds left of your 15 minutes of fame.

Comment by goodasgold — October 24, 2008 @ 7:07 pm
He's against social security. Thinks it was a bad idea. Are there any senior citizens in Ohio? Good luck with that campaign.

Comment by jim j — October 24, 2008 @ 7:17 pm
Why not? He's just as qualified as Palin or Bush when they ran for governor of their respective states–or for national office for that matter. He certainly checks the "anti-intellectual" box for Republican voters. He can talk about the "elite MSM" as well as any Republican candidate, and talk about lowering taxes, how "liberals" hang out with and support candidates, etc. A dream Republican candidate. I suspect he'd do pretty well.

Comment by Andy — October 24, 2008 @ 7:17 pm
a wise old man once told me "95% of the people in this world are stupid, and the older you get, the more you realize that it's a low estimate.
with that said:
Noonan= slander
yes please= moron with poor spelling
Nahman Umani= someone who couldn't do any job
Alan= libel
Bill in NJ= bitter under-achiever
Truth First= bows toward chicago and pray to his saviour Lord Obama
Raul the Puppett= enough said with his name
DocChuck= old enough to know better
Union Man= read and believed to much of his unions literature
JR= only looks a federal tax rate, not smart enough to know we actually pay 53% of our income in taxes

i could go on and on, but as i am older i now realize that the 95% estimate is indeed a low estimate, very low.

Comment by jjohn143 — October 24, 2008 @ 7:23 pm
Please indulge me while I explain a little about my background.

I was born on a small farm in Northern Vermont, the son of two very hard working parents. My family (from both sides) has been in North America since the 1630�s � 1640�s. I did have a relative who came over on the Mayflower, but he died within the first six months. Although I never knew it at the time, we were considered poor because everyone around us were farmers and also living hand-to-mouth. The house I grew up in was built in 1827. Prior to and during the Civil War it was used as one of the last �stations� in the Underground Railroad. My family had built secret passages and rooms that held runaway slaves before their transfer to Canada and freedom (my brother and I could go anywhere in the house and never be seen). I was the first of my family to go to college, but had to drop out after the first year because we could not afford it. I joined the military and spent eleven years on active duty - from 1965 to 1976. While in the military, I finished both my BS and MS in engineering. I served all over the world (including a tour in Vietnam, where I was wounded). I spent 31 years after the military working as an engineering contractor for various government and foreign agencies. I have lived in two Islamic countries (Turkey and Iran) as a civilian contractor, as well as Germany, Italy and South Korea. I have traveled to such diverse places as France, Russia, England, Switzerland, Austria, Australia, Morocco and Indonesia, and have been to the interior of Mexico more than 14 times. I lost my job in December of 2006 due to the anticipated cuts to be made by the incoming Pelosi thugs. I have not been able to get a job since. This is to just give you a little history.

I have learned a few things in my more than 62 years on this mortal coil. Among them are:

1. There ain�t no such thing as a free lunch.

2. When a government says �We want to help you� - watch your wallet (if it is still there).

3. �Peaceful Islam� is one of the greatest lies told in the world today.

4. Socialism leads to Communism, which leads to Totalitarianism, which leads to enslavement.

5. Universal health care means that a government bureaucrat has more say in your health than a doctor.

6. �Gun Control� leads to control of the populace and suppression of freedom by the government (reference 1930�s Germany as one example).

7. Taxes on the �rich� or on corporations are paid by US, the consumer.

8. And lastly, bigger government programs and entitlements lead to suppression of individual rights.

PLEASE, everyone!!! No matter which political philosophy you support - put the future of this country first. Don�t let 232 years of hard work and sacrifice be thrown into the toilet of history. Do your research into all of the issues. This election should not be about whom the better speaker is, race or who has a war record (by the way, I firmly believe that a prerequisite for government service should be time spent in the military).

Vote to support not yours, but your grandchildren�s and their grandchildren�s futures.

Please vote your true conscience.

God Bless,
John

Comment by John in Baltimore — October 24, 2008 @ 7:25 pm
He is as qualified as BHO was when he started to run for office!
He does not need a license for the idiots that keep saying that. His boss owns the business and thus the licenses required. That is how it works in that state. Do some research.
Typical dems, pile on the mud when you do not like what someone says.

Comment by s — October 24, 2008 @ 7:28 pm
So goof ball said why does Joe the Plumber think he is qualified for office. Darn de darn after obama my cats would qualify and probably beat the pants off the ONE>

Comment by Marge — October 24, 2008 @ 7:28 pm
Let's elect more idiots. Maybe when Palin loses she can run for Congress and she and Joe can write landmark legislation to ban schooling and mandate hypocrite-christian prayer for 8 hours a day. Let's face Jerusalem (same general direction as Mecca).

Comment by Virginia Vet — October 24, 2008 @ 7:30 pm
I hope Joe the plumber runs and wins. It will continue to make a mockery of our government. The mockery began when idiots in this country elected George W. Bush twice — not once, but twice. The mockery was magnified when McCain chose Palin as his running mate (she's the main reason most Republicans with brains have endorsed Obama). Joe the Plumber could complete the mockery — and also cement the backward, hateful state of Ohio's position as the dumbest state in the union.

Go get 'em Joe!

Let the revolution begin.

Comment by Joe the Coinslot — October 24, 2008 @ 7:38 pm
Sam the Plumber WAS NOT THRUST IN THE LIMELIGHT. He voted in the Republican Party, was planted by the Republican Party, knew the cameras were on him, held a press conference (that's one more open press conference than the Pig Palin with lipstick gave), and is still thrusting himself on the public scene by going on talk shows.

Repeat. HE WAS NOT THRUST INTO THE LIMELIGHT.

HE CHOSE TO ENTER THE SCENE

Comment by KC — October 24, 2008 @ 7:45 pm
sad. people so obsessed with name calling and spite. There is a reason our country is going to hell in a handbasket and people like you are it. The truth no politician will ever admit to publicly is that we are getting government as good as we deserve to. We are so busy fighting and not cooperating (and no, forcing the opposing party to abandon their ways and blindly submit is not cooperation) that we are digging this country's grave.
You all are collectively getting what you deserve, and will continue to until the day you grow up and set aside the childish crap and start working together constructively. The center will save you, but the left and the right will damn us all.

Comment by shane — October 24, 2008 @ 7:48 pm
Hey Libs,

Underestimate Sarah Palin and Joe the Plumber to your peril. We don't mind at all.

Go Joe!

Comment by Curt — October 24, 2008 @ 7:52 pm
"Remember people (We the People) Checks and Balances are a good thing. Personally I am more worried about a Super 3 Sweep house,Senate, Big House). Anytime that happens, its usually not a good thing. And isn't it funny, it hasn't happened in 30 years since Carter Admin..but boy! is the media being Vary! Vary! Quiet on this HUHHHHHHHHHHHHH! (wink wink)"

Maybe it is because the only people that care are the republicans who are losing power…. If the republicans had all three they would be calling it a "sign from god" and a moral mandate that they could do whatever they wanted to. Maybe if the republicans actually CARED about the people other than their extreme right wing base people would actually vote for them?

Comment by Don White — October 24, 2008 @ 7:56 pm
comment to truth first, if you live in America,
move to Africa the country you are praising.
Comment to 328: God Bless you and thank you so much for your service!!! I hope everyone takes your comment to heart.

Comment by scgal — October 24, 2008 @ 7:57 pm
The comments posted are proof that the US education system is tanking. Those who would want the tax cheater, license loser, not the sharpest tool in the shed Joe to be making decisions about the nation's welfare are not very picky about the quality of their leaders. Haven't we had enough of the Bush types in Washington?

Comment by ernieson — October 24, 2008 @ 8:00 pm
I am a naturalized american citizen, I believe in the american dream, I voted ever since I could at the age of eighteen, I believe that america is still the greatest country in the world, american still has lots of good days to come, and if Joe wants to run for congress, more power to him, and all the people saying that he is not smart enough and calling him names it makes you sound like you are in grade school. You don't know what he is capable of, look at Bill Gates yes he drop our of Harvard, but if he and a few other people invents a software platform where would he be. America gives people chances to do whatever there minds come up with. Calling Govenor Palin not intelligent is unfair, if she wasn't intelligent, people of Alaska would of notice pretty soon after, she got elected. Running a state of any size is not easy, there are hundereds of decisions made, getting legislation passed. Did I ever see this type of questioning when Govenor Arnold ran in California or Jesse the body ventura ran in Minn. Both of those men didn't even have government experience. Yes, I am voting for McCain/Palin this election, because they represent my ideals of what American is, for all you Obama supporters, please ask your employer who probably has a small business what would happen with your job if the Obama tax plans and health plans take place. I believe in America and it's people, god bless.

Comment by Jacqueline — October 24, 2008 @ 8:04 pm
Yes, Joe should run for Congress if he wishes. So should any one of us if we so desire. The electorate in each district will make the ultimate decision as to whom their representative will be, right? How does Joe's tax lien and lack of a plumber's license disqualify him for running for Congress? There are legislators sitting in Congress AT THIS MOMENT who have a far more checkered past than Joe does … and probably more checkered than yours and mine, as well.
Seriously, you liberals, let you without "sin" cast the first stone at Joe. Those of you who keep hidden your own "sins" of years past, some of which would probably be much more ugly and dishonorable that Joe's, know in your heart-of-hearts that Joe is every bit as good as you are, and every bit as good as those "pristeen" lawyers and career politicians currently in the House and Senate.
I SEARCHED: "What is the difference between communism and socialism?"
Search for yourself; you will find, among others, Karl Marx's Manifesto as a suggested site to visit.
According to Marx: socialism is a stage on the way to communism.
According to Marx: Socialism - a DICTATORSHIP of the proletariat, which is a government organized for the defense of survival "rights." Also, distribution goes by the principle "from each according to his/her ability, to each according to his/her WORK."
Description of PROLETARIAT: - American Heritage� Dictionary
NOUN:
1.a. The class of industrial wage earners who, possessing neither capital nor production means, must earn their living by selling their labor. b. The poorest class of working people.
2. The propertyless class of ancient Rome, constituting the lowest class of citizens.
According to Marx: Communism - the GOVERNMENT DISAPPEARS and there is economic cooperation as well. The principle of distribution becomes "from each according to his/her ability, to each according to his/her NEED."
Capitalism is contrasted with:
1. feudalism, where land is owned by the feudal lords, which collects rent
from private operators (vassals);
2. socialism, where the means of production are owned and used by the state;
3. communism, where the means of production are owned and used by the
community collectively.
By some definitions, all of the economies in the DEVELOPED WORLD are capitalist, or as mixed economies based in capitalism. Others see the world integrated into a global capitalist system, and even those nations which today resist capitalism, operate within a globalized capitalist economy. = = = = END OF INFORMATION FOUND AND EXCERPTED FROM VARIOUS SEARCHED SITES. = = = =
My thoughts:
Our capitalist system provides that EVERYONE who works shall have the constitutionally guaranteed right to own property and to keep and to enjoy the fruits of his/her own labors, and to improve the future of his/her children.
The socialist system provides to a "proletariat dictatorship" the power to confiscate ALL PEOPLE'S PROPERTY AND EARNINGS, and then decide how these resulting pooled resources will be redistributed amongst all persons who WORK.
This system affects the quality of life of those of us who work, and reduces our incentive to do more than the minimum required.
The communist system provides to an "economic cooperative" the power to confiscate ALL PEOPLE'S PROPERTY AND EARNINGS, and then decide how these resulting pooled resources will be redistributed amongst all persons based on NEED.
This system results in making all members of society equally needy, as it totally eliminates the incentive for anyone to do ANYTHING AT ALL. Each of us will likely end up with an assigned job and no hope of anything better.
So, I have to ask the liberals posting here … which do you think we should have as a more viable form of economics? Where do you think Obama falls in these categories, as defined by Karl Marx? Can you educated liberals read the handwriting on the wall ? ? ? Do you remember that Obama, just a few days ago, amended his economic policy to include a "work" requirement ??? If you are a liberal and you have a job or a business of your own … enjoy it while you can. And pray for your poor innocent children. You are condemning them to a life of … nothing ! ! !

