|
Barack Obama on Abortion |
|
Click here for 15 full quotes on Abortion OR other candidates on Abortion OR background on Abortion.
|
![]() |
Barack Obama on Budget & Economy
Click here for 18 full quotes on
Budget & Economy OR other candidates on Budget
& Economy OR background on Budget & Economy.
-
Protect consumers with Credit Card Bill of Rights. (Feb 2008)
-
More accountability in subprime mortgages. (Feb 2008)
-
Bush stimulus plan leaves out seniors & unemployed. (Jan 2008)
-
Voted against limiting credit to 30%, because 30% too high. (Jan 2008)
-
Account for every single dollar for new proposed programs. (Jan 2008)
-
Help the homeowners actually living in their homes. (Jan 2008)
-
Bankruptcy bill pushed by banks &. (Jan 2008)
-
Lack of an energy policy is a financial burden. (Jan 2008)
-
Bush & GOP dug budget hole; need years to dig out. (Dec 2007)
-
Save $150 billion in tax cuts for people who don't need them. (Dec 2007)
-
Take China "to the mat" about currency manipulation. (Dec 2007)
-
Rejects free market vision of government. (Oct 2007)
-
Regulate financial instruments to protect home mortgages. (Aug 2007)
-
Return to PayGo: compensate for all new spending. (Oct 2006)
-
Bush's economic policies are not working. (May 2004)
-
Supports federal programs to protect rural economy. (May 2004)
-
Voted NO on paying down federal debt by rating programs' effectiveness. (Mar 2007)
-
Voted NO on $40B in reduced federal overall spending. (Dec 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Civil Rights
Click here for 39 full quotes on Civil Rights OR other candidates on Civil Rights OR background on Civil Rights.
-
People want to move beyond our divisions. (Jan 2008)
-
2004 DNC speech merged "heritage" with "diversity". (Dec 2007)
-
The politics of fear undermines basic civil liberties. (Oct 2007)
-
Racial equality good for America as a whole. (Jun 2007)
-
Put the Confederate flag in a museum, not the state house. (Apr 2007)
-
Muslim heritage gives Obama unique influence in Muslim world. (Oct 2006)
-
No black or white America--just United States of America. (Oct 2006)
-
Forthright on racial issues and on his civil rights history. (Jul 2004)
-
Defend freedom and equality under law. (May 2004)
-
Politicians: don't use religion to insulate from criticism. (Apr 2004)
-
Miscegenation a felony in 1960 when Obamas practiced it. (Aug 1996)
-
Affirmative Action
-
Fight job discrimination to give women equal footing at jobs. (Feb 2008)
-
Remove discriminatory barriers to the right to vote. (Feb 2008)
-
Benefited from affirmative action but overcame via merit. (Dec 2007)
-
Include class-based affirmative action with race-based. (Oct 2007)
-
Better enforce women's pay equity via Equal Pay Act. (Aug 2007)
-
African-Americans vote Democratic because of issue stances. (Jul 2004)
-
Gay Rights
-
Being gay or lesbian is not a choice. (Nov 2007)
-
Decisions about marriage should be left to the states. (Oct 2007)
-
Homosexuality no more immoral than heterosexuality. (Oct 2007)
-
Ok to expose 6-year-olds to gay couples; they know already. (Sep 2007)
-
Has any marriage broken up because two gays hold hands? (Aug 2007)
-
We need strong civil unions, not just weak civil unions. (Aug 2007)
-
Legal rights for gays are conferred by state, not by church. (Aug 2007)
-
Disentangle gay rights from the word "marriage". (Aug 2007)
-
Gay marriage is less important that equal gay rights. (Aug 2007)
-
Gay rights movement is somewhat like civil rights movement. (Aug 2007)
-
Let each denominations decide on recognizing gay marriage. (Jul 2007)
-
Supports health benefits for gay civil partners. (Oct 2006)
-
Opposes gay marriage; supports civil union & gay equality. (Oct 2006)
-
Marriage not a human right; non-discrimination is. (Oct 2004)
-
Voting Record
-
Strengthen the Americans with Disabilities Act. (Aug 2007)
-
Voted NO on recommending Constitutional ban on flag desecration. (Jun 2006)
-
Voted NO on constitutional ban of same-sex marriage. (Jun 2006)
-
Rated 89% by the HRC, indicating a pro-gay-rights stance. (Dec 2006)
-
Rated 100% by the NAACP, indicating a pro-affirmative-action stance. (Dec 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Corporations
Click here for 8 full quotes on Corporations OR other candidates on Corporations OR background on Corporations.
-
Cap the farm subsidies for Fortune 500 companies. (Dec 2007)
-
End tax breaks for companies that send jobs overseas. (Aug 2007)
-
Hold corporations responsible for pensions & work conditions. (Aug 2007)
-
Tax incentives for corporate responsibility. (Jun 2004)
-
Close tax loopholes for US companies relocating abroad. (Jun 2004)
-
REAL USA Plan: Reward companies that create domestic jobs. (Jun 2004)
-
Voted YES on repealing tax subsidy for companies which move US jobs offshore. (Mar 2005)
-
Voted NO on reforming bankruptcy to include means-testing & restrictions. (Mar 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Crime
Click here for 14 full quotes on Crime OR other candidates on Crime OR background on
Crime.
-
Reduce recidivism by providing ex-offender supports. (Feb 2008)
-
Ban racial profiling & eliminate disparities in sentencing. (Feb 2008)
-
Have a civil rights division enforce laws fairly and justly. (Jan 2008)
-
GovWatch: No, more young black men in college than in prison. (Jan 2008)
-
Lack of enforcement sets tone for more hate crimes. (Dec 2007)
-
Pushed Illinois bill to videotape all capital interrogations. (Oct 2007)
-
No extra penalty for gang association. (Oct 2007)
-
Need justice that is not just us, but is everybody. (Jun 2007)
-
Some heinous crimes justify the ultimate punishment. (Oct 2006)
-
Videotape all capital punishment interrogations. (Oct 2006)
-
Battles legislatively against the death penalty. (Jul 2004)
-
Supports alternative sentencing and rehabilitation. (Jul 1998)
-
Voted YES on reinstating $1.15 billion funding for the COPS Program. (Mar 2007)
-
Rated 75% by the NCJA, indicating a mixed record on criminal justice. (Dec 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Drugs
Click here for 10 full quotes on Drugs OR other candidates on Drugs OR background on
Drugs.
