February 24: VwV was launched in February of 2008 and one of our first posts was titled, “After Fidel, Cuban bloggers discuss US candidates.” The post compiled Cuban bloggers thoughts on what the new U.S. president would do with the new leader of Cuba and so Obama’s infamous “without pre-conditions” line began, which haunted him throughout the campaign.

March 21: After videos of Obama’s reverend were brought to the public, the now President-elect delivered, arguably, one of the most memorable speeches in history on racism. VwV’s post, “World moved by Obama’s speech on race,” highlights what bloggers throughout the world had to say after hearing Obama’s thoughts on race.

April 17: As the first African-American president of the U.S., it was crucial for VwV to get the thoughts of African bloggers on Obama. In the post titled, “A letter from Africa,” bloggers throughout the large continent shared their opinions on the then, Democratic contender for nomination.

June 9: As America’s summer heated up, so did the presidential campaign but throughout the world. In the post, “Global: The world has a say!” VwV’s editor compiled a list of Web sites that allowed non-Americans to vote who they think is best for the states.

June 19: The rapid growth of technology played a major role in the 21st century presidential campaign. In the post, “Global: I’m voting Republican” covers what world bloggers thought about a controversial film by Charlie Steak.

August 29: This was the day the world was introduced to Sarah Palin – the governor of the U.S. state closest to Russia and John McCain’s Republican running mate. Without much information about the Republican VP pick, bloggers simply commented about McCain’s pick being a woman as compiled in the post, “The world reacts to Sarah Palin’s VP nomination.”

October 10: Race was not only prevalent on the Democratic campaign trail but also on the Republican, as rallies became heated. The post, “Racism on the Republican Trail?” includes just a few of the comments that were fluttering through the blogosphere about remarks made during Republican rallies.

October 24: The rise of technology returns with the post, “Dear American Voter: an international persepective.” The post covers Link TV’s project that allowed non-Americans to send letters to American voters via videos. The post includes just some of the prevalent thoughts of the voices without votes.

November 4: Mainstream media outlets weren't the only ones covering “breaking news.” As soon as word got out that Dixville, New Hampshire, was the first county to close their polls and count their votes, the blogosphere was on it. This post, “Dixville notch makes global blogosphere history” quotes the excitement of some bloggers and skepticism of others.

November 9: And, after it was all said and done…bloggers began to look back and analyze how Obama ran a successful campaign. In the post, “Social media and the making of the president,” analyses were offered by bloggers in three different countries of how social media played such a major factor in the campaign.

On the lighter side of the campaign, our silliest moments include: Tina Fey as Sarah Palin; Sarah Palin’s conversation with “Sarkozy;” And, Joe the unlicensed plumber.

Chinese-Americans throughout the nation have began a petition opposing Richardson’s appointment because of his handling of the case against Taiwanese-American Wen Ho Lee. The petition calls for the President-elect to disregard Richardson from his Cabinet, completely.

Chinese-American Guy Wong writes that the Richardson appointment will cause difficulty in dealing with the Chinese government.

“As you may know, Richardson singlehandedly caused Dr. Wen Ho Lee his job and his reputation, not to mention his freedom. I expect him, if confirmed as the Secretary of Commerce, to have a tough time with the Chinese and China is one of our biggest trading partners.”

Another Chinese-American, George Koo, also comments on Richardson as Secretary of Commerce.

“The last cabinet post he held was as Secretary of Energy under the Clinton Administration and his performance was decidedly dismal.

Instead of courage, he showed cowardice under pressure. Instead of challenging the right wing for outrageous accusations of the Clinton administration, he appeased them by leaking the name of Dr. Wen Ho Lee to the media as the alleged spy for China.

To this day, he stands by his misconduct.”

On the other side of the fence, Mexican-American Stace Medellin writes that Richardson seems to be a “perfect fit.”

“Okay, so Gov. Bill Richardson will become Secretary of Commerce. Notwithstanding my comments earlier this week on the “snub,” I actually do feel Richardson is a good choice for the post, considering his ability to lead New Mexico through a jobs creation phase.

During his campaign, Richardson boasted creating 80,000 jobs, and that New Mexico was 6th in the nation in job growth. Of course, FactCheck.org challenged his number–which they said was 69,000, and the upped it as growth continued. (Those folks can be so annoying).

So, if Obama's plan is to create green jobs, then I see Richardson being part of that equation.”

Medallin ends his post with another possible nomination for Richardson.

“Maybe now, he'll qualify for a Nobel nomination in International Economic Development, or something like that!”

From the Netherlands, Michael van der Galien writes that President-elect Obama seems to be moving towards the Center, rather staying on the Left.

“With about only 60 days left until inauguration day I am becoming increasingly hopeful that Barack Obama will govern like Bill Clinton did; as quite a centrist rather than a leftist Democrat.

Not only has Obama started to surround himself by (former) Clintonistas, which is a hopeful sign indeed, it seems likely that Hillary Clinton herself will become his Secretary of State.”

The Dutch blogger explains further, why Clinton would make a great choice for Secretary of State and comments on other moves the President-elect has made.

“Clinton is much more hawkish that Obama. She is a staunch supporter of Israel, supported the war in Iraq, and seems determined not to let Iran develop nuclear weapons. Obama seems a different kind of politician himself, but it is highly unlikely that Clinton would be willing to work for an administration which she would deem overly dovish.

Then there is Secretary of Defense Robert Gates; a true, old school Republican realist. President George W. Bush chose Gates as his SecDef after the horrendous and highly authoritarian Donald Rumsfeld resigned. Unlike his predecessor, Gates was able to communicate and work well with the State department, military leaders and foreign politicians such as Nouri al-Maliki. Gen. David Petraeus is often credited with turning the tide in Iraq but Gates’ role in the process should not be ignored; he too played a major role in bringing the different factions in the Middle Eastern country together.

