Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Seth; Brigham City, Utah — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:23:21 GMT

The US population isn't aware of the effects regional politics have on the rest of the world. Such as the UK and others.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Edvar, Waltham MA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:28:28 GMT

Britons surelly would prefer a more articulated US president given that both countries have very strong ties.

McCain would certainly bring Palin's ignorant and flamboyant style to US politics. Without Obama the US would look like a country where shrewdness has given place to corrupt rampant incompetence.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Miguel Arango, Hialeah, Florida — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:32:14 GMT

The whole world economy it's in is worse situation ever. World politics as fragile as never before, the climate, energy and food challenges that lie ahead are incomprehensible at best and we talk about American candidates. I think nothing will fix the situation the planet is in now. A Pessimistic outlook is in fashion.

I hope we have the clarity to choose the world leaders that would impact the future of the planet in a positive and selfless manner.

Good luck to all.

Miguel Arango

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Steven Combs, West Valley City, Utah — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:42:10 GMT

Well blimey,
Sorry Mates. But its looking like Nobama is going to win GOD HELP US ALL
So not only are you buggered over the pond We American Citizens are Doubly Buggered here with his redistrubution of the wealth line of hooey
The story of the Pied Piper comes to mind and for the life of me I cannot figure out how so many otherwise Inteligent people can be pulled in with the Nobama dog and pony show
Good Luck
Steve...

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Karla, Rochester NY — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:47:16 GMT

Oates suggested that many Brits are "puzzled and appalled" by Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

"To a Brit, maverick doesn’t sound good. But she’s very good theatre and they’ve watched it with the detached fascination of a train wreck," Oates said.

SEE, IT'S NOT JUST US!!! John McCain wasn't fooling anyone, not even those across the pond! In the end, she will be his #1 mistake.

Great insight to how others around the world view the election, thanks!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

PJ, Springfield, MO — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:56:35 GMT

The reporter talks to the few thousand local residents who dont want the bases to close because they earn money off it. But he forgets the other 60 million Britons who don't want an aggressive foreign military presence on their soil.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

JBBarnard, Palm Coast, FL — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:04:57 GMT

Hold on to your hats, Great Britain! This is a seminal election. It will be the first time any country has VOTED in a marxist communist government. We owe a great deal to the total lack of objectivity of "the mainstream press" and their abuse of their First Amendment rights. This is just the beginning. Ya'll have fun out there, ya' heya.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Pat, Bossier City, LA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:06:50 GMT

I'm not much worried about the Brits, our utilities and everything else including taxes will triple with Obamanation (abomination) economics that obama will bring.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

McKinnon Johnstone — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:09:29 GMT

Without msnbc and the drive by media influence..... I wonder what the pollsters would say if they polled these folks?

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Zak — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:11:23 GMT

Unfortunately, most of these votes will not likely even be counted. It's pretty sad that after having a presence overseas for the last 50-60 years that our government has still not done a single thing to ensure that the votes of all of the Americans defending our constitution and freedom overseas get counted.

Just like my vote for Kerry meant nothing in 2004, while I was stationed in the middle east fighting G.W.'s war, most of these military members and their families, retired Vets, DoD civilians and government contractors stationed overseas and fighting the wars we are engaged in have no say in what happens, it's pretty sad and upsetting. Stories like these are the only way a lot of these people will be able to get their opinions heard.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Marcy Volk, Las Vegas, NV — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:11:43 GMT

I do love the English. Although our country is in a mess right now - this article shows how important we are on the global stage regardless of our situation. Senator Obama is well liked throughout the world and this is a plus for our country. To our "mother country" I would say - we want him to win as much as you do - probably more. Long live the Queen!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

SkysoldierRecon, Hopkinsville KY — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:12:22 GMT

The Brits I got to meet were in Iraq, or A-stan. They believe the Iraq war was a grab for oil, hated Bush, and thought we should steamroll the T-ban/AQ right out of A-stan, chase them all the way into P-stan until all of them were dead. Good job Dubya, you ruined this country, and the Brits think so too.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Dawn, Cedar Falls, Iowa — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:15:00 GMT

I'm in agreement with -
Many Brits are "puzzled and appalled" by Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.

What were they thinking with that choice???

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

McKinnon Johnstone — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:16:21 GMT

When the democrats were ahead by a large margin they used or minimized the "Bradley Effect" now since the campaign has tighten up they are calling it the "Wilder Effect" wonder why? Winkapedia has Bredley effect 8% versus less than 1/2% for Wilder?

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

John Salem, NH — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:16:26 GMT

Funny how the article "forgets" to mention that now in the UK they have a property tax-never had one before and it is because they cannot afford all the liberal handout programs. But again is it MSNBarak after all.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mitch Watson — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:19:25 GMT

Why don't we just borrow 1 trillion from China, close the base in England and pay all the people affected by the base closure a million dollars each, what's another trillion in the hole?

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Richard — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:19:50 GMT

If they think those bases closing will stop business in it's tracks, wait til they see what happens to businesses over here when Obama starts whipping his taxes on everyone with a job. It's a shame we can't all be on welfare.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

gaylen goettsch washta ia — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:23:08 GMT

I would prefer a president that talked poorly and thought clearly, than one that spoke clearly and thought poorly.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Liz — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:32:41 GMT

We have also watched Sara Palin as if it she a train wreck....unfortunately we are standing on the tracks as the train rushes towards us. Hoping it jumps the tracks before we are run down.

