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Feedback ForumNOW wants to hear from you! Send us your opinions, reactions and ideas about "What Women Voters Want"Submissions for this question are no longer being accepted. Previously submitted comments appear below. Comments may have been edited for content or space. Poster: Bill Shikany Comment: It's hard for me to understand how could one of these women make a flippant remark about guns when she lives so near to Columbine High School. Sad. Poster: Mimi Comment: I am appalled that anyone would think SP could be a positive influence in Washington. Voting just for a women is not different from not voting for a black person. It's still looking at a group, rather than the person and their suitability for the job.Our populace needs to consider the issues and who will emphasize with and work for the majority of our citizens, and especially those who can't speak for themselves....children of poverty. As a public school teacher, I see our country promoting socialism through medicare, but not providing our children with medical care. Last spring a student pulled out his rotted molar in class...no dental care, but still expected to meet that standardized test benchmark. Weird how we can be afraid of a word without considering the people. Personally, I am motivated by hope, not fear and anger. Prayin' for Obama! Poster: Iris H from OH Comment: I watched this segment a couple of times and still really cannot figure out why these Hillary supporters are having such a hard time deciding who they are going to vote for...and why would they would go the other side when vital and important issues are not being addressed on the McCain/Palin ticket. Are we not listening to what Obama is saying?? Close your eyes and pretend that he has a woman's voice, if you are that superficial and shallow. (If that still doesn't work, there is another female on the ticket, as stated above). I want my children's education to be able to compete with the other children in the world. I want American companies and jobs to stay here...how are we supposed to pay our bills, support our families, put money back in the U.S. and have hope for a secure future when jobs,among other things, are sailing elsewhere and companies are being rewarded for it. No tax increases, but let's tax your healthcare and find your own while you're at it...Got pre-existing conditions?? Instead of McCain's country first, maybe it should be Pocket's First...a continuation of the same old politics. Vote Obama...WE ALL need a change. 11/03 Poster: Kelly Comment: If you are interested in seeing where the candidates stand on work family issues (e.g. family leave, workplace flexibility, early childhood education, etc.) look at the Families and Work Institute website. They conducted conference calls with senior advisers from both campaigns to give them an opportunity to lay out their work family agendas. http://familiesandwork.org/site/events/presidentialplatform.html Poster: Dan Comment: I could take NOW more seriously if they would sponsor a bill requiring women to register for the drart equally with young men....Equal rights requires equal responsibility.......If you ladies can do equal work and want equal pay, then do it...Why should my son be required to carry the load......His chance of being drafted would be less if women were in the pool as well, if a draft were to come..... Poster: Michael Haggiag Comment: At the end of a fierce and protracted campaign it is tempting to regard the undecided voter with contempt. One thinks they must be irretrievably indifferent or terminally obtuse. So it is instructive to see a program that takes a compassionate look at the issue and manages to make the undecided respectable and at times even appealing. This is the sort of balance that responsible journalism is meant to strive for but so rarely achieves. Congratulations! Poster: Lawrence Crosthwaite Comment: I found it interesting that there was no mention about Gov. Palin's integrity and ethics, given her widely reported (alleged) interference with a state employee and her desire to have this individual fired. Plus, there are a series of video's produced by citizens of Wasila, Alaska, where she was mayor, that show her disregarding process and flaunting her self-proclaimed authority: committing millions of dollars to a community project on land the city had not secured title on, plus redecorating her office, apparently twice, at great expense, without council approval, and hiring a city manager after campaigning on the platform 'it's not rocket science' running a city budget. Also, there is the matter of, as governor, she ridiculed the idea of the 'bridge to nowhere', yet kept the federal funds that were allocated for that specific project. Palin has no international experience; Obama does. Palin's folksy-ness hides an appalling lack of knowledge of world affairs, much less the REAL role of the Vice President, and how the federal government works. It was nice to see Ms. Ferraro again. My question to the women highlighted in this piece: if it came down to Geraldine or Sara, who would you vote for? If Hillary was up against Sara, who would you trust? And remember: Hillary can always run again down the road, and she'll eat Sara and her ilk for breakfast. Poster: Dave Kingsley Comment: The more I watch this, the angrier I get. What a bunch of ding bats. Nice job. Are you a Republican? You can bet that my next contribution to PBS is going somewhere else. How dare you high light that racist Ferraro! It's about time she decided that Republicans don't have the best interest of women as their priority. The idiot Catherine Vincent still doesn't know if she will be voting for a candidate