As if that is not enough, Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano (D) has been chosen to head the Department of Homeland Security. Napolitano is a Democrat, of course, but she does well with Independent and moderate voters. She is a hard worker and a pragmatist rather than an ideologue. When the illegal immigration problem became prominent Napolitano did not focus on the illegal immigrants themselves but on the institutions that allowed foreigners to move so easily into the U.S. illegally. Conservative immigration hawks may not like her too much, deeming her soft on illegal immigration, but the rest can certainly live with her.”

Meanwhile, Mary Newman in Palestine finds Hilary Clinton as a possibly becoming Secretary of State, “alarming.” Newman also quotes Harper’s Magazine Ken Silverstein on his five reasons why she wouldn’t be a good choice, including the Kissinger endorsement.

“of particular concern is point 5: who else endorses her? none other than the war criminal henry kissinger. to understand what i mean read christopher hitchens piece in harper’s called “the case against henry kissinger.” “

Newman ends her post with one suggestion for the soon-to-be-president.

“I think that obama should change his website from change.gov to same.gov.”

And, in neighboring Canada, blogger Strong Conservative, comments on the Rahm Emanuel choice.

“Obama is off and running in his post-election plans. He's announced that Rahm Emanuel will be his chief of staff. Despite promises of transcending party lines and working across the aisle, Emanuel signals a decisively partisan start. But don't take my word, take Paul Begala’s statement about Emanuel being “cross between a hemorrhoid and a toothache.” Despite this tough side, Emanuel was also a ballet dancer. I'm not kidding.

That said, Emanuel is a tough partisan cookie, and he might be twinkle toes in the dance studio, but he's not afraid to fight it out in the political forum. The GOP will certainly have their hands full.”

In the Netherlands, Michael van der Galien writes it is obvious the Republican Party has already set plans for the next presidential election.

“But the fact of the matter is, of course, that Republicans everywhere are thinking about 2012. Names are already being floated around. Gingrich is considered an option by Novak. Sarah Palin is the darling of the (social) conservative base, and potential frontrunner for the party’s nomination in 2012. Mitt Romney too is often mentioned as likely future leader of the party that lost so many seats in Congress this month and the presidential election.

Huckabee is certainly a future option as well, of course. He was the Christian conservative’s base darling this year. Romney was his main opponent: Huckabee seemed to be OK with a John McCain victory, but he truly hated and despised Romney, the former governor of Massachusetts, who was the favorite candidate of the fiscal conservative but social moderate or even liberal faction of the party.”

The Dutch blogger then adds all citizens are anticipating the future election, despite what the mainstream media says.

“Whoever turns out to be the party’s frontrunner in 2012, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal is also often mentioned as a man for the future, it is clear that Republicans are rightfully focusing on the future, wondering what man or woman can make their party victorious once again. The public talk about not thinking about 2012 is not more than that: talk. Everybody is looking towards 2012, and the most amibitious Republican politicians are positioning themselves for it.”

In Iceland, Vinay writes that Palin running in 2012 would be cheerless event, however, the problems Americans are facing cannot be fixed solely by the government.

“Whoever turns out to be the party’s frontrunner in 2012, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal is also often mentioned as a man for the future, it is clear that Republicans are rightfully focusing on the future, wondering what man or woman can make their party victorious once again. The public talk about not thinking about 2012 is not more than that: talk. Everybody is looking towards 2012, and the most amibitious Republican politicians are positioning themselves for it.”

The blogger then adds, “A sad day, but Palin 2012 is no joke.”

Finally, a Canadian expat living in Taiwan writes that he was certain Palin would return.

“I just happened to search facebook for Sarah Palin.
Anyway…there’s, like, ONE group that’s for Sarah there and a whole bunch of groups against Sarah also but what’s really fungible is that the people have made their intentions manifest there as the group that’s for Sarah is growing but also all of the groups that are against Sarah have fewer members there! It’s called Sarah Palin 2012. don’tcha know.

I knew if I were patient she’d come back to me.”

Malaysian blogger Kay Peng celebrated the news and comments on the sights around him.

“Earlier at Colorado Springs, I visited several election posts and had a chance to speak to a significant black activist from the county, senior pastor Rev. James McMearn. Rev. McMearn believes other African American leaders such as Rev. Jesse Jackson have made it possible for Obama to come this far. He acknowledges the transformational effect of Obama's election as the 44th President of USA.

His observation cannot be more accurate. At the Obama party, an African American woman rushed up to hug me after it was obvious that Obama has clinched the presidency. People of all ethnicity shed their tears of joy together and exchanged hugs and kisses. This is a true transformation and it has started tonight.

It is undeniable that this election is ground breaking for the United States of America. It has mobilises and motivates more Americans than any other elections in the history of American politics. He is the first African American president and the first African American presidential candidate who is able to garner massive support from across ethnicity, creed and gender.”

Peng further analyzes what contributed to President-Elect Obama’s win.

“here are several; his personality, strategy, consistency and the current political environment.

Obama's cool headed approach and demeanour was exclusively identified as an important contributor to him being seen as more presidential than his hot headed opponent.

McCain's attack on Obama lack of experience backfired when he picked Sarah Palin as his running mate. Like I have said in my previous post, the nomination of Palin will become a case study of poor political decision for many more months to come.

There is a valuable lesson for McCain to bring home from this historic contest. Do not ignore the influence and support of a growing middle ground. Many staunch republican supporters (Reagan Republicans) have deserted his campaign for moving to the extreme right of his party.

Obama's campaign is set to become a model for all election campaigns in the future. Many aspects of his campaigns will be carefully studied and copied in the future - from fund raising, organisation to his consistent political messages. The most unique part of his campaign is the spirit itself. The way Obama was able to move and motivate his supporters to be part of his Change movement is something not easily replicated. It comes from the heart.”