I voted for Obama yesterday.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

LadyAce2008, Florida, USA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:38:30 GMT

It is sad. Everyone is feeling the crunch. It doesn't matter what side of the ocean you are on or what language you speak or what nationality you are, or whether you are military or civilian. It all comes down to survival. Yes, the election is important, but it is about people. The world gets to see what life is really like now when everyone's livelihood is at risk. We must all come together and start working together or we all go down together.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

W. COX DALLAS TEXAS — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:41:27 GMT

YOU PEOPLE ARE UNBELEIVABLE.EVERY POLL TAKEN SHOWS THE MILITARY SUPPORTS McCAIN OVERWHEMINGLY, YET YOU PEOPLE ONLY QUOTE SUPPORTERS OF OBAMA.YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELVES.NO WONDER YOU'RE GOING DOWN THE TUBES.IT WON'T BE LONG YOU WILL BE UNEMPOLYED LIKE THE BRITS YOU ARE QUOTING.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jack — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:42:33 GMT

pro Obama and anti McCain....what's new...another biased article

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Carolyn Ward, Tulsa, OK — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:49:41 GMT

I am happy to finally see more coverage on what the rest of the world thinks of our impending election. I have been saying that the world is watching this election more closely than they have others and that what happens in this election will surely have an echoing effect on the rest of the world.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Delbert. Sandel. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:56:32 GMT

I read the peoples views on the U.S.A.air bases in England. That is only a few of the views. I live in Canada. I am sure the war in Iraq was something that needed cleaning up. I also wonder why rest of the so called United Nations did not send troups there? It seems there is always a handful of U.N. that took part in cleaning up the mess. Which by the way is still needing a big clean up. Another thing why not name those terroists what they are COWARDS. My last words in this email is LONG LIVE ENGLAND. She still is our Mother Country. A Canadian that still likes the UNION JACK FLAG.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

wayne hawn, Pensacola, Florida — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:01:48 GMT

What I am understanding out of the Obama camp is not cutting the US Forces, rather beefing it up, reequipping, repositioning and providing more training. Iraq is definately history, we will be "outta" there as fast as we got into that mess when he is elected. Iraq has been a "wallie".

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Bruce, Washington, DC — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:01:51 GMT

I love the Brits, but they can't have it both ways. They can't wish the darling of the anti-American crowd gets in office (Obama), then be concerned when he weakens out military---particularly in England!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Renata Nicole, Fort Sill, OK — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:03:15 GMT

It amazes me how everyone was upset when Obama went to Europe. As the wife of a soldier I would think that Americans would have remembered that we have Americans stationed in Europe. I am so glad that Obama went to Germany and England where are soldiers are. Also there are many Americans living abroad who do mail in their ballots. As the wife of a soldier I will be voting for Obama along with so many other military families.

Obama/Biden

2008.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sybil, Western, Wisconsin — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:06:49 GMT

I love the comment about having a President who can speak intelligently. I agree, I don't really want one who sounds "folksy"

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

chuck Monroe, Ga. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:13:59 GMT

The good 'ol US of A needs a very strong leader...McCain is old, but, not as old as Churchill was during WWII...What is needed is wise and experienced...Not young and inexperienced...Especially, with extreme far left idealogy...Obama supporters, before careful what you wish for, you may get much more than you want!!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mike Ghigeri, San Francisco, Ca — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:14:16 GMT

WE DON'T CARE WHAT BRITS OR ANYONE ELSE THINKS. THE MORE THEY TELL US HOW THEY THINK WE SHOULD BEHAVE THE MORE WE WILL DO THE OPPOSITE. WE DON'T CARE WHAT HAPPEND IN YOUR COUNTRY. STOP PRETENDING YOU UNDERSTAND OURS AND THE WORLD BETTER THAN WE DO. EUROPEANS THINK THAT JUST BECAUSE THEY ARE SO DEPENDENT ON EVERYONE ELSE FOR SECURITY, ENERGY, FINANCE, THAT THEY UNDERSTAND EVERYONE BETTER THAN WE DO. IF YOU DID YOU'D BE RUNNING THINGS, NOT ALWAYS RUNNING SCARED.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Doug Austin, Chemnitz, Germany — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:24:37 GMT

Let me get this straight. They don't like our Pres, our Politics or our military presence in England or the rest of Europe. Oh, but they do like our money and the fact that they don't speak German. Zum Lachen. Auf wiedersehen. When you need help again don't call us, we'll call you.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

drmadhani Ahmediabad India — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:32:19 GMT

US and its international BASES and the host-guest countries dependance on each other and global inertwined economy is good for all but instead of symbiotic relationship which turns into parasitic dependance is what has brought this world to its knees by sleazy money manipulators. Control Wall Streets of the World. Till than jugglery of words will bring only misery death and destruction as we see today. Change for better not worst. Nobody trusts McCains or Obamas. Tragic for US UK and world.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

greg, 82nd airborne "ALL THE WAY" — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:35:36 GMT

w.cox, what military are you talking about that supports mcain? The military i'm in (us army)does not support mcain simply because we know what that means for us, bush has ran the military in the ground with mcain standing next to him(his words)most of the world view the US as a bully since bush has been in office. now we are spreaded so thin in the military we can not address the real concern in afganistan. afganstan is where the 200,000 soldiers should have went but bush backed by your boy mcain lied to the country and the world to go to war in iraq(any other country he would on trail for war crimes and hanged liked you know who). even if obama doesn't deliver it could not be worst than putting bush,i mean mcain(is there a differance?) in office for another term.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Richard Murphy, Indianapolis, Indiana — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:53:02 GMT

Interestingly the author quotes two Obama supporters and no McCain supporters. Yet the polls of members of the military show Obama receives only 23% support.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jason swansea — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:53:09 GMT

Speaking from wales a small part of the united kingdom a lot of people think Mc Cain will win around here as hes actually got some history and obama appears to have come from thin air

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

GI over C's, United Kingdom — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 14:53:36 GMT

Lakenheath is in Suffolk, which is the agricultural armpit of England, built (literally) on swampland, and plagued by transients (a.k.a. gypsies). The locals have not one iota of respect for Americans, only for the revenue having 30,000 of us "trapped" nearby generate for them. If I had a nickel for every time I heard a Brit derisively say the word "Yank" just loud enough to be overheard at pubs like The Plough, I wouldn't have to worry about recession. Almost every Brit I've ever talked with is unbelievably bigoted too, with one elderly gentleman at the vet clinic asking me in the waiting room how I felt about "that half-breed Obama" running for president instead of running back to Africa where he belongs. This "news" story conveniently takes the word of a rare U.S.-tolerant Brit as the voice of an entire nation. I for one do not care what the British think about our presidential candidates -- it is Americans who will suffer/benefit from the winner. Closing Lakenheath, Mildenhall, Molesworth, Alconbury, or Menwith Hill would save AMERICAN taxpayers money. Who cares about the surrogate British government subsidies who leach out of the U.S. coffers?