-
Look at needle exchange; and expand treatment. (Feb 2008)
-
Fight to rid our communities of meth. (Feb 2008)
-
Expand drug courts; help prisoners with substance abuse. (Feb 2008)
-
2001: questions harsh penalties for drug dealing. (Oct 2007)
-
Not first candidate to use drugs, but first honest about it. (Oct 2007)
-
Do not lower drinking age from 21 to 18. (Sep 2007)
-
Smokes cigarettes now; smoked some pot in high school. (Feb 2007)
-
Admitted marijuana use in high school & college. (Jan 2007)
-
Deal with street-level drug dealing as minimum-wage affair. (Oct 2006)
-
Understand why youngsters want to use drugs. (Aug 1996)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Education
Click here for 28 full quotes on Education OR other candidates on Education OR background
on Education.
-
Supports charter schools; it's important to experiment. (Feb 2008)
-
Children's First Agenda: zero to five early education. (Feb 2008)
-
$4,000 college tuition for 100 hours' public service a year. (Feb 2008)
-
Put billions of dollars into early childhood education. (Jan 2008)
-
Need after-school and summer programs with good parenting. (Jan 2008)
-
Get parents re-engaged in educating the children. (Dec 2007)
-
We need a sense of urgency about improving education system. (Sep 2007)
-
Nationwide program to reconstruct crumbling school buildings. (Sep 2007)
-
STEP UP: summer learning opportunities for disadvantaged. (Aug 2007)
-
We left the money behind for No Child Left Behind. (Aug 2007)
-
Pay "master teachers" extra, but with buy-in from teachers. (Aug 2007)
-
Sends kids to private school; but wants good schools for all. (Jul 2007)
-
Supreme Court was wrong on school anti-integration ruling. (Jul 2007)
-
Incentives to hire a million teachers over next decade. (Jun 2007)
-
Pay teachers more money & treat them like professionals. (Jun 2007)
-
Public school system status quo is indefensible. (Oct 2006)
-
More teacher pay in exchange for more teacher accountability. (Oct 2006)
-
Guarantee affordable life-long, top-notch education. (Jun 2006)
-
Provide decent funding and get rid of anti-intellectualism. (Jul 2004)
-
Address the growing achievement gap between students. (May 2004)
-
Will add 25,000 teachers in high-need areas. (May 2004)
-
Supports charter schools and private investment in schools. (Jul 1998)
-
Voting Record
-
First Senate bill: increase Pell Grant from $4,050 to $5,100. (Aug 2007)
-
Sponsored legislations that recruit and reward good teachers. (Sep 2004)
-
Voted YES on $52M for "21st century community learning centers". (Oct 2005)
-
Voted YES on $5B for grants to local educational agencies. (Oct 2005)
-
Voted YES on shifting $11B from corporate tax loopholes to education. (Mar 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Energy & Oil
Click here for 31 full quotes on Energy & Oil OR other candidates on Energy & Oil OR background on Energy & Oil.
-
Reduce carbon emissions by 80% by 2050. (Feb 2008)
-
FactCheck: Self-contradictory on Bush's clean-energy plan. (Jan 2008)
-
Reduce the consumption of energy and be more efficient. (Jan 2008)
-
Aggressively address accelerating climate change. (Dec 2007)
-
Fuel efficiency and Middle East stability help on fuel costs. (Oct 2007)
-
Nuclear power ok if we safeguard against waste & terrorism. (Sep 2007)
-
Explore nuclear power as part of alternative energy mix. (Jul 2007)
-
Cheney met environmentalists once; but Big Oil 40 times. (Jul 2007)
-
Cap-and-trade carbon emissions; raise CAFE standard. (Jun 2007)
-
Stop sending $800M a day to Mideast dictators for oil. (Mar 2007)
-
Wants Detroit to build more hybrids & use more ethanol. (Oct 2006)
-
We cannot drill our way out of our addiction to oil. (Oct 2006)
-
3-way win: economy, environment, & stop funding terror. (Jun 2006)
-
Cap-and-trade is more specific on reducing greenhouse gases. (Jan 2006)
-
Conserve, develop alternative fuels, increase efficiencies. (Oct 2004)
-
Sponsored legislations that improve energy efficiency. (Sep 2004)
-
20% nation's power supply from renewable sources by 2020. (Sep 2004)
-
20% renewable energy by 2020. (Jul 2004)
-
Invest in alternative energy sources. (Jun 2004)
-
Increase CAFE to 40 mpg. (Jun 2004)
-
Tradable credits for renewable energy. (Jun 2004)
-
Voting Record
-
Passed tax credit for installing E85 ethanol at gas stations. (Feb 2008)
-
Voted YES on removing oil & gas exploration subsidies. (Jun 2007)
-
Voted YES on making oil-producing and exporting cartels illegal. (Jun 2007)
-
Voted YES on factoring global warming into federal project planning. (May 2007)
-
Voted YES on disallowing an oil leasing program in Alaska's ANWR. (Nov 2005)
-
Voted YES on $3.1B for emergency oil assistance for hurricane-hit areas. (Oct 2005)
-
Voted YES on reducing oil usage by 40% by 2025 (instead of 5%). (Jun 2005)
-
Voted YES on banning drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. (Mar 2005)
-
Rated 100% by the CAF, indicating support for energy independence. (Dec 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Environment
Click here for 10 full quotes on Environment OR other candidates on Environment OR background on Environment.