Indonesian blogger, Maman, comments on the power of one particular word.

“How big is the power of HOPE….don't forget, never lost the fate on the hope you have, hope is actually the biggest power you could ever have in you.
Salute for President Obama…..”

In another post, the blogger comments on what the win means for America.

“Young and charismatic but with little experience on the national level, Obama smashed through racial barriers and easily defeated Republican John McCain to become the first African-American destined to sit in the Oval Office, America's 44th president. He was the first Democrat to receive more than 50 percent of the popular vote since Jimmy Carter in 1976.”

And in the Philippines, PatricioMangubat, writes about the President-Elect’s acceptance speech that drew thousands in Chicago.

“Democratic candidate Barack Obama has just been elected the 44th U.S. President. I just finished watching Obama deliver his acceptance speech. It was a speech that I think would be the subject of study and talk for years. It’s a speech that encapsulated what Americans really hope their government would do for them–unite them and rebuild their nation from the damages wrought by years of excesses.

Truly, that speech was more than presidential. It was the most ideal speech ever to be made by a U.S. president. Faced with crises and threats of monumental proportions, Barack Obama said the right things at the right time–change can only happen, if Americans unite behind government.”

PatricioMangubat then comments on the magical “hope” word.

“Obama’s message is as clear as the summer’s day–hope and change rest in every American. It’s a message of hope, I think, not just for Americans, but also for Filipinos.

Those who hope for a better life under a better government–despair not. Evermore, Filipinos should hope that someone in the present generation would stand up and provide what we truly need–a rallying cry and a true leader who’ll put our house in order.”

Bloggers have, thus, reacted to the reported issues and problems.

Arab-American Maytha reports on her own voting experience today.

“When I approached the table to receive my ballot, I noticed that my name was down twice. Once with the correct spelling of my last name and the second time with the obama/osama one-letter switcharoo. Now, had I been an exceptionally corrupt civic deviant I would have taken that opportunity to keep my mouth silent and come back later to cast my second vote. And as the incompetency of the polling system and workers I am about to expose reveals, it would have been easier than running a city of 9,000 people. 



Not only did the poll worker catch the computer-generated mistake, he didn't even ask to see my ID. Even when I insisted and forced the lamented plastic in front of his face he asserted “Oh I don't need that.” After that exchange, it took him about a minute for him to comprehend my explanation of my duplicated presence on the registered voter list. I had to physically point to both names on the sheet to show him the error. Even after that, he insisted “Well those are different last names.” Only after I showed him that the same address information and first name were listed for both entries did he cross off the incorrect name. Hmmm, I wonder what would have happened if he actually checked IDs. This was proof positive that it doesn't take organizations like ACORN to rig the system, the system can sufficiently screw-itself over without any outsiders' help!”

Maytha also adds that she overheard a poll worker speak about a machine being down, among other possible issues.

Bloggers at VivirLatino report with video on a young woman stating she had to vote with a provisional ballot.

“This young woman registered to vote a few months ago but when she arrived to vote at the polls today, her name wasn't on the register.”

In Canada, Two Moms, write about actor Tim Robbins and his issue today while voting. Robbins was told he wasn’t on the ballot, however, after five hours, was able to obtain a “judge’s order” and was able to vote.

“How many people - without the tenacity, connections, or whatever - will have had this experience, and not the same outcome?”

Across the Atlantic, Dutch blogger Michael van der Galien, reports on voting problems in Philadelphia. Galien writes that Republican election board members were removed from polling stations.

“Election board workers monitor and guard the integrity of the election process. Both Democrats and Republicans keep an eye on the votes cast in order to ensure an open and honest election.

Not so in Philadelphia, however, a city with a long record of fraud in favor of Democrats. Back in 2004, an investigation showed that 2,000 votes had been ‘cast’ for Democratic nominee Sen. John Kerry before the voting booths opened.”

He further adds that such problems are a part of “American tradition.”

“Reports of voter fraud, intimidation, and worse are an American tradition. Both sides have people working for them whose job is to deprive supporters of the other from casting their vote. This results every single time in tremendous problems, chaos, and even fights.”

Before they went to bed, however, bloggers across Asia wrote about what they hoped and expected to find out when they wake up.

In Indonesia, Maman wrote that an “anxious feeling” was coming over her. And, despite the polls agreeing with her, she is preparing for a GOP win.

“I am really having a strange feeling about the US Election, it's a strange feeling I can't describe. The poll survey surely go to my favor, OBAMA will win, but I do believe that race will play in the final result. I try to scare myself with the reality IF GOP win this election, it will be a big POUNCH on only to my stomach, but to almost most of the average American.”

In South Korea, Expat Jane, writes that she’s also feeling “nerves and anxiety” but is excited to find out the results.

“I've been so very cool during most of this campaign. At least, when it comes to the discussion of Obama winning because I believe he will. By this time tomorrow, we'll know.”

In the Philippines, Martin Perez, makes one last plea and further addresses why Filipinos should support Obama.

“For a segment of the Philippine population, the possibilities are within their reach. They just don’t look towards government for this. Middle class Filipinos make do and succeed inspite of the failings of their government. That there are jobs waiting for us abroad is part of our modern paradigm. That we aspire for reliably wealth generating jobs such as medicine, law and accounting, is part of our national intuition. And that we need nothing from government because it takes from us more than we receive is by and large remains the cancer in our society that Dr. Jose Rizal died not having incised.

For the people who have chosen not to have a stake in government despite being able to do so, what they seek is not merely a government that works, but a government they can trust. They need a reason to believe that it can be a force for good. Their contributions — whether time, money, effort or even prayer — should address specific needs, real goals, and achieve tangible results. How we activate and inspire these people is an open question.