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Stephanie Walker, Sulphur Springs, Texas — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:01:01 GMT

I think McCain made a wise choice in Palin. I feel sorry for those Brits that think Obama will turn things around. Of course, he would turn things around, but it would not be for the Country's good! It's time for all Americans to open their eyes and see the terrible diaster they are courting in trying to elect Obama.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Bud, Farmington, Maine — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:01:57 GMT

It seems that almost nobody understands the Constitution. The presidents power lies in foreign policy and his position as commander-in-chief. The Constitution does not give the president the power to enact laws. That power lies with the Congress.

So what does this mean? It means that most of what the nominees are saying is just hot air because they will have no power to change anything substantial. It also means that the most important outcomes on election day are the results of the choices for the House and the Senate because the power to tax lies with them.

So when you vote, ask yourself who you want to be commander-in-chief of the armed forces and who you want to conduct foreign policy, ie, who can best protect the US from the forces that want to destroy us.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Rachel J, Small Town, Oregon — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:02:51 GMT

Obama should not be leading this country. With his background and credentials, he wouldn't even pass a basic background check. He is under suspicion of not even being a US citizen and he wants to make the US a capitalistic society. You complain about McCain and Palin, but atleast they want to preserve what we do have not take even more away.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jackinson Nascimento — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:03:41 GMT

It amazes me how the Republicans cannot put the country first and vote for the best candidate. All they do is whine, smear, and knowingly misconstrue the record of Senator Obama. This fear mongering machine, smear campaign,empty promises and negativity will be over in less than a week. God bless Obama and God bless America!!!!!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

British Expat Las Vegas Nevada — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:06:00 GMT

In reply to John Salam NH. Briton has ALWAYS paid property taxes but only by home owners. It used to be called RATES. The name was changed to reign in renters who never had never paid. Get your facts right before you sound so know it all! Also
I wonder why it is that when any dirty work needs doing or help with a disaster around this world America is usually the one to step in. When any disaster happens in the USA how many countries offer to help America? Then once things are cleaned up America is not wanted, they are an 'aggressive foreign force' the host country wants out. America should stop being the 'good guys' and leave the rest of the world to sort out their own mess instead of being like the sherif that saved the town from the gun slingers then the town kicked him out! That way they can't be blamed or accused of anything.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mike Householder — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:06:47 GMT

I lived in Europe for 12 years, am a retired USAF aviator, and am married to a European. Regretfully, all of Europe seems hell-bent on as much socialism as they can get. This is yet another indicator. I hope my children do not live to see Eurabia and Amerabia.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Rotraud, Langley, OK — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:11:54 GMT

In my opinion, neither of the two presidential candidates have a solution to the tremendous foreclosure problems, people losing their homes, their jobs, not having, nor being able to afford health care,nor the overwhelming drug/alcohol problem we have in this country. Does all of this effect the rest of the world? - of course, it does.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mary James — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:12:11 GMT

I just finished reading all of these comments. If everyone would spend as much time trying to do something positive for this world as they do sitting around bashing how things are, and how this candidate is worse than this one, we might see some change and we wouldn't be considered the "lazy, fat, Americans". Get a clue people.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Terry Osbourn, Cleburne Texas — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:12:38 GMT

US Airforce bases in the UK? Absurd! WWII is over and these bases should be removed at once. Does Great Brition have bases in the US? No! So why should we? This is the problem with the US government and military. Great Brition is a Big Boy and they can take care of themselves. I am all for military bases outside of the US where needed but not in Great Brition!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Ryan J — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:13:57 GMT

Liberal comments as usual, bla, bla, bla, bla, bla, bla.
250,000, 200,000, 150,000 and last year Biden/Obama voted to raise taxes on couples making 42,000.
You stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid people.
Did you know Clinton signed illegal Credit Default Swaps back into being legal in his last month as president. Clinton is the one that screwed the economy. It sickens me that I have to surf these garbage sites to correct you socialist fools.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

D.J., Cincinnati, Ohio — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:14:15 GMT

I have to wonder what the Brits are hearing in their media about the Presidential candidates and if it's as biased as what we are getting in the USA. According to the Project for Excellence in Journalism for the period of Sept. 8 - Oct. 16, their findings on the MEDIA'S reporting of the candidates shakes out to be as follows: Obama - Positive 36%, Negative 29%, Neutral 35%. McCain - Positive 14%, Negative 57%, Neutral 29%. Palin - Positive 7%, Negative 64%. Isn't the media supposed to be unbiased? If my kids were getting this slanted of view in school regarding eating peas, I never would get them to eat them, no matter how good they may acually be nutrition wise!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Ian, Delray Beach, FL — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:15:01 GMT

McCain: "I know how to win wars."

Really, John? Where did you attain this vaunted knowledge? As a POW for 5 years? As a military officer during a war where we ticked the box in the Loss column?

McCain: "I know how to find and Kill Osama bin Laden."

Well, heck, John. Why don't you let the current administration know how so we can finally put that one to rest? I'm sure Bush would love to be able to at least have that under his belt by the time he leaves office (or hasn't he left office already...haven't heard much from the village idiot lately).