-
Regulate animal feeding operations for pollution. (Feb 2008)
-
Will end the notion of Yucca Mountain nuclear storage. (Jan 2008)
-
Promote green technologies and fuel efficiency standards. (Dec 2007)
-
Organized inner-city recycling; fought environmental racism. (Oct 2007)
-
Reduce mercury and lead to protect community health. (Aug 2007)
-
Protect the Great Lakes & our National Parks and Forests. (Aug 2007)
-
Give Katrina contracts to locals, not to Halliburton. (Jun 2007)
-
Scored 60% on Humane Society Scorecard on animal protection. (Jan 2007)
-
Three months working on minority students recycling. (Aug 1996)
-
Voted YES on including oil & gas smokestacks in mercury regulations. (Sep 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Families & Children
Click here for 5 full quotes on
Families & Children OR other candidates on
Families & Children OR background on Families & Children.
-
Expand flex-work & Family and Medical Leave Act. (Feb 2008)
-
Restore dream of making children's lives better than parents. (Dec 2007)
-
All kids should learn about sexual abuse. (Jul 2007)
-
FactCheck: 'Sex Ed for Kindergarten' means 'age-appropriate'. (Jul 2007)
-
Listening to evangelicals bridges major political fault line. (Oct 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Foreign Policy
Click here for 26 full quotes on Foreign Policy OR other candidates on Foreign Policy OR background on Foreign Policy.
-
Never negotiate out of fear, and never fear to negotiate. (Jan 2008)
-
Ok to postpone Pakistani elections, but not indefinitely. (Dec 2007)
-
Pakistan crisis: secure nukes; continue with elections. (Dec 2007)
-
President must abide by international human rights treaties. (Dec 2007)
-
Obama Doctrine: ideology has overridden facts and reality. (Dec 2007)
-
China is a competitor but not an enemy. (Dec 2007)
-
Willing to meet with Fidel Castro, Kim Jung Il & Hugo Chavez. (Nov 2007)
-
Wrote 2006 law stabilizing Congo with $52M. (Oct 2007)
-
No Obama Doctrine; just democracy, security, liberty. (Oct 2007)
-
Invest in our relationship with Mexico. (Sep 2007)
-
Strengthen NATO to face 21st-century threats. (Aug 2007)
-
$50B annually to strengthen weak states at risk of collapse. (Aug 2007)
-
No "strategic ambiguity" on foreign policy issues. (Aug 2007)
-
My critics engineered our biggest foreign policy disaster. (Aug 2007)
-
China is a competitor, but not an enemy. (Aug 2007)
-
Meet with enemy leaders; it's a disgrace that we have not. (Jul 2007)
-
No-fly zone in Darfur; but pay attention more in Africa. (Jun 2007)
-
Europe & Japan are allies, but China is a competitor. (Apr 2007)
-
Palestinian people suffer-but from not recognizing Israel. (Apr 2007)
-
FactCheck: Palestinian suffering from stalled peace effort. (Apr 2007)
-
Protested South African apartheid while at college. (Feb 2007)
-
Focus on corruption to improve African development. (Oct 2006)
-
Supports Israel's self-defense; but distrusted by Israelis. (Oct 2006)
-
Visited Africa in 2006; encouraged HIV testing & research. (Oct 2006)
-
Never has US had so much power & so little influence to lead. (Jul 2004)
-
US policy should promote democracy and human rights. (Jul 2004)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Free Trade
Click here for 13 full quotes on Free Trade OR other candidates on Free Trade OR background
on Free Trade.
-
More Transition Assistance for displaced workers. (Feb 2008)
-
Enforce environmental & labor provisions in trade agreements. (Jan 2008)
-
Enforce existing safety laws against Chinese products. (Dec 2007)
-
NAFTA needs to be amended. (Dec 2007)
-
Stand firm against CAFTA for labor & environmental standards. (Aug 2007)
-
Congress subsidizes megafarms & hurts family farmers. (Aug 2007)
-
People don't want cheaper T-shirts if it costs their job. (Aug 2007)
-
Amend NAFTA to add labor agreements. (Aug 2007)
-
Reinvest in communities that are burdened by globalization. (Jun 2007)
-
Insist on labor and human rights standards for China trade. (Jul 2004)
-
Fair trade should have tangible benefits for US. (Jun 2004)
-
Voted YES on free trade agreement with Oman. (Jun 2006)
-
Voted NO on implementing CAFTA for Central America free-trade. (Jul 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Government Reform
Click here for 39 full quotes on Government Reform OR other candidates on Government Reform OR background on Government Reform.
-
Give D.C. the opportunity to elect its own representatives. (Feb 2008)
-
Shine light on federal contracts, earmarks, & proposed bills. (Feb 2008)
-
Capping credit card interest rates at 30% is not enough. (Jan 2008)
-
Never took money from federal lobbyists or their companies. (Jan 2008)
-
Release people in bankruptcy due to health care problems. (Jan 2008)
-
I opposed both the 2001 and 2005 bankruptcy bills. (Jan 2008)
-
Accountability and oversight over the financial markets. (Jan 2008)
-
Modify some of the fraudulent & predatory lending practices. (Jan 2008)
-
Bad idea to over-classify information. (Dec 2007)
-
Bush's signing statements are a clear abuse of prerogative. (Dec 2007)
-
Public submits policy ideas on Obama's "My Policy" website. (Oct 2007)
-
Create "Google for Government" to track government spending. (Aug 2007)
-
Prayer can't prevent disasters; good policy can handle them. (Aug 2007)
-
Registered 150,000 new minority voters in Chicago in 1992. (Jul 2007)
-
Half of us don't vote; time for taking it back. (Jun 2007)
-
Sponsored bill to disclose earmarks on Internet. (Oct 2006)
-
Filibuster has long tradition, but used to harm civil rights. (Oct 2006)
-
People are really ready for a message for change. (Jul 2004)
-
Campaign Finance Reform
-
Ended corporate jet travel subsidized by lobbyists. (Feb 2008)
-
No lobbyist money; no PAC money; fund campaigns instead. (Jan 2008)
-
Money is the original sin in politics and I am not sinless. (Nov 2007)
-
Reduced cost TV ads for candidates; $85M presidential limit. (Oct 2007)
-
Ok to take $5 donations from drug company employees. (Sep 2007)
-
Public campaign financing with free television & radio time. (Aug 2007)
-
No "bundled" money from federal-registered lobbyists. (Aug 2007)
-
Campaigns last too long & cost too much. (Aug 2007)
-
Doesn't take PAC money or federal lobbyists' money. (Jul 2007)
-
People know his "bundlers" because he pushed disclosure law. (Jul 2007)
-
FactCheck: no lobbyist money; yes from bundlers who lobby. (Jul 2007)
-
First bill ever passed was campaign finance reform. (Apr 2007)
-
FactCheck: no lobbyist money, yes from lobbyist spouses. (Apr 2007)
-
Hopefund PAC pushes government to honor sacred commitments. (Nov 2006)
-
Voting Record
-
FactCheck: Yes, Obama cast 130 "present" votes in IL Senate. (Jan 2008)
-
Voted YES on granting the District of Columbia a seat in Congress. (Sep 2007)
-
Voted NO on allowing some lobbyist gifts to Congress. (Mar 2006)
-
Voted YES on establishing the Senate Office of Public Integrity. (Mar 2006)
-
Prohibit voter intimidation in federal elections. (Mar 2007)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Gun Control
Click here for 7 full quotes on Gun Control OR other candidates on Gun Control OR background on Gun Control.
