Electoral Map Pins McCain Down

| | Comments (253)

It's getting to be an old story, but this close to Election Day it's worth noting that the latest round of state polls bring more bad news for John McCain. More on Poll Tracker.

Perhaps the best news for Barack Obama is that the Democratic presidential nominee has not had to play much defense in states that comprise the 251 electoral votes won by John Kerry four years ago. That leaves him free to concentrate on the one or two states he needs for 270 it takes to win -- and he's got many potential pickups to choose from. See Election Map.

McCain is pinned down in so many traditionally Republican states that he cannot find a clear and consistent electoral path to victory. Of all the problems with his running mate, Sarah Palin, the worst is that the Alaska governor has not been the firewall in conservative base states that McCain had hoped.

Latest State-by-State Surveys
(More on
Poll Tracker)

  • Florida: McCain 48, Obama 46. (Strategic Vision)
  • Georgia: McCain 51, Obama 46. (Rasmussen); McCain 51, Obama 45. (Strategic Vision)
  • Indiana: Obama 49, McCain 45. (SurveyUSA)
  • Louisiana: McCain 57, Obama 41. (Rasmussen)
  • Michigan: Obama 51, McCain 37. (EPIC-MRA)
  • Minnesota: Obama 56, McCain 41. (Rasmussen)
  • North Carolina: McCain 50, Obama 48. (Rasmussen); Obama 44,6, McCain 44.2. (Winthrop/ETV)
  • Ohio: McCain 48, Obama 45. (Strategic Vision)
  • Oregon: Obama 48, McCain 43. (Riley Research)
  • Pennsylvania: Obama 50, McCain 43. (Strategic Vision)
  • South Carolina: McCain 55.1, Obama 34.9. (Winthrop/ETV)
  • Virginia: Obama 44.6, McCain 43.6. (Winthrop/ETV)
  • Washington State: Obama 54, McCain 43. (Rasmussen)

  •  

    Craig on "Countdown with Keith Olbermann"
    Tonight (10/24) MSNBC 8:00 PM EST
    . . . and on MSNBC Saturday (10/25)
    3:00 /4:00 /5:00 PM EST

     

      Comments

    1. Thank God this was pro-Obama! Maybe you'll be allowed to continue as host!

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:35 PM

    2. I think changing the threads only exacerbates the drama rather than mitigating it.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 5:40 PM

    3. Christopher Hitchens: McCain's calling the hoax girl today over this is a sign of his desperation.

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 5:40 PM

    4. for those who came on right after this post went up, refresh your page, had to fix some number typos

      Posted by: Craig Crawford Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:40 PM

    5. Speaking of Pro Obama

      Christopher Hitchins is really ripping into McCain on Hard Ball tonight. He is talking about the "strangeness" I've been sensing in McCain.

      Hitchens still doesn't love Obama, but considers him the only viable choice.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:41 PM

    6. Bear

      Gas at a $1.96 ?

      You got me beat today by 16 cents, best I've seen is $2.12

      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:46 PM

    7. Maybe Carter and Mondale can form a support group for McCain. Has a presidential candidate ever gotten no electoral votes?

      Posted by: sock drawer open | October 24, 2008 5:46 PM

    8. How do you guys watch that garbage night after night after night? Don't you ever get tired of listening to talking heads that are paid to spout nonsense ad nauseum?

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 5:48 PM

    9. Not to blow my own horn (ok that's a lie) but I did say about 6 weeks ago that Obama would corner McCain in two states, I said Florida and Ohio, and frankly I still think that's where it is. I don't why McCain thinks he can pull PA, he can't, I understand the point that from a math standpoint PA makes sense. But McCain has lost this election, and he can at least tighten up Ohio and Florida, he's going to lose PA by double digits.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:48 PM

    10. I always watch christopher hitchens when and wherever he's available........sorry.

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 5:50 PM

    11. Don't let the accent fool you, Sturge. He's just a dude, like you. You're probably as well-read as he anyway.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 5:54 PM

    12. Sturg just likes drunks who are literate.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 5:55 PM

    13. champ.....lol......I dont worship him.....I just like to hear what he has to say, and it's not just the accent.....it's the words and his way with them.........and sometimes I even agree with him............

      and so are they all.......just dudes, like me.

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 5:58 PM

    14. yes, brian.....much more entertaining than punks who are ob-literate......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 5:59 PM

    15. You're a pot-head, no need to cast stones. You don't need to be a dick 24/7; you know

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:00 PM

    16. Hold on now, I shouldn't have jumped in on that one... Have at it, ladies.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:01 PM

    17. too late now.......your attempt at moderating has cost you your lead.......lol

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 6:03 PM


    18. "Has a presidential candidate ever gotten no electoral votes?"

      Alf Landon came close with 8 in the 36 election against Roosevelt.

      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:07 PM

    19. lol@ champ and sturge

      What can I say, lol yea I know nothin' is probably the safest.