Honestly, the only message I've heard from the McCain campaign has been divisive rhetoric. It reads like this:

Terrorist
Fear
Muslim
Fear
Terrorist
Socialist
Fear
Fear
Fear

If the only way a campaign can win an election is to cow the population with fear and misinformation, then they don't deserve to be in office.

I also think it is interesting that the US Army has deployed a BCT on US soil a month before the election to "assist local authorities in case of civil unrest or crowd control." This is an indication of the America that the current administration and, by extension, a McCain administration has in store for us.

Open your eyes, people. McCain is not good for the future of this great nation. Vote Obama/Biden 2008.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

John Walters, Yorktown, Virginia — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:15:05 GMT

In this the last week of the campaign it is amazing to witness the amount of bigotry and ignorance that still exists in the U.S.. I am not refering to television, just conversations with folks I know here in Virginia.
I feel that the rest of the free world will be releived to finally have a U.S. president that will restore the tainted image of our republic. I know I will.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Airborne Ft. Bragg, NC — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:15:44 GMT

I'm in one of the biggest bases in the country and dont be fooled by polls. The majority of the military does'nt "support McCain". Maybe a few officiers here and there (that eventually want to be in politics)but as I take a look around I see and hear more people talk about the brighter side of having Obama in the Whitehouse.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jim A. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:17:17 GMT

It has always amazed me that, while people in other countries go ballistic if we Americans even comment on their "internal affairs," they never-the-less feel perfectly comfortable telling us how to run our country, almost as a matter of right.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

DenverJohn — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:19:56 GMT

All you cry baby McCain rednecks just crack me up! You act like Republicans don't raise taxes or cause kaos. You're voting for McCain for one reason and one reason only and it has nothing to do with politics or the good for our country.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Lillian Reuben, Berkshire — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:20:04 GMT

Obama to win this Election will be the start of healing process for illegal war the US wrongly deceived the English to join. A healing to the whole citizens of the world and perhaps he will unite the world wounded citizens children and women with severe burning injuries from the war they did not ask for. If you have morals VOTE OBAMA TO END HUMAN RACE CRUELTY posed by not needed MILITARY ACTIONS. WE DONT WANT FEAR ALL WE WANT IS HOPE - "OBAMA 08"

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Gary Fort Walton Beach, Florida. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:20:33 GMT

I am an Englishman that now lives in Florida. I can't believe the statement that most Brits find themselves appalled and puzzled with Sarah Palin. This woman would be the best thing that could happen to the US goverment along with McCain. Obama is a joke!! This guy is never gonna be able to take on such a high responsibilty with the lack of experience he has..
This country is going to get screwed,,,
GOD help us!!

Gary

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Yaussi, Bakersfield, CA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:25:56 GMT

How can people trust Obama!!! He has charisma, he's tall, and he's young. But that is ALL that he's got going for him! He is going to turn this country around for change for sure...and it's not going to be good!

McCain/Palin

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

John Walters, Yorktown, Virginia — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:27:54 GMT

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Dan Michigan — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:28:16 GMT

It's interesting to see how this election has ignited interest all over the world, and the impact it has on other regions and not just this nation. I do belive this is democracy at its best. I'm 46 and white, I'd never thought I would live long enough to see a woman or a black man on either preidential ticket, and that one of them no matter the outcome would be in office.
Proud of this Country Dam Right.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

SharonQ, Massachusetts — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:31:08 GMT

Now we are listening to a group of pub owners who take money from our American soldiers. First, I am offended that our soldiers are thought of as their gravy train. Secondly, since the media has not let us see or hear McCain/Palin much in the USA, how much could Great Britain see on them vs. Obama? Maybe if we heard from some of the other classes of British citizens and their views we would have a better idea of what Great Britain really thinks. British citizens who do not make a profit from our military.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Chris, Amersham, Bucks — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:34:08 GMT

I have to say, those views do sum up our populace. Many of us liked McCain until Palin, but I think Obama is a better choice.
P.S Obama is not a communist, if he was a politician over here, he would probably be a Tory (Conservative Party)

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Gina Williams — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:36:54 GMT

Senator Obama keep doing what you are doing and in the end their is a star shinning just for you and i know one person who would be so proud and wish he could be here to see it and that man started it off his name is Martin Luther king Jr.so keep your head up because Martin luther king Jr was for right and so are you to some people it is about race but to you it is about helping the people and that means all people so if any one is proud of you i am for going out and standing up to prove and show the world their is a smart black educated man that is worthy of being president and that what scares these peoples ,their not looking at the problems we are having they are looking at race and john Mccain is loving every bit of it him and his side kick but i will tell both of them get out of the race you dont have a chance so pack up and leave because a new man is in town an his name is President OBama with his First lady Michell,good luck and my vote will and son and whole family and all friends will be on your side we love you ,you are our predisent

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

EC, Seattle, WA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:37:00 GMT

It's amazing how the conservative idiots can't see what clowns (GW) put us in this mess. Now they want another clown to pull us out. We'll be in a quag mire for sure with McCain. Viva Obama!!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Joe-the-Plumer, Midwest, USA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:39:36 GMT

The more we care about what others think about the US election, the less independent we become! You will never please everyone! We affect every nation on this planet good or bad in one way or another! They want our help when it is needed and then jump on us when when we're not! They get our hard earned dollars and send us nothing in return. Pull the military back home so they can vote and protect our borders. We have helped every economy on the globe prosper by buying their goods with our money. It is time to grow our own food, make our own toys, drill our own oil, and just sit back and watch all these other countries economies dry up. That is the only way we will get any respect for what we actually contibute to the world economy. I don't care about other countries and who they would vote for in These Divided States of America!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sam, Maryland — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:41:40 GMT