-
Respect 2nd Amendment, but local gun bans ok. (Feb 2008)
-
Provide some common-sense enforcement on gun licensing. (Jan 2008)
-
2000: cosponsored bill to limit purchases to 1 gun per month. (Oct 2007)
-
Stop unscrupulous gun dealers dumping guns in cities. (Jul 2007)
-
Keep guns out of inner cities--but also problem of morality. (Oct 2006)
-
Ban semi-automatics, and more possession restrictions. (Jul 1998)
-
Voted NO on prohibiting lawsuits against gun manufacturers. (Jul 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Health Care
Click here for 55 full quotes on Health Care OR other candidates on Health Care OR background on Health Care.
-
The problem with health care is about affordability. (Jan 2008)
-
Subsidies to people who can't afford care--not single payer. (Jan 2008)
-
Bring GOP & Dems together to make haelthcare affordable. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: Reducing obesity would save $18B, not $1T. (Dec 2007)
-
Reforms in prevention and drug price negotiation save money. (Dec 2007)
-
Tackle insurance companies on reimbursement system. (Oct 2007)
-
Help young people deal with the cost of medical education. (Oct 2007)
-
Morally wrong that terminally ill must consider money. (Sep 2007)
-
FactCheck: Correct that insurance lobbying cost $1B. (Sep 2007)
-
National smoking bans only after trying local bans. (Sep 2007)
-
Reform failed in '90s because of drug company lobbying. (Jul 2007)
-
Take on insurance companies; drive down health care costs. (Jun 2007)
-
Address minority health needs by more coverage & targeting. (Mar 2007)
-
Health care tied to balancing costs and taxes nation wide. (Jun 2006)
-
Allowing seniors to bulk purchase will save taxpayers' money. (Oct 2004)
-
AIDS
-
We need condom distribution to deal with the scourge of AIDS. (Aug 2007)
-
Homophobia prevents talking about HIV/AIDS. (Jun 2007)
-
Got tested for AIDS, with wife, in public, in Kenya. (Jun 2007)
-
Universal Coverage
-
AdWatch: punishing uninsured families doesn't make sense. (Feb 2008)
-
FactCheck: Hillary's plan does mandate; but so does Obama's. (Feb 2008)
-
No one turned away due to illness or pre-existing condition. (Feb 2008)
-
Buy private insurance via National Health Insurance Exchange. (Feb 2008)
-
Against enforcement mechanism for mandating insurance. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: Yes, Obama favored single-payer, despite denial. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: No, US costs are not twice as much as others. (Jan 2008)
-
AdWatch: Pressure insurance & drug companies to change. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: OPPORTUNITY to insure all, but no GUARANTEE. (Jan 2008)
-
AdWatch: Don't make it illegal not to have health care. (Jan 2008)
-
Being poor in this country is hazardous to your health. (Dec 2007)
-
Problem isn't mandating coverage, but affording it. (Nov 2007)
-
FactCheck: Coverage plan might leave 8.5 million uninsured. (Nov 2007)
-
Added 20,000 children to Illinois healthcare. (Oct 2007)
-
Government healthcare like members of Congress have. (Sep 2007)
-
Increase competition in the insurance and drug markets. (Aug 2007)
-
National Health Insurance Exchange for private coverage. (Aug 2007)
-
Health plan cuts typical family's premium by $2,500 a year. (Jun 2007)
-
Give people the choice to buy affordable health care. (Jun 2007)
-
National insurance pool & catastrophic insurance. (Apr 2007)
-
Employers are going to have to pay or play. (Mar 2007)
-
Need political will to accomplish universal coverage. (Mar 2007)
-
Healthcare system is broken without lifetime employment. (Oct 2006)
-
The market alone can't solve our health-care woes. (Oct 2006)
-
Focus on the affordability of a broad healthcare plan. (Jan 2006)
-
Crises happen in our lives and healthcare is necessary. (Oct 2004)
-
Believes health care is a right, not a privilege for the few. (Sep 2004)
-
Will expand health coverage & allow meds to be re-imported. (May 2004)
-
Voting Record
-
No need to mandate coverage; just let people afford it. (Jul 2007)
-
Voted YES on requiring negotiated Rx prices for Medicare part D. (Apr 2007)
-
Voted YES on expanding enrollment period for Medicare Part D. (Feb 2006)
-
Voted YES on increasing Medicaid rebate for producing generics. (Nov 2005)
-
Voted YES on negotiating bulk purchases for Medicare prescription drug. (Mar 2005)
-
Improve services for people with autism & their families. (Apr 2007)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Homeland Security
Click here for 47 full quotes on Homeland Security OR other candidates on Homeland Security OR background on Homeland Security.
