March 5, 2008
Posted: 02:20 PM ET

WASHINGTON (CNN) — For years, Republicans have stressed a three-pronged platform in trying to win votes. They’ve long maintained that they’re strong on national security, on cutting taxes and on social issues, including a strong opposition to abortion.

When President Bush welcomed John McCain to the White House to endorse his presidential candidacy, for example, he said voters will decide on a candidate based on who best can “protect the country and keep taxes low, and how to have a culture that respects the dignity of every human being.”

After effectively capturing the Republican nomination Tuesday night, John McCain stressed only two of those three pillars in his carefully-crafted remarks.

He spoke at length about national security, noting that “America is at war in two countries.” He spoke about the economy. “We will campaign to strengthen job growth in America by helping businesses become more competitive with lower taxes and less regulation,” he said.

But missing from his remarks was any reference to the third pillar — the social issues. Even though he has a long record opposing abortion, he ignored that sensitive issue in his victory speech. Was that deliberate? Now that he has the Republican nomination in hand, is he already moving beyond the need to reach out to the social and religious conservatives in the Republican Party in the hope of bringing in support from moderate and independent voters?

The late President Richard Nixon used to say that successful Republican presidential candidates need to run to the right during the primaries — but then run back to the center after securing the nomination.

–CNN Anchor Wolf Blitzer

Filed under: John McCain


ProudVet   March 5th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

a war hero, a patriot?, he was shot down while bombing people in a country which didn´t even attacked the U.S., became a prisoner of war
and that makes him qualified to run the country? run the country to ruins, yes.

What has he done for his fellow homeless vets? ZILCH

By saying that the NYT article was NOT TRUE, is not enough, didn´t deny anything that was written.

Vote for him and be ready to scrape for cash-he will need every penny off your pocket to pay for the 100 years in Iraq, if not more……and then get ready to ship your sons and daughters to war WITH THE DRAFT.

an ex-pow, that´s all he is, period.

two brown noses in the white house today, pathetic.

don´t shoot before you aim, how true!

Darren   March 5th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Ruben, what exactly has the Clinton's done for you?

while McCain acts as though he wasnt even part of the comprehensive immigration reform plan just so he can drum up conservative votes….? Yet you'd vote for him over Obama?Obamawho has continuously and consistently supported immigration- co-sponsored the immigration reform bill and Dream act..

he even refused to admit that Latinos play some role in growing unemployment rates for blacks..saying it was scapegoating, while Hillary said Latinos ARE partially to blame for stealing blk minority jobs

i guess like that Latino Activist said, "Obama just happens to be black and therefore he will not get the latino vote…."

how silly you all are…..how silly you are…

Jorge   March 5th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

Wolf You are the worst journalist in CNN you are at the level of Lou Dobbs!!! your vias to Clinton its disgusting!!!!! Shame on you! and the Clinton News Network

Dan   March 5th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Let see , in yesterday's primaries in Texas i noticed McCain got about 700,000 votes in rich republican country but Hillary doubled him with 1,400,000 and Obama got 1,300,000!!! It doesn't look good for McCain no matter what he does, unless the dems divide themselves beyond repair.

CEB   March 5th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

I think that Senator Clinton should release her 2006 tax papers before 4/15 and then after the 15th she should release 2007 tax papers… The Clinton’s has been connected to some illegal business deals in the past; just like the deal that has ended up in a law suit in GA Courts. Hillary will never be President as long as Bill is around; Bill will be president by directing Senator Clinton. Senator Clinton talks about her being best to answer that phone at 3am not if she use the same judgment, (she used about the WAR); neither Hillary nor Bill have served in the Armed Forces!
Senator Clinton says she has over 35 years of experience. Where did she get this experience? Your husband being president and you're the first Lady does not give you experience!!!! Hillary needs to release the papers from her white House years so the people can see just what her experience is. Senator Obama and Senator Clinton does have the same issues but Senator Obama want to use two different paths to change things for the better; It's time for a new government, one that will work together with both houses to reach the best decision for the people!!!
We need a president for the people, not one that is for some of the people. You can see that Clinton is not that person, just look at how she is on the attack. Looking at the ads and rallies she is acting like a republican, not a democrat! The Clintons are old government, it's time for a change and NO, things will not change over night because Bush is leaving a mess; that needs to be cleaned up, before CHANGE CAN REALLY START but getting the houses to stop fighting and start working together is the 1st step. RESEACH FOR YOUR SELF AND STOP LISTENING TO THE POLITICAL ADS FROM A DIRTY FIGHTER! Named Senator Clinton!!!! Just check the Clintons record!
I'll vote republican before I vote for another Clinton, I do remember the Bill Clinton years and what he did to Social Security Medicare!!!!
There will not be an Obama/ Clinton ticket!!!! Never!!!