I work with the military everyday they are not the smartest people when it comes to Politics. But W Cox Dallas Texas if you read the latest polls correctly younger Military enlisted are more likely to support Obama over Mcshame and Stalin Palin. So you need to listen to more than Fox News.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

hurley — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:43:50 GMT

I love how McCain followers always say that taxes and costs on EVERYTHING will double or triple when Obama gets into office, yet they have NOTHING to base this theory on.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Kevin Barlett, Coaldale, Pennsylvania — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:44:35 GMT

Before you go and ridicul Sarah Palin maybe you should ask someone from Alaska what they think of her.
I have and they absolutely love her. From what I was told she firmly believes in Power of the People. She let the citizens vote on wether they wanted to pay taxes or not. Sounds like a leader that actually believes in the principals that founded this great country.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Simon Melb Fl — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:44:38 GMT

John Salem NH

Britain has always had a propety tax, it was just called something else, "rates" and was based on property size and value.

PJ Springfield Mo

Says who. We have had foreign military presence in the Uk since the war, just as our military has a presence in other countries

I grew

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Craig, Milwaukee, Wi — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:46:05 GMT

I have run a small busines for the past 18 years. I am not an economics major but have lived in this environment long enough to make some observations based on experience. I have no fear of an Obama presidency and actually welcome it. My taxes have been lower with Bush than they were with Clinton but so is my income. Giving me tax breaks will not encourage me to add employees or expand my business. I will simply put it in the bank. Only increased demand for my services will cause me to expand my business. When the middle class is strong, so is my business as well as my income. Paying another 3.6% in taxes will not affect my lifestyle in any way. Joe The Plumber clearly never owned a small business. My point is that Obama's tax increase is welcome to me. The stratification of our wealth due to trickle down economics has damaged my business. From 1930-1986 the upper tax rate varied from 50-94% and nobdy cried Socialism. We can be the Roman Empire and continue to stratify the wealth until we fall or we can empower the hard working middle class and become an economic power once again. Please, increase my taxes so I can make more money!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

KB, SLC, UT — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:50:21 GMT

All of you Americans should watch and read other information from around the world. Try watching BBC and some of the interviews with our soldiers over in IRAQ who hate being there. All you ever see on US News is "we support our country" Well most say it is a poor excuse for a war and needless people are dying all because of a republican ran government who are in the business to save all thier oil buddies and investments. Obama needs to clean the house and start with a fresh new groups of faces who are not corrupt. Don't know if there is anyone out there who fits that bill nowdays.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Chandra Allyn, Las Vegas, Nevada — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:50:58 GMT

Let me say this...it is no that the media is pro-obama and anti-mccain. McCain had every opportunity to tell us what he is going to do for us and sadly he spends his debate and commercial time making attacks on obama rather than speaking about what he can do for us. I voted Barack, not only does the media like Barack...but so does the majority of this country (he is going to win by a landslide). I am so tired of republicans reaching for excuses as to why the democrats are leading this time around...we are tired of 8 years of a broken government, failed economics and Mccain is just the same. I am sure the Brits do like Obama more, how many of their people have died for George Bush's war? We are gonna win this time and you republicans are going to have to suck it up like we did in 2000 and 2004. By the way, McCain's health plan doesnt even make sense to a vast majority of republicans, and his idea to "stay the course" is ridiculous, and the rich helping the poor is not socialism...it is called fairness. Republicans just want the rich to stay rich, and the poor to stay poor and they are mad because we arent buying it this time. Rich people need the middle class to stay rich. We are the ones spending the money at Walmart so the stocks can go up, etc. You should want the middle class to have more money, and you can research this anywhere- Obama is not going to raise taxes on anyone that works. Thats is plain ignorance and exactly why McCain is behind- he is too busy spreading lies for any of us to know what he represents.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

CM in Tucson, Arizona — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:52:12 GMT

I'm an American citizen who was born and raised in England. I also lived in Canada for several years. I can honestly tell you that there is nothing worse than being ill, or having a child that is ill and you have no money to go to a doctor or hospital. Sometimes tragedies happen in life and you have nowhere else to turn but to seek help from the government, as embarassing as it may be. Everyone seeking help isn't lazy as the Republicans seem to think. If you think a government supported health care system is wrong, think about who is controlling our health care system at the moment - yes, for-profit insurance companies are controling our doctors and hospitals. How insane is that!!!!

My vote is for Obama, a man that is in tune with the rest of us out there working around the clock to make ends meet. Not for John and Cindy McCain who are multi-millionaires - and as for his choice for Vice President - that should say it all. Is this woman for real?

I've been watching McCain for years (as an Arizona resident) and he is a condescending, arrogant, short-tempered, narrow-minded angry man. If you think this man is going to mend relations with the leaders of this world you are gravely mistaken, and if you think this isn't important, you are ignorant.

If we don't make some drastic changes in this country we are going to go down the tubes like England. Believe me, I know.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

The truth — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:52:21 GMT

You know you guys are still only reporting one side of the story, WHY, This is the United State and it is called free press. Well just like the tape that the
Los Angles time/ or press have and will not show it and tell the whole truth. what a shame we have to live in county like this.
FOR THE TRUTH.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Liz, Coudersport, PA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:53:12 GMT

All the misinformed bloggers to this item are appalling, the ones who are believing the lies of the McCain-Palin disaster. Friends in Britain, Sweden and Israel cannot believe that the U.S. could actually be dumb enough to vote in those two. Obama is solid, puts the people first, and has the best tax proposals that will benefit the most people, the average American. We and the world are in the current dire circumstance because of the deregulation of Gramm (McCain's campaign co-chair), Greenspan (Republican), Bush (supported by McCain on economic policies). Base your decisions on fact, People, not on lies. The only hope we have of getting out of this economic mess is through the intelligence and leadership of Obama and those with whom he will confer. He has demonstrated his executive experience through the outstanding campaign he's waged over two years and the rock-solid, never wavering stance on major issues. He has further demonstrated his ability to adapt when needed. Obama is the leader this country and the world requires, especially at this time. Even with their own problems, most of the world yearns for what Obama will bring.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jeff Johnston, Seattle, Wash — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:54:02 GMT

So why do most of these pro-McCain comments make fun of Obama's name as their argument? Now on socialism, McCain just backed the 700 billion dollar bail out. If that is not Socialism I do not know what is.

