I think Gallup is using two models so both the left and the right will cite their polls

[Quixote1818]

They are trying to be all things to all sides and make everyone happy. You go to Drudge and they use Gallup's traditional numbers which show it tight as hell and then you come here and we use their expanded numbers which show Obama with a comfortable lead. Not to mention there numbers based just on registered voters which show Obama creaming McCain by 10 points.

Gallup needs to grow some balls and go with the model they think is going to apply this year. What is this BS about three different models?

[pnwmom]

1. I think it's a good thing that they're being above-board about the three different

methods. Polls that use only registered voters have been criticized as not representing the sub-set of people who actually vote. Traditional polls of "likely voters" have been criticized for discounting the votes of those who are new to the process. So Gallup has developed a new method, the "expanded likely voters" model, to poll voters, and it is OPENLY testing this model to see how predictive it is. Good for them.

[Quixote1818]

2. You make some good points. I guess I will have to agree with you now. nt

[pnwmom]

3. This is why I love Dems.

We are willing to take in new information, consider it, and sometimes even change our minds -- i.e., learn something. Unlike the other crowd, whose minds seem to have been closed practically at birth.

[Quixote1818]

4. I agree. DU is filled with different opinions and people arguing and debating

There are a few over at FR that disagree but few who change their minds when given new info. Then again, there are a lot of people here who will argue a dead, discredited point into the ground too. I like to think we are more open to new info and more willing to even give the other side credit when credit is due. I frequently look up all sides to a story to make sure I understand it completely and fill in any blind areas our side might be leaving out. Rarely but from time to time the right wing will actually have it right and I will struggle with it for a few minutes and then give them credit.

[Quixote1818]

5. I forgot to mention that a way something is argued often determines if a mind is changed

You argued in a very respectful, un-demeaning way. Had you said "Your reasoning is FLAWED you idiot and here is why, then I probably would have had a different reaction and probably would have even missed your points. Good for you in having diplomatic skills when making an argument.

[pnwmom]

6. Don't you think that the people who tend to attack, rather than to

try to participate in a give-and-take conversation, are really showing their insecurity? It's a kind of verbal bullying, IMO.