christopher flynn   March 5th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

religious right conservatives are the dumbest people on the face of this earth…mccain is one of 'em, and that's why any person with intelligence would vote for anybody besides mccain…

scott   March 5th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

In the 6:35 ET time frame….. Thank you Wolf for calling Jack and correcting him on a slew of misstatements and incorrect facts. You pointed out to Jack that *both* Clinton and Obma followed the rules in Michigan and Florida. Taking one's name off the ballot was *not* a requirement or rule. Why Obama did that in Michigan is unknown.

Please don't let Jack continue to let his 'everything Clinton dislikes' allow him to make false statements. This must stop. We are listening to get opinions — fair — and balanced facts. Kudos to you Wolf for keeping him honest.

RobNSF   March 5th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Wolf,

This is unrelated. With all due respect, watching Jack Cafferty on your program is offensive. He is not acting like a journalist nor a political analyst. His hatred for Clinton is expressed unprofessionally. I think I speak for a lot o people: We want the facts, not extreme personal opinions.

Thank you.

Ruben From Texas   March 5th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

One thing is for sure. Obama can't count on getting the majority of the Hispanic/Latino vote if selected as the Democtratic nominee. McCain is very appealing to Hispanics all throughout the country (everyone know he is a Democrat in Republicans clothing). I for one will side with McCain over Obama any day. It is all about experience for me. Go Hilliary!

Mark - Gilbert, AZ   March 5th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

If you want to win votes, you pretty much either have to lie (aka. Hillary and McCain) or be honest and cross your fingers you win (aka. Barack). Problem is, the honest guy usually loses for the ones who buy into the beurocratic maneuvers; I hope this year is different and from now on it's all completely different for integrity sake (IE. I hope the voters and the media hold our candidates accountable for once).

McCain may or may not have cited "abortion" on purpose but that will unfold later on, probably during a debate. The bottom line is, he aligned with Bush and that is going to hurt him come November. What potentially will hurt Hillary is how she's been siding with McCain over her party colleague, Obama. This is one hell of a dramatic political season!

AnyoneButHillary   March 5th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

K.Celina from IL!!!! March 5th, 2008 4:30 pm ET
NO !!!!! TO !!!!! McCain !!!!!!!!!!!
Republicans will vote for Hillary !!!!!!!!!

Wahahaha… K.Celina, are you seriously on planet Earth? Get a grip!

ari   March 5th, 2008 6:33 pm ET

He has a great run; agree with Nixon's statement, only he will probably empahise the whole security issue, other issues (secretly)middle ground but in campaign turn a more conservative view.
Its tricky he he plays or endorses a more conservative agenda question is will true so-called conservatives belief him, but on other hand probably looses large parts of independent voting public. Further the more he allies himself with Bush the more he alienate voters. Some of issues can be relieved somewhat through VP choice.
His attraction is part due to his independent views but out of necessity he needs to abandon that. Which from broadcasts of him he has hard time to deal with. Numerous mistakes lately, retract statements, apologies. In short he is not very good (yet) in playing the chamelion act.

Darren   March 5th, 2008 6:32 pm ET

If Latinos don't vote for Obama, they don't deserve him…

McCain? please, this guy is out of touch….If he wins i'm moving to Canada.

If Hillary is the nominee, she will not beat McCain unless Obama is on the ticket , she knows she needs him to win but he doesnt need her at all

Democrats are divided on this, Obamas supporters are growing to hate Hillary even more, and his supporters would probably stay home than vote for her..even voting for McCain would be better to them….

pt is this is possibly the greatest election of our time, and we are dropping the ball…..

How can u not see through Hillary's tactics, dont get me wrong I don't hate the woman….but slowly but surely my dislike is growing…

Phyllis, Dallas TX   March 5th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

I'm sorry, but every time I see McCain, I wonder about his judgement. This man is 71 years old people. He even realizes how old he is because he says he'll run for only one term.

McCain is part of the past. He had his chance and let the idiot Bush beat him by telling lies. He just wants his chance and I think that chance is gone.

This country is in a mess, and he backs the person that put us here.

Times up!