that will be working against women's rights. What a shabby program! Poster: ANONYMOUS Comment: This program was interesting, though it could have been more interesting to show a range of undecided voters from other parts of the country. Another suggestion would be to interview women who were NOT in favor of Clinton or Palin. But overall, a really great collection of interviews and a thoughtful piece to air right before election day. And the interviews with Ferraro spoke volumes about the Democratic party... Poster: Maryann Macdonald Comment: This was a thoughtful, respectful look and women and their voting concerns. Although the Obama preference showed through, I found it rare and refreshing to view a public media program in which voters considering voting for McCain/Palin were not portrayed as either a) stupid, or b) racist. I was also impressed with Geraldine Ferraro who, after being so shabbily treated by her party, is still supporting the Democratic candidate on the basis of her principles. Poster: Jo Comment: I am truly embarrassed to be a woman after watching this. The choice is so clear cut for me. It is hard for me to understand any waffling. I have never understood the grand importance some women put on having a woman in the White House. I would prefer to have someone with the best stand on the issues. It certainly doesn't have to be a woman. The McCain/Palin ticket does not solve any problems. I don't feel that Sen. McCain is truly concerned with women's issues. His flip answer of more education and training says it all for me. And Gov. Palin never returning the questionnaire? Do you really think she has any other agenda but her own on her mind? Just because Roe v Wade hasn't been taken back yet doesn't mean that the possibility won't come up with different Supreme Court appointments. I would urge all these women to read Sen. Obama's Blueprint for Change. Apparently some of them haven't. I really don't see how a feminist would even consider voting for the McCain/Palin ticket. Poster: xfu111 Comment: best NOW! show ever!!!! Poster: Jeanine Comment: I am so happy to see I am not the only conflicted female in the country. I refuse to vote for Barack for a number of reasons most of which focus on local issues. I find it incredibly unique that people from Illinois are so enthused about him since he is clearly involved in the less than moral politics in this city and state. And as a life long Democrat, I CANNOT vote for John McCain. Plus, he is clearly out of touch with normal wage people. I cannot see me altering how I feel in the next 48 hours. My vote: I will not be voting this year. I refuse to vote for someone who is connected with the corrupt Illinois politics. And McCain has become George Bush, pick either one---he has changed into one or both of them, with all 3 of them lacking any moral values. Poster: Marc Ross Comment: I was surprised to learn that so many women voters are still undecided so close to the election. Consider the quote “The rising tide lifts all boats” was made famous by John F Kennedy. Barack Obama’s agendas will yield across the board social and economic development. Continued Republican leadership will (at best) leave most of us with liferafts. Barack Obama is the only candidate who knows very well what growing-up with struggle is all about! Thank-you Poster: Marge Gehringer Comment: I have watched this episode multiple times and am still amazed by these 'I am woman hear me roar' women. I too am a woman and have lived the double standard in the past but not so much currently. I am over 50 and for many years was a single working mother. Simply being female does not relate to voting female. And being a Hillary supporter does not automatically flip my vote to another female. I prefer to look at the bigger picture of society and not just the narrow women's issues. We are a large country with many issues to be addressed. Like race the gender issues are resolving over time and will continue to do so because we women will not accept anything less. As far as this election goes I see Sarah Palin as nothing more than a politician who is female. It is her political backround combined with her political rhetoric that are the real issues. And by all counts she comes up short for me. And the fact still remains that this election is for president, not vice president. I have serious issues with the Republican platform and McCain specifically; and by default Sarah R since she also represents the Republican agenda. Even if Hillary was his running mate I could not vote for him. Poster: Tom K Comment: Sarah Palin is a victim of of being too pretty to be taken serious. Pretty woman are assumed to be dumb, ie dumb blonds.Betty Friedan was assumed to be intellectual and Hillary Clinton is assumed to be strong. See if your organization can change these perception Poster: Susan Shum Comment: There was a womens group mentioned in the piece I think it was moms something. Can you please tell me the national womens group and their website? Thank you-Susan Poster: Pat Croft Comment: Yet another great piece! I am besides myself that women are forced to renew this debate on an almost daily basis and come out swinging every four years. Civilization Science's would recognize women as stars of the program, and hence reward them appropriately. But instead we behave as if we are still in the stone age where women rights are continually pushed back and forlorn for pursuit of control. Poster: Valerie Comment: The nomination of Senator Obama over Senator Clinton was not a betrayal of my feminist beliefs; nor have I been swayed by Governor Palin because of her gender. It shocked me to see that women interviewed in your piece would consider voting for McCain/Palin