It is a question to which Barack Obama has responded excellently.”

Perez further addresses Obama’s campaign.

“Through his campaign, Barack has demonstrated an ability to build a coalition from the ground up. Through his multi-faceted, multi-tiered campaign, he has gotten many people involved and interested in politics, whether they be first-timers or like-the-first-timers. His organization provides a wonderful case study in how media (now with no line between traditional and new) can be effectively utilized to promote a political brand and message. Moreover, his fundraising and rallying capabalities are testaments to not just the efficiency of their campaign machine but to his character. Barack has a quality, an appeal that demands respect, if not that then at least our attention. Most importantly, the message he carries is one I have long wanted to articulate.

What I wish to take out of watching the US elections is a sense of the audacity of hope. Through my study and comparison of various systems, I realize that empowerment comes from that core belief we all share regardless of our status in life — that our hard work will pay off and that tomorrow will be a better day. In Barack I see someone who has been able to inject new energy into the system by reminding people of this fundamental hope. And thus for a Filipino observer such as I, there is simply too much to learn from Barack Obama.

I am under no delusion. Barack Obama is not running for the presidency of the Philippines. But chances are, that in not too many years from now, one of us who have lived through this election cycle will.”

Lastly, in China, Stan Abrams also writes that he is anticipating the results.

“Tomorrow morning at 8:00 I will be sitting in a room at the Renaissance hotel watching CNN, pouring cups of coffee down my throat and trying not to let my blood pressure get too high. (I refer to the AmCham election-watch event — see more info here.)

As I’ve mentioned a few times recently, I have spent a huge amount of time following the election this year. Needless to say, the suspense is killing me, and I really need this to be over so I can move on with my life.”

The expat in China goes on further to state he is “tired” of being embarrassed by the U.S. government.

“It should come as no surprise that I’m tired of explaining to people why Bush was elected/re-elected. I’m tired of having to agree with critics of the U.S. government, tired of being embarrassed by Bush’s latest blunder, tired of saying that this is all temporary (much more difficult after 2004). Bush, McCain and Palin bashing has been a great source of fun and entertainment over the years, of course, but yeah, I am ready for it to be over. Obama’s consistent talk about restoring the image of the U.S. in the world is probably the single most important issue for the average expat, and I dare say that he’s got the expat vote locked up solidly.”

1. Republicans didn’t want the crown

Cuban blogger Tomás Estrada-Palma writes in his self-titled blog that the Republican Party is throwing the towel and has been.

“I know many Cuban exiles are displeased with me for not supporting McCain. But they should be more angry with the Republican Party hacks for throwing Mac under the election bus. I was suspicious when the Republican Party leadership promoted McCain's candidacy after they use to hate him. Then they got him Sarah Palin as a running mate and I became more curious. Does the Republican Party leadership want McCain to lose? It sure seemed odd.”

He further states that the Republican Party doesn’t want the leadership position because of the current state of the nation and further compares the U.S. to Cuba.

“No, the Republican Party elite does not want the presidency next go around. They know how bad the economy really is and how bad things are going to be next year and beyond. They feel it is better for the long term to have Obama in the hot seat, especially since he is not an American citizen and has committed a felony by misrepresenting his place of birth to hide the fact that he is unqualified constitutionally to hold the office of the presidency. I know this to be a fact because rather than just producing a birth certificate to settle the court challenge Obama and the Democrat party have quashed the suit on technicalities. But the case will go forward next year causing a Constitutional crisis along side the economic one we face.

So plan on chaos for next year and beyond with a weak, illegal president. The Republican party leadership thinks they have laid the foundation for the future of the GOP. But the real bosses, the international bankers, know they are right on schedule to divide and finally break up America into smaller, more manageable pieces. Cuban exiles should have been able to recognize these things but evidently they have learned nothing from the Castro experience.”

2. American conservative race V. Canadian conservative race

In another comparison, canworldjon, compares the tactics used in Canada’s Conservative Party presidential campaign versus that of America’s Republican Party.

“The Canadian election is now done, but for many observers, the political strategies of the different parties remain raw in our minds. The Conservative tact of defining Liberal leader Stephane Dion as too “weak” to be a leader, and their attack on his proposed Green Shift plan as a “tax grab” was by all measures successful. So much so, that Dion cited the Conservative misinformation campaign as a key reason for his decision to resign as Liberal leader.

I want to focus, in particular, on Conservative Leader Stephen Harper’s attacks on Dion’s Green Shift proposal– a policy, put in (overly) simple terms, to shift tax burdens onto polluting behavior. Harper, however, redefined the Green Shift policy via “scare tactics” focusing on Dion’s supposed latent socialism. The Green Shift was not an environmental policy, declared Harper, but a “hidden agenda” to tax everything in the country. In fact, Harper consistently stumped that the Green Shift was a secret socialist-style redistribution program.”

He then throws in the U.S. comparisons:

“Interestingly, here in the United States, the McCain-Palin campaign for the 2008 presidency have recently settled on a line of attack ominously similar to Harper’s. After toying with several different “scare” attacks over the last few weeks — including VP candidate Sarah Palin’s base assertion that Senator Obama has a history of “palling around with terrorists” — McCain and Palin have likewise focused on Obama’s supposed hidden socialism. Seizing on remarks Obama made to a voter now known as “Joe the Plumber”, that Obama, with is tax plan, wished to “spread the wealth around”, the GOP have declared Obama a closet socialist wanting to impose wealth “redistribution” on America.”

Canworldjon then writes that the same tactics are having different outcomes because of the American perception on the idealogy of socialism.