      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:10 PM

    20. Well, I could articulate an analysis of the interpersonal dynamics of the comment section, but it wouldn't be worth it. Some of the time this forum functions more like a wall at which things are thrown, rather than a table at which things are discussed. I've noticed it happens in waves also, which is interesting. I'm certainly not beyond reproach myself, but I'm not in the mood to fight today. It's fun to watch, though.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:13 PM

    21. 538 gives Obama another 10 electoral votes today

      http://www.fivethirtyeight.com/

      At 354 - Gilbert in DC is closest


      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:13 PM

    22. nothing wrong with pot.......how many have smoked a joint and run their car into an oak tree, or went home and beat up their spouse, or whatever......yet liquor is quite legal and sanctioned and even glorified......it's one of the things where I agree with hitchens and wm f. buckley, by the way.......the war on drugs is an asinine and counter-productive operation.......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 6:13 PM

    23. So now that it looks like a electoral college blow out, is it OK to keep it?

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:16 PM

    24. "how many have smoked a joint and run their car into an oak tree, or went home and beat up their spouse"

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 6:13 PM

      It happened once. Sturge, and I've already apologized. Am I ever going to live it down?

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:17 PM

    25. Legalize and Tax.

      Throw the key away on anyone who injures another while under the influence of anything.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:18 PM

    26. "You don't need to be a dick 24/7; you know"

      Pot, kettle, black

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:20 PM

    27. Sturge,

      Do you think that it is OK to smoke pot and then drive? I've seen some pretty heavy stoners I sure wouldn't want to be riding with and I sure don't want my kids riding around with their friends smoking pot.

      That said, I will admit that I used to think it was OK but I was probably.....Oh just forget it.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:21 PM

    28. Pot kettle black uhhhhhhhh you're such a retard, dude, no wonder you don't have any real friends. Why don't you break out that rapier wit of yours?

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:22 PM

    29. Pot, kettle, black

      Sounds racist to me.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:22 PM

    30. Craig

      Where do the campaign spinners go to learn how to talk that fast uttering nothing but talking points, while totally avoiding the question put to them and then insist they did answer it and any repeat of the question means the questioner is obviously biased?

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:23 PM

    31. Jamie,

      The answer is Nassau County, Long Island.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:24 PM

    32. We're trying to have Boys' Night here on the blog, Jamie. We're fighting now, and we're going to play poker and get drunk later, followed by more fighting. They might be playing Pinochle over on the Backchannel.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:25 PM

    33. "Where do the campaign spinners go to learn how to talk that fast uttering nothing but talking points, while totally avoiding the question put to them and then insist they did answer it and any repeat of the question means the questioner is obviously biased?"

      No kidding, Jamie! It all becomes a blur.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:26 PM

    34. Thanks Jack

      Posted by: sock drawer open | October 24, 2008 6:26 PM

    35. "We're trying to have Boys' Night here on the blog, Jamie. We're fighting now, and we're going to play poker and get drunk later, followed by more fighting. "

      ROFL -- does that mean we have to get back to crocheting?

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:27 PM

    36. "Pot, kettle, black

      Sounds racist to me."

      Sounds stupid to me, off to dinner, have a lovely evening.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:29 PM

    37. "BrianinNYC? Party of one."

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:30 PM

    38. Christmas is coming soon, and I appreciate home-made gifts, Patsi. I could use a sweater.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:32 PM

    39. Bettyboo,
      For the record, I did NOT demand an apology or a retraction. I simply stated that Criag owed his readers an apology. That was, and still is, nothing more and nothing less than my opinion. No one addressed my point about the main issue I raised...Craig's headline, except you. The rest just chose to accuse me of attacking Craig. At least one even suggested I no longer read this blog, prompting Craig to defend my right to be here. So, please, enough. Let's just agree to disagree. That's life.

      Posted by: nannymm Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:33 PM

    40. Disfavor with Palin Grows;
      Economy Keeps Boosting Obama

      http://abcnews.go.com/images/PollingUnit/1077a9Tracking5.pdf.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:37 PM


    41. Patsi
      While you and Jamie crochet that sweater a little music

      Tompall Glasier ~ Put Another Log On the Fire

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOCC1EKXRBc

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:38 PM

    42. Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:37 PM

      World's fastest dinner. You shouldn't eat so fast. Not good for you.

      Posted by: sock drawer open | October 24, 2008 6:38 PM

    43. Yo waiter, the man needs his check.
      rapido

      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:40 PM

    44. “I mean—hell, I been surprised how sane you guys all are. As near as I can tell you’re not any crazier than the average asshole on the street—”

      McMurphy’s verdict on the other patients in the ward. From One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest which actually could be an accurate observation about the people in the Trail Mix Ward too.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:40 PM

    45. Funny stuff.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:42 PM

    46. "I appreciate home-made gifts, Patsi. I could use a sweater."

      Champ -- I'm not the crafty one in my family. That's my daughter. But she's pretty busy making my granddaughter a "Bat Ballerina" Halloween costume. The granddaughter has morphed from her earlier costume preferences, that of a combo princess/biker chick, to Bat Ballerina.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:43 PM

    47. Nanny

      AT the time Craig wrote his column, the McCain campaign had already called the girl and the Obama campaign had already issued a statement. No one had started question the story. Just because later events brought up first "alleged" and even later "hoax" .