Comment by Katy — October 24, 2008 @ 8:05 pm
Comment by Skip Toomaloo:Laura Ingraham? She's not dead?
——————————————-
You really are a hateful individual.

Comment by jah — October 24, 2008 @ 8:05 pm
Tax cheat? Ever hear of Charlie Rangel?

Comment by Bill — October 24, 2008 @ 8:20 pm
The sad part is that he is as qualified as the republican vp candidate.

Comment by Uncle Charley — October 24, 2008 @ 8:23 pm
This poor, lovable fool. He doesn't have a clue about Warhol's 1968 truism, "In the future, everyone will be world-famous for 15 minutes." The sad thing about Wurzelbacher is he thoroughly enjoyed his fleeting celebrity and seriously began to believe he was important. He loved his paparazzi entourage,loved his name and face recognition, loved the reporters throwing inane questions his way. What is particularly pitiful is that it is about to end and no one really cares about the guy or his so-called plumbing business that was, in part, all fiction anyway. We all know Wurzelbacher is a disposable, undistinguished one-minute wonder, and he sadly didn't get the message. We watch him self destruct before our eyes. Pity the guy for delusions of grandeur — a congressman? Is he serious?

Comment by politicallysavvy — October 24, 2008 @ 8:24 pm
The Peoples House. That's what it's called. The common person, with common sense, and the self intrest to keep goverment small, non invasive, and limited. What a concept to those who have no faith in the average American and all the faith in career goverment elitists. The founding Fathers would cry if they could see what has become of the Great American Experiment. Shame on us for letting goverment become what it is, and for even thinking about letting it get bigger.

Comment by Phil — October 24, 2008 @ 8:26 pm
Americans are so stupid that they think anyone smarter than them is an elitist and that being elitist is a bad thing. I want elite people doing things they're best at. I don't want some retard I can drink beer with to run the country. I want a genius egghead with great wisdom and intelligence and critical thinking skills. Unfortunately, America is turning into idiocracy where anyone who is "trying to read them words" is a "f******t" and only stupid people like the rest of society deserve to be president.

So yeah.. why not Joe the Plumber? America gets the idiots they deserve. Who cares that he doesn't even have the qualifications to be a PLUMBER… much less president or congress person.

This country makes me sad. So many idiots.

Comment by no — October 24, 2008 @ 8:30 pm
Real Americans? You mean fat lard asses from the midwest living off their credit cards so they can eat at Chili's every night and take their knocked up teenage daughters and their near illiterate sons who can't add or subtract to the shooting range? I cannot wait until the credit card companies start shutting off peoples lines of credit this christmas. Happy holidays, patriots!

Comment by Sydney — October 24, 2008 @ 8:32 pm
Hey Maw! That man on the TV screen wants to run for the law house! Any man on TV is good with me! He speaks American and will try to elect Jesus president!

Comment by KC — October 24, 2008 @ 8:32 pm
GO JOE GO!! I would TOTALLY be on your side and would be a volunteer for your campaign!! We need alot more people like you in the congress as opposed to the idiots that are there now. We also need more people like you as citizens and not like the boneheads on here that can only make fun of you for doing the right thing and confronting the "Messiah" and proving that he's a socialist!! YOU THE MAN!!!

Comment by Rachel — October 24, 2008 @ 8:32 pm
The sad part is Joe the Plummer has almost as much experience as Hussein Obama the Community Organizer. And you know what, watching the millions of sedated zoombie like mutants walking in in lock step with their arms out to the polls mumbling "Obama is the one, Obamas the one" is enough to scare the s*** out of anyone. God help us.

Comment by john — October 24, 2008 @ 8:33 pm
By the way Mr. No, if you had studied a little harder on Mr. "Joe" the Plumber you would discover that he has ALL the qualifications of a plumber and is perfectly legal in the job he is doing. He is working on getting his official liscense so that he can OWN his own business. So you IDIOT pay attention before you start throwning out accusations at him. YOU happen to be the idiot, because anyone that has to use foul language to describe another human being obvious has the vocabulary of a two year old. So why don't you refrain from using the foul language and go get an edjucation so you can have an adult conversation without using profanity.

Comment by Rachel — October 24, 2008 @ 8:38 pm
Joe the plumber for congress …. that's perfect, since im sure congress wouldnt mind paying $250,000 to have someone like Joe unclog their $500,000 toilets.

Comment by Dave — October 24, 2008 @ 8:40 pm
Run JOE Run!

You're perfect for the GOP!

You lie about your name, your income, your qualifications, skip out on taxes, and you are WAY hotter than that Palin chick!

CUNTRY FIRST!

Comment by Tex... — October 24, 2008 @ 8:46 pm
The truth is that Joe the plumber probably has other gripes with Obama, as do all right wingers.

Unfortunately, there are far more middle class plumbers than there are wealthy $250,000/year+ plumbers.

These middle class plumbers (most plumbers) will see things differently as far as who needs releif.

The reality is that many wealthy and greedy people and companies have found ways to not pay tax, leaving the middle class with the brunt of the burden. These same wealthy people own companies who have shipped many of our jobs overseas, and now simply enjoy more and more obscene wealth every year on the backs and sweat of third world labor, as the middle class in america dissapears. These wealthy people have abused the american dream, and stolen it from the rest of us. Republicans have supported tax policies that futher enrich the rich and further impovrish the poor.

Party's Over.

-Agent Hound

Comment by Dave — October 24, 2008 @ 8:53 pm
It's interesting that many of the left-leaning blogs say, "He's a louse", "She's stupid". Never, "I really believe in the economic policy of taxing everyone above 50K so the goverment can supply medical insurance" The left has no legs, that have to bark.

Comment by Shawn from MARS — October 24, 2008 @ 8:59 pm
Joe the wanabee plumber contractor has the financial acumen of a nat. The flat tax idea went out with the flat earth delusion. But hey Joe. All the best on your bid to make that seat an absolute lock for Dems.

Comment by MBA — October 24, 2008 @ 9:01 pm
Come on now the JOE in this DooDoo story is JoeThePlunger NOT Joe the Plumber. JoeThePlunger-com has the Pooie Shoop and Sara is Scooping it

Comment by Joe America — October 24, 2008 @ 9:01 pm
I'm Jon the Technician; I work long hours, and work in places that would make the average "JOE" shake in fear. Heights of 200′ or more as well as in Prisons.
I love my job. Some times I feel I am over paid and some times I feel I am under paid. Either way after watching "Joe the Plumber" talk about making $40 and having a dream of buying a business that makes $250k a year get taxed by Obama I had to stop and think.
But it didn't take me long to decide, after nearly 20 years working hard for what I have, the thought of anyone making $250k a year and NOT being ok with paying more taxes than the poor "Joe" at McDonalds trying to live off of minimum wage AND pay taxes just made me mad.
I don't just work hard for myself I work hard for my family, my friends, and for strangers I don't even know.
While most people fight over what to buy them selves and their kids for Christmas, we go out and get names from The Angle Tree and buy for someone who's mom and dad can't.
The more money you make the more you should be glad to help others. If we just take and take with out giving sooner or later there will be nothing to TAKE.
I make $60k a year and I would have no problem paying higher taxes as long as the money went to something other than BOMBS, and UN-NEEDED WARS.
If they told me today they needed more money to pay for Wounded Soldiers, Veterans, Cops, and Fire Fighters I would be the first to say SIGN ME UP.
As a "Liberal" that feels there are people out there that need it more than me I have to say "Joe the Plumber" is some one not willing to sacrifice for others. Democrat or Republican it doesn't matter. What matters, is we need some one in the white house who knows in his heart he is not above everyone else. I get the feeling thats what Obama brings to the table and the "Joe the Plumber"'s of the world would get more out of doing what is best for AMERICA than just what is good for a THE "REAL" AMERICA.

Sorry stepping off my soap box.

Comment by Jon — October 24, 2008 @ 9:03 pm
Oh this is rich!
I hope Joe runs and Palin runs in 2012. Then there would be a complete split in the repug party with the crackers remaining at the base and the thinkers like Powel moving along.
Keep going you crackers we'll keep laughing and cleaning up after you pigs.

Comment by Garrett — October 24, 2008 @ 9:05 pm
Go Joe!

I find it a little disturbing to see all these liberals bashing an average middle class citizen. And for you idiots that say he works for McCain, are you really that stupid??? OBAMA WENT TO HIS NEIGHBORHOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! All the guy did was ask a question. The answer was SOCIALISM!!! AND YOU ARE GOING TO BASH JOE?????
You will bash Joe, but you find it wrong to ask why Obama has so many friends/affiliations to BAD people??? You bash Joe but you dont care that your beloved messiah Obama, refuses to release his full medical records, his college records, his Senate records, his lawyer records, his birth certificate!!!!!!
Yet you want to bash someone who asked an honest question and got a bad answer. You people are just plain stupid and ignorant.
You bash Joe because he owes less than $2000 in taxes, while Obama had a real shady house deal with Rezko????
You dumb hypocrites! Really, I dont know what else to call you except you are a bunch of idiots. At least Joe clearly loves America and cares about this country. That is more than I can say for the rest of you, and your beloved Democrats like Pelosi, Reid, and Obama.
People like yourselves make me sick to my stomach with your hypocrisy and idiocy. Do us all a favor and stay home and dont vote.
I wonder who you will be blaming when Obama turns this country upside down.

Comment by BucSox — October 24, 2008 @ 9:05 pm
What better way for terrorism to infiltrate our country but through our elections.

If you want to believe in a guy who wants to be the most powerful man in the world, who �s friends have been an unrepentant homegrown terrorist, a thug who is now in jail from Chicago, a racist angry self professed preacher, and a wife who has never been proud of her country until her husband started running for President, then you do so but please don�t make the rest of us go down along with you for your incompetent vote. We will all be having to suffer through the change in this country that he wants to make, added taxes, added deficit, added programs, but most of all less security as he wants to end all of our defenses that we have built up for the last 30 years to protect this country. We don�t want to suffer through all of this just because he had you at the word CHANGE!

Comment by ks — October 24, 2008 @ 9:10 pm
The hateful left is amazing even to me. This is an average Joe, no pun intended, and watch the elites on this message site just tear him to shreds for daring to ask the messiah a question. How dare thee insult our savior?

I love how people use the "intellectual" argument. No, not everyone can be in Congress! You must be a thinker! An intellectual! Yah, like the retards the left has elected. All the intellectuals in Congress, Barney Rubble Frank, John Murtha, Nancy Pelosi, et al. If this is the best the left can do for intellectuals, I welcome some average folks.