-
Pursue goal of a world without nuclear weapons. (Feb 2008)
-
Al Qaida is stronger now than in 2001 as Iraq distracted us. (Jan 2008)
-
Colleges must allow military recruiters for ROTC on campus. (Jan 2008)
-
Rebuild a nuclear nonproliferation strategy. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: Promised to repeal Patriot Act, then voted for it. (Jan 2008)
-
No presidential power for secret surveillance. (Dec 2007)
-
No holding US citizens as unlawful enemy combatants. (Dec 2007)
-
Congress decides what constitutes torture, not president. (Dec 2007)
-
No torture; defiance of FISA; no military commissions. (Dec 2007)
-
Restore habeas corpus to reach Muslims abroad. (Dec 2007)
-
Human rights and national security are complementary. (Nov 2007)
-
2006: Obama-Lugar bill restricted conventional weapons. (Oct 2007)
-
Judgment is as important as experience. (Oct 2007)
-
If attacked, first help victims then prevent further attacks. (Oct 2007)
-
America cannot sanction torture; no loopholes or exceptions. (Sep 2007)
-
Repeal Don't-Ask-Don't-Tell. (Aug 2007)
-
We are no safer now than we were after 9/11. (Aug 2007)
-
Close Guantanamo and restore the right of habeas corpus. (Jun 2007)
-
Get first responders the healthcare and equipment they need. (Mar 2007)
-
Need to be both strong and smart on national defense. (Oct 2006)
-
Grow size of military to maintain rotation schedules. (Oct 2006)
-
Battling terrorism must go beyond belligerence vs. isolation. (Oct 2006)
-
Going after Al Qaeda in Pakistan is not Bush-style invasion. (Jan 2006)
-
Rebuild the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. (Jan 2006)
-
We are currently inspecting 3% of all incoming cargo. (Oct 2004)
-
Increase funding to decommission Russian nukes. (Jul 2004)
-
Give our soldiers the best equipment and training available. (Jul 2004)
-
National Service
-
Expand Peace Corps and AmeriCorps to 266,000 slots. (Feb 2008)
-
Put forward a national service program. (Jan 2008)
-
Give 18-year-old women opportunity to serve. (Dec 2007)
-
Veterans
-
Improve veterans' mental health treatment & PTSD benefits. (Feb 2008)
-
Address the deficiencies in the VA system. (Jun 2007)
-
The cost of the Iraq war should not shortchange VA benefits. (Jun 2007)
-
Make sure the outpatient facilities work for veterans. (Jun 2007)
-
Voting Record
-
Support veterans via the Dignity for Wounded Warriors Act. (Aug 2007)
-
Voted NO on removing need for FISA warrant for wiretapping abroad. (Aug 2007)
-
Voted YES on limiting soldiers' deployment to 12 months. (Jul 2007)
-
Voted YES on implementing the 9/11 Commission report. (Mar 2007)
-
Voted YES on preserving habeas corpus for Guantanamo detainees. (Sep 2006)
-
Voted YES on requiring CIA reports on detainees & interrogation methods. (Sep 2006)
-
Voted YES on reauthorizing the PATRIOT Act. (Mar 2006)
-
Voted NO on extending the PATRIOT Act's wiretap provision. (Dec 2005)
-
Voted YES on restricting business with entities linked to terrorism. (Jul 2005)
-
Voted YES on restoring $565M for states' and ports' first responders. (Mar 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Immigration
Click here for 25 full quotes on Immigration OR other candidates on Immigration OR background on Immigration.
-
Immigration raids are ineffective. (Feb 2008)
-
Health plan: not enough resources for illegal immigrants. (Jan 2008)
-
Illegals shouldn't work; but should have path to citizenship. (Dec 2007)
-
Don't deputize Americans to turn in illegal immigrants. (Dec 2007)
-
OK to provide government services in Spanish. (Dec 2007)
-
Comprehensive solution includes employers & borders. (Nov 2007)
-
Undocumented workers come here to work, not to drive. (Nov 2007)
-
Support granting driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. (Nov 2007)
-
FactCheck: Lightning IS likelier than employer prosecution. (Nov 2007)
-
Illegal immigrants' lack of ID is a public safety concern. (Oct 2007)
-
Immigration system is broken for legal immigrants. (Sep 2007)
-
Reform must include more border security, and border wall. (Sep 2007)
-
Sanctuary cities show that feds are not enforcing law. (Sep 2007)
-
Pathway to citizenship, but people have to earn it. (Aug 2007)
-
Let's be a nation of laws AND a nation of immigrants. (Aug 2007)
-
Do a better job patrolling the Canadian and Mexican borders. (Jun 2007)
-
Give immigrants who are here a rigorous path to citizenship. (Jun 2007)
-
Extend welfare and Medicaid to immigrants. (Jul 1998)
-
Voted YES on comprehensive immigration reform. (Jun 2007)
-
Voted NO on declaring English as the official language of the US government. (Jun 2007)
-
Voted YES on building a fence along the Mexican border. (Sep 2006)
-
Voted YES on establishing a Guest Worker program. (May 2006)
-
Voted YES on allowing illegal aliens to participate in Social Security. (May 2006)
-
Voted YES on giving Guest Workers a path to citizenship. (May 2006)
-
Rated 8% by USBC, indicating an open-border stance. (Dec 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Jobs
Click here for 20 full quotes on Jobs OR other candidates on Jobs OR background on
Jobs.