      Besides which if I want an apology from anyone, I'll ask for it myself. Speak for yourself and I'll speak for me.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:43 PM

    48. Bowmanc

      Speak for yourself, I'm perfectly normal, it says so, right here on the release papers.


      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:44 PM

    49. Hello princes and princesses of the blogs --
      Hot in here in Northern California and poor Bethy -no rain in site. It's only 3:40 but I'm drinking already can I join in the fight.
      The farthest I got with knitting was knit one pearl two...lots of dropped stiches.

      Bethy
      I hope Prop Q passes I am a big supporter of the SMART Train. It should have passed last time except for those NIMBY maroons in Marin. This time the SMART supporters have been a lot of tougher and not allowed those idiots to get away with spreading their craptastic lies about the train
      and it looks like there is going to be a spur to the Ferry too!
      Next we have to connect with Napa and the East Bay so we can get to BART.

      The Republicans should be happy McCain has done as well as he as. In a just world, no Republican would be elected this time. Goopers suck.

      Go Phillies!

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:44 PM

    50. I knit, but there is a king size afghan in the works ...

      No Time For Sweaters

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AdXbqORn-M

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:47 PM

    51. Ladies, ladies... that mugging hoax and the resulting drama was so two threads ago. Get hip.

      I'm gone.

      Posted by: champ | October 24, 2008 6:49 PM

    52. oh lordy, here we go again:

      "LONGWOOD, Fla. -- The home of a Central Florida Republican headquarters manager was shot up and damaged over his support of Sen. John McCain, the man told police."

      http://www.local6.com/politics/17784129/detail.html

      Posted by: Craig Crawford Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:51 PM

    53. It was probably done by angry Republicans who wanted McCain to pick Charlie Crist. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 6:54 PM

    54. el bowman......it's probably ok to toke up and drive unless you see a little blue volkswagen in your rear view and then drop the roach into your lap where you have to douse it with your beer and then you run over some trashcans and stuff...........

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 7:00 PM

    55. "Tompall Glasier"

      Jack -- he's dedicated that song to me at several shows...'cause he knows I think its hilarious.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:00 PM

    56. "Central Florida Republican headquarters manager was shot up "

      I got an email from a well-known female pop/folk singer from the 70s....her home in Nashville was the object of an anti-Obama attack -- ruining her yard signs etc. And it involved some racial catcalls.

      I told her that she needed to get out of her pricey Republican neighborhood and move over her to my street. All kinds of folks and no problems.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:04 PM

    57. http://tpmelectioncentral.talkingpointsmemo.com/2008/10/mccain_aide_gave_reporters_inc.php

      "John McCain's Pennsylvania communications director told reporters in the state an incendiary version of the hoax story about the attack on a McCain volunteer well before the facts of the case were known or established -- and even told reporters outright that the "B" carved into the victim's cheek stood for "Barack," according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions."

      Craig: Now here is something that may be interesting to investigate.

      Posted by: GAKaren Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:05 PM

    58. sturgerino

      do you wear a bathrobe all day long?

      Dude/Walter '08

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:08 PM

    59. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163257

      Screw the knitting -- take me to a gay bar where the men are well groomed and like to dance!

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:10 PM

    60. Screw the knitting -- take me to a gay bar where the men are well groomed and like to dance!

      great!

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:11 PM

    61. So Champ --are you ready to go out on Halloween as Bat Ballerina? Not to be confused with Masterson.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:12 PM

    62. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163285

      Champ would like to be Sarah Palin for Halloween. He just lacks the funds for the wardrobe.

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:13 PM

    63. "Tompall Glasier"

      Oh man! Tompall

      T is for Texas
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOhX8P8WMGw

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:15 PM

    64. The producers from the Lou Dobbs show must be reading the Anonymous Paranoid's blog. The next story is about using the army to combat civil disobedience at home.

      The only people in the streets in the next little while are going to be celebrating.

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:15 PM

    65. It is for when McCain wins and there is a total freakout and break down of civil order in the big cities.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:20 PM

    66. "Oh man! Tompall'

      he's been really sick the last couple of years, Bow...very sad.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:23 PM

    67. Hey KGC! The Southern Poverty Law Center sponsors the "Dobby" awards for all the racist stunts of Lou Dobbs.

      Watcha drinkin'? Mine's a Sidecar.
      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidecar_cocktail

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:25 PM

    68. I want my darling 4 yo grand nephew to go as ScoobyDoo for Halloween, but his mom is sooooo
      pregnant she had to go for an easier costume! Life is so ruff!

      KGC - that's what I was thinking re Q. Won't it be great if it passes! Is 8 looking any better? I think the ads have gotten a little better?

      That reminds me of something that has bothered me for a while. Do you know of any modern constitutional democracy today has sex mentioned in that constitution? I can't imagine it.

      Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:27 PM

    69. Alicia
      Sidecar sounds wonderful. It's so nightclubby.
      I am drinking grappa on the rocks
      It's grappa made from zinfandel grapes from a distiller in Mendocino -Germain-Robin.

      Thanks for the "Dobby" story. That is wonderful. What a horrible person he is. What does it say about CNN that they are willing to sell hate.

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:31 PM

    70. A little more God-talk from brother Martin:

      We must meet hate with love. (Yeah) We must meet physical force with soul force. There is still a voice crying out through the vista of time, saying: "Love your enemies (Yeah), bless them that curse you (Yes), pray for them that despitefully use you." (That's right, All right) Then, and only then, can you matriculate into the university of eternal life. That same voice cries out in terms lifted to cosmic proportions: "He who lives by the sword will perish by the sword." (Yeah, Lord) And history is replete with the bleached bones of nations (Yeah) that failed to follow this command. (All right) We must follow nonviolence and love. (Yes, Lord)

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:31 PM

    71. I like giffffffts........
      --corrado prizzi

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 7:33 PM

    72. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163292

      Bethy and anyone else in CA or who knows someone in CA:

      NO on 8!!

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:34 PM

    73. KGC -- Ooooohhhhh Grappaaahhh...yummmmm!
      Wishin' I had some.

      Sidecar was kind of a first wave feminist drink. I rather like it as a change from my usual dirty martinis (with anchovy olives).

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:36 PM

    74. i live in Pa. And I will be very surprised if Obama wins here. We are not the type of people to be fooled easily. And really Obama, has nothing but Hate for people who live here, and that Hate, is mostly for White People.

      Posted by: Lampe | October 24, 2008 7:36 PM

    75. "my usual dirty martinis (with anchovy olives). "

      You've got my attention, Alicia!

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:37 PM

    76. Bethy

      The most recent polls show Prop 8 losing. It's not clear what a big turn out means.

      There is a lot of church organized support for Prop 8. I think the no side is rightly very nervous.

      West coast states seem to be initiative driven. Most places don't have such a wacky populace that wants to vote on everything.

      No on 7
      Yes on 2

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:39 PM

    77. We are not the type of people to be fooled easily. - Lampe

      If you believe that Obama is a hater and specifically hates white people ...

      You've already been fooled.

      Posted by: GAKaren Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:41 PM

    78. Hey GAK

      I'm still making myself popular at cocktail parties with your bumper sticker. Nice to see you.

      Is George going to get a new Democratic senator and possibly turn blue?

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:43 PM

    79. Make that Georgia

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:44 PM

    80. "shot up and damaged over his support of Sen. John McCain"

      To this one I say, they've had ENOUGH and won't take it any more. This is how dire the state of the everything is.

      Off to watch my favorite pundit. You know. The one with the hair.

      tt

      Posted by: tiptoe Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:48 PM

    81. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzEadbTCKDA&feature=related

      prepared to be very surprised. Idiot.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:48 PM

    82. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163283

      Hey Alicia
      Wish you were here in Central Florida,I would take you to Parliament House in Orlando!!! Plenty of well groomed Gay men....Oh and dancing..YES!You are really fun!!! You also KGC......

      Posted by: tonyb39 Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:54 PM

    83. KGC: Glad to hear it! LOL

      I'm not sure about Georgia. Problem is there are too many brain-dead Republicans that will be horrified at how close the race has become and turn out in force to vote for McSame.

      The upside is early voting here has been remarkable. We were going to try to vote in our county today and couldn't because there was a 4 hour wait in the rain and we wouldn't make it to the early election site to make the 5 pm closing! (Yes it ACTUALLY rained here today.) Next week they will open up more early voting sites so it should be easier to do so. Hubby is poll-watching on election day so we need to vote early.

      I'm concerned that even if Obama should pull off a victory in GA, the Republican and highly partisan Secretary of State will be sure to disenfranchise enough new minority voters to keep Saxby (Boy, do I suck!) Chambliss in the senate and keep Georgia a red state for McGrumpy.

      It speaks volumes that Obama has actually made a red state like Georgia competitive.

      I'll say one thing though, I do not see nearly the amount of McCain bumper stickers and signs in this Republican strong hold county that I live in like I did for Bush in 2004. The base truly isn't very enamored with McCain/Palin.

      Posted by: GAKaren Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 7:59 PM

    84. Off to watch Craig ...

      Posted by: GAKaren Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:01 PM

    85. Lampe - I'm not a rabid supporter of Obama altho I am definitely voting for him, but I do not believe the man runs on hate. I don't think hate is his fuel at all. I suspect he sees it as a waste of time, which is correct.

      I find it intriguing that you think he hates white people. You are a black woman, right? Are you being defensive on the part of white people, or just angry at what you see as all-around hatred? I'm really interested in your reasoning - I found Rev Wright's preaching to be very un-settling.

      Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:01 PM

    86. Tony -- that sounds fabulous! One of my buddies used to take me to one in Denver where people dressed up in Halloween-type costumes most of the time. What fun!

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:02 PM

    87. "I'm not sure about Georgia."