“Commonsense tells us that in Canada, a country with a greater affinity for socialized programs like universal healthcare, such scare tactics alluding to secretive socialist agendas would be less effective; conversely, such attacks should more effective in the United States, with its staunchly anti-socialist historical tendency. Ironically, however, the Republican attacks (unlike Harper’s election win) have been largely ineffective: the Obama-Biden campaign is widening its lead over the Republican ticket.

Is this one of those great inexplicable electoral ironies? Or perhaps evidence that certain communications strategies are ineffectual, given broader social, political or economic currents (such has concern among Americans that the Republican party has mismanaged the country’s finances)?”

3. According to the pundits…

The third fave is by Malaysian blogger Khoo Kay Peng, who writes about the American political pundits and their analysis of the election.

“Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr. who is the president and CEO of the American Gaming Association and co-chairman of the Commission on Presidential Debates, predicts Obama's overwhelming victory. Yes, this is the commission which organises the presidential and vice-presidential debates. He has conducted 22 of them ever since. Another prominent personality, Governor James Blanchard (pic) who is a former chairman of the Democratic Governors Association and a decorated diplomat predicted a big win for Obama too.

According to Governor Blanchard, economy is the biggest single issue in this election. Not national security. Not Iraq. National security is a key strength of McCain. Average Americans are worried about jobs, lay-offs and keeping their homes. Hence, most of them are looking for who can best manage their economy.

Clearly, the financial meltdown in Wall Street is not favouring McCain. Naturally, most Americans are blaming Bush for lack of urgency to arrest the problem when Lehman Brothers went under.”

However, Peng adds that “Obamania” can still end.

“Obamania is really sweeping US like a wild fire. Can he be stopped? According to the speakers, yes. If there is an incident which threatens national security it may force American voters to rethink their choice. Apparently, the terrorists would prefer a hawkish president such as Bush to help keep them in business.

Can Obama make it? Or will McCain pip him from behind? Stay tuned!”

What are your thoughts on these three faves? Did the Republican Party give up before the race began? Is socialism really bad? And, does McCain still have a chance?

Canadian blogger, Ian Welsh, stated that the Republican candidates should speak out against any racism.

“I think maybe McCain, and Palin in particular, might want to start calming the waters. And Palin in particular needs to call out the racists in her crowds and stop whipping it up. Because yes, lady, you will be held responsible if anything happens.”

Fellow Canadian, The Strong Conservative, said he was thankful the plan was discovered before the men were able to act on it.

“This disgusting plan has thankfully be averted, but the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies will need to be extra vigilant to protect Mr. Obama from wackos who harbour violent radical and racist views.”

Across the Atlantic, England for Obama wasn’t sure what to say, but is certain November 4 will be marked as a historic date.

“I don’t quite know what to say… except: this is a turning point in American history, what’s about to happen on November 4th. And crackpots like these guys, and fearmongerers and race-baiters on the Right, are in the thankful, and very small, minority. From November 4th, a new page will have been turned in the history of American race relations. And nobody can ever, ever undo that.”

In Indonesia, Pyong commented on the continuous racism found in the States and how it’s distributed to others.

“I never believe that all American is racist free. Some of them are still so racist and judged people by their skin-color, origin, culture, etc. But are these irreasonable aspects really has to be passed to some other people? I mean, if you don't like something that's your personal problem, you don't need to force or makes everyone support your idea.

Americans condemned the action of the Islamist Fanatic when they tried to target any US's interests or Diplomats, but when we look into the detail, those fanatics are also like those racists American who try to attack others who they thought don't have same idealogy, class, whatever is that.”

She then leaves some advice for American voters:

“Come on, let it be a clear and fair election. No more smears, no more lies, and no more dangers attack. The most important thing you can do is go out and vote on November 4th, don't listen to those robocall, campaign flyers, but…listen to your heart, it's only you who know who is the best fit for you.”

Back in North America, Crooked in Canada, is skectical to whether the report is even true.

“Either skinheads are as stupid as they are racist, or the FBI is making up the story as they go along that they disrupted a plot to assassinate Barack Obama and shoot or decapitate black students in Tennessee.

It’s hard to say whether the planned hit on Obama and a preceding high school massacre by a couple of dopey neo-Nazis is a credible one or not, but it makes for a good headline in the lead up to the American election, and the story if it is embellished will either win more support (call it sympathy support) for Obama or hinder him in his bid to become America’s first black president.”

The Canadian blogger further adds that if it is true, it may have been dramatized.

“Like I said, Cowart and Schesselman don’t sound intelligent enough to organize a hooded apple bobbing contest, let alone organizing what would have been the biggest mass shooting in American history. I think the ATF and FBI are embellishing this story a little. But I could be, and wouldn’t be surprised to be wrong on this one.”

Jewish blogger, GoldnI, stated that the endorsement must have hurt Palin.

“Newspaper endorsements may not count for all that much anymore, but just as a symbolic gesture, this one has to sting. The main paper in Sarah Palin's home state, the Anchorage Daily News, has made its presidential endorsement, and it's not for the ticket that contains a native Alaskan.”

Mirrorofilan, from Germany, also commented on the endorsement.

“Ouch.

Many wonder what Gov. Palin's face will be like when she finds out, but I think she has other things to worry about.”

The German blogger then listed the points made by the newspaper including the fact that rumors have spread stating “…she [Palin] appears to be looking out for herself more than the McCain campaign.” And further stated he could understand the limits on Palin:

“While I can certainly see her desire to break free from the restraints the campaign has put on her, she should also realize the restraints were there for a reason. Whenever she was allowed to say something, she made a complete idiot out of herself. And also, it's just nine days before the election! Way to sabotage your own campaign! It's not like it's already struggling…”

In Israel, Yaacov Lozowick, commented on the New York Times’ endorsement of Obama and Journalist Charles Krauthammer’s endorsement of McCain.