-
Fight attacks on workers' right to organize & strike. (Feb 2008)
-
Focus farm programs on family farms, not giant corporations. (Feb 2008)
-
Paying more at Wal-Mart is worth it for having US jobs. (Dec 2007)
-
Give public safety officers collective bargaining rights. (Aug 2007)
-
Chief co-sponsor of IL ENDA, against gay job discrimination. (Aug 2007)
-
Chicago's Soldier Field stadium construction created jobs. (Aug 2007)
-
Pres. candidates can afford minimum wage; most folks can't. (Jul 2007)
-
Make the minimum wage a living wage. (Jun 2007)
-
Burdens of globalization are placed on the backs of workers. (Mar 2007)
-
Owes unions who endorsed him; that's why he's in politics. (Oct 2006)
-
Working full-time should mean enough to support a family. (Oct 2006)
-
Overrode federal overtime rules and raised the minimum wage. (Sep 2004)
-
Make sure that African-American men have access to jobs. (Jul 2004)
-
Fund Trade Adjustment Assistance for service workers too. (Jun 2004)
-
Increase IL minimum wage to $6.50 an hour. (Jun 2004)
-
Tax cuts for the rich do not create jobs. (May 2004)
-
Obama will strengthen unions and workers' rights. (May 2004)
-
Voted YES on restricting employer interference in union organizing. (Jun 2007)
-
Voted YES on increasing minimum wage to $7.25. (Feb 2007)
-
Voted YES on raising the minimum wage to $7.25 rather than $6.25. (Mar 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Principles & Values
Click here for 98 full quotes on
Principles & Values OR other candidates on
Principles & Values OR background on Principles & Values.
-
Don't seat MI & FL delegates; they're based on non-campaign. (Feb 2008)
-
FactCheck: Ranked most liberal in Senate, based on 99 votes. (Feb 2008)
-
Turn the page on the failed politics & policies of the past. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: Obama praised GOP for having ideas, not GOP ideas. (Jan 2008)
-
Objected to Republican ideas; did not compliment them. (Jan 2008)
-
Made the right decisions that were not politically popular. (Jan 2008)
-
Clinton earned a great relationship with African-Americans. (Jan 2008)
-
Campaigning on change from the bottom up that King stood for. (Jan 2008)
-
Despite attack email, pledges Allegiance & uses Bible. (Jan 2008)
-
Attends church with press, to dispel rumors that he's Muslim. (Dec 2007)
-
On "inexperience": he wrote policy books that media ignores. (Oct 2007)
-
Don't know if life beyond earth; focus on life here on earth. (Oct 2007)
-
Uses prayer to take stock of his moral compass. (Oct 2007)
-
Registered 150,000 young Chicago area black voters in 1992. (Oct 2007)
-
Criticizes voter cynicism from decades of disappointment. (Oct 2007)
-
Reach out to faith community;faith has role in public square. (Sep 2007)
-
Voted with Democratic Party 96.0% of 251 votes. (Sep 2007)
-
Assigned RFK's Senate desk; invokes RFK regularly. (Feb 2007)
-
Hopefund PAC donated $500K to Democratic Senate candidates. (Nov 2006)
-
Convention speech understood country yearns for unity. (Oct 2006)
-
Religious concerns ok, if translated into universal values. (Oct 2006)
-
Post-1960s politics more about moral attitude than issues. (Oct 2006)
-
Americans dislike partisanship--not solution like Dems think. (Oct 2006)
-
Enlist the American people in the process of self-government. (Jan 2006)
-
Unflinching progressive but ok to downstate conservatives. (Jul 2004)
-
There's a call to evangelize in politics. (Apr 2004)
-
I'm a big believer in the separation of church and state. (Apr 2004)
-
Be strong or be clever and make peace. (Aug 1996)
-
Campaign Themes
-
Labels like "most liberal" prevent problem-solving. (Feb 2008)
-
Overcome politics of demonizing opponents. (Jan 2008)
-
Focus on Iraq, revising presidential power, and healthcare. (Dec 2007)
-
If you join me I promise you we can change America. (Dec 2007)
-
Community politics: merges Alinsky & political activism. (Oct 2007)
-
Apply lessons from both Goldwater and McGovern. (Oct 2007)
-
Invites supporters to join him on "This Improbable Quest". (Oct 2007)
-
Resolve "most electable" vs."most progressive" by being both. (Oct 2007)
-
Turn the page: invite GOP & independents to join in agenda. (Sep 2007)
-
People have an urgent desire for change in Washington. (Jul 2007)
-
A "hopemonger", having seen the power of hope. (Jun 2007)
-
Washington can change if we say: Yes we can. (Mar 2007)
-
Source of his book title "Audacity of Hope" was a sermon. (Feb 2007)
-
Replace partisan bickering with politics of hope. (Feb 2007)
-
On cover of Time magazine, about his book & presidency. (Oct 2006)
-
Portrayed as a multiplier instead of a divider. (Oct 2006)
-
Progressives should recognize common morality with religion. (Oct 2006)
-
"Audacity of Hope" to change politics to reflect common good. (Oct 2006)
-
Offer real hope-not blind optimism-to the American people. (Jul 2004)
-
I'm living my parents' dreams and the American dream. (Jul 2004)
-
Greatness based on Declaration of Independence, not military. (Jul 2004)
-
We are one people all defending the United States of America. (Jul 2004)
-
Personal History
-
FactCheck: Took Rezko's donations, but never represented him. (Jan 2008)
-
"Dreams From My Father" is an archetypal search. (Dec 2007)
-
Obama REPRESENTS something; doesn't have to DO anything. (Dec 2007)
-
Real estate deal with felon was "boneheaded" but ethical. (Oct 2007)
-
Madrassa myth perpetuated by false email & fabricated story. (Oct 2007)
-
First major politician of the post-Baby Boom generation. (Oct 2007)
-
Active in the Trinity faith community. (Aug 2007)
-
Most decisive moment: transition from high school to college. (Aug 2007)
-
Traces ancestry to Jefferson Davis, President of Confederacy. (Feb 2007)
-