      I'm sorry to hear that -- I was hoping that Hipster would have a big night of celebration! He REALLY hoped for it.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:05 PM

    88. Road trip!

      Posted by: Katherine Graham Cracker Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:06 PM

    89. time flies like an arrow......fruit flies like a banana.

      --Townes van Zandt

      (he may have been quoting someone)

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:09 PM

    90. Woo Hoo, Tonyb39! I wish I were in Central FL to have fun with you tonight! Thank you for the invite. Until I make it down to FL, I will have to be content with the Bourbon Room (aka Boom Boom Room) in Fredericksburg.

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:11 PM

    91. aha.....like groucho marx

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:11 PM

    92. Craig's on now -- obviously Sarah's make-up artist did not prep him for his appearance. THANK GOD! (oops! Gawd talk no-no.)

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:16 PM

    93. Patsi,

      Tompall has been one of my favorites, for a very long time. I think we blogged about him a year or so ago. What I will do is send out positive vibrations for him.

      And one other thing, if you write another biography, please have it be Buddy Emmons. Or ghost write his autobiography, he has to be one of the finest instrumentalists ever. Do you know him? You must.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:17 PM

    94. buddy emmons....tip top chap......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:19 PM

    95. Tip Top are you kidding. He is the master of the Pedal Steel Guitar. Sho-Bud = Shot Jackson & Buddy Emmons.

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:21 PM

    96. Martini Ladies"

      Make mine really good gin with the jumbo green olives. Set glass near open bottle of vermouth for 30 seconds of fumes.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:29 PM

    97. actually invented the pedal steel, also.....

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:31 PM

    98. " I think we blogged about him a year or so ago. What I will do is send out positive vibrations for him. '

      Yeah, we did, Bow -- he's something else. Got far less credit for Outlaw Country than he should have.

      I wish I knew Buddy -- but don't. I'd love to write with or about him. But it's very hard to sell those books. Makes me sick, because so much music history is lost. Harlan Howard's widow wanted me to do a bio of him, and we couldn't find one publisher who cared about him or his story.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:37 PM

    99. CMT has a nice short bio on Tompall, but it only goes up to 1986

      http://www.cmt.com/artists/az/glaser_tompall/bio.jhtml


      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:42 PM

    100. I got to play piano with harlan once when he was sitting in at the best western on murfreesboro rd......he did "If drinking dont kill me" among others.......jimi young's group......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:42 PM

    101. Patsi

      You have the background. Why don't you write up a proposal for either the Country Music Hall of Fame or the Grand Old Opry to sponsor a series of books for sale to the tourists?

      If they won't bite, talk to Branson.


      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:48 PM

    102. I know those books don't sell. Not so you or him could make any money. One of the good things about the web and digital print is that books can be published as one offs, not like the old days of hundred thousand press runs.

      Anyway Pedal Steel guitar is not popular across the musical spectrum like the piano is. It has been associated with mostly country music and Western Swing. It is rarely heard in mainstream pop music. However, if you go back aways ans listen to the Ventures, Sleepwalk...

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Jkhs_1FBcE&feature=related

      Posted by: Bowmanc Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:50 PM

    103. That's a good bio, Jamie -- actually, he didn't do much after the mid to late '80s. He still had his studio and publishing companies, but not so much recording.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:50 PM

    104. A book on the four "Outlaw" performers would be great
      Kristofferson, Colter and Glaser are still available.


      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:51 PM

    105. "sponsor a series of books for sale to the tourists? "

      They'd do that now, but not pay enough to live on. That's the biggest problem in writing. Unless you are a huge selling writer, or have a partner who can support you, it's tough -- and getting tougher -- to make a living.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:53 PM

    106. "got to play piano with harlan once when he was sitting in at the best western on murfreesboro rd......"

      Gotta love that sturge...

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 8:55 PM

    107. I do indeed, patsi.......a very bright memory......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 8:58 PM

    108. he'd come in there to sing fairly often.......he was a lot of fun......good stories......

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 24, 2008 9:00 PM

    109. New Newsweek poll just out, Obama ahead by 12

      http://www.newsweek.com/id/165570?tid=relatedcl

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:02 PM

    110. Early Read on Early Voting, Could Reach 30%
      Obama and McCain supporters voting early at about the same rate

      http://www.gallup.com/poll/111430/Early-Voting-Now-11-Could-Reach-30.aspx

      Posted by: poll | October 24, 2008 9:05 PM

    111. Sturge -- Harlan was one of the best people in this business....he always had time to give advise and encouragement to young songwriters. He sat at that corner chair at the bar at Maude's Courtyard....and if he wasn't scribbling lines on napkins, anybody could approach him

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:06 PM

    112. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163313
      Hey Patsi
      Your invited too!! Wish you were here also!! Parliament House is a fun place,straight or gay.The court yard is filled with lovely gay men and a balmy Florida atmosphere,costumes and drag queens regularly..Fun..Dancing and Go Go guys up on there pedestals...Open invitation TM ladies and Gents too!!!