“Neither of these endorsements is remotely surprising. Any other result would have been news so startling it would have made the front page of the New York Times (ah… Well, forget I said it). Actually, the only serious endorsement out there that is in any way not fully obvious in advance is that of the Economist, next week, and they're going to flow with the tide and endorse Obama, just wait and see.

Still, one can make a number of comments about the Krauthammer-NYT comparision. In a nutshell, the NYT backs Obama for being a healer; Krauthammer supports McCain for being a fighter. These two preferences are the result of a deeper difference of opinion, where the NYT feels that top-notch human-relations skills, such as they think Obama has, will tame the world, while Krauthammer feels that at this moment in time (and perhaps always) the world is a very dangerous place, no matter how good the American president is at diplomacy.

So that's an interesting contrast.”

Paul Bryant, in Canada, analyzed the newspaper endorsements as a whole.

“Obama just picked up the NY Times endorsement for President. This is not a surprise as the last Republican they endorsed was Dwight Eisenhower. That being said there is an interesting contrast developing between the two candidates. Obama has picked up 133 endorsements from newspapers and publications vs McCain who has picked up 44. Twenty eight of Obama's endorsements were from papers that endorsed Bush in the last election. The most significant switch was by the Washington Post which has never endorsed a Democrat. Many of the endorsements express concern about Palin as choice for VP as well as the tenor of McCain's campaign. Some express concerns about McCain's ability to handle the economic crisis.”

Bryant further states that the amount of newspaper endorsements reflect the candidates.

“While I don't believe the newspapers have a significant effect on the election. It displays a few interesting things. First, the complete disaster that appears to be the McCain campaign. Second, the ability of Obama to convince individuals who may not traditionally support him to give them their support even if it is with some reservations. Third, that many periodicals regard Obama as the best candidate to deal with the economy.”

Lastly, Iranian blogger, Liana, states the oddness of newspapers endorsing candidates in the first place.

“It’s interesting that newspapers feel the need or desire to endorse potential presidential candidates. In a profession where objectivity rules overs subjectivity and fair and balanced is the ultimate goal (Sorry Fox News, you fail at your own motto), should newspapers endorse candidates? Is it there place to do such a thing? Or are they meant to provide you a service of news without injecting opinions in it? What is accomplished by endorsements? Are people really swayed by their respective newspaper’s decision to endorse a candidate?

These are important questions to be asking. My particular feeling about the matter is divided. I love seeing the publications I read take a stance on issues, at the same time, I feel that remaining neutral is completely respectable and credible. One thing I can tell you, is that even though it’s not Nov. 4 yet, history has already been made in so many ways. As far as newspapers are concerned, it is interesting to note that that the Chicago Tribune endorsed Obama, the first time the paper has endorsed a Democrat for president. In another move of epic proportions, the Los Angeles Times’ endorsement of Obama marks the first time the paper has endorsed anyone for president since 1972. Even Esquire magazine has gotten in the game and endorsed Obama!”

Greek-American blogger nicegreekboy commented on the electronic voting machines, which have already caused problems in early-voting-state North Carolina:

“These are used in multiple states, and all you seem to ever hear about them are problems. For one thing, computers crash. A lot. And these are some shitty, poorly kept-up computers. For another thing, there are fears that these things are very easy to hack…since they’re, you know, computers. Most of all, though, the biggest problems with electronic voting machines are sometimes caused by outside forces. For instance, in North Carolina, the state only offers machines; there are no paper ballots at polling places (there’s currently a push to get “emergency paper ballots,” but each polling place likely won’t get more than a 100). So, theoretically, if a polling place has its voting machines crash, then voters are up shit creek - they simply can’t vote. And if there are only 100 emergency paper ballots, a huge number of people still won’t get to vote.”

While Canadian blogger, L-girl, believes the election will be rigged.

“The 2000 election was stolen.



The 2004 election was stolen.

There were huge questions about the validity of both the 2002 and 2006 midterm elections.

And nothing has changed. As all problems left untended will, it has only gotten worse. There is evidence voting machines were tampered with in the primaries.

So why is everyone assuming the 2008 election will be fair? I’m still not convinced there will even be a 2008 election in the US. I'm not making a prediction; I'm not in that line of work. But let's put it this way: if the election goes ahead as it's supposed to, I'll be relieved. If it doesn't, I won't be surprised.


But if it's more expedient for the Cheney junta to hold elections, but keep them rigged, then they will.”

Fellow Canadian blogger, Paul Bryant, also comments on the U.S. voting system and lists five problems, including: the different ballot systems in each states and that there isn’t an independent voting commission. He writes about the Canadian voting system.

“The United States could learn from the Canadian election system. In Canada Federal elections are run by Elections Canada an independent body that decides on changes to the composition of ridings, how ballots are handled, identification required at the polls, campaign financing rules etc. Elections Canada is non-partisan and reports to Parliament. The Head and Deputy Head of Elections Canada cannot vote or be a member of a political party and are generally well regarded for their neutrality.”

While, Duncan McFarlane in the UK, writes about the past elections and states that voter irregularities are still considered a conspiracy “by most of the media.” McFarlane also comments on the distribution of the voting machines.

“Fewer voting machines were provided in districts with high numbers of low income, black or student (i.e Democrat) voters. In at least one Ohio precinct there were no working machines. Voters were told they’d be phoned to come back later. They weren’t. In some precincts they were offered provisional ballots – but under Ohio electoral law provisional ballots can’t be counted until 10 days after the election – long after the election had been ‘called’ for Bush (38,39,40,41).”

He then compares the election to the 2004 elections of Ukraine, where it was also suspected of being rigged.

“Perhaps its because the rigged results of the Ukrainian elections favoured Russian businesses at the expense of US and EU based ones – the US Presidential election results were those desired by the owners and chief executives of these companies – not least media conglomerates. The media is meant to provide viewers with the facts and let them decide – instead they present viewers and readers with a conclusion that’s good for business accompanied by as few facts as possible. So much for objectivity.”

