WATCH "The Cafferty File":
Slippery Hill?What effect will the nation's downbeat and anxious mood have on next year's election?Of course people are disturbed with our present administration. This should result in a massive win for the Democrats in 2008 and a strong mandate to end the war, fix the economy, and restore honesty to our government.
-Joan, Avon, Connecticut
What effect will the nation's downbeat and anxious mood have on next year's election? I have a concern the effect of fear-mongering may influence the election and you may have record low turnouts. It's scary.
-Mark, Lake Zurich, IllinoisJack, I hope it brings every qualified voter out but I doubt that will happen. That being the case, those who sit this one out should not complain if they are unhappy with the results. To vote is not a privilege; it is an obligation if one wishes to be considered serious in the debate.
-Kay, Naples, Florida
Looks like a lot of us will stay home and not vote, even though it is against our principles. Not a single candidate gives us hope for resolution of the real issues of the American people. Never thought I would even consider not voting.
-Claire
Senator Chuck Hagel is calling on President Bush to pursue "direct, unconditional, and comprehensive" talks with Iran. Is that a good idea?
Is talking bad? How can talking be bad? Isn't it when there is no communication that problems arise? Has mankind yet to learn from their mistakes down through history?
-JP, Marietta, Georgia
Senator Hagel is right. America's standing in the world is at an all-time low, and saber-rattling against Iran will only make it worse. As JFK said, "we should never negotiate out of fear, but we should never fear to negotiate."
-Roger, Madison, WisconsinOf course Senator Hagel's suggestion to forgo saber rattling in favor of diplomacy is obviously in the best interest of the country. But since when has George W. Bush done anything that was in the best interest of this country? He appears bent on doing his best to destroy everything fine and good this country has ever stood for.
-Michael, The Woodlands, TexasYes, it's what diplomats and governments should do first, talk! Will this administration try? Never. They are too set on war to let a real conversation distract their preconceived ideas and goals.
-Kathleen, Ventura, California