Time to bring the country together instead of splitting it in two; we are in an economic crisis and need to work together. Now which candidate with their views will unite the country? I did not realize their was a pro-America and an Anti-America parts of the country. Lets fix the economy first then we can go back to the partisan attacks and name calling that some politicians relish in doing.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jamie, Elkton, Md — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:37:09 GMT

Ian makes an excellent point. The negative onslaught from the McCain campaign and his supporters has done him harm.

Shouldn't there be a focus on showing us why we should choose McCain instead of just telling me why I shouldn't pick obama? Negative advertising (and tasteless rumor perpetuation) has turned this libertarian completely off to McCain...

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sharon Daniels, Burlington, Ontario ,Canada — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:39:36 GMT

I find it difficult to believe that any human cannot understand the concept.... That if all your people are Healthy and Educated, then the country can do nothing else but prosper. Government should be responsible for ensuring this.Universal Health Care like we have here in Canada, allows everyone to have a chance. No one ever goes bankrupt or loses anything if they are ill. Access to the most expensive surgery, Transplants etc. is denied to no one. Our Doctors, I believe are better able to handle any situation as they see every situation.
I believe anyone who wants any degree of education should get it at the states expense. Better to spend those war dollars educating than fighting a war only meant to line Haliburton's and other Bush cronies wallets. The Middle East would love to see the U.S. bankrupt itself into a third world, spending it's money overseas and letting it's own people suffer.

Social Welfare reform, spending money on education and healthcare, affordable homes and green energy policies sounds like a winner to me. Wish we had someone with vision in Canada. We have the largest reserves of oil sands in the world, we are your neighbours....................imagine what we could do working together instead of fighting in world courts about Tarrifs on softwood lumber...

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

shriopshire enfgland — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:41:37 GMT

the us airforce is welcome hear in england. the us guys are a great bunch of people, better than the socialist people we have in this country, i wish i was american, please do not vote in the liberal obama
hes like our lefty government, republicans and the usa forever

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Kevin, Columbia, Mo. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:48:55 GMT

I just got back from spending a month in Scotland & Ireland, and let me tell you--the quotes in this story disparaging McCain, Palin, and Bush are very representative of the feelings over there. Every single person who talked to us about politics in both countries--young, old, business owners, cab drivers, shop employees, B&B owners, Protestants, Catholics, every last person--is appalled by McCain-Palin, disgusted by Bush's record, and is amazed that anyone here would not vote for Obama. To them, it's not about some specific ideology, it's just common sense. This country is sinking under the weight of racist, xenophobic, black-and-white, with-us-or-against-us stupidity, and the rest of the world sees it loud and clear.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Alison W., Seattle, WA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 17:59:41 GMT

I lived at Lakenheath for 5 years. It is a special and interesting place where two cultures come together. I learned a great deal about the world and appreciating different points of view during my years there. It is also quite a beautiful place, something the article fails to mention. The bases there are of such strategic (and historic) significance, I seriously doubt that the American presence will ever be removed entirely, although a reduction in the number of personnel could occur.

I'll always remember the places in and around Lakenheath with great fondness.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jason, SLC, UT — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 18:07:02 GMT

I will look at who the hollywood elite, the biased media, europeans, and terrorists want to be the new president and then vote the opposite because they know exactly what the United States of America stands for and don't like it. God, Family, Country. "Land of the free, home of the brave." God Bless America.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sergeant Apathetic — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:44:09 GMT

The military does NOT overwhelming support Senator McCain. At my home station, and my deployed location now (Iraq) it's fairly even between both candidates. Although, it does take some work to get people to speak about their choices. The military has a culture of "vote Republican or be an outcast". People should not be fearful about their choices --- it IS a free country, right?

Some of the older NCOs I've spoken with support McCain solely due to party line -- and they admit to that freely. Their view is that Republicans historically take care of the military better. They're voting for themselves, and I can't blame anyone for that. Some are voting that way because they're being pressured to. I also know some junior enlisted being pressured by younger Lieutenants to vote McCain "because it's the right thing to do", and a few to vote Obama based on their ideals (no matter if they're wrong or right).

Any polls of the military are going to be skewed. There's too much top-pressure and fear to speak up.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Martin, Plymouth England — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 19:50:46 GMT

Hi there US friends.

I can tell the US voters that I am English living in the UK. we need a McCain Victory! Olbama is very weak on foreign issues, he is a typical PR man. Not so sure of what he stands for at all.

Like you we have banking problems but our national security surly must come first.