Over in the Philippines, Mike comments on the mailed New York ballots that had “Osama” on the ballot instead of “Obama.”

“It is inexplicable for some that Osama Bin Laden, one of the world’s most wanted terrorists, and certainly New York’s most wanted fugitive in respect to the horrible terror attacks of the September 11, 2001, would be on a ballot in upstate New York where the stigma of 9/11 is still strong and some scars are still raw over post 9/11 alleged ‘crackdowns’ and law enforcement scrutiny of the large Muslim-American population in communities there.”

He further adds that the misspelling is offensive to the Democratic nominee.

“That’s both an insult and injury to a Senator who has earned the right to have his name spelled and put right on the ballot, even the electronic ones.”

Finally, blogger of American Buddhist Net, writes about the $100,000 reward offered by Velvet Revolution to anyone who can prove Karl Rove and Michael Connell rigged the 2004 election.

“I doubt that's enough. Maybe $10 million and a really good witness protection program would get results.”

In today’s favorite round up, a German blogger writes about the irrelevance of Palin’s wardrobe, meanwhile an American in Palestine talks about her recent Obama-filled trip and an Obama supporter has sad news for Jews wanting to purchase an accessory.

1. Sarah Palin’s $150k wardrobe

While citizen media throughout the blogosphere are commenting on the importance of Palin’s pricey wardrobe, German blogger lists two points on why it’s an irrelevant piece of information. Claire writes about her “ ‘Come, on!’ moment”:

“Turns out that the RNC has paid a lot of money for Ms. Palin's clothes.

Let me tell you why this doesn't matter:

1. It's the RNC's money, not hers. If they want to make sure that their candidate looks good that is their prerogative. They have got plenty of money. Personally, I think it is money well spent as I have envied many of her coats.

2. No one talks about the costs of Obama's suits or McCain shirts. If you are going to talk about one you should talk about them all.”

Claire also adds a note for the Republican nominee:

“Oh, and one more thing, Sarah. Don't claim to be “just like me.” I don't tote around Louis-Vitton. Although I wish I did.”

2. Obama-mania trip home

American blogger living in Palestine, Marcy Newman writes about her recent trip home and her experience with “Obama-mania” at the American Studies Association conference.

“I’m still reeling from the experience of not only coming back to the U.S. in the midst of a racist, offensive presidential campaign, but also the ways in which this affected the American Studies Association (ASA) conference. Normally this is a conference I look forward to. Some of the smartest people–and some of the most politically radical people–are usually in attendance. This is a conference where Angela Davis and Ruth Gilmore–two of the most important voices on the prison abolition movement regularly discuss this subject, for instance. But this year even those voices that one might normally expect critical analysis from seem to be swept up in Obama-mania. Starbucks sipping, Obama button wearing colleagues abounded. Yes, it took some walking and seeking to find non-Starbucks coffee, but of course the local variety was far superior.”

Newman then speaks about her support for third-party candidates Ralph Nader and Cynthia McKinney and how progressives paved the way for people like Obama.

“It’s not so much that I expected everyone to embrace progressive or radical candidates like Cynthia McKinney or Ralph Nader. But at ASA I did expect to hear critical analysis and discussion that brought them into the fold. By excluding other candidates these scholars participate in the same sort of exclusionary practices that the duopoly American government upholds by keeping third party candidates out of debates or off ballots. But it just seemed that everyone was so fixated on Obama and had such rose-colored glasses or people were just so mesmerized by this phenomenon that even McKinney’s name never came up. Even in a Stuart Hall panel where Hall’s important legacy in cultural studies came up the discussion related to the election centered on discussing whether or not “we should take credit for the emergence of Obama.” Mind you, they made it clear that taking credit is not the same as celebrating or endorsing, and certainly the work of radicals and progressives paved the way for a candidate like Obama. But this is precisely the point: all sorts of radical political movements made his candidacy possible but his candidacy speaks to none of the issues of any of those movements from anti-racism to labor.”

3. Obama yarmulkes out of stock

Newman can rest assure knowing that a little less “Obama-mania” will be found in some areas, as Jewish blogger Matt Walters reports that Obama yarmulkes are sold-out.

“We regret to inform you that we are now sold out of Obama-kah yarmulkes and due to the holidays of Sukkot and Simchat Torah, our manufacturer cannot provide a new shipment in time for us to re-distribute the yarmulkes to you before the election on Nov. 4.”

Clinton was first asked how bloggers could help Democrats win in the election. The former presidential candidate responded with the role bloggers should play.

Clinton also encouraged bloggers to volunteer to campaign for the Democrats, stating which states needed the most help.

Clinton also spoke about why McCain's economic proposal was lacking.

Another blogger asked a question regarding Obama's opinion on the economy and the effects on women.

The interview with Clinton and the “watchdogs” ended in 20 minutes. Nevertheless, Larsen was still pleased.

In today's round up, we learn about a Canadian who confesses to know more about the US election than that of her own country, a new Tennessee father going out of his way to show support to the McCain-Palin ticket and a UK student who spent time volunteering in the Obama campaign.

1) Blog becomes confessional

Canadian blogger of Two Chicks Nest confesses that she knows more about U.S. politics than that of her own country.

“This is not an informational post, but rather a confessional. I'm calling myself out. I've lived in Canada for a year and I don't understand Canadian politics. I follow U.S. politics like it's my (part time) job, but I barely even notice what's going on in the country that I am living in. Tsk tsk. Canadians are very interested in U.S. politics. The Canadian news broadcasts the vice presidential debates, for god's sake! How is it that we have 24-hour news cycles in the U.S., but we barely ever mention anything beyond the U.S. border? Americans, have you heard anything about the Canadian national election that took place yesterday?”