to vindicate Senator Clinton's lost bid. How shortsighted! Would conservative, Republican men appointed to positions of power in a McCain presidency suddenly care more about the needs and rights of mothers and children because Palin is Vice President? Poster: Jay Brulotte Comment: As a regular viewer I was disapointed at your piece on undecided women voters. How can one be undecided when listening to Palin? She is against choice for women and has nothing in common with Hillary, whom I have strongly supported. I have voted Obama-Biden without any hesitaton. Palin is so obviously unqualified for being eventually the next president should something happen to her elerdly running mate. Indeed she is an international disgrace. I have listened to the pranked call from a fake Sarkozy to Palin today, which is the last proof of her profound lack of competence. The call is totally hilarious and incredible, but it shows a very serious lack of intelligence, world knowledge and international experience on Palin's side. The simple fact that she actually would think that real Sarkozy would talk such stupid things to her, after calling her out of the blue, is not only too silly for words but quite alarming as well. We can't afford to have such dangerous naivete and vulnerability in our highest office. The whole world is moking Palin, and your report did not even give an idea of the general outrage she is raising. And this on the verge of the most important election for the future of the world. Your show just played the game of obscurantism. This is quite unfortunate. You did not play your usual role. Poster: Katie Farrell Comment: 'What Women Voters Want' gave me a unique perspective into the views of women across the US. Living in New York City, as a young single woman, I often take for granted the issues that I may face in the work world if I ever decide to have children. This piece gives a nuanced and intimate look at a very complex issue that often gets swept aside in broad strokes. 'What Women Voters Want' introduced new view points that aren't easily engaged in New York, thank you PBS! Poster: Suzanne Comment: I was surprised and disappointed to see so many intelligent women falling for the Palin charade -- she is not what you think she is, not what you want her to be. It really irritates me that so many sincere Americans are fooled by the Palin performance. The woman is a liar, a manipulator, an abuser of power and damn scary. The hockey mom nonsense is a silly schtick, she's not competent to lead, but she believes she is, a really damn scaryscenario. Vote Obama and look forward to Senator Clinton becoming one of the Supreme Court Justices. Pray that Palin goes back to Alaska, or maybe to her own show on Fox. Just keep her the hell away from teh Oval Office. Wake up, ladies. Poster: Barbara Comment: I noticed one of the women interviewed on the program said she wondered how much Sarah Palin could influence Roe vs Wade. It is very simple, a McCain/Palin team is very likely to name between 1 and 3 new Supreme court Justices. We already have a somewhat right leaning court. I am also amazed at how uncurious Governor Palin is. I do not consider myself more than of average intelligence but over and over I have heard her make glaring mistakes in thinking. The most recent one is her making light of Fruit Fly research. Considering that she has a nephew who is Autistic, and fruit flies have been indispensable in genetic research I am just dumbfounded that she has not heard anything about it. We have a genetic disease in our family and I have read many articles that have to do with fruit fly use in research. I would not necessarily expect all women to know about the research, but the person who makes claim to her two main duties in a vice presidency being 1. Disabilities, and 2. Energy, I think would know about the scientific studies. And on the area of energy until in the recent spotlight she did not believe that Climate change was man caused. If she did much reading she would find that there are almost no scientists who believe climate change is not man made, even the large oil companies recognize it. They actually have her slated to manage two areas that have a fair amount of science and she doesn't apparently believe in Science. She is an advocate of Intelligent Design. http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/id/ Poster: Ann Holabird Comment: I found the story very interesting. I did not realize that there were so many women on the fence in the southwest. I am a female in my late 30's, unmarried and no children. I have been for Obama from the begining, not because of women's issues at all but because of his stance on the war, economy and taxes. The story will not change my vote but has made me more aware of what other women want in a canidate for this country. Poster: rosetrina flaig Comment: How the bloody hell David did you find so many stupid women to interview? Not all women are what you have on your show! For heaven's sake get some intelligent ones to dispute these idiots! Don't make us look so stupid. That dumb one from Virginia believing that god is going to take care of her if her husband lose his job. Ha! I can see, she does need to lose several pounds, maybe that is her reason. Then the one from Colorado that believes Palin is just like her. That is the reason why Palin is a seriously wrong choice and yes, because she is just like her! Of course, in her feeble mind she thinks Obama has no common sense. I need you to have another woman on your show disputing that! We can tell Economics101 is not her strong point - freeze spending is the worst thing for a government to do and will put this current recession into a deep depression (maybe