Voices for change, Ralph Nader and peace were among the chorus heard in Hillsboro Village as John McCain and Barack Obama prepared to debate a few blocks away.

On the corner of 21st and Wedgewood Avenues, just down the hill from Belmont University and the site of Tuesday’s debate, about 20 protesters used signs and flags to protest the lack of candidates participating in the debate. Protesters were also railing against what they called “the unjust war” in Iraq.

A group of more than 100 Obama backers, their ages ranging from toddlers to senior citizens, were also on hand with supportive signs. The group was asking commuters to honk their horns in support.

Obama supporter Alex Eaton said she is voting for him because, “More of the same equals more of the same.”

Protesters Rodger Clark and James Smith voiced their dissatisfaction that just two candidates were participating in the debate.

“The Presidential Debate is a circus, and is rigged. Other candidates are being shut out,” said Clark.

“I think there are serious First Amendment issues with not allowing Bob Barr and Ralph Nader in the debate. Nashville will make a lot of money off the debate, but for First Amendment rights, it is a failure,” said Smith.

Participants hoisted things like dove banners in protest of the wars.

“A lot of young people are against the war, and it should be known while the debate is going on,” said protestor and MTSU student Mike Greer. 

Other protesters were handing out an anti-war song set to the tune “God Bless America” to show their displeasure with the current administration’s policies.

by Kobi Ankumah