Before you all vote listen to McCain he really understands your problems and he is the only one talking sense, Please Vote wisely.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mitch, Sycamore, Illinois — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:01:50 GMT

We americans need the ultra wealthy in Great Britain, Switzerland, and the Netherlands from funding the most corrupt politicians in the US. Most of our unethical "American" corporations are actually majority owned by just a few European families that claim not to dabble in any politics. It is incredible to watch protests against the US in European countries that treat the culprits as gods.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sarah Blanton, Hickory, NC USA — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:14:46 GMT

Always so interesting to hear people's viewpoints who are not living in the fishbowl! I have never been to England but it sounds like people's opinions are spot-on. It saddens me to see my fellow Americans react so derisively towards Senator Obama, who I early-voted for here in conservative Western North Carolina because I really want the USA to go in a new direction and stop getting steamrolled into the ground by fear-mongering and small minded people!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Cant Complain — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:17:21 GMT

As a father of a MC Corp. I hope my son's vote gets thru. As a independent I punched the big "D" all the way down the card this year. Some things need to change.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Sharon Hampton, Buckinghamshire, UK — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 21:29:08 GMT

Well. All interesting. Quite a few of the people who have commented, clearly have no idea of the world outside the US...or the importance of accepting that there is a world outside the US. On the other hand, it's heartening to see some real thinking going on by a few 'commenters'. As an American who has lived in the UK for 20 years, I can say:
*the US has bases in the UK because it protects US interests in Europe...and gives them a quick place from which to launch an attack.
*the UK has as much right to a view about US politicians as anyone -- unfortunately, due to America's financial power, they suffer the consequences...but looks like that may be changing!
*I'm constantly embarassed by the lack of intelligence exhibited by Americans -- get a grip. The US may have 'ruled the world' for 100 years, but 100 years in the great scheme of things is nothing...as others from the Romans to the Americans have or will experience, it's all part of the ebb and flow of our world experience
*Having spent 9 years at RAF Lakenheath, I am ashamed to say that many of my fellow Americans never ventured beyond 'Little America' (the base). They would spend 3-4 years on the base, and never try to take part in the local communities...then they would return to the US and say 'I hated England'. They never knew it.
*All the world can hope is that Americans WILL exhibit intelligence and vote on ISSUES, not PERSONALITIES, and that they will take the view that they are only one part of a bigger world -- and we all impact each other, whether we like it or not.
Sorry... waking up...I just had the strangest dream...

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Robert, Birmingham, UK — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 22:09:56 GMT

Britain's "property tax" that McCain's team bemoans the community charge (Poll Tax) introduced by Margaret Thatcher.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Black Knight, Colorado Springs, CO — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 22:25:00 GMT

The Britons may hope that the rifts will heal, but frankly, they are just going to get worse, and the divide will look like the Grande Canyon. Don't hold your breath waiting.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Brett, Cedar City, Utah — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 22:26:56 GMT

It appears the comments have gotten off-topic a bit.

Let me be the first to say, that whichever candidate becomes president, the world will not explode as a result. That's the beauty of a republic. If we make a mistake, we can change it in 4 years.

However, Obama being elected seems to be the choice of the world. And no I don't think it's "liberal media" only reporting support for Obama (grow a brain!)

I still haven't decided who to vote for. I like both candidates. However, Collin Powell's statements are making a lot of sense with me. I admire that Obama has a talent for uniting. Speaking of dividing you are seeing the social conservatives getting fed up with the wacko conservatives (Republicans take note!)

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Tom Egerton, United Kingdom — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 23:43:00 GMT

I am from Britain, from a normal middle class family and to be honest no one I know really cares about the US elections, but for some reason it’s always on the news and in the media. Of course they portray Obama as the one to vote for but I think we have more important things to think about. I agree, I do not see any reason for a US military base in the UK, and I truly believe its time we got our heads out of Americas arse. We should be more independent, as you did so yourselves, from us.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Old Codger, Prescott, Arizona. — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 23:44:53 GMT

I never could understand why the US needed to have bases and troops in Britain and Germany and the cost of maintaining those bases. Oh, was it to protect us from the Russians? Oh, why worry? Now that Gov. Pailin can see Russia from her front porch we can be sure she will shoot and skin any Russian bear that ventures across the Bearing Sea and into her view. Now McCain will have a different solution - they seem to be at odds more often than not these days. John S. McCain likely will propose a surge in the number of troops in Europe to encircle Russia with anti balistic bases just like his hero, George W. Bush.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

anonymous, RAF Lakenheath — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 01:46:32 GMT

I just want to let you know that a lot of the british people dont like the americans! There are many places that we are banned from going into. I just thought people should know how it really is over here cuz in the artical it makes it sound like we are oh so loved over here. but in reality around base we are despised by most.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Joe Da Millionaire Plumber Independant — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:00:39 GMT

Those of you voting for Obama, you might as well move to England, that's what he will turn the US into. Why did we fight all these wars for independance and all those dead soldiers, so we can vote to be just like England. Makes me sick to my stomach. No spine wimps! Socialists get out!!!!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

DeeDee, Bellevue Washington — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:03:18 GMT

Another article in support of Obama, like he is the second coming or something. My dad was in the military for over 30 years, I lived in the states and in foreign countries. I was always happy to come home to the country I love. It makes me sad to see and hear that so many Americans are embracing socialism. Our lives will change drastically once Obama is in the White House and it will not be for the good. God help us all.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Jay, Oregon — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 02:37:53 GMT

Thank you , Airborne in NC! My husband is a retired AF Colonel and served in Viet Nam flying too...Air Rescue. Unlike John McCain...he is a very humble man...and I know he risked his life and I am so thankful he came home alive.
Watching John McCain in this election...he has lost all respect for John McCain...and he is registered as a Republican... and is not voting for the McCain/Palin ticket. He also says that if John McCain had been in the Air Force when he crashed those jets (excuse my language... just screwing around) he would have been thrown out! The lies and false rhetoric coming from Palin and McCain is disturbing and disgraceful.Check this fact out folks.... The Vets gave John McCain a "D" for his work in congress for the vets... it's time to get a grip folks...the military is much much smarter than you think! Thank God!!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Joey- Las Vegas, Nevada — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:49:16 GMT

There was a great politician once. He promised peace, prosperity,pride in his nation,and economic growth. He was a great speaker and enchanted a cultural society. He did all this in the middle of a depression. sound familiar? nope not Obama. give you a hint. It was in Germany.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Mekhong Kurt, Aubrey, Texas/Bangkok, Thailand — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 07:35:16 GMT

First, to gaylen goettsch washta ia: I have been an admirer of McCain for many years, and was excited when he entered the race.