worse that the Great Depression) and could probably last (this time) for well over a decade. I can prophesied that her liquor store will be out of business very soon should McCain (I cannot even put this in words!) It's too horrible to think about it. Poster: Mish Comment: Has anyone confirmed through an objective third party whether or not Senator Obama pays his women staff members less than men? I have read this on a couple of websites and heard it during Governor Palin's rally. However, when I went to the US Senate website; the information wasn't readily available. In fact, it was very frustrating and nonproductive. This matter is bothersome to me and would like an answer hopefully before the end of the day November 4th. Mish Poster: Ellen K Comment: I am one of those white, over 65 women who are supposed to be 'undecided'. I mailed my absentee ballot several weeks ago... voting for Obama. My question is about the e-mail received by one of the women in the show. She said Obama was paying his women staff less than the men. What is the truth on this one? I couldn't find anything on it on the internet. Love the show. Thanks Poster: Darrin H. Comment: A lot of these women seem to say they were only voting for Hillary Clinton because she is a woman, not because of the issues/policies she champions. If this is not so, why would they consider voting for John McCain who is the polar opposite to Clinton? And do they sincerely believe that Gov. Palin will have any impact on a McCain administration? The last time I looked, John 'The Maverick' McCain does not appear to be the type of person who will allow a vice president to influence policy decisions, unlike the current President. Poster: ellinlondon Comment: I can not believe that you could let that woman say that there is no difference for women who wins the election when the next President will proboably get to appoint 3 Supreme Court JUdges and that will certainly make a difference to Roe v Wade. Poster: Doc Werner Comment: I cannot believe that we have to be subject to such a blind belief system. First of all, as a long time supporter of PBS, I am appalled that anyone would suggest that Sarah Pallin is qualified to do anything. I think she is a terrible role model. Any psychologist or psychiatrist in their right mind could see that this woman is MAD!! Not angry but mad. And has been taught to put on a good front. I am insulted that we have to continue to put up with the political rhetoric that is and has been a part of last minute politicking before the big day. Both my wife and I voted early and based our voting on sound judgement. I don't see alot of sound judgement being made in these last days before the election. Just more emotional estrogenic knee-jerk fear-filled reactions by the true believers! I am now considering finding another institution other than PBS to offer my hard-earned donations. Poster: Hilda B. Classon Comment: True equality on all levels. Also women do not want to be relegated down to the status of slave. This can actually happen if the Federal or State government decides, by law, what she can and cannot do with her own body. Poster: AD Comment: fantastic show. Poster: joan montgomery Comment: It's really difficult to listen to the Colorado women who say they are undecided and are pumas. They obviously did not vote for Hillary for her issues. To compare Palin to her is not credible. They mostly sounded more like repubs. if they believe McCain and Palin would support their issues. BTW would have been nice to see moreaout dems. in this last week! Poster: Michael Comment: What Women Voters Want tackled a controversial topic fairly and sensitively without pulling any punches. Thought provoking, illuminating, and entertaining -- this was television journal at its best. Bravo PBS. Poster: aisha white Comment: what on god's earth is wrong with you people? here we have an election with the first african american candidate and you didn't talk to ONE AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMAN! THIS IS RIDICULOUS! ARE WORKING MOMS IN AMERICA ONLY WHITE AND UPPER MIDDLE CLASS? DO BLACK WOMEN NOT HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT LEGISLATION THAT AFFECTS THEM AS INDIVIDUALS AND AS MEMBERS OF FAMILIES? THIS INVISIBILITY (EXCEPT WHEN THE ISSUE IS POVERTY, DRUGS, CRIME, AIDS) IS INFURIATING! I WOULD THINK THAT PBS WOULD DO BETTER. Poster: T Partier Comment: A great episode - it demonstrated once again how so many voters seem to be making choices based on (dis?)information that has been thrust to them versus that which has been verified by them. Obviously, if you have time to debate a charge at a meeting then you also should have time to verify data independently. In fact, you have a responsibility to, if you want your determination to be legitimate and you intend to HONESTLY argue your point. A quick trip to a non-partisan site such as LegiStorm would reveal the facts. Regarding the charge of unequal pay, for example - see this page: http://www.legistorm.com/member/76/Sen_Barack_Obama/37/salary_title_id/asc.html Please click on the 'position' column header to make it easier to draw your conclusions. Also, please note that the pay dates are from a time before the seemingly false charge of unequal pay was posited against Obama. Among 'Legislative Assistants' for example, there are 3 males, 1 female - the female earns as much (IDENTICAL PAY) as two of the males and MORE than the third. Of the three 'Field Representatives', the 1 Female earned somewhat more than either of the 2 males. The female press secretary assumed the position following a male - and received a higher monthly salary. The highest paid 'Special Assistant' is female. For the time that she was