I thought Obama was supposed to "bring us together", "hope", "change", etc? What happened to the love? Instead, all I see is a racist rabble rouser who has used his color and class envy to drive a wedge between the American people and has run a campaign based on outright lies and deception.

There is no costlier commodity in America than stupidity, and if we elect Obama, we shall get what we shall so richly deserve. It will be change, alright.

Comment by tnbubba — October 24, 2008 @ 9:31 pm
Oh please. The guy did not know he had a lien, kind of like all the people that forgot they had money in a bank. (I did, then again, I'm military and move a lot and often in a hurry and under strain) the plumber speaks for us military, though not well off, we do not want socialism which is Obama's plan. My getting shot a few times in support of this country is null and void. Secondly, to the people who charge him for not paying his taxes, what about Chalie Rangel who "forgot" his rental property in the Caribean and did not put that income on his taxes. First, I would like a place in the Caribean, and 2d, could I forget that kind of income. $1000, maybe, but what Charlie forgot, I doubt it. Liberals, get a grip, if you win this election take your 1040 this year and compare it with the one in 2010. Then come back and let me know. For me, back to Iraq and happy for it.

Comment by mayday — October 24, 2008 @ 9:31 pm
People who belittle Palin or Joe the plumber for their education, forget that some of our greatest leaders did not have elite educations. Ever hear of Abe Lincoln? I did get an elite education. That is why I have a good understanding of its limitations! God bless common sense and patriotism.

Comment by DrJargon — October 24, 2008 @ 9:35 pm
Is this guy Chauncey Gardner in "Being There?" What an idiot. How sad that we've sunk so low in this country that this tax cheater, unlicensed plumber is taken seriously. Who cares what he thinks? When he pays his taxes like I do, has contributed to society, and has something intelligent to say, come back and maybe I'll listen. Until then, please tell Joe "The Tax Cheat" Plumber to go away. I have more important things to do.

Comment by Ribber — October 24, 2008 @ 9:35 pm
drywall guy,

WOW, you sound so intelligent. Moron. It's idiots like you who are dumb enough to vote for Obama and ignore all his negatives, yet you bash a middle class man who asked Obama a question. Where it your logic? Where is your common sense?

Comment by BucSox — October 24, 2008 @ 9:43 pm
So what if Joe is uneducated and a tax evader….Look at the scoundrels in Congress, they are educated (most are lawyers/crooks (same thing)) and have a 10% approval rating. Also, our founding fathers were tax evaders as well, and I hold them in very high regards!

Comment by NoBamaNo — October 24, 2008 @ 9:51 pm
If only McCain had known Joe the Plumber before Sarah Palin he might have chosen Joe for a running mate!

Comment by Spungrouvrious — October 24, 2008 @ 10:02 pm
D I D Y O U K N O W ? ? ? ?

The federal government can file a lien on your wages and propery for any amount you owe, for items such as income taxes and student loans, without notifying you ? ? ?

Its a fact, jack.

Comment by Katy — October 24, 2008 @ 10:05 pm
Joe �The Want to be Plumber� has a couple of options. He could go to Alaska where he is surely qualified to be governor or he could wait until 2012 and run as Palin�s running mate. That would no doubt be a GOP �Dream� ticket. To think this delusional tax cheat actually would say something so STUPID in public reinforces how the mighty have fallen.

Comment by Larrakhan — October 24, 2008 @ 10:06 pm
Some of you think the Dems are full of intellects:

Kennedy the swimmer/driver killed a pregnant women bearing his out of wedlock child); Barney Frank the speaker who sounds like Elmer Fudd (fudgepacker); LARGELY RESPONSEIBLE FOR LOOKING THE OTHER WAY ON THE BANKING FIASCO, AND Senator Chriss Dodd - the biggest gainer of Fannie/Freddie campaign sweepstakes; Al Gore, the inventor of the internet/ white Knight of Global Warming - little does he realize there is a 1500 year cycle, and its a variable with sunspots and we're getting cooler (this past July and the 1930's was the hottest decade in the 20th century; Kerry (a Chech Jew, like Madeleine Not-so-Brite discovered so late in life - is not Irish - if he's Irish, I'm African American) who married Heitz widow, a big member of the new world order (council of Foegn relations); Charley Rangel - who needs a good tax accountant- maybe Barney can untangle his affairs!!!

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 10:29 pm
Like there aren't enough morons in Washington.

Comment by sasidechick — October 24, 2008 @ 10:29 pm
I don't drink , take drugs, and yes I think I'm hallucinating. Fill me in , did Joe the p actually suggest a run for congress? What th h is this country coming to>? Tax evaders and born losers to run our country. Manitba here i come. Are we living in the land of Murphys Law?

Comment by Dan B — October 24, 2008 @ 10:34 pm
Wow, you liberals are the most bigoted, elitest and hatefull jerks out there.

Comment by Byron — October 24, 2008 @ 10:34 pm
Larrakohan… Beautiful!!! I couldn't have sais it better. Joe the plumber??? Joe the putz.

Comment by Dan B — October 24, 2008 @ 10:37 pm
Yo Byron I expected better from you. Your post maybe the most absurd commentary I have heard since Joe the P opened his toilet.

Comment by Dan B — October 24, 2008 @ 10:39 pm
Okay, let me ge this straight, we rip on Joe the Plumber and call him unqualified for Congress. Yet, we ELECT Barney Frank more than once to that
same Congress??? Go Figure!!!

Comment by ManOnPoint — October 24, 2008 @ 10:46 pm
MAYBE TED KENNEDY CAN GIVE US GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIZED SWIMMING LESSONS, AND BARNEY FRANK AND RANGEL TAX ACCOUNTING ADVICE, AND BARACK OBAMA TELL US HOW TO SMOKE CRACK COCAINE, AND SELL DRUGS ON THE STREETS?????

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 10:51 pm
Joe, the �Unlicensed� Plumber needs to be tested for illegal substances in him. He knows that he, or any other Republican nominee, has no chance at getting elected to Congress in that part of Ohio. For the benefit of all of you reading this blog who are not from Toledo and Northwestern Ohio in general, let me clarify something for you. First, Toledo and Northwestern Ohio is primarily a blue-collar, pro-union, manufacturing based area. This area does not elect Republicans to office! Put it this way, if Jesus Christ came down from Heaven and ran as a Republican for office in Northwestern Ohio, the Democrats would still trounce Him in the election. That is how solidly Democratic this area is! Can Joe the �Unlicensed� Plumber or any other Republican nominee get elected to office in this area? Not against Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. She has worked long and hard for not just the working class individuals from this area, but everyone in the district. Ms. Kaptur has a proven history in standing up to her own party and has said no to them countless times during her tenure in Congress. Especially when it came to that deplorable entity called NAFTA. She went against President Clinton�s administration (and her own party) in opposing that horrendous legislation. She may be a Democrat, but she is true representative of the constituents of her district, and has proven that her party membership does not get in the way of her obligations to Northwestern Ohio. The RNC can shove all the support they want at Joe Wurzelbacher in 2010. He still won�t have a chance in blazes of getting elected and it will be just a waste of money and time. Joe would be better off getting his plumbing license and stop making a fool of himself routinely.

Comment by EricFromToledo — October 24, 2008 @ 10:52 pm
AND AL GORE BE OUR SUV DRIVER ACCROSS COUNTRY, AND PILOT GOV PALINS RETURNED JET SINCE HE'S SO CONCERNED WITH CARBON PRINTING, AND WHEN WE CAN FINALLY AFFORD THAT BIG HOUSE, GET JOHN EDWARD TO BE OUR INTERIOR DECORATOR!!!!!!!!!!

OH, AND RECOMMEND US A "CHEAP" BARBER

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 10:55 pm
ONE MORE THOUGH ON WASHED UP LEFT-WING POLITICANS:

CLINTON CAN TEACH A GOVERNMENT SUBSIDIZED CLASS FOR FIRST GRADERS ON SEX ENDUCATION, OOPS , I MENT WRITE A BOOK ABOUT ETIQUETTE AND SOCAIL GRACES - HILLARY CAN WRITE THE CHAPER ON DEALING WITH CONFLICT AND SUPRESSING HER LESBIAN URGES, OR MAYBE GET A GAY MARRIAGE WITH HELEN DEGENERATE IF SHE GETS THE FIRST LESBIAN DIVORCE!!! AND BILL AYERS CAN BECOME OBAMA'S SEC OF DEFENSE SINCE HE'S GOT EXPERIENCE WITH HANDLING/DEALING WITH REGIMES HE DOESN'T LIKE!

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 11:06 pm
All of you that are upset about the unpaid taxes owed by "Joe the Plumber" should hold Charlie Rangel to the same standard. He is chairman of the committee that writes the tax laws. He claims he has done nothing wrong and he owes several times the amount in back taxes as "Joe the Plumber". The difference is that Charlie Rangel is a tax cheat. He did not disclose what he made until he got caught.

Comment by truthdetector — October 24, 2008 @ 11:09 pm
Plumber Joe stated on Fox Faux News that his parents collect Social Security and have been on Welfare from time-to-time. Oh I get it…as long as it's his family getting the hand-out, then it's OK for others to pay taxes to spread the wealth his way.

Comment by JJ — October 24, 2008 @ 11:10 pm
Comment by JJ - ASSHOLE

U DON'T GET IT YET - HE'S TRIED TO WORK AND BUILD FOR THE FUTURE, AND HE'S HAD HARD TIMES - IF BO - "BODY ODER" GETS IN OFFICE - WE'LL ALL BE IN THE F'ING PO HOUSE…..TAXED TO DEATH……

HE'S SPONSORING S2433 - WHICH WILL GIVE OVER 800 MILLION TO THE THUGS IN AFRICA…IN THE NAME OF AIDING POVERTY - BRINGING POVERTY HERE….THERE WILL BE NO MORE SANTA CLAUS….(UNCLE SAM FOR YOU LEFT BASTARD - THE WHOLE WORLD WILL BECOME A SHIT HOLE!!!!! SOCIALISM IS HERE MY FRIEND…..GET USED TO IT…..THEY ARE PLANNING TO NATIONAL ALL OUR PENTION PLANS……THEY WILL TAX US FOR BREATHING SOON…..

JUST THINK THERE WILL BE NO $ LEFT TO GIVE TO THE UN SO WE CAN SUBSIDIZED LEFT WING COMMIE REGIMES WHO TERRORIZR AND MURDER CHRISTIANS AND CIVILIED PEOPLE IN AFRICA………

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 11:18 pm
The news media and O-Bama are the ones that made Joe the celebrity he has become, other than that, he was just a dad throwing a football to his boy. O-Bamas the one that exposed himself as a shared wealth socialist, while stumbling with a lengthy explanation of his shared wealth tax plan. All Joe was guilty of was asking a hypothetical question, whether he would be punished for succeeding or not, O-Bama assured him he would be. I think if O-Bama gets elected president I'll quit my job and recieve me a free government check too! I hope you O-Bama supporters will keep working so your money can be shifted to support me!

Comment by DEF — October 24, 2008 @ 11:21 pm
If you can't beat them, join them! All conservatives should convert to liberalism, quit their jobs and recieve tax dollars instead of pay them! Our holy god in Washington DC can take care of our every need, afterall, they are taxing the wealthy, they have plenty of money.