Lost Congressional primary in 1999 to Bobby Rush. (Feb 2007)
-
Personal story is basis of political desire to unite. (Feb 2007)
-
Greeted as hero on visit to ancestral Kenya. (Feb 2007)
-
Father died in car crash before Barack got to know him. (Feb 2007)
-
Born in Hawaii; lives on Chicago's South Side. (Nov 2006)
-
Full name: Barack Hussein Obama; family calls him "Barry". (Oct 2006)
-
Raised secular, but with working knowledge of world religion. (Oct 2006)
-
Baptized as an adult in the Trinity United Church of Christ. (Oct 2006)
-
First black president of the Harvard Law Review. (Jul 2004)
-
Ryan quits Senate race amid sex scandal allegations. (Jun 2004)
-
Mother attacked for playing with a black girlfriend. (Aug 1996)
-
Poverty of political organizers was proof of their integrity. (Aug 1996)
-
Racism & Race
-
I am a proud Christian who believes deeply in Jesus Christ. (Jan 2008)
-
Intertwined search for father and racial identity. (Dec 2007)
-
A Bound Man: inner turmoil of 1960s black nationalism. (Dec 2007)
-
Joined church that emphasized a "Black Value System". (Dec 2007)
-
Rooted in African-American community but also more than that. (Dec 2007)
-
Embodies smothering racial power in individual democracy. (Dec 2007)
-
More influenced by his race than public perceives. (Dec 2007)
-
In college, rejected multiracialism for black identity. (Dec 2007)
-
Whites sense that Barack grants them "benefit of the doubt". (Dec 2007)
-
Fans see Obama as opportunity to vote for redemption. (Dec 2007)
-
Balancing "challenger" for blacks & "bargainer" for whites. (Dec 2007)
-
Bradley effect: black candidates poll above actual votes. (Oct 2007)
-
Veiled racism in dismissing Obama as "unqualified". (Oct 2007)
-
Catching a cab, no one questions he's "authentically black". (Jul 2007)
-
Candidacy taken seriously despite his race or because of it? (Oct 2006)
-
Convention keynote speech highlights party's black targeting. (Jul 2004)
-
America's race and class problems are intertwined. (Aug 1996)
-
Biracial heritage has caused identity crisis. (Aug 1996)
-
There is some hope of eventual reconciliation between races. (Aug 1996)
-
Voting Record
-
Biggest mistake was intruding in Terri Schiavo case. (Apr 2007)
-
Voted NO on confirming Samuel Alito as Supreme Court Justice. (Jan 2006)
-
Voted NO on confirming John Roberts for Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. (Sep 2005)
-
Rated 100% by the AU, indicating support of church-state separation. (Dec 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Social Security
Click here for 11 full quotes on Social Security OR other candidates on Social Security OR background on Social Security.
-
Stop any efforts to privatize Social Security. (Feb 2008)
-
FactCheck: Removing $97,500 cap would be $1.3T tax increase. (Nov 2007)
-
Cutting benefits & raising retirement age are wrong answers. (Nov 2007)
-
The wealthy should pay a bit more on the payroll tax. (Oct 2007)
-
Privatization puts retirement at whim of stock market. (Sep 2007)
-
Stop any efforts to privatize Social Security. (Aug 2007)
-
No privatization; but consider earning cap over $97,500. (Jul 2007)
-
Stock market risk is ok, but not for Social Security. (Oct 2006)
-
Raise the cap on the payroll tax on wealthy individuals. (Jan 2006)
-
$2000 tax credit for Working Families Savings Accounts. (Jul 2004)
-
Voted NO on establishing reserve funds & pre-funding for Social Security. (Mar 2007)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Tax Reform
Click here for 18 full quotes on Tax Reform OR other candidates on Tax Reform OR background
on Tax Reform.
-
I'm not bashful about it: wealthy will pay more taxes. (Jan 2008)
-
Stimulus package: $500 tax cut, & Social Security supplement. (Jan 2008)
-
Restore progressive tax; close loopholes; relief to seniors. (Oct 2007)
-
Trillion dollar giveaway: the Paris Hilton Tax Break. (Oct 2007)
-
Reduce Bush tax cuts to pay for health care & other programs. (Jun 2007)
-
Estate tax only affects the wealthiest 1/2 of 1%. (Oct 2006)
-
Specific tax relief for families making $75,000 or less now. (Jan 2006)
-
Bush tax cuts help corporations but not middle class. (Jun 2004)
-
Campaign Themes
-
Last thing we need now is a permanent tax cut. (Jan 2008)
-
Voted NO on repealing the Alternative Minimum Tax. (Mar 2007)
-
Voted NO on raising estate tax exemption to $5 million. (Mar 2007)
-
Voted NO on supporting permanence of estate tax cuts. (Aug 2006)
-
Voted NO on permanently repealing the `death tax`. (Jun 2006)
-
Voted YES on $47B for military by repealing capital gains tax cut. (Feb 2006)
-
Voted NO on retaining reduced taxes on capital gains & dividends. (Feb 2006)
-
Voted NO on extending the tax cuts on capital gains and dividends. (Nov 2005)
-
Rated 100% by the CTJ, indicating support of progressive taxation. (Dec 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Technology
Click here for 9 full quotes on Technology OR other candidates on Technology OR background
on Technology.
-
Incentives for next-generation broadband in every community. (Feb 2008)
-
Increase funding for math and science research & education. (Oct 2007)
-
Airlines got into trouble after deregulation. (Oct 2007)
-
Organizes campaign events via MySpace.com and FaceBook.com. (Oct 2007)
-
JFK inspired with space program; now same with energy R&D. (Sep 2007)
-
Increase funding for basic research; expand broadband access. (Aug 2007)
-
$42B more in university-based R&D. (Oct 2006)
-
Invest on transportation and clean coal technology projects. (Oct 2004)
-
Voted NO on restoring $550M in funding for Amtrak for 2007. (Mar 2006)
![]() |
Barack Obama on War & Peace
Click here for 71 full quotes on War & Peace OR other candidates on War & Peace OR background on War & Peace.