      Posted by: tonyb39 Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:07 PM

    113. "Early Read on Early Voting, Could Reach 30%"

      I'm so nervous that my daughter, with her love of the election day experience, will run into a mess that day in Ohio. She says she knows how important the state is, and she'll stand in line for hours if that's what it takes.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:09 PM

    114. So Much for PUMA Power in those Newsweek numbers.


      Hillary Clinton Supporters Obama 86 McCain 7

      And you KNOW they WILL vote.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:10 PM

    115. http://www.politico.com/news/stories/1008/14921.html

      Barack Obama, the first black major party nominee, is positioned to win the largest share of white voters of any Democrat in more than three decades, according to an exclusive Politico analysis of recent Gallup and Pew Research Center polling.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:12 PM

    116. Tony,

      Maybe we should make that the site for the next get together of Trailmixers. :-)

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:13 PM

    117. "costumes and drag queens regularly..Fun..Dancing and Go Go guys up on there pedestals...Open invitation TM ladies and Gents too!!!"

      Maybe my daughter will make me a Bat Ballerina costume like the one she's doing for my granddaughter!

      Tony -- Here's a little "gay" observation. One of my best lesbian friends (a computer guru) was over the other day and I mentioned one of my favorite scenes in any movie. She started laughing and said, "Are you SURE you're straight? Every lesbian I know loves that scene!"

      And what was the scene? Joan Cusak's meltdown at the end of the second Addams Family movie, where she goes ballistic over getting the wrong kind of Barbie doll one Christmas, and torching her parents because of it.

      That scene is truly a joy to behold.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:15 PM

    118. Bad news there, aye Lampe?

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:16 PM

    119. Jamie & Patsi --

      Patsi's martini with Citadel gin, Goya anchovy olives, splash of dry Vermouth with splash of olive juice. Stirred, poured inyo a frosted martini glass.

      Jamie's martini with Bombay Sapphire gin, a few drops of vermouth in the shaker and then pour it out. Add ice and gin, stir. Pour into frosty martini glass. Add a huge Spanish olive or two.

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:18 PM

    120. The Parliament House website is great.

      Halloween is just a few days away.

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:19 PM

    121. Patsi -- She could still vote early and get election day vibe by volunteering at the polls on election day.

      Posted by: Divalicias Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:24 PM

    122. Jamie
      Ha Ha
      Wonderful Idea!! You Rock!! I would love to meet you!!! The TM crowd too!! Orlando's a great place!! Brian I'm sure would come all the way to Florida to meet up with us all.....It could be a belated Obama victory party...Brian in his pink cheer leading outfit!!! Fits right in at Parliament House.....HA HA

      Posted by: tonyb39 Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:27 PM

    123. Divalicious,

      You can tend bar for me any time.

      Looked at Parliament House pictures ... Dancing yes, maybe not on the get together. :-)

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:28 PM

    124. "Patsi's martini with Citadel gin, Goya anchovy olives, splash of dry Vermouth with splash of olive juice. Stirred, poured inyo a frosted martini glass."

      Makes me want one! And I only thirst for a martini once every so often. You've just triggered it!

      Unfortunately, my three-year old granddaughter might be a problem for her mom's volunteering. As it stands, Tracy and her (Christian fundamentalist) neighbor are trading off kids on election day, allowing for several hours if needed. Both voting for the Democratic ticket, I might add.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:30 PM

    125. By the way, my daughter is still seriously pissed that Paul Hackett lost narrowly to Jean Schmidt -- that's Tracy's district, and she was SO excited to vote for him.

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:32 PM

    126. Is Hackett going to run against Mean Jean in the future?

      Posted by: Jamie Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 9:42 PM

    127. Ashley Todd will spending the night in jail, her bail has been set at 50 grand.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 10:05 PM

    128. Patsi - I could sweqr I've seen a documentary on tv, prob pbs, made by a guy who supposedly works to gather old sheet music and history about long gone country and blues singers/players. Is he just a token?

      Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 10:07 PM

    129. Sarah Obama

      Posted by: GORDO | October 24, 2008 10:55 PM

    130. My god, I hate UPS! I ordered 2 small books from Amazon and paid extra for 2 day delivery to get here today. UPS says it was left at my front door @ 2:08 pm.
      As you all know to your sorrow I have been sitting here blogging all day. The doorbell didn't ring and there was no knock at the door. There's also no package at the door.

      I called Amazon and got India. This kid was going to send me another package to get here tomorrow by UPS - he didn't know UPS doesn't deliver on Saturday.
      I called UPS and they will check locally to see what the driver did, and the will call me back MONDAY.

      That does it for my sister's birthday present, and that's the second time UPS has screwed me over a gift. They've made other real messes as well for me other than gifts. I HATE THEM I HATE THEM AND I hate Amazon too. This is the problem with corporations - they don't need individual customers.

      Jamie - I keep forgetting to say that I'd like to try to meet at Asilomar again.

      Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 11:03 PM

    131. An interesting graphic on the California realestate crash. Glad it is not that bad here.

      http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/documents/info-CALHOME08.html


      Jack

      Posted by: whskyjack Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 11:11 PM

    132. Jack - that pink county on the coast above San Francisco is Sonoma County where KGC & I live. My sister's in real estate and it has been slow. Well, the news about all that has appeared to be a little better, apparently.

      Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | October 24, 2008 11:34 PM

    133. New twist on the McCain list -

      Joe the Plumber

      Ashley the Psycho

      Will Ashley the Psycho's taxes go up under a McCain / Palin administration ? Wonks wanta know !

      Posted by: Dr. Phil | October 25, 2008 12:01 AM

    134. Wait till Ashley the Psycho finds out that McCain's health plan doesn't cover mental health issues.
      Sure hope she voted early before she left Texas.

      Posted by: Dr. Phil | October 25, 2008 12:06 AM

    135. LOl @ Dr. Phil

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 12:43 AM

    136. ROFLMAO

      Cindy the Beer Vendor?
      http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelli
      gence/2008/10/cindy_the_beer_1.html

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 1:08 AM

    137. The latest poll, a University of Wisconsin survey that came out Thursday, showed Franken ahead of Coleman 40 percent to 34 percent, his biggest lead of the race. Independent Dean Barkley was favored by 15 percent of those surveyed.

      http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/10/24/AR2008102403593.html?hpid=topnews

      Posted by: Anon | October 25, 2008 1:12 AM

    138. Sarah Obama says ...

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 1:15 AM

    139. Craig -
      Richard Wolf on Countdown could barely restrain himself, as they talked about Palin's dumb crack about fruit fly research last night. Is he the son of biologists ?
      I have never seen him like that, clearly he was mad as hell.

      Posted by: Anon | October 25, 2008 1:18 AM

    140. Hey Rez I read some place today that "Joe The Plumber" is considering running for congress in 2010, no shit!

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 1:19 AM

    141. she was there

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 1:25 AM

    142. LOL that phony!

      G Man,

      That's all more propaganda. These people (you) will say anything to keep him from being elected. 10 days and counting. who's gonna believe anything a 85 yr. old kenyan woman who can''t speak english. Good Luck! lol
      Hope you got You-tube video of the live birth rofl.

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 1:34 AM

    143. Her remarks about fruit fly research point back to McCain's crack about the 3 million dollar earmark for bear DNA research. Which to the "base" we hear so much about would at first blush seem very wasteful indeed. But if you're one of the common folk they court so much, you probably don't know what a miracle a hibernating bear is.

      When the bear goes to sleep, he doesn't consume any water for the whole time in hibernation. That means he has to recycle his water in a way doesn't have a build up of waste in his blood stream. Knowing how the bear does that has great implications for kidney research.

      I won't list the other things the bear has to teach us, insomnia research comes to mind right now.

      Anyway those answers are stored in the bear DNA. And studying that is what his base thinks is wasteful, and he thinks is funny.

      Posted by: Anon | October 25, 2008 1:38 AM

    144. Rezdog --------------------------

      You believe the voters vote for POTUS?

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 1:41 AM

    145. Seriously GORDO,

      Next time you see your doctor, ask if he can turn the voltage up a notch or two.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 1:46 AM

    146. December 15

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 1:47 AM

    147. maybe 3 or 4 notches on second thought.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 1:50 AM

    148. Electoral College

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 1:51 AM

    149. 11 days GORDO we'll see

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:00 AM

    150. Americans drove 15 billion fewer miles in August than a year ago. The decline in miles driven went into its 10th month, she said.

      In August, Americans drove 5.6 percent less than they did in August 2007, the largest ever year-to-year decline recorded in a single month, Secretary Peters said. Over the past 10 months, Americans have driven 78 billion fewer miles than they did in the same 10 months the previous year.

      http://www.trafficworld.com/newssection/government.asp?id=48332

      "Conservation may be a sign of personal virtue but it is not a sufficient basis for a sound, comprehensive energy policy." –April 30, 2001
      Dick Cheney

      Posted by: Anon | October 25, 2008 2:01 AM

    151. "The Electoral College consists of 538 popularly elected representatives who formally select the President and Vice President of the United States.[1] In 2008, it will make this selection on December 15. The Electoral College is an example of an indirect election.

      Rather than directly voting for the President and Vice President, United States citizens cast votes for electors. Electors are technically free to vote for anyone eligible to be President ,,,"

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._Electoral_College

      Posted by: G | October 25, 2008 2:03 AM

    152. Hide and watch..Hell maybe you man McCain may make it and this will all be moot.

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:03 AM

    153. -ORDO

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 2:05 AM

    154. Rezdog---------------

      "... free to vote for anyone eligible to be President ,,,"

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 2:07 AM

    155. G Man,

      Waiting with Pogo; tell us one (1) thing that you've prognosticated regarding Obama that's come to pass?


      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:08 AM

    156. GORDO,
      Go to the Obama site, Fight the smears and see his birth certificate. What the hell is wrong with you? Are you blind?

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

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:14 AM

    157. It's all there in black and white.

      Hasta manana.