there, the one female 'Legislative Aide' was clearly paid more per month than either of the males. Yes, there are a couple of cases where it appears a male received more than a female - though fewer instances of that than the other way around. Guess it helps to have the facts at hand. One can also go to Project VoteSmart also and see such things as McCain's DEPLORABLE record on Veteran's issues versus Obama, see: http://www.votesmart.org/issue_rating_detail.php?r_id=3483 http://www.votesmart.org/issue_rating_detail.php?r_id=4227&rtype=R That's just for 'starters'. I thought women and mothers might be interested to know who really cares about the broken bodies and minds of loved ones returning from war. Ciao! Poster: Marjorie Ford Comment: Your Oct 31 program about women and the election made women look like idiots. As I woman, I have to believe that either your presentation was oddly skewed or we Are in fact stupid. The most striking example perhaps was the woman who stated that because the Supreme Court decided abortion is legal, we don't need to worry about that changing! Letting disappointment about Hillary's campaign spoil our ability to support Obama when his positions on all issues are more in keeping with women's values--and clearly Clinton's--than McCain-Palin's positions and records are has no logic. An entire show presenting women as so illogical offends my sense of who we really are. It made us look as if we may have learned how to play hard, but if we don't win, we are sore losers. I know half the people are below average, but you presented women's place in that curve all in the bottom half. Poster: Claire Odie Comment: After watching your segment on What Women Want in Swing States, I was upset by what the women were stating around the table about Sarah Palin. When they were watching the VP debate, I saw how they reacted to her statement. I stepped outside of myself and asked myself what these women saw that I didn't in Sarah Palin. After awhile, it came to me, these women see themselves. I have problems with the way Sarah Palin and those women see themselves and that is just for themselves and not for women. I watched Sarah Palin's speeches and the only one I felt she earned any merit was the speech on championing rights for disabled children. Then of course she blew it by stating she would pay for the programs cutting earmarks and mentioned an earmark that was used in aiding the scientific discovery of help with autism. My point is that I don't want a woman like Sarah Palin who seems to be playing the part expected in man's world. I don't want a woman representing this country that believes in McCarthyism statements. I want a woman who will be better than that because I believe woman have something to offer that is different from men. Here is a link to two intelligent women from Alaska that I feel the women in your segment should think about when they vote. http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/1580038-sarah-palin Poster: Anne Saylor Comment: I understand Ms. Dukedrun's skepticism about the overturning of Roe. Politicians and related groups continually threaten us with issues that often don't come to pass. Unfortunately Roe is very much threatened this time. With the appointment of Justices Roberts and Alito by President Bush, the majority to protect Roe stands at 5-4. Two of the Justices who support Roe are Justice Stevens, who is 88 years old, and Justice Ginsburg, who is 75 and has had cancer. If either of them were to leave the bench, John McCain made it very clear in one of the debates and on his own campaign website that he would appoint justices committed to overturning Roe. Just one McCain appointment and the vote changes to 5-4 in favor of overturning Roe. Poster: john williams Comment: Your claim of fairness and non-bias is untruthful. Logical thinkers can see your liberal slant. Poster: Linda Comment: Ferraro is a bitter former unsuccessful national candidate. How unfortunate. Her claims that obama ran a sexist campaign is a disgrace. Fortunately as there was actually no truth or even iota of substantiation the voters rejected this nonesense. Poster: Sylvia Moore Comment: I find it interesting that all of the women featured on the program were affluent. I'm pretty sure they all have good incomes and health insurance. Only one woman knew someone who lost their home. No one seemed to be worried about whether she was going to be paid enough to put food on the table. That's why maybe they have the luxury of considering McCain, because maybe they feel if he's elected, that wouldn't affect them much. If any of them were actually struggling, maybe they'd second guess that choice. I also wonder if any of these still undecided ex-Hillary supporters have closely looked at the Senate records of both Obama and McCain. I could be mistaken, but they seemed to be basing their choices solely on the candidates' personas and speeches (esp. concerning Palin). I find their admiration of Palin alarming. Have they even scrutinized her record as mayor of Wasilla and then governor? It's not as pro-woman as they'd like to think. Also, do they even care that Palin is as about as un-curious about the world as Bush has been? I'm not sure they've done any serious thinking about this. And finally, if these women truly cared about womens' issues, I wished they would think more about younger women and how difficult their lives would be like under four more years of conservative Republican governance. Poster: Brooke Comment: Quite frankly, I am disturbed by the women who said they are thinking of supporting Palin because she's a working woman and mother, just like them. Women, are we really so shallow to vote for someone simply because they're female? This coming from women who want to judged on their own merits and ideas, not by their gender? Where are the issues in their evaluations? Women are as diverse as men in their beliefs, so why is their judgment clouded by sexism? I am white, female, Catholic, and raised in a small-town conservative Republican family, but I am all about Obama because I agree with him on the issues. His life experience is nothing like mine, nor his race, nor his gender, yet we share common ideals and beliefs about what needs to change in the economy, war(s), health care, energy, among other things. If I could speak to the women in that blogging group, I'd tell them: stop looking at superficials and ask where Palin stands on the economy, health care, the war(s), and energy. Force her to get specific. 