The blogger then asks for advice on how to become better informed on Canadian politics.

“So how do I bone up on Canadian politics? Does anyone have any reading recommendations? I'd prefer some books that can give me a historical context of how the parties developed, etc. I should probably ask my tween nieces for some lessons in Canadian government and politics.”

2) Father names baby “Sarah McCain Palin”

In a recent USA Today article, a new father in Tennessee named his baby “Sarah McCain Palin” in support of the Republican ticket. Asian American blogger Diana comments on the supportive gesture.

“What a gesture! And a clever and beautiful name, to say the least! I think, however, a unique spelling (Hollywood-style) of the “surprise” moniker would be more appropriate. How about: D-I-V-O-R-C-E?”

3) UK student visits the States

Raf Sanchez, a student in the United Kingdom, recently visited the U.S. and worked on the Obama campaign. He comments on the emotions of Obama supporters.

“Voter registration was easily the most rewarding part of my work on the campaign. It’s here that you really feel how much Obama’s candidacy means to people, especially many African-Americans old enough to remember the Civil Rights struggle. People don’t just agree with him. He is cherished. His “improbable” success is something people draw personal pride and happiness from, as a parent might from the success of a child. To be allowed in on a little bit of the solidarity people feel for the man is incredibly empowering.”

He then writes about his rare opportunity to meet the man he was campaigning for:

“On my last day before leaving for the UK I met Obama on a tiny airstrip in New Hampshire. His jet, adorned with his mantra of ‘Change’, looked comical amongst the Cessnas and Piper Cub light aircraft. He seemed tired but glad to see us. He asked me about Virginia, nodding in quiet approval as I told him about our field work there. He is more substantial, tougher looking than his trademark slim suits make him appear on television. There is a swagger as he walks. He thanked us for our work and within minutes his jet roared off. For those of us left on the runway it was a moment on which we would giddily compare notes until hours later. For him it was just one more campaign stop on a long and difficult road to the presidency.”

Don't forget to send us links to your faves too!

The heated campaign trails have reached the Internet with global bloggers noting the comments.

A Bosnian-American Fedja describes the comments as disturbing and that McCain should have said something in defense of his rival.

The most disturbing part of the rally was when McCain asked the question: “Who is the real Barack Obama” and someone from the audience shouted “A terrorist!” We all know that the intellectual level of McCain supporters is that of a 5 year old with a slight mental retardation, but rather than stepping in and saying “That's out of line, sir…” McCain contorted his disfigured face into a smirk and carried on.

The blogger goes on to write about Palin’s rally and what October 6, 2008 will now be remembered as.

If you thought that this was the climax of this sad day for America, you were wrong. At another rally, being held at the same time, Sarah Palin was throwing the kitchen sink at Obama, trying to associate him with a man who was engaged in despicable acts when Obama was 8 years old and who served with Obama on two charity boards where many conservatives served. She said: “what are we going to do with him?” And someone from the audience shouted: “Kill him.”

This should be remembered as the day when McCain and Palin became just two sad, racist, xenophobic, idiotic criminals with nothing but hatred spewing out of their disfigured faces. I will be truly ashamed to be American if these two get to run our exhausted country.

An expat in South Korea Expat Jane agrees with the Bosnian-American blogger, stating that the Republican candidates shouldn’t have disregarded the comments.

If you continue to support a man that will stand and say nothing while his supporters say this then you're just as evil as he is. And I'm someone who in 2000 thought McCain wouldn't be so bad. Clearly, he's learned all the bad and dirty tricks that kept him from the nomination in 2000.

Letting people yell “kill him” is simply dangerous and unnecessary. I also have to say if you don't support him but you sit back and don't tell others about this video and what's in it, you're complicit too.

Can you imagine how much worse this makes the USA and its citizens look? Like Obama or not he's a husband and father of two young girls. I don't like McCain or Palin but I don't wish death on either one of them. This is an outrage!

Australian blogger of firedoglake, states that Palin and McCain are allowing “lies” to spread.

You can never accuse the McCain/Palin ticket of not playing to their base. The economy is tanking, despite McCain's impotent grab for the bailout laurels, and Obama is widening his lead in the polls, so the “brains” behind the ticket have resorted to what they do best: sliming the opposition. Churning out the bilious hate and the barely veiled bigotry, McCain and Palin started the new week on the campaign trail, leaving behind a wake of vitriol and lies.

Across the Atlantic in Portugal, João Lopes, points out that Palin left out poignant facts when speaking of Obama’s relationship with William Ayers.

“Palin não só não referiu a especificidade desta relação pontual, como omitiu dois elementos do artigo: primeiro, que Obama é citado por The New York Times, considerando que Ayers é “alguém que se envolveu em actos detestáveis, quando eu tinha oito anos”; segundo, que The New York Times, aliás à semelhança de outros órgãos de informação (The Washington Post, Time, The Chicago Sun-Times e The New Yorker),
conclui que não tinha qualquer fundamento a ideia segundo a qual Ayers e Obama teriam uma qualquer relação de proximidade. Depois do confronto de ideias, assistimos, assim, ao despertar dos monstros da difamação. A menos de um mês (4 de Novembro) da eleição do Presidente dos EUA, isto significa que os próximos tempos poderão não ser muito edificantes.

The news of the Republican campaign trails have further hit the Twittersphere, with Tweeps commenting on the “Kill him” remark in a forum.

African American Tweep, Zik, was one of the poignant Tweeps in the forum, stating his disapproval of the remark and that a vote for McCain/Palin resulted in a vote for racism.

Another African American, mmoney, stated that the obvious racisim could eventually lead to something more horrific.

Finally, McCain Supporter was also flabbergasted by the comment and stated an apology was necessary.