You appear to feel likewise, in your contribution "I would prefer a president that talked poorly and thought clearly, than one that spoke clearly and thought poorly."

The difficulty I have with that proposition is that McCain has not only not been as effective a speaker, but he also has not shown consistently great thought. For instance, when I first learned he had selected Palin as his running mate, I thought there was real potential there, though I had the reservation that I knew nothing about her. Now, even McCain's own advisers are grousing about her. And there are respected other figures in the Republican Party who are already hunkering down wondering how in the world the party is going to get over this one. I understand (I think) why McCain made his completely unexpected choice -- Palin's personal biography has some attractive, fascinating elements, she's young, and she sure gets attention.

Unfortunately for her, much of that attention hasn't been all that great, and I'm talking about outside the media. I have many friends who are dyed-in-the-wool Republicans who are keeping to the party line but who also are moaning, asking of one and all, "What in the *world* was McCain thinking?"

BTW, Alaskans get more federal money per capita than any other state, plus they get rather plump direct cash benefits from the state itself. Scarcely qualifies as Republican economic orthodoxy, does it?

Not that Obama gets off the hook and looks as pure as the driven snow. His $250,000 threshold conveniently ignores the fact that the figure is for a married couple -- the figure for a single person is 20% less, at $200,000. His health-care plans are economically questionable as well; there, McCain's plan sounds better, or at least less bad, I will say.

A personal bias I have is that I live abroad (Bangkok), and my Thai and friends from countries outside the U.S. largely wonder what McCain might be able to do to restore America to its global respectability, something Bush has pretty well trashed. (And before those who would like to see a Fortress America object, just look at the example of "Fortress North Korea" to contemplate where that slippery slope might lead. Probably not anywhere to the same degree, since we won't have a nation-sized Disneyland run by a cast of cartoon Goofy's running our country, unlike what North Korea suffers.)

And to Rachel J: You wrote "He is under suspicion of not even being a US citizen and he wants to make the US a capitalistic society." Check with any immigration lawyer. So long as Obama's Mother's citizenship is beyond dispute and so long as there's no evidence he's *not* her son, he is a U.S. citizen (birth certificate or not). I've had quite a few American friends living abroad with foreign spouses who had children born before the Mother could get to a hospital, making a birth certificate problematic, at best. Yet, not one of those offspring has been denied American citizenship, nor, indeed, had much trouble obtaining it. Sure, in the absence of a birth certificate there were some extra hoops to leap through, but at the end of the day, they got their citizenship -- without exception. As for the latter half of your comment -- "he wants to make the US a capitalistic society" -- I'm a bit puzzled. Most of the Obama bashers I've read (meaning hundreds, maybe thousands) have accused him of wanting to turn America into a communist/socialist/Islamic state. To be accused of wanting a capitalistic society in America hardly seems a condemnation that resonates with the American public.

I personally wouldn't have mind if an impossible ticket had been possible: Obama-McCain, or McCain-Obama. Each has his strengths, just as each has his weaknesses -- and their respective strengths and weaknesses play well against each other, in many instances.

Lastly, a general comment, though it doesn't apply to everyone contributing here. The venom of the debate in this election cycle has been deeply disturbing to me. I've seen friends who share friendships of many years nearly come to blows, and in a few cases, become so bitterly estranged I'm doubtful they'll be able to patch things up again -- ever. Not much in the way of "civil discourse" there, is there?

So, how did I vote? For the Presidency, Vice-Presidency, and one local office I voted for one party; for every other single office I voted for the other party. My point being that I'm beholden to neither. And which is which is something that just might surprise you.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

C.B., St. Louis, MO — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 08:03:46 GMT

How striking that most of the negative comments here about Senator Obama repeat the egregious lies about his supposed "socialist" and "marxist" tendencies.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

fred monk — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 08:58:49 GMT

I'm in one of the biggest countries and dont be fooled by polls. The majority of the military does "support McCain". Maybe a few officiers here and there (that eventually want to be in politics)but as I take a look around I see and hear more people talk about the darker side of having Obama in the Whitehouse. He will bring us down

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Cornelius W. Lupao,Nairobi, Kenya. — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:16:12 GMT

If all the world were to be allowed to elect the US president, Obama would win with atleast 92% of the votes.His views on foreign policy seem to resonate well with the rest of the world and may help America reclaim its position in world affairs. Please Americans,elect Obama and restore your image,that is so far in danger, as the Greatest country in the world.

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Ed Hughes, Essex UK — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 09:37:49 GMT

Being British I we have to admit that America is the major contributor to changes in the world. Your economy, foreign policy, military etc, and therefore you politics dominates everything we do. America goes to war, Britain goes to war with it. America has a financial crisis, then so does Britain.

Essentially (and these words really get stuck in my troat), whoever leads America leads the world. Therefore your politics becomes our politics. Now we don't care about your local politics but we do care about what your politics does to our economy and foreign policy.

Sadly your current President is not liked across the world (for a variety of reasons), lets just be thankful that whoever wins next week at least sounds intelligent! We will be watching very closely!

Election hits home near U.S. base in Britain

Kai, Birmingham, UK — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 11:52:23 GMT

In response to some factual inaccuracies in the comments above:

1) Obama is not a Marxist, those who preach this are scare mongering have a quote: "We should be asking ourselves what mix of policies will lead to a dynamic free market and widespread economic security" (Obama 2006). Now, last I looked, the concept of the free market was certainly not a Marxist policy. Being in favour of social welfare does not equal Marixsm, or even socialism.

2) even if he was, it would not be the first case of a country democraticly electing a commuinst, for example, Chile in 1970.

I cannot vote in the American election, but I urge all who wish to do so to educate themselves and make an informed judgement; no matter who it is you vote for.