Comment by DEF — October 24, 2008 @ 11:29 pm
1. U DON'T GET IT YET - HE'S TRIED TO WORK AND BUILD FOR THE FUTURE, AND HE'S HAD HARD TIMES - IF BO - "BODY ODER" GETS IN OFFICE - WE'LL ALL BE IN THE F'ING PO HOUSE�..TAXED TO DEATH��
HE'S SPONSORING S2433 - WHICH WILL GIVE OVER 800 MILLION TO THE THUGS IN AFRICA�IN THE NAME OF AIDING POVERTY - BRINGING POVERTY HERE�.THERE WILL BE NO MORE SANTA CLAUS�.(UNCLE SAM FOR YOU LEFTIST IDIOTS - THE WHOLE WORLD WILL BECOME A SHIT HOLE!!!!! SOCIALISM IS HERE MY FRIEND�..GET USED TO IT�..THEY ARE PLANNING TO NATIONAL ALL OUR PENTION PLANS��THEY WILL TAX US FOR BREATHING SOON�..
JUST THINK THERE WILL BE NO $ LEFT TO GIVE TO THE UN SO WE CAN SUBSIDIZED LEFT WING COMMIE REGIMES WHO TERRORIZR AND MURDER CHRISTIANS AND CIVILIED PEOPLE IN AFRICA��

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 24, 2008 @ 11:29 pm
Palin has truly inspired all the dunderheads in America. If she can run for the White House, anyone can run for Congress.

Actually, Joe will fit in very well in Washington.

Comment by Neil C — October 24, 2008 @ 11:39 pm
545 PEOPLE By Charlie Reese

Hi Everyone - This is right on point and it is neither democrat nor
republican.
This is an article written by Charlie Reese, a former columnist
for the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper. Very interesting perspective on the
state of our Nation!

545 PEOPLE By Charlie Reese

Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems
and then campaign against them.
Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the
Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits?

Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against
inflation and high taxes, we have inflation and high taxes?

You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.

You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on
appropriations. The House of Representatives does.

You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.

You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.

You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve
Bank does.

One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine
Supreme Court justices 545 human beings out of the 300 million are
directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the
domestic problems that plague this country.

I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that
problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its
Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally
chartered, but private, central bank.

I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound
reason. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce
a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing.
I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash.
The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what
the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to
determine how he votes.

Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you
that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common
con regardless of party.

What separates a politician from a normal human being is an
excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of
a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating
deficits. The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force
the Congress to accept it.

The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives
sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and
approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House?
She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members,
not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president
vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.

It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million can
not replace 545 people who stand convicted — by present facts — of
incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic
problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you
fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the
federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they
want to exist.

If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.

If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the
red.

If the Marines are in IRAQ , it's because they want them in IRAQ.

If they do not receive social security but are on an elite
retirement plan not available to the people, it's because they want it
that way.

There are no insoluble government problems.

Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom
they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and
advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to
regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let
them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical
forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them
from doing what they take an oath to do.

Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.

They, and they alone, have the power.

They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people
who are their bosses provided the voters have the gumption to manage
their own employees.

We could vote all of them out of office and clean up their
mess. Or, vote only those out of office who voted for the latest bail out taxpayer theft.

Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando
Sentinel Newspaper.

What you do with this article now that you have read it
is up to you, though you appear to have several choices.

1. You can send this to everyone in your address
book, and hope they do something about it.

2. You can agree to vote against everyone that is
currently in office, knowing that the process will take several years.
(November 4th - Be There!) Or, vote out the bail out supporters.

3.. You can decide to run for office yourself and
agree to do the job properly.

4. Lastly, you can sit back and do nothing.

YOU DECIDE, BUT AT LEAST SEND IT TO EVERYONE IN YOUR
ADDRESS BOOK, MAYBE SOMEONE IN THERE WILL DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT!

Comment by Brad — October 24, 2008 @ 11:50 pm
We have such a good educational system run by the liberal establishment, because we have the best educated wait staff and cooks this country has ever experienced to serve the great plumbers, engineers, lawyers, bankers, doctors, chemist, etc. and successful small business owners in this great nation. Seriously my daughter went to the great liberal city of Austin, Tx to seek employment and had to return home to Tennessee. I asked her how many working in the resturant had college degrees, and her answer was EVERYONE and 40% had their Masters. What's wrong with this equation?????

Comment by gsitz — October 24, 2008 @ 11:54 pm
Response to Eric from Toledo:

"Not against Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. She has worked long and hard for not just the working class individuals from this area, but everyone in the district. Ms. Kaptur has a proven history in standing up to her own party and has said no to them countless times during her tenure in Congress. Especially when it came to that deplorable entity called NAFTA. She went against President Clinton�s administration (and her own party) in opposing that horrendous legislation. She may be a Democrat, but she is true representative of the constituents of her district, and has proven that her party membership does not get in the way of her obligations to Northwestern Ohio."

So, Eric … how is Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur working out for you ? ? ? She doesn't seem to have been very effective. Last time I looked, NAFTA was alive and well. Has been for several years.

Comment by Katy — October 24, 2008 @ 11:54 pm
He is a lot more like us then all the rest of the lawyers/billonares "representing" us. We have a bunch of very rich people, with very above averave life styles representing us. Why can't someone who is more like us than any of our current elected polictcians represent us? They can't do any worse than the a holes in there now. Stop buying into party lines and letting the American press make our choices. You are not sheep.

Comment by Regular People Need To Take Government Back — October 25, 2008 @ 12:01 am
That is everything that is wrong with your country. So many of you don't want leaders who can lead… you think that it actually makes sense for a tax-cheating plumber-wannabe to be in charge. Palin looks like a Rhodes Scholar compared with this guy.

Comment by Garth — October 25, 2008 @ 12:01 am
The news media is treasonous to the well being of the United States of America. They are guilty of censoring the information and only reporting what they deem relevent. they believe in the old saying that if you repeat a lie often enough the people will believe it. They also believe that if a tree falls in the forest and no-one hears it, then it didn't make any sound. They use these two tools successfully and frequently. It reminds me of a kids fairy tale "the king has no clothes" but finally a child noticed that the king wasn't well dressed at all, he was naked. After shouting it out the people finally came out of their trance and realized the king had no clothes! McCain is well dressed in American clothes, and virtually no-one in washington likes him, because he has clothed himself in the constitution and the flag that represents it. If you support O-Bama, ask yourself, what is his history? McCains is well documented, O-Bamas is too, he didn't just appear in a golden chariot as the chosen one, he has a history, research it! Never-mind, I forgot, the media is your investigator, you're in good hands, they're poor too and they feel for you!

Comment by DEF — October 25, 2008 @ 12:02 am
How about the fair tax, Joe? Ever look into that? Don't much like a flat tax.

40%? Obama actually said that number??? They should have included that clip with the "spread the wealth around" one as a double whammy punch!

Man, Obama is one scary dude. The country is suffering economically and NO ONE'S taxes should go up right now.

Comment by Jill — October 25, 2008 @ 12:05 am
We are in a class warfare struggle….the elite
versus the ordinary "Joes" or "Janes".

This retired RN and ordinary Jane is sick of the Obamabots thinking it is necessary to "own" a degree in higher education as an indicator of one's total intellect AND sound judgment and qualification to represent "we,the people".

Congress has the lower approval ratings than
President Bush and many of these characters are lawyers or highly educated. The likes of Barney Frank, Chris,Dodd and Nancy Pelosi are all examples of those who have "lost touch" with the common folk;
The common folk WILL rise up to vote in McCain/Palin come Nov. 4th. I DO NOT want BO
and the elite picking my pockets!

Go rent the old movie classic "Mr. Smith Goes
to Washington" made in the late 30's. Jimmy
Stewart IS "Joe the Plumber". Mr. Smith was also pilloried by the media of his day because
he was an ordinary guy. Still he
did a bang up job as an "amateur" junior senator.

Comment by littleleers — October 25, 2008 @ 12:19 am
Neil C.
Are you always this way? Look down on others especially on women. Inferiority complex? jealous of Gov Plain success? Yes the Governors can run for the White, don't you know? Oh you are sexist. If a black Muslim socialist-communist man with zero executive experiences can run for the white House, why cannot a White woman who is a Governor with executive experiences run for the White House?
Even Maxist-Socialist-Communist still have Nancy Epilepsy in charge, and why a youngest beautidul Governor of one big State of Alaska cannot run for the White House?

Who are you anyway to say Joe the Plumber is stupid? Are you better?

Hillary's Supporter for McCain/Palin

Comment by Beatrice — October 25, 2008 @ 12:22 am
If the media can dig up all the misgivings in Joes entire life, why can't they do that with O-Bama? Sarah, McCain and Joe's made mistakes in life, which the media makes sure we all hear about. But somehow O-Bama hasn't made any mistakes worth talking about, maybe he IS super human, kind of like Jesus, he's perfect! If you believe that, you're a fool and if you believe the media is keeping you fully informed you are just as much a fool. Seek alternative information to find truth in history same as anything else (Medical,financial,diet,entertainment, legal,etc)! Don't be a lemming!!!!

Comment by DEF — October 25, 2008 @ 12:34 am
here you go Obamanites:
http://www.bpmdeejays.com/upload/hs_sal_in_Harlem_100108.mp3

I am not saying all of you are uneducated sheep, but this is just silly. You are voting for someone that you have no clue what he truely stands for. You know he can talk the talk, but he has NEVER tried to walk. Every chat room I enter I ask for 5 things Obama did in the Illinois Senate and 5 in the US senate (before he started to run for president). I never get a reply that is not filled with hate and smears. Telling me he is not McCain or Bush is not a success.

Comment by S — October 25, 2008 @ 12:44 am
O-Bama is the one that felt confident enough to mingle with the common people, Joe just threw him off with a hypothetical question about his ambition to be sucessful. O-Bama Told Joe, Sorry if you are ambitious enough to be successful, then we will have to punish you with a tax, if you stay poor , then I can help you. I think it pissed Joe off and made the media scramble to protect their man O-Bama.

Comment by DEF — October 25, 2008 @ 12:48 am
Great! With a flat tax, Joe will undoubtedly pay more to the feds than he currently does, while I, with a mid six-figure income, will pay less. The more "useful idiots" like him the better!

Comment by Patrick — October 25, 2008 @ 12:54 am
Joe's not the only one. Bob the Builder and Dora the Explorer are planning to run for office as well.

Comment by lexdevil — October 25, 2008 @ 12:58 am
what a fu….g idiot.
learn how to plumb the toilets.

Comment by tiger — October 25, 2008 @ 1:04 am
Wow Tiger you are such a man of words.
It is so sad in this country that one person asks a simple question and ends up being torn to shreds. Now they are looking into the use of government computers to research Jo and his past. I know more about Jo than I do the Obama supporter that attacked a small woman holding a McCain sign and might have killed her if others had not stepped in. Oh wait, I am sorry, he should get an award for taking that poor woman off the street. If it had been the other way around you would be calling it a hate crime, even though they were both white!

Comment by S — October 25, 2008 @ 1:09 am
No shock, nearly 30 minutes later and there is nobody with any successes for Obama. All we get are more smears of Joe, Sara, John, and the people that are posting in their favor.

Comment by S — October 25, 2008 @ 1:14 am
Go to comment number 14
substitute German for African and Hitler for Obama and viola you've got propaganda that sounds exactly like it's from Munich 1923. Watch that leadership principle Dems. You never truly know where a demogogue will lead you and you know nothing about this one.