'Hockey mom' doesn't tell you anything. If any politician feeds you the line, 'Vote for me, cause I'm just like you,' walk away. Look at their plans and stances on the issues, and make up your own mind. Poster: Ron Sampson/Vern Isakson Comment: Normally we enjoy NOW for its informative and unbiased views. but tonight (10/31/08) could only ask who at the RNC wrote this non story. Palin was put on the ticket as a very transparent appeal to the Republican base and the far right wing. The idea of any more than a very few uninformed people thinking that Palin would be more inclined to help women's issues than the Democrats is unbelievable,if for no other reason than the Supreme court members that the Republican administration would appoint to overturn Roe V Wade. Obama was not our first pick for the Democratic nomination, But is light years ahead of any of the Republicans running this year, and well worthy of our vote. Poster: christine Comment: The focus on undecided voter by the media has become a ritual tyranny of the election process. Undecideds willing to admit that they were -swayed by a moment in a speech- or -like that she is one of us- are saying they have done very little reading or studying of the issues and platforms. But media focus on this group continues because they offer a seemingly neutral spin. What is disturbing about the undecided women here (who are not disadvantaged by poverty and the need to work multiple jobs- such people have a reason for not researching candidates) is that they have the means to learn about candidates, but are publicly stating their vote is available to the best manipulative ad or spam email denigrating a candidate. Speaking of such emails, was there any investigation into the allegations about Obama's campaign pay equity? That was very damaging information; I had not yet heard this and it is an important issue to clarify on air beyond a vague statement by the Obama campaign. There are useful stories that could be investigated, and many that pertain to the coming election. People are sick of it, but you have their attention because of the crises occurring now. And you offer us this? We don't need the -woman on the street- interview, particularly if you interview the uninformed. We value our time; why can't NOW find informed people who can speak to the real issues-- health, child care, family leave, economy, jobs, education...? Stop legitimizing the cheapening of the election process by making it into your self-serving reality show. The last lie told should not be the tipping point! That is a tragic waste of a vote. And the show was a tragic and incautious waste of viewer attention to the most trivial. Poster: Pauline Saxon Comment: I never miss Now, but next week I won't be watching. I believe in hearing both sides, but I would like to know why you didn't interview any women who knew from the beginning that McCain and Sarah Palin would not deliver the kinds of things that Hillary Clinton stands for. You didn't even suggest to the woman who felt sure abortion rights were safe that McCain has stated he would put in Justices that will vote against Roe V Wade. You appeared to be in agreement with all these women If your program was forced to do this I am disappointed that a person like you wouldn't stand up to the powers that be. Sincerely, Pauline Saxon Poster: Cheryl A. Fear Comment: I don't know when I have been so irritated by a NOW program. The political naval gazing that the women interviewed indulged in was down right offensive. This nation has HUGE problems, and the idea that because Sara Palin has a special needs child and will therefore be more sympathetic and promote programs for families with special needs children is hopelessly naive. We are engaged in 2 wars, our economy is on the brink of collapse, we have 46 million people without medical insurance of ANY kind, and what do we hear--comfortable middle class women with the time to spend hours checking out others opinions on line. Give me a break. Poster: Suzanne Mamedalin Comment: Wow, that was one of the dumbest shows I've seen you produce. Spotlighting women who cannot make up their mind until they're in the voting booth? How very lame. This is insulting to women who can make decision based on knowing the issues who do not require a message from who know where at the last minute. How on earth do they raise their kids? They have to wait till the last minute to provide direction. Wow, that's crazy. Poster: Jim Watkins Comment: I've worked with some of the women on this program, and they are claiming to be Obama supporters. I'm not so sure now. I think there is a strong undercurrent of former Hillary Supporters who have not gotten on board. I am very upset by the completely illogical reasoning for supporting McCain when they know for a fact that he will not represent their interests in the least. Obama is right on the issues, just as Ferraro said. Do what's right for