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:16 AM

    158. Rezdog --------------

      There is talk on other blogs that the Repubs are not trying to win. Where are the tough 527 ads? There is plenty of "dirt" to throw at SoetorObama, but they are not using any. Maybe they want to dump this mess on the Dems and then make big gains in Congress after two years of over-reaching all Dem control.

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 2:18 AM

    159. Let's play Whac-A-Mole some more . LOL

      Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:21 AM

    160. There was that same talk here months ago, Gordo. Obama is going to be the next President. You might as well start getting used to it now.

      Posted by: champ | October 25, 2008 2:23 AM

    161. I went to Drudge (and I never do that) just to see how he cleaned up the Pittsburgh story-mess.
      I was really surprised to see a hot-link straight to here .

      Posted by: DexterJohnson Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:24 AM

    162. You're a pretty poor conspiracy theorist if you think your :18 post is some type of revelation, by the way.

      Posted by: champ | October 25, 2008 2:26 AM

    163. Rezdog ------------

      That's the altered COLB. It's not a BC. I've been posting about this since mid-June. You still don't know the difference? You are not alone. Most people don't understand the details - that's what SoetorObama and the DNC are depending on in order to deceive the public.

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 2:28 AM

    164. champ-----------

      The :18 post was for the "happy dancer" and others who don't think about that possibility.

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 2:38 AM

    165. http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2008/10/electoral-map-pins-mccain-down.html#comment-163392

      Lame, so very lame. Now you say Obama's victory is what the repugs wanted all along. You are some pathetic piece of work.

      Posted by: BrianInNYC Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 2:54 AM

    166. Sometimes you can win by losing. Just look at the mess the next POTUS has to deal with.

      Posted by: GORDO | October 25, 2008 3:03 AM

    167. Check out your representative's support of "W" --

      http://www.cqpolitics.com/cq-assets/cqmultimedia/flash/votestudy/index.html

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:03 AM

    168. So it turns out this young woman was not attacked at all but made up the black man attacking her because she had a McCain bumper sticker on her car. I guess McInsane volunteers are so desperate that they feel the need to concoct fanciful stories about being attacked by the evil Black man. I am sorry to hear the young woman has had a long history of mental problems but strangely that seems to be a perfect metaphor for the Repug candidate himself and his desperate supporters.


      Posted by: EuroTom Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:10 AM

    169. susan smith syndrome

      Posted by: sturgeone | October 25, 2008 3:17 AM

    170. I think that the woman involved is no doubt a complete nut job, Tom. The weird thing to me is that the cops obviously knew it was bogus from the beginning. They knew her mental health history early on -- why did they let this story out in the first place?

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:19 AM

    171. Patsi, good point !!!

      Posted by: EuroTom Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:21 AM

    172. Meanwhile authorities in Texas are trying to decide if this is a hate crime:

      http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/27365080/

      Duh....

      Posted by: Patsi Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:23 AM

    173. The aftermath of Ashley Todd’s story
      By Jay Bookman | Friday, October 24, 2008, 04:50 PM
      The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
      McCain volunteer Ashley Todd has now confessed that she made up the story about being attacked by a large black man who carved the letter “B” into her cheek.

      The young lady has issues, and I hope she gets the help she needs. End of story.

      But let’s talk in a little more depth about the eagerness and even glee with which some in the right-wing blogosphere jumped on that story and immediately claimed it as proof of their worst nightmares coming true. So much of that story was unbelievable from the very beginning, yet certain people wanted to believe it so badly that they ignored all the warning signs and launched into full battle cry.

      Andy McCarthy at the National Review’s Corner responded with a post so embarrassing he has now taken it down so nobody can see it.

      http://www.ajc.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/ajc/bookman/entries/2008/10/24/the_aftermath_of_ashley_todds.html

      Hmm, I fully expected GORDO to post these bloggers' comments on the Trailmix. You're slipping GORDO.

      Posted by: EuroTom Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 3:52 AM

    174. McCain support falls through 13 @ intrade .... Down to 12.8 this morning.

      http://www.intrade.com/

      Mean while in Virgina, he's yelling at his staff ----

      "More Cowbell ! "
      "More Cowbell ! "

      Posted by: Anon | October 25, 2008 5:39 AM

    175. The McInsane Family losing self-control?

      After Joe the Plumber, Joe the Hothead?

      By WILL LESTER, Associated Press Writer – 2 hrs 9 mins ago


      WASHINGTON – First there was Joe the Plumber. Is Joe the Hothead next? Joe McCain said Friday he'll withdraw from campaign activities for his brother, GOP presidential nominee John McCain, after calling 911 to angrily complain about traffic. Joe McCain has apologized for making the call.

      http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20081025/ap_on_el_pr/joe_mccain911


      Posted by: EuroTom Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 6:25 AM

    176. Geez, someone get this McInsane supporter SERIOUS help ...

      Ashley Todd is even more crazy that I thought.

      http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/politics/2008/10/25/kaye.barack.face.hoax.cnn

      Posted by: EuroTom Author Profile Page | October 25, 2008 6:37 AM

    177. ET, what makes it acceptable to use the derisive term McI