Comment by time traveller — October 25, 2008 @ 1:30 am
"He is wise and just and he will follow the principals followed by his African forefathers. Barack Obama is the son of Kings and Queens who started human civilization thousands of years ago."

You are referring to Africa, right? I hope that continent was in better shape under his forefathers, than its present state! Or is that Obamas� plan for change; total chaos!

Courtney

Comment by Courtney — October 25, 2008 @ 1:41 am
John McCain was born in the Panama Canal Zone in 1936, BEFORE a law was passed granting immediate US citizenship to military dependents born at US facilities overseas.

So technically, it is MCCAIN who is ineligible to run for president, NOT Obama, who was born in Hawaii, our 50th state, in 1961.

You can even ask Bill O'Reilly. He's got a copy of Obama's birth certificate and has been laughing at all the wingnuts who call him up on his radio show and challenge Obama's citizenship.

BTW, didn't we have a WAR against Panama in 1989? Is McCain actually an unrepentant ememy combatant?

Comment by Soothsayer — October 25, 2008 @ 1:43 am
Joe (Sam) the Plumber didn't get "torn to shreds." He asked a question about a topic that didn't involve him - tax increases for the wealthy. Obama gave a gracious, thoughtful answer, explaining that Joe (Sam), who earns FAR less than the $250,000 tax increase theshold, would actually BENEFIT from his tax plan. JOE (SAM) STILL DIDN'T UNDERSTAND.

A simple search of public records turned up Joe's (Sam's) lack of a plumbing license, his salary and his tax liens. That's not a personal attack. It's called fact-checking. A blogger would have done it if the media hadn't done its job.

Joe's (Sam's) a typical Republican who dreams of unattainable wealth, hates to pay taxes, considers all liberals commie socialists and is brainwashed by right-wing radio and Fox News into voting for the party of the wealthy and voting AGAINST his own best interests.

LET him run for Congress. He'll be humiliated.

Comment by Soothsayer — October 25, 2008 @ 1:53 am
This cheap pseudo Frank Capra gimmick that Mccain tried with "Joe the Plumber" was worn out before the debate was over. This guy sounds like a real dreamer. What happened to the business he was going to buy? He couldnt be worse that the nut from Minnesota that wanted all of the Democrats investigated for anti-American views. Hasnt she ever heard of Mccarthyism?

Comment by Moto — October 25, 2008 @ 1:59 am
Sooth says "A simple search of public records turned up Joe's (Sam's) lack of a plumbing license, his salary and his tax liens. That's not a personal attack. It's called fact-checking. A blogger would have done it if the media hadn't done its job."

It may not be an attack, but it was not relevant either. If they had done credible research they would have mentioned 1. He does not need a license! The owner needs it not the workers, but you fail to mention that part! 2. The tax collectors have said many people have liens and do not even know it. He admits he made an error, but the lien holder failed to notify him. My local government posts it in the paper. Unless you are looking, it is possible to not know you missed a payment for a long time. 3. Everyone keeps saying how much he makes now, again not relevant! If he can get financing to buy the business he could make over $250,000. Even if he cannot buy the company, it should not matter. I will not ask how much any of you make just because you support Obama, it is NONE OF MY BUSINESS!

Comment by S — October 25, 2008 @ 2:07 am
Maybe if the Obama mania media would have asked a simple question like that instead of a regular average America if would be ok? The question remains the same and is legit.Im sure there are plenty of Americans who would like to buy a company or start one so they can get out of debt and realize their dreams.It doesn't matter what his personal situation is. IT WAS THE ANSWER OBAMA GAVE THAT SHOULD BE THE DISCUSSION.Since when is it wrong to ask a leader a question or a hypothetical question?

Comment by Brad — October 25, 2008 @ 2:14 am
Obama was not American born can run for the White House, why can't American Joe?
9 States filed a law suit against Obama led by the democrat named Berg and Hawaii court covers up for him refused to release his birth certificate after his Grand mother told the reporter that Obama was born in Kenya while his mother was under age (17 years old).

Obama went to Hawaii said he viisted his sick GrandMa was a liar. It was about where was he exactly born. Obama may also be a citizen of Kenya and Indonesia. Obama refused to release his birth certificate, why?

"Article II, Section 1 of the U.S. Constitution reads: ��No Person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States at the time of the adoption of this constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States.�

Hillary's supporter for McCain/Palin

Comment by Beatrice — October 25, 2008 @ 2:19 am
Did Ingraham really call him "Joe" in the interview? His real name is Sam Wurzelbacher. The article f***ed up his name too. That's some horrible journalism. Sam's congressional run will be a disaster if there's no transparency regarding his actual name.

Comment by Jesse — October 25, 2008 @ 2:27 am
Brad, sadly it is the same thing in almost every blog out there. Most (I will admit not all) McCain posts are positive and raise legit questions about Obama. Most (not all) Obama posts are attacks, lies, and smears. Obama has no real message other than what he feels is wrong with the other side. When you ask them what he has done they can not name anything from his years in Illinois or the US Senate before he ran for President. Why? Because all he did was sit on his bench and vote �here� in Illinois and �whatever you want Mr. Kennedy� in the US Senate.

Comment by S — October 25, 2008 @ 2:27 am
Shouldn't this deadbeat pay his taxes first?

Comment by AMB — October 25, 2008 @ 2:29 am
PALIN - PLUMBER 2012

Comment by dumb chicagoan — October 25, 2008 @ 2:31 am
If Joe the Plumber runs for congress, his platform should be "free pipe snakes for anyone who votes for me"

Comment by Zoe C — October 25, 2008 @ 2:32 am
S
Thanks as I have just recently started looking at blogs and participating and I see that a lot its ashame really.Ive only posted on a few lib blogs and of course no one will answer my questions.I will ask a simple question of why Obama changed his mind on public financing for example.It makes me wonder what he will change his mind on next perhaps 25ok will go to 150k or less.Yes experience eveyrone blast Palin. The woman is a Gov for 2 years and has been a mayor but seems to have less experience than Obama.Seems Bill Clinton was a Gov and Ron Reagan was one also.Mmm Im amazed! Bottom line I want a fighter pilot that has been tested to protect my interest not some new one hit wonder.

Comment by Brad — October 25, 2008 @ 2:37 am
It is getting real old with the democrats constantly berating Sam (a.k.a Joe) about his name, occupation, or his outstanding tax liabiliteis. I tell you what democrats why don't you try walking across some water and when you get to the other side …then preach to us. Otherwise shut the hell up!

Comment by Jason — October 25, 2008 @ 2:48 am
The only silver lining here is that the smattering of morons who buy the right-wing talking points is the clear minority in this country. Hope you're ready for the ass-kicking you're gonna get in November.

Comment by AMB — October 25, 2008 @ 2:50 am
It seems when no one can make a intelligent comment or back up a claim they resort to name calling.Clear minority? The polls are closer than they appear.If the polls are correct then that 10 percent rating for a Dem congress must have been taken buy the clear minority.

Comment by Brad — October 25, 2008 @ 2:57 am
"'ll help you with your PR, I'll help you do your ads, I mean, I'll volunteer to help you"

Are you serious? You are complaining about not knowing anything about Obama, but lets go ahead and blindly elect a guy who has been involved with government for exactly two weeks! This is ridiculous! How the hell are Joe's thoughts at the top of Drudge Report? WHO CARES?

Comment by Ryan — October 25, 2008 @ 3:12 am
Now, Joe, what state will you run in? Ohio, where you now live and owe taxes? Alaska, where you lived and divorced your wife and where your divorce agreement made you pay a sum of money to a battered women's shelter? Is this where your wife had to flee to get away from your raging temper? Or would it be Arizona where you lived? I guess you would run on the republican ticket because you made a donation of $100 to McCain's campaign. Who will help you bankroll your try? Would it be Charles Keating of the KEATING FIVE? Isn't your father his son-in-law? Charlie must have a stash of cash to help you out.

Comment by linda in nm — October 25, 2008 @ 3:34 am
He seems at least as qualified as Sarah Palin - he could be her running mate in 2012.

Comment by Mean Willie Green — October 25, 2008 @ 4:22 am
Oh Joe say it isn't so!
Give us a break!

Comment by jerry the electrician — October 25, 2008 @ 4:58 am
Joe will never have to work another day in his life after all this. And all from just being in the right place at the right time.

Ain't life great…..

Comment by bongo joe — October 25, 2008 @ 5:17 am
You don't need a license to be a Congressman.

Comment by clumberfeet — October 25, 2008 @ 5:27 am
Why not? If morons like Al Franken can or whacko Cidy Sheehan can, then why not a man who makes 1000x more sense?

Comment by Fred the mailman — October 25, 2008 @ 5:31 am
The Obama supporters would make Stalin proud!

"When you listen to fools, the mob rules"

Comment by AngryCon — October 25, 2008 @ 5:52 am
Joe the plumber was a Repulican plant! He lied about everything! I funny how Republicans can only live and breathe on cheating, lies, smears,fake police reports on black men, purging voters off of regisration lists and fraud! Joe the plumber would fit quite well in this club! Certainly nothing to be proud of!

Comment by Sisto — October 25, 2008 @ 5:55 am
Republican fraud! Nice try McCain! The gloom is hangig over your Campaign! Total gloom!

Comment by Sisto — October 25, 2008 @ 5:59 am
Who's got the book rights on this guy? Who's his manager? Has he trademarked his name?

Play it right joe. Should be worth at least 50 grand per appearance on Opriah. Perhaps a book series…."Rich Joe's Dad - Poor Joe's Dad"

At the very least a 1 season sitcom on NBC.

And Joe, think annuities - with all those dollars pouring in from the wealthy but desperate republicans.

Forget about congress my friend; you are big time now.

Comment by bongo joe — October 25, 2008 @ 6:07 am
hey shithead # 432, if republicans, cheat lie, etc, HOW COME BODY ODER (bO - OBAMA) HASN'T PROVIDED A LEGAL BIRTH CERTIFICATE YET?

Comment by Tom Gleason — October 25, 2008 @ 6:59 am
Joe the Plumber is just a guy who sought to grab his 15 minutes of fame by creating a "gotcha" moment for Barack Obama. The joke ended up being on Joe because he got caught misrepresented himself and because he didn't know what he was talking about. McCain, a multi-millionaire desperate to push a faux populist message, drank Joe's kool-aid, and pushed Joe's fantasy story. Then they got pissed when the evil MSM actually gave Joe all the attention he had been seeking and then some, exposing him for the fraud that he is. Let's hope the conservative media allows the clock to run out on this guy's 15 minutes.

Comment by frances — October 25, 2008 @ 7:09 am
Oh puuleeeze … why are people filling this poor man's head with delusions? He's Joe the Tax Cheat, Joe the Absconder from Traffic Tickets, Joe the Not So Bright.

Joe, don't ever change, just stay as cute as you are today.

Comment by Judy — October 25, 2008 @ 7:11 am
The republicans have done a great job convincing truck drivers that if they have to buy their own gas and have no benefits or workplace protections, they are "entrepreneurs". Guess what? They're truck drivers. This country will get a lot better when the middle class starts sticking together and realizing that 99% of them are always going to be middle class.