the country and vote for the Democratic Party. Poster: Gary W. Priester Comment: The women you interviewed in Colorado all seem to be intelligent thoughtful women. That said, I am amazed at their lack of resolve. Yes Sarah Palin is a woman. And yes they are women. But the similarity stops there. We are in midst of the worst financial crisis since the great depression. Obama has demonstrated a calm, intelligent approach to this crisis. McCain and Palin have offered nothing but non-stop lies and distortions including the misleading e-mail these women spoke of about unequal pay for women on his staff. McCain and Palin have sent out a steady stream of these misleading e-mails and have accused Senator Obama of being a terrorist, a socialist, a communist, and you name it. Yet have any of these women done a snopes or a factcheck.org search to see if these accusations are fair and honest? It appeared they were eager to accept these accusations without taking the time to verify them with a reliable source. This election is about choosing a leader who has the temperment and experience and intelligence to lead this nation through these very difficult time. It is a time when we need honesty and integrity. And we need leaders who are not going to lie to us and not going to divide us but who are going to get both parties to work together to get us through this crisis. Poster: K . Roberts Comment: I just finished watching Friday's show and I must say that I'm very confused & concerned by many of these women's comments. Not that they don't deserve their views, I just can't figure out what their views are grounded in exactly. I am also a working married mother (45 yrs old) and although I live in Arkansas now, I graduated from the University of Colorado in Boulder and loved living in Colorado (I have lived on the East coast, West coast as well as Rocky Mt West and now the South so I bring alot of geographical perspective). I understand the frustration over the primary with Hillary as I too was a supporter. I agreed with criticism of the media double standards/sexism etc...but to punish the Democratic party or Obama at this juncture? Arkansas, as a state, alo can't seem to get over it even with the urging of every respectable Democrat in our state, past to present (Bumpers, both Pryors, both Clintons, Governor Beebee etc...) and I am starting to wonder if it boils down to racism & bigotry. I even get the lag time to get behind Obama but really David, maybe you needed to ask a few more pointed questions to get at the heart of their indecision. For instance, Obama & Hillary have many policy positions that are barely discernable from each other as we learned in many debates and published positions. How can these women support the other side now just because of Sarah Palin's gender? What about her views or even lack thereof? I feel that she is very polarizing. Also, the campaign the Republicans are running is less than desirable (summed up even by members of their own party)in terms of substance & focus, especially since McCain has sided with Bush these last 4-8 years based on his Senate voting record. I'm appalled that mothers would support so many of the divisive, negative, slanderous and fear laden comments. We are on an economic precipice so I ask: How are we going to move this country forward...together? Not with senseless and countless attacks and the same old rhetoric. Also, for the record, I have heard Obama state that he would cut certain programs from the budget, but not to the detriment of the working middle class and new job growth. (They again are the only ones I hear speaking about new green technologies and a safer planet for our children). Obama has admitted that this economic crash will cause changes to the timeline of being able to roll out and address his agenda. I also didn't hear anyone commenting about intellect and intellectual curiosty in a positive manner and again I have to ask: When did being smart become a negative and not something to be celebrated? I thought education was a high priority with Mothers....I need to end and I haven't even mentioned the global perspective on the election at this time in our history. Anyway, thanks for the opportunity to voice my reaction. I really couldn't survive without PBS. Poster: MaisNon Comment: I am a woman and disgusted with these groups of women who are pouting about Hillary and therefore taking their votes elsewhere. That is just downright stupid. I would NEVER vote for ANYONE who did not support my issues. JUST BEING A WOMAN, JUST BEING BLACK, JUST BEING CATHOLIC.......There are women whom I would not vote for it they gave me their limousine! I am a woman and would NEVER vote for Palin! Has everybody forgotten that we are in the midst of FISA...domestic spying???..Have people forgotten the wars that we have been in these last years??? Have people forgotten that our budget was HEALTHY AND POSITIVE when this Republican president came into office, same with Reagan. I see no differece between McCain and Bush and I feel terror over another Bush presidency. I believe that this is a matter of race with these women. It is absolutely too stupid to forget about prison abuse, Guantanamo, Abu Grahb. McCain says that he would not sit and talk to enemies........that means that people are willing to vote for someone who would take us to war FAR QUICKER than Obama. Negotiation and communication are things that the adult world HAS to have to EXIST!! Vote based SOLEY on ONE thing, and that thing has NOTHING to do with issues?!!?!??! That is SUPID. I absolutely believe that we are talking racism, nothing else makes sense. In fact, I will go so far as to say that there would be no problem if Obama were not part Black. SNAP