-
FactCheck: Overstated displaced Iraqis; actually 4.2 million. (Feb 2008)
-
Iraq War
-
Humanitarian aid now for displaced Iraqis. (Feb 2008)
-
The surge is not working toward enduring peace. (Jan 2008)
-
Iraq takes our eye off al Qaeda & Afghanistan. (Jan 2008)
-
Get our troops out by the end of 2009. (Jan 2008)
-
No permanent bases in Iraq. (Jan 2008)
-
2002: Iraq will require US occupation of undetermined length. (Jan 2008)
-
FactCheck: No, violence in Iraq is LOWER than 2 years ago. (Jan 2008)
-
Congress decides deployment level & duration, not president. (Dec 2007)
-
Surge strategy has made a difference in Iraq but failed. (Nov 2007)
-
Clinton has not been consistent on the Iraq War. (Oct 2007)
-
2002: I don't oppose all war; I do oppose dumb war. (Oct 2007)
-
Leave troops for protection of Americans & counterterrorism. (Sep 2007)
-
Hopes to remove all troops from Iraq by 2013, but no pledge. (Sep 2007)
-
Surge has not succeeded because it ignores political issues. (Sep 2007)
-
Tell people the truth: quickest is 1-2 brigades per month. (Sep 2007)
-
No good options in Iraq--just bad options & worse options. (Aug 2007)
-
Be as careful getting out as we were careless getting in. (Jul 2007)
-
Troops not dying in vain; but we need plans for success. (Jul 2007)
-
We live in a more dangerous world because of Bush's actions. (Jun 2007)
-
Case for war was weak, but people voted their best judgment. (Jun 2007)
-
War in Iraq is "dumb" but troops still need equipment. (Apr 2007)
-
Increase ground forces in Iraq to decrease troop rotations. (Apr 2007)
-
Open-ended Iraq occupation must end: no military solution. (Apr 2007)
-
Begin withdrawal May 1 2007; finish by March 31 2008. (Apr 2007)
-
Open dialogue with both Syria and Iran. (Apr 2007)
-
Withdraw gradually and keep some troops in Iraq region. (Mar 2007)
-
Iraq 2002: ill-conceived venture; 2007: waste of resources. (Feb 2007)
-
Longtime critic of Iraq war. (Nov 2006)
-
The surge reduced violence, but at enormous cost. (Jan 2006)
-
Begin a phased redeployment to send a clear signal. (Jan 2006)
-
Saddam did not own and was not providing WMD to terrorists. (Oct 2004)
-
Initial military was extraordinarily successful in Iraq. (Oct 2004)
-
Invading Iraq was a bad strategic blunder. (Oct 2004)
-
We must make sure that Iraq is stable having gone in there. (Oct 2004)
-
Advance the training speed and get the reconstruction moving. (Oct 2004)
-
Democratizing Iraq will be more difficult than Afghanistan. (Oct 2004)
-
Never fudge numbers or shade the truth about war. (Jul 2004)
-
Set a new tone to internationalize the Iraqi reconstruction. (Jul 2004)
-
Iraq war was sincere but misguided, ideologically driven. (Jul 2004)
-
Not opposed to all wars, but opposed to the war in Iraq. (Jul 2004)
-
Trouble Spots
-
Two-state solution: Israel & Palestine side-by-side in peace. (Feb 2008)
-
Al Qaida is based in northwest Pakistan; strike if needed. (Jan 2008)
-
No action against Iran without Congressional authorization. (Dec 2007)
-
Iran: Bush does not let facts get in the way of ideology. (Dec 2007)
-
Meet directly for diplomacy with the leadership in Iran. (Nov 2007)
-
Committed to Iran not having nuclear weapons. (Oct 2007)
-
Iran military resolution sends the region a wrong signal. (Oct 2007)
-
Deal with al Qaeda on Pakistan border, but not with nukes. (Aug 2007)
-
Get al Qaeda hiding in hills between Afghanistan & Pakistan. (Aug 2007)
-
Military action in Pakistan if we have actionable intel. (Aug 2007)
-
FactCheck: Yes, Obama said invade Pakistan to get al Qaeda. (Aug 2007)
-
Focus on battle in Afghanistan and root out al Qaeda. (Jun 2007)
-
Bush cracked down on some terrorists' financial networks. (Jun 2007)
-
Iraq has distracted us from Taliban in Afghanistan. (Apr 2007)
-
Iran with nuclear weapons is a profound security threat. (Apr 2007)
-
We are playing to Osama's plan for winning a war from a cave. (Oct 2006)
-
Al Qaida is stronger than before thanks to the Bush doctrine. (Jan 2006)
-
Terrorists are in Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Iran. (Oct 2004)
-
Problems with current Israeli policy. (Jul 2004)
-
Engage North Korea in 6-party talks. (Jul 2004)
-
Voting Record
-
Voted to fund war until 2006; now wants no blank check. (Nov 2007)
-
Late to vote against war is not late to oppose war. (Jun 2007)
-
Spending on the Cold War relics should be for the veterans. (Jun 2007)
-
Would have voted no to authorize the President to go to war. (Jul 2004)
-
Voted YES on redeploying US troops out of Iraq by March 2008. (Mar 2007)
-
Voted NO on redeploying troops out of Iraq by July 2007. (Jun 2006)
-
Voted YES on investigating contract awards in Iraq & Afghanistan. (Nov 2005)
![]() |
Barack Obama on Welfare & Poverty
Click here for 10 full quotes on
Welfare & Poverty OR other candidates on Welfare
& Poverty OR background on Welfare & Poverty.
-
Create 20 Promise Neighborhoods in high-poverty cities. (Feb 2008)
-
1980s: Director of the Developing Communities Project. (Oct 2007)
-
Stop Fraud Act: full disclosure in subprime lending. (Sep 2007)
-
Engages people of faith on all aspects of his public service. (Aug 2007)
-
Community organizer on Chicago's South Side. (Feb 2007)
-
Black churches minister to social needs out of necessity. (Oct 2006)
-
Welfare receipts know how to become successful but need help. (Jul 2004)
-
$100M increase in IL Earned Income Tax Credit. (Jun 2004)
-
Inner city problems are the painful truths. (Aug 1996)
-
Exorcise the ghostly figure that haunts black dreams. (Aug 1996)