Joe should join a union. The poor subsidize the rich. No one should live below the poverty line in this country, and if the person making more than he/she knows what to do with pays a bit more to help make that happen, in the long run, it would be good for our country. That's real "country first"

Comment by banjobob — October 25, 2008 @ 7:34 am
The Republican Standard Bearer

Well, the Republicans are desperate enough to run a guy for Congress who clearly doesn't understand what policies can help the middle class. Besides, I bet there's going to be a lot of leftover

Trackback by PSoTD — October 25, 2008 @ 7:38 am
Next up, Sam (Joe) will be partying with Paris Hilton and Nicole Ritchie.

Just remember … the faster they rise, the quicker they fall.

Comment by Joe is a hoax — October 25, 2008 @ 7:53 am
if obama is qualified to be president, joe the plumber is more than qualified to be a congressman. just look at barney frank. and joes smart enough to have told fannie mae anf freddie to stop giving out mortgage loans to minorties with no money.

Comment by nancy — October 25, 2008 @ 7:57 am
This is what we need, but in every State. Someone else & from the masses of men & women whom CLING to their Belief in God, Mother & Country.

Comment by Bill W — October 25, 2008 @ 8:01 am
Just read the Post against this Idear, they're scared of FLY OVER PEOPLE getting Power

Comment by Bill W — October 25, 2008 @ 8:04 am
If Jo want to run for office he could start right away by running for locale offices first and slowly developing his leadership skills. His conversation with sen. Obama indicates civic courage. I may not agree with Jo's view, but democracy grows only if we express our opinion loudly debate others publicly and become really informed citizens.

Comment by abdo — October 25, 2008 @ 8:04 am
Doesn't this dimwit know that a member of Congress makes substantially less than $250K per year? At least he'd have the benefit of an Obama tax cut!

Comment by Nick G — October 25, 2008 @ 8:08 am
If you think "Joe" is about anything but his own personal self-interest, you all are even more dumb than I thought.

How can you all be so easily manipulated by "your" party as well as the media?

This is what this country has come to. We are absorbed in these non-issues, whose flames are fanned by the media, while economy is falling apart and we are mired in a war of lies.

"we" deserve what we are getting, because we have become a nation of idiots, as this whole episode with "Joe" has shown.

Comment by Think for yourselves! — October 25, 2008 @ 8:10 am
Anyone who cannot see that "Joe the plumber" is really a McCain paid operative, must be blind. He is nothing different from the circus act the GOP sent on an Enron jet to Florida during the 2000 presidential trials. The only question is, what does "Joe" really do for a living?

"Joe the plumber" is made up just like a McSane/Pileon administration would be. Don't be fooled this time people–please!

Comment by rob — October 25, 2008 @ 8:11 am
I love Laura Ingraham's integrity: She'll help Joe because, y'know, he's famous and a Republican.

But wait, wasn't his whole shtick based on the "fact" that he was an Independent? I guess when your party's led by the likes of John McCain, a guy like Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher starts to look good.

Republicans: They stand for nothing, so they'll fall for ANYTHING.

Comment by Jamey — October 25, 2008 @ 8:12 am
It would be nice to see Joe flush some of the crap that permeates all politics these days.

Comment by jWe — October 25, 2008 @ 8:15 am
Joe has as much Executive experience as Obama, and more common sense.

Comment by Bill — October 25, 2008 @ 8:22 am
Check out the "truthfirstnow"?
I've seen the ugly head of racism,from both white and black. when will some of you realise?
we are a single species. not divided by contient
or by color. i've been fortunate to have seen
how the "trouble" begins. if Mr.Obama win's?
i'l be on the lookout for your agenda driven butt.

Comment by johnypaycut — October 25, 2008 @ 8:32 am
Joe- I knew you were an idiot when you asked Barack the question.. but damn.. now I know your retarded, I clearly see you caught the short bus to school. I know the GOP has a lot of retards elected to office, but guess what,, times up they all are getting voted out.. so there is no hope for your retarded ass

Comment by Enrique — October 25, 2008 @ 8:34 am
Enrique

How is he retarded for asking the Messiah aquestion? If you like Socialism and Communism so much,move to a Third World Country.
My guess is you still live in Mommy and Daddy's basement.

Comment by Bill — October 25, 2008 @ 8:39 am
American justice is on the way, and the woeful inept job the republicans have done running this country for the past 30 years will be repaid by electing an african-american as the leader of the free world.

No way he could possibly do worse than Bush. Well the thought of Palin being the leader of the free world is the most frightening idea yet.

Like Dick Morris said about Hillary, she won't be able to run back and hide behind her apron strings when the Bad Boys of Russia, and the Bad Boys of China come after her….

Comment by John — October 25, 2008 @ 8:40 am
Does it not bother anyone - that the whole premise, the whole reason this guy is famous is based on complete invalid assumptions? The guy is so dense that he can't even understand the simplest of campaign issues.

How wise it for McCain, to use a completely erroneous concept, submitted by clueless citizen as a positive campaign position?

Someone, help me understand. Why does this guy matter? Why is his ignorance tolerated?

Comment by Joe Blow — October 25, 2008 @ 8:50 am
It kills me all of you idiots accusing Joe of being a "Republican plant." So the Republican party bought his house in that Ohio neighborhood on the off chance that Barry would just happen to be strolling through?

Maybe he is a plant, but so what? Why are Democrats so terrified that a "plant" might get through the goon squad to ask a question of substance? Probably because they realize that their man can't speak substantively about anything but Marxism. Democrats are terrified that if someone gets through the army of image managers that Obama's got that they might expose him for what he is with a simple question. It's sad that this guy is able to peddle this crap about "working for everyday Americans" while doing everything in his power to distance himself from the "great unwashed masses" who are "too stupid" to understand that Marxism is really good for them.

Comment by B.A. Baracus — October 25, 2008 @ 9:28 am
It amazes me the lengths that yhese partisan puppets will go to to try to deflect from an embarrassing issue. Obama answered the question and it showed him for the socialist/facist he is. He wants to make this country into something it was never meant to be… a socialistic one. It was founded on the principles of freedom and as our former super-power enemies have shown us througout the world, socialism means the exact opposite of freedom.
You don't realize that the government never GAVE anybody anything that they didn't steal from someone else.
Yes, it is sad that these people don't realize the road they are leading us down. Does that mean they are stupid? No. Uneducated or ignorant maybe. Some even being willfully ignorant may even embrace that ignorance. I see a lot of that here just by virtue of not even wanting to examine "Joe's" side of the argument. This includes the talking heads in the main stream media, where the clueless surf for their talking points.

Have a nice day.
Jack

Comment by Jack — October 25, 2008 @ 9:49 am
Chris, (221),

Wasn't going to bother looking at that left wing site (truthfirstnow) but did anyway at your suggestion. Like I said before, many on the left would be more than happy to suspend the democratic process to get their annointed one in office. It's very sad but indicative of what they would have if they could.

1. Throw out/suspend the Constitution
2. Crush any open debate
3. Annoint their candidate
4. Redistribute all wealth (with a large portion staying with them)
5. Destroy the free market
6. Make all dependent on the governement for every basic need

I say this because looking at many of the comments on this thread combined with sites like (truthfirstnow) are examples of this kind of thinking. There are/were many in the world who believe the same thing, Saddam Hussien, Ahmedinnajad, Chavez, Stalin, Mouselini, etc. I realize these are extreme examples, but this is the slope that the left is starting down. I won't go into a Constitutional law lesson, but this is what our Constitution was written to prevent.

Unfortunately, a democracy can only last as long as it takes for a majority to figure out they can vote themselves "money for nothing". I hope we're not there for my children's sake. I am a 29 year combat veteran and am in the middle of my second career, my wife works full time too. We've worked hard our whole lives to make a decent life for us and our children. We are finding that if we voice our opinion we will be shouted at, called stupid, selfish etc. It is very sad that an arrogant, self righteous left wing is gaining traction to by wrapping themselves in the Constitution while trying to suspend any opposing views Constitutional rights.

I hope I'm wrong but this is what I see:

If Obama wins, the economy will collapse (Wall Street fears his policies) and growth will cease.
If Mccain wins the inner cities will burn because that is apparently the natural response to not getting your way.

Either way we suffer at the hands of the left.

As far as "Joe the Plumber" goes, he asked a question that voiced the concerns of many of us. I knew right then the left wing machine was going to go after him and I was right (and I'm no prophet by any stretch). All of these self righteous left wingers will do anything to stifle and cloud the real issue by launching the smear campaign. "Don't answer the question, attack the whoever dares to ask".

I've said too much already. Watch the vitrole and hatred I get attacked with for these comments. Very sad.

Comment by Fighter Pilot — October 25, 2008 @ 9:53 am
Well said, Chris.

Comment by Jack — October 25, 2008 @ 10:02 am
I guess everyone has forgotten about AL, AL the ladies Pal….

Comment by Allen Harkleroad — October 25, 2008 @ 10:03 am
Pardon my typo. Well said Fighter Pilot (458)

Comment by Jack — October 25, 2008 @ 10:08 am
You might want to pay your taxes first, Joe. And FP, get back on your meds, please. Perhaps you won't be so delusional and frightened of your own shadow once you're properly dosed. Or perhaps that's just typical right-wing cowardice and fear-mongering you're expressing there. Hard to tell sometimes where modern conservatism ends and paranoid schizophrenia begins…

Comment by jjcomet — October 25, 2008 @ 10:35 am
oh, and, by the way - you ARE wrong - and from your post above it's pretty clear you have little if any idea what the Constitution actually says or what any of it means. Funny that, except for redistributing wealth, the Bush administration has done all of the things in your laundry list of left-wing terrors. Projection - it isn't just for the movies anymore -

Comment by jjcomet — October 25, 2008 @ 10:38 am
Joe:

I live in Missouri….what we need are citizen politicians….not career politicians.

Please run as a citizen, not a poll.

Go in for a term and make us proud!

Chris

Comment by chris_kc — October 25, 2008 @ 10:40 am
Pam wrote: "BHO comes from people who sold their own into slavery."

Did you go to school with Joe the Plumber? Have you ever looked at a map of Africa?

Here's a hint–Kenya is on the east coast of Africa. That's where the American slaves DIDN'T come from.

Comment by RDF — October 25, 2008 @ 11:42 am
Response to Katy,

Your quesiton: So, Eric � how is Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur working out for you ? ? ? She doesn't seem to have been very effective. Last time I looked, NAFTA was alive and well. Has been for several years.

Yes, NAFTA was passed by a majority from both parties, but my point was just to illustrate that Congresswoman Kaptur voted in line with her district's point of view and did not simply follow dogmatic view point of the Democratic Party.

On the whole, NAFTA has not been good for NW OH's economy and has driven quite a few major companies out of the area to places like Mexico where labor is quite a bit cheaper. Unfortunately, that�s life. That being said, NAFTA has affected my loved ones in my family still living in Toledo. But for myself, I have been on Active Duty for the past 18 years and can only worry about my next deployment to Iraq and doing my sworn duty. But I still worry about my family and friends who still remain in that area. It also gives me pause to seriously think about whether I�ll return back to Ohio after I retire from the military in just another two years.

Bottom line (and strictly my own opinion): Both parties suck! But on occasion, you get a few good politicians from both parties that do a good job that truly represent their constituents and not just force the party platform on them as if they (the voters) don�t know what�s best for them. Unfortunately, these few politicians are usually drowned out by the obnoxious crowd of left-wing nut jobs and right-wing religious zealots who control the majority of both parties. That's why I am not registered with any political party and will remain a down the middle independent. Actually, I would think it would be great if Lou Dobbs (Mr. Independent as he calls himself) ran for President!