OUT OF IT, LADIES! YOU would rather have WAR and DOMESTIC SPYING, and FINANCIAL DEPRESSION than a Black person??? Poster: barbara coyle Comment: this show was very disturbing - any woman who is having trouble deciding who to vote for in this election is not actually a feminist and does not care about choice and woman's issues and any woman who is still not listening to Hillary Clinton about who to vote for is not actually a Hillary supporter The Republican woman who was a small business owner has actually voted against her own self interest unless her business makes over 250000 a year - and her dismissal of choice as an issue is alarming the next President will appoint more than one Justice the women I know in rural PA are not taken in by Palin - we know that she was a gimmick pick by McCain to pretend that women are a priority. Poster: Ronnie Mack Comment: Any self respecting Hillary would never support the McCain/Palin Ticket. It is an insult to women everywhere to say Palin should share the same dais as Hillary Clinton. On each and every issue important to me, and Democratic women Palin is a slap in the face of our convictions, beliefs and view of our shared world view. Drill Baby Drill! Really this is your energy future. How long can MOTHER Earth take that beating? That is not in keeping with the Clinton environmental directive which is supportive of and informed by Al Gore’s holy war on global warming! $5,000.00 credit and good luck with finding your own health care while you wander from state to state looking for someone that will cover your previously diagnosed Breast Cancer! I don’t care if you are trying to appeal to my need for choice, this poorly conceived McCain-Palin idea is a far cry from the universal health care initiative that Hillary Clinton fought for and was nearly destroyed for as first lady during her husband’s administration. And speaking of choice what about the Right to Choose? Hillary has been a long supporter of women’s rights to have total autonomy over their own bodies. Sara Palin feels regardless of the reason, rape, incest, etc, a woman should be required to keep the baby. Hillary would never impose that right wing agenda on any woman’s life. I think these “so called” undecided voters want to vote for Palin because she is a woman. Well I’m black! Still I was against the Clarence Thomas nomination! Don’t vote for Palin just because she has a uterus. Instead why don’t you vote for the future of the children you have sheltered in your uterus? Poster: Vermont Granny Comment: I am absolutely astounded that any intelligent woman who is pro-choice and favors the policies described on this program could even consider voting for McCain/Palin. The idea that Roe v. Wade will always be there is absurd. There are now four Supreme Court Justices on record as believing Roe v. Wade was wrongly decided and should be overturned. McCain has already said he'd appoint justices in the mold of Alito and Roberts--both opposed to Roe v. Wade. Result: Roe v. Wade WILL BE OVERTURNED!! Nobody can doubt this. Wake up, pro-choice women! If McCain wins, choice will go. As for the other woman-favorable initiatives, why would you believe McCain would support *any* of them, when he has a clear voting record against them? Why would you think conservative Palin would be any different? And since McCain would be President, not Palin, even if she disagreed with him, she doesn't make policy, the President does. The fact that Palin did not reply to the MomsRising letter should demonstrate that Palin does NOT support these issues. I hope these women supported Hillary because of her stance on the issues, not just because she's a woman. Obama is much closer to Hillary's policies than McCain. It's ludicrous that *any* Hillary supporter would consider voting for McCain/Palin unless she would vote for a woman--any woman--regardless of her policies. May I suggest a course in Logic and some research on the candidates' voting records for these women? Poster: Lisa N from PA Comment: Contrary to your ad for NOW you truly insulted my intelligence by that bias report from a small (minded) group of woman. Now I understand why it took until 1920 for woman to achieve the vote (and are still struggling with equal rights). I am so embarrassed to be a member of their same sex. Maybe someone over there can enlighten them about the proven lies that Palan has sprewed and which they so easily swallowed. But on the other hand, how can one reason with pitbulls wearing lipstick? Poster: Leah Comment: How could your piece on women who want to vote for women (What Women Voters Want) completely disregard the fact that there is a woman running for president? Cynthia McKinney is the Green Party nominee for president and she is on enough ballots to make her a viable candidate. The women you interviewed seemed to tend toward socially liberal positions, but were tempted to vote for McCain because of their interest in and desire for a female candidate, where their disappointment in Clinton's not getting the Democratic nomination lead them to Sarah Palin and the McCain ticket. McKinney actively supports women's issues and she is a woman. If gender is one of their main concerns, I feel that a question from you about her candidacy was appropriate and completely necessary. Disregarding the presence of third party candidates in your coverage, with only four days until the election, is an injustice to the democratic process. Poster: Lisa Hirsh Comment: This felt like a Palin commercial--lacked the usual balance and probing of a NOW program. I was surprised and disappointed. It is now 8:57--perhaps 30 seconds have been about Obama. I don't get it. |
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