Regardless of the side of the debate you are on, or what opinions we all may have, being able to say freely express our political viewpoints is a great freedom that we should all cherish. The most patriotic thing any American citizen can do is make sure they vote! It doesn�t matter who you vote for, just get out and vote. In my opinion, you don�t have to serve in the military to be an American Patriot! Thanks for the question Katy. Take care!

Comment by EricFromToledo — October 25, 2008 @ 1:48 pm
It's truly amazing that the McCain campaign still cannot grasp the fact that Joe Wurzelbacher turns out NOT to be what the campaign puts him up as (i.e. a small business owner whose taxes would increase under Obama's tax plan), that he's not even a "real" plumber, that he's a tax dodger. If the McCain campaign were run by smart people, they'd have dropped Joe the Plumber as soon as it was revealed what a fake he is. Never mind the substantial rumors that Joe is related to Charles Keating, the savings & loan crook who was closely associated with McCain and did prison time for the S&L scam. Joe the Plumber is "thinking about" buying a plumbing company, "thinking about" maybe making $250K a year (yeah, we'd all like to), and I suppose "thinking about" actually getting a plumbing license. Now he's "thinking about" running for congress. Yeeee-haaaaaaa… Joe's a real thinker…

What next? Will Ashley Todd, the Texan working for the McCain campaign in Pittsburgh and falsely claiming she was robbed and maimed by a big black Obama supporter, run for John Murtha's seat?

McCain is desperate, soooo out of touch with reality.

Comment by Fuzzy — October 25, 2008 @ 2:04 pm
Joe Please go back into the hole you climed out of. I notice today the company you made $40,000 a year with has closed his doors wonder what hes afraid of not your unemployed your 15 mins of fame is gone. sounds to me like your one of those hanymen who goes around doing sub-standard repairs. Please pay your taxes, or is that child support you owe??
anyhow dont even try to run for public office you will just embaress yourself and your kid. just walk away now please
signed Norm

Comment by NORM — October 25, 2008 @ 3:42 pm
The dude was just a plant. His "question" was specifically tailored to try and make Obama's plan of raising taxes on quarter-millionaires look like it would hurt "average Americans". No-one making 250,000 + should bitch about paying the same taxes they did in 2000, when the stock market was higher than it is now.

Comment by Jeff — October 25, 2008 @ 8:20 pm
I have to respond to the naive and socialist truthfirst comments. I am one of the 5% that pays almost all the taxes in this county. When I started my business 15 years ago, my husband and I worked 18 hours a day- 7 days a week. We didn't take one day off for almost 2 years. NO vacations for 5 years, no cell phones, drove 2 cars worth under $500 each (one car didn't go into reverse the other car didn't have a drivers window much less a/c and heat), didn't have cable, didn't go out to eat and saved in every way possible. We wanted the American dream and wasn't not afraid to WORK for it! I was raised by parents that made less money than 95% of the people in this country, so I didn't get anything HANDED to me.
Now you are telling me that I HAVE to pay for people that don't want to work or work 2 jobs to make ends meet. That I need to pay for people that want to spend more than they make, charge things they don't need, go on vacations they can't afford, etc…
This is America not a communist country!
By the way - I give way more to my local community than I pay in taxes. We help support many other families, churches, children sports & arts - I guess we just need to keep on giving and giving and giving………

Comment by An American — October 25, 2008 @ 8:23 pm
Maybe Joe can clean Bush's pipes when he is kicked out of office. I heard Ed the Milkman is looking for a new gig, too.

Comment by Bastion — October 26, 2008 @ 12:12 am
O, how I love reading comments sections this election cycle!

It's not just the wording choice and poor spelling of many of the posters here that speaks volumes, it's their continuing inability to recognize that they've been sold economic snake oil by a party whose policies have steadily widened the income gap, encouraged outsourcing of jobs in key sectors, failed to act while wages stagnated over the past 20 years as the price of consumer goods inflated beyond all affordability, rewarded multi-national corporations with tax cuts, started an unwinnable nightmare scenario in Iraq (where our armed forces were sent to fight "insurgents", i.e. civilizations with guns) that is even as we speak causing the U.S. to hemorrhage billions a month, deregulated the banking industry and thereby heralded in the credit crisis…I could go on.

Think about it, conservatives. Did Bush get around to overturning Roe v. Wade like he promised he would? Nope, because, (gasp) there was no way he could–there were not enough Supreme Court justices' terms ending during his administration. But this–along with the "gay marriage" scare–was one of the major issues he used to rally social conservatives and the base come election time. Did Iraq have weapons of mass destruction after all? Has our mobilization there, and our resulting reputation as blind aggressors on the world stage, done a damn thing to immobilize Al Qaeda? There are undeniably terrorist havens in several countries–funny how we chose to invade the one country that George HW Bush had already unsuccesfully tried to occupy in order to control oil reserves before China could get to them, is it not? Did Bush not overextend the authority of the executive branch in ways we've never seen in U.S. history, doubling the deficit and vastly increasing the national debt? (This leaving us in a horrible position in light of the current GLOBAL economic meltdown..)

What, exactly, are republicans clinging to after the last 8 years have effectively torn conservative ideology apart at the seams? Are they going to cling to a candidate who, although he does have a record of extending his hand across the aisle, quickly abandoned all pretense of favoring moderate social and economic policies as soon as he began campaigning? Or do they prefer his running mate, who is so out of touch with the "center" in this country it's patently absurd that she (or anyone else) believes she's a "maverick"? Either way, I encourage them all to read some Paul Krugman (recent Nobel laureate in economics) and then try to say, with a straight face, that extending the Bush tax cuts will somehow, magically, create jobs in this country.

Voodoo economics, version 2000.08, anyone?

Comment by Nomad — October 26, 2008 @ 2:24 am
An American,

Taxes do not go exclusively to welfare or unemployment benefits. Were it not for taxes, you would have no road to drive on, no war in Iraq, no public defender should you not be able to afford a lawyer yourself…

Regressive tax systems are NOT socialism, by any stretch of the imagination. Regressive taxes have been in effect in the U.S. for decades upon decades, and both Obama AND McCain offer up regressive tax plans. Neither candidate is for a "flat tax" percentage rate that is the same for every tax payer.

Socialism is a system of government in which a strong centralized authority oversees an entire government, and tax money goes to things such as universal health care, public university systems, etc. The U.S. has an executive branch AND checks and balances of this branch's power through a Congress, a Senate, and individual state governments that operate with their own separate tax funds and laws. For this reason, the U.S. is not, by definition, a socialist state. Until states' rights are abolished, the U.S. can NEVER be considered a "socialist" state.

Please, for the love of god, get your facts straight. If after you get your facts straight you still disagree with liberalism, then I'd love to discuss why. Until then I'll just feel sad for you.

Comment by Nomad — October 26, 2008 @ 2:32 am
Joe also owes traffic fines in Mesa, Arizona. He lost his Arizona driver's license and probably illegally obtained an Ohio driver's licence.

Comment by Wowser — October 26, 2008 @ 3:17 am
Dear "An American" (post #470):

Pray tell, what 5% of our population do you belong to that pays "almost all the taxes in this county" (I assume you meant "country". If you meant "county" I suggest you move a few miles, ok?)

Last I heard there was no 5% segment of our population that paid anywhere NEAR "almost all the taxes".

And nobody is advocating that you pay the way for people who don't want to work or pay their own way. Nobody spends more money than they make for very long, and nobody is suggesting that should be all right. What planet are you from that you think we advocate what you mistakenly attribute to us? With all due respect, you're as out of touch as McCain is, lady. Have you considered moving to Alaska? I hear there's a village outside of Anchorage that's missing its idiot.

Comment by Fuzzy — October 26, 2008 @ 9:16 am
Hey Nomad or should I say dumbad. If you knew the least little bit about business you should know that taxing big business only leads to inflation and the slowing of our economy! Think about it. Business only takes overhead (taxes included) and includes it in the cost of their particular product and/or service. So now with Osama oops…I mean obama…we'll all be paying more for everything across the board since he doesn't understand basic business operations. Add to this little scenario that big business will take their operation elsewhere (another country) and we lose jobs here in the US. Democrats are shallow minded thinkers. What gets me is why they act as though they are so open minded! What a farce!
Let me get down to your level and explain this in basic terms. Let's say you live and run a lawnmowing business in city #1. City #1 has just implemented a 20% tax on your earnings. Thirty miles away City #2 has given a 10% tax break to lawmowing businesses. You have a decision to make…do you continue to live and do business out of city #1? Or, move to city #2, make a better profit and spend your money in city #2? While your living in obama city #1 all the smart guys (and gals) have already relocated to city #2! Now city #1 is undergoing a downturn in their economy because they have lost taxpayers, restaurant goers, movie goers, gasoline buyers, etc. while city #2 is experiencing a boom to their economy! You are now out of business since folks in your city can no longer afford to hire lawnmowers. Now do you get it? Mr. educated obama doesn't because he's never ran a business! Running our country is like running a business. You don't need to be college educated to grasp these basic concepts and put them to work!
All you naysayers out there who are against Joe the plumber running for Congress because he's not an attorney or some other "professional" need to get a grip. Washington is chock full of attorneys who have, for decades, done nothing but propogate more of the same. Republicans and Democrats alike! I say we boot the whole bunch out and elect more Sarah Palins and Joe the plumbers! America needs to understand it's the basics we need to get back to…

Comment by John in Texas — October 26, 2008 @ 11:42 am
Why not give Josie the Plumber some credit:
http://themicrocosm.wordpress.com/2008/10/26/joe-b-is-for-bogus/

Comment by themicrocosm — October 26, 2008 @ 12:44 pm
First of all, Obama certainly did run a business–in case you didn't realize this, law firms are taxed.

Second, different states and some cities *already* have different tax rates. New York City, for example, has one of the highest sales tax rates in the country. But does no one in New York State shop in New York City? To the contrary, New York City's sales tax revenues far outweigh those of the rest of NY State, despite the fact that sales taxes are higher there. People travel to New York City in droves *just to shop* because there are such a variety of stores there.

Third, there are already states where legal loopholes make it cheaper to, for example, own a bank or a credit/lending institution. Delaware is ALREADY a haven for banks and other financial institutions. Is this Obama's fault? Nope. As a matter of fact, those legal loopholes that cause businesses to move to Delaware are republican-lead initiatives.

Fourth, globalization is undeniably in full-effect these days. The U.S. does not operate in a vacuum, and therefore is forced to deal with international trade and its own interconnectedness in the international markets. Regular "Joes" have always lived in the U.S. and somehow, even though this goes against any self-interest a regular "Joe" has financially, many many Joes have continued to vote for trade policies that allow mega corporations to ship out low-skilled wage jobs to other countries where labor is cheaper. THIS is far more threatening to the economic stability of the U.S. than regressive tax codes, but still, average Joes fail to vote for anyone who will curb outsourcing and get the unemployment rate back down. (This will in turn flood the domestic market with liquidity and promote small business growth AT HOME rather than abroad.)

To try to imply that someone doesn't understand "the basics" because they have an education is absurd. What you fail to recognize, John in Texas, is that the world is an exceedingly complicated (globalized) place, our tax codes are similarly complex, and even that there are many macro-economics theories that republicans subscribe to that blow your own simpleminded ideas out of the water. These aren't my ideas, they're your own party's! Do your research and come back. Then maybe I'll be able to take you seriously.

Comment by Nomad — October 26, 2008 @ 3:28 pm
Oh, and about inflation:

The Fed is ultimately responsible for our current state of massive overinflation, but I wouldn't want to shatter your delusions…

Comment by Nomad — October 26, 2008 @ 3:32 pm
Great, now Joe the Plumber can get on the public payroll. I know, why don't all you dumb republican socialists just quit your loser jobs and get on the public tit like McCain has his whole life.What part of the brain do you people use when you're thinking? The last person I want making any kind of important decision is this tool.

Comment by lrh — October 26, 2008 @ 3:44 pm
I think the GOP is smarter than this, bud sadly, like any party, they have to consider the irrational response to a candidate like joe the plumber. right or left, you can say some things that fire the people up no matter how little you are fit for office. joe has already aced the flip flop. semi-quote: obama's taxes will cripple my fictional small business - um, even if i could afford the small business i would pay less under obama
the GOP still has to smile when a guy like joe is dumb enough to say, but it ain't right to take a guys hard earned money and give it to someone else. certainly the GOP smiled like the cat who caught the canary

Comment by Ric — October 26, 2008 @ 5:08 pm
Thank goodness you dont need a license to run for congress..next we will hear he wants to be astronaut. Come on Joe, lets try to be an actual plumber before we start taking any bigger steps

Comment by Steve the Realist — October 26, 2008 @ 6:13 pm
I think Joe the Plumber would be a very poor choice of someone to represent anyone. He has become known basically by totally misrepresenting himself and then whining when others check out his fabricated story. It seems the same if some street musician came up to Obama and said he was planning to put out a Gold record and didnt want to get taxed on it. There are a lot of poeple out here with delusions of grandeur, dont reward someone like Joe the Plumber for living in a dream world.

Comment by Steve Brogan — October 27, 2008 @ 7:09 am
Joe the Plumber in Congress???? God help this country if that happens. This guy is a fraud and a moron!

Comment by Jeff — October 27, 2008 @ 11:02 am
So damn funny. Just about as real as http://postrapturepost.com/

Comment by Bubba Gump — October 27, 2008 @ 7:08 pm
There are a multitude of reasons why one will shop in a certain location. Let's see…EGO for one maybe? I'm not (nor your hero obama) speaking of sales taxes! It's the tax on income. Your's and mine. If your hero is elected you and I will both be funding some naer do well who probably has the equivalent of a sixth grade education but, has figured out the system that sooo many lawyers in Washington have set in motion. How can this be? A simpleton beating the "highly complex" system? You seem to be in
love with your party and completely blinded. As far as loopholes go both parties are as guilty. Yes,I'm Republican but that doesn't mean that I'm brainwashed into believing EVERYTHING they push. They screw up they get a scathing review from me. Why can't you (I assume you're a liberal) open your mind. Your party claims to be open minded right? Yes, it is a complex world. Problem is it's people just like you who obviously have no common sense believes that making it even more complex is the answer! Hear this. Common Sense Ain't Common! That sir is a major problem with politics. Too many educated talking heads with no common sense.
Let me ask you (and the rest of you out there in our great country) how do you approach handling problems in your household? It's ALL common sense.
The world needs more of it. Nomad, don't be a dope. Make your own mind up. Or, is it just because YOUR PARTY says it's so? So blind.
Obama's plan is simply socialism. Call it what you want…it slices the same.
Personally I'm sick and tired of working harder while Democrats want to take it away.

Comment by John in Texas — October 27, 2008 @ 8:15 pm
First of all, I'm a registered independent. I have more in common politically with Germany's Green Party than I do with either the democrats and the republicans in the U.S. I've voted for Ralph Nader twice. I've never, once, voted for a democrat.

Hilarious to see that old chestnut–the idea that if someone disagrees with you they have "closed their mind"–come up in a discussion with John from Texas! Why am I not surprised?

It sounds as if facts mean little to you, John, but I'll give this a try anyway.

Let's take your example of income taxes. Both Obama AND McCain have plans where they will take a disproportionately large amount of money from one group of Americans and use it to pay for things like roads, running government, wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Wall Street bailouts, etc. This is called a "regressive" tax code system. In both Obama's and McCain's plans, some people will end up paying a higher percentage of their taxes in order to "redistribute" this tax money and use it for the public good. [Neither candidate believes in what I personally would consider the most "fair" tax code, which would be a flat percentage rate that everyone pays. I think about 20% would do just fine.]

The only difference between Obama's regressive tax plan and McCain's regressive tax plan is that Obama would cut taxes for the middle class, and would slightly raise taxes for families who make over $250,000, while McCain would REINSTATE THE BUSH TAX CUTS (which expire this year) and continue Bush's regressive tax code system where the middle class pays a much higher percentage of their income in taxes while those who make six figures have their taxes SLASHED. For example, the average Fortune 500 company's CEO will receive $700,000 in tax cuts under McCain's tax plan. Both Obama and McCain's plans would cut taxes for the middle class, but McCain's cuts for the middle class would be slightly lower.

Don't believe me? Check out the numbers at the Washington Post: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/06/09/ST2008060900950.html

Assuming you make less than $300,000, John from Texas–if you vote for John McCain, your tax dollars will be taken and used for things that ALL citizens get to enjoy (like, say, the war) so that Wall Street honchos and other fat cats don't have to pay as many taxes as they did in the 90s. If that isn't a "redistribution of wealth", what is?

If McCain is "anti-socialist", why did he pay for the largest government bailout of all time for Wall Street companies whose failed practices caused a global recession? If Sarah Palin isn't a socialist, why did she take tax money from oil companies in Alaska and give every citizen a $1,200 check with that money?

Are you worried about our national security? If you are, why would you want to lower taxes right now? If we lower taxes right now, or reinstate the Bush tax cuts like McCain wants to do, we will have less tax revenues to use toward the "War Against Terror" in Iraq and Afghanistan. The less money we put into those wars, the more likely we are to lose, and the more likely the U.S. is to fall behind other countries on the world oil-consumption stage.

The sad fact of the matter is that the HUGE overspending of the Bush administration is going to cost all of us. Both Obama and McCain, in my opinion, will not be able to cut taxes in the way the want to. The government could easily go bankrupt if they do, what with all these wars on and the trillion dollars we just handed over to Wall Street and the banks.

While this is true, I believe that Obama has a better grasp of the challenges that face the U.S. in a global economy than McCain does, and a much better foreign policy plan. If you'd like to hear more about why I think this, I'd be happy to let you know.

Comment by Nomad — October 28, 2008 @ 12:39 pm
Just found out the Bush tax cuts aren't even set to expire until 2010. So even if Obama gets elected, Bush's tax cuts are potentially still in effect until 2010.

Comment by Nomad — October 29, 2008 @ 5:06 pm
Also, just to be 100% clear, Obama's trying to call his tax plan "progressive" (and technically, according to the definition of progressive tax code, it is), but I call it "regressive" because I think anything but a flat tax is politically divisive and therefore not entirely "progressive" or headway-making.

Comment by Nomad — October 29, 2008 @ 5:10 pm
Well, well…we seem to agree om something Nomad. A flat tax system. Look, taxes are a neccesary evil. Bottom line. I'm not for giving the fat cats tax breaks. I'm for giving businesses the breaks. If an executive makes the ungodly amount of money they should be taxed for it. Not get out of paying. I'm speaking of the taxes on corporations and other business both large and small. What washington doesn't seem to grasp is the fact that small business is the largest employer in the country. If business gets taxed that cost passes down to consumers. Hence, inflation. This scenario of higher taxes for the "big boys" generally works in their favor. Problems arise when those associated tax increases hit the medium and small business person. At the main street level competition is high. They need to keep costs down to maintain a client base. As the small business person incurrs higher costs (sent to them from above)something has to give. Good old uncle sam has no qualms in collecting his money. Small business isn't exempt. They reduce staff first…and work harder, longer hours. Oh uncle sam does give small business a tax break, it's just that you've got to go purchase a high ticket item like a car/truck. You owe 35k? Go buy a 35k vehicle and you owe uncle sam zero. Sounds like a great deal right? Nope, you just hit another wall that our uncle built! (He is the worlds best at building brick walls) That solution only works for this year. What about next? What about the car note? Business is struggling and now you've got to shell out another 7-800 bucks a month. Makes no sense.
Obama wants to grow goverment (make uncle sam even more formidable). We can't afford it. This is a goverment created for and by the people. Why do we need someone, who puts their pants on one leg at a time just like you and me, to take our money only to give it away? He wants, and said on camera, to spread the wealth! What? Our representatives are supposed to be public servants. Tell me in what country or household or business that the servants and hired help make more than the owners? Only in America! There has been too much self serving going on in washington. And you and I have been getting the shaft. Obama is all about pork projects. If you remember when the 1st bailout bill was introduced and there was a hint that the profits returning to us (the government ) that Dems. were in favor of 20% of that profit (your money) going to acorn! I can't think of an adjective to describe the way I felt! Just get a pistol and hold me up in the street! At least I can tell who robbed me.
Government is going to have to drastically change it's ways. If we allow the liberals to take control we can kiss our great country good-bye! Vote in a republican and then hold his feet to the fire and don't give up! It's not a perfect system but voting democratic just cause you're pissed at W…just doesn't make sense.
Obama doesn't grasp anything as far as I'm concerned exept how to speak. Heck, my dog can speak! Americans who vote for him are either limp wristed liberals, ignorant, liberal minded, stupid, or vindictive. He flip flops like a fish outta water. He has no backbone. He associates with the wrong crowd. He has no experience running a business.
My thoughts? I wonder how many self proclaimed "Christians" have or are going to vote for this clown? They need to do a gut check if they are what they claim to be. As a Christian and knowing what I know there's only one party I can vote for. Rep. Anything else and I'm voting for liberalism, socialism, and no telling what other ungodly obamaism in the future. May God help us all!

Comment by John in Texas — October 30, 2008 @ 9:25 pm
Joe for Congress!

Comment by Shawn C. — October 30, 2008 @ 10:17 pm
We need a guy like Joe in Washington more now than ever! These are scary times. Joe is a regular blue collar guy who is in touch with the average American unlike your typical politician. We now have a Marxist radical as our president. Why not a regular guy with real American values as a congressman?

Comment by Eric from Jersey — November 5, 2008 @ 9:59 pm
Actually, mega corporations make up the vast majority of businesses and their profits the vast majority of the GDP. I'd love if this were not the case, but it is. Small businesses have not been the backbone of this country's economy for over 20 years.

Also, Jesus said that it was easier for a "camel to pass through the eye of a needle than it is for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven." The early church (led by Paul) was actually structured much like a communist republic, with all parties contributing and benefiting equally from the tithe collections. It is a strong Christian tradition take care of the needy and underprivileged, not to look out for the best interests of the rich.

Comment by Nomad — November 7, 2008 @ 1:21 am
You are waisting your time on these right wing freaks. Do as I say and not as I do. The last eight years the wealth has been spread to thetop. The rich keep geting richer and the poor keep geting poorer. If you can honestly say that you are better off today than you were 8 years ago then I want some of what you are smoking.

Comment by Yan Can — November 19, 2008 @ 12:39 pm
Joe The Plumber - Fighting the American Dream!
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Comment by joe the plumper — December 8, 2008 @ 9:23 pm

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October 24, 2008

'Joe the Plumber' Mulling Run for Congress

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