Susan   March 5th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Whoever the Democratic candidate is, most Democrats will vote for that candidate (because they'll no longer have a viable choice). Most Republicans will vote for McCain (because they no longer have a viable choice). It's the independents or independent minded voters who will decide this election, and if Hillary is the Democrat, they will break for McCain. It pains me to say this because this country really needs an end to Republican control of our government. On the other hand, perhap it's OK if the Republicans have to clean up their own mess, if it weren't for the prospect of them fully and finally and irreparably taking the country down the tubes in the next four years.

Portland, OR

Rebecca AZ   March 5th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

Wolf,
Hillary Clinton is a Goldilocks Story.
McCain is too hot for war and way too far to the right. Obama is too unknown, not experienced enough and too far to the left.
And Hillary, well she is just Right.
Hillary is in the middle of McCain and Obama.
Not too much to the far right, not too much to the far left . Hillary is not too soft and she’s not too hard, she’s not a rookie and she’s not too old. Not too hot , and she’s not too cold!
Hillary is just right for President .

Darth Vadik, CA   March 5th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

tomdavie,

that is the dumbest thing I have ever heard, what you've just said made absolutely no sense, and every one is a little dumber for reading it.

Not only that you are calling every latino a racist, but you are also saying that every Clinton voter dumb because they would pick McCain (Bush on steroids) over Obama.

When it comes to California, the most modern state in the union going for the oldest guy.

…and lastly, have you seen the turnout, in every of those states yesterday eihter Obama, or Hillary had more people vote for them then did McCain even though they split the votes.

I trully don't know how a mind of a right winger works, but there must be some a lot of screws in there missing.

Lance   March 5th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

I hope so. It looks like the Clintons will be stealing the election from Obama at the convention as their present preference is to take the low road. Even though I voted for Bill twice I will NEVER vote for her. She is an ultra-partisan, divisive politician who could never govern if she gets elected by some fluke…no Republican will ever work with her. Her supporters conyinue to drink the Kool-Aid on what she promises to do. It's a fat chance with any effective Republican minority in Congress. Obama seems to be able to reach across the divide and John McCain has done it in the past. The country needs a uniter to get things back on track. John McCain doesn't need the ultra right. Millions of Democrats, such as myself, will vote for him if Obama is cheated out of the nomination.

Allen   March 5th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Wolf, I think if we look at past Republican presidents we'll see that they haven't been big on social issues, despite using the right wing of the voters to win nominations and offices. Republicans had six good years from 2001 – 2007 to effect change on any social issue they wanted, and they failed to do anything that the right wing wants. That says to me that to Republican politicians, social issues are nothing but another rung on the ladder.
Allen Brock
Hartwell, GA

edmond   March 5th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

mccain is going to pick rush for vp

Karl   March 5th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

John McCain has a history of bucking the Party line. Good for him. I mean he actually has core conservative beliefs but is perfectly willing to support issues that he believes are in the best interests of the country as a whole and not just for a segment of the country that is toeing the Party line. We should be praising his independence, not deriding it.

Most of the problems facing this country have arisen out of partisan Party affiliations and pandering to special interests, two things McCain has made a career of fighting. In this two-party system that we are stuck with, McCain is taking the only path available to him to advance his agenda. I truly believe that when John McCain is elected our next president we will finally have one who represents the interests of the 80% of us in the middle, not the 10% on the left and the 10% on the right.

Karen P   March 5th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

McCain had a decent record in Congress, but in this campaign he hasn't seemed to know exactly who he is. I think he's been a little to anxious to be a "party man" and do what's right for AMERICANS.

I do believe it would be a civil honest national campaign with Obama running, but an all out horrible "war" with Clinton. Clinton would lose. The race would be close with Obama, but I think Obama can 'pull it off'. Hillary Clinton would be too easy a target for him…no fun in that.

I do like Obama's words first not war above McCain's Bush tactics of war and no talk. Hasn't that been the problem with Israel and Palestine for ages? Is that what we want to be like?
This isn't the Vietnam or Cold War eras anymore…all our economies are too closely liked. It's time to change and McCain, conservatives or not, has to prove he has new ideas for a change.

Nowlin w.wells   March 5th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Mr.Mc Clain and hillary can not add. The problem with Hillagry is that she
does not have the dignity to beviewed for this type of office. She is trying to lead by example. So this is not the office for her .
Mr.Mc clain will not to understand if the war is wrong, then he is using the loyalty of the troops to further a bad cause. I want to see the mexican government get help wit the drug war.The President stated our youth are using less drugs. I would say only a supplier could make a valid statement about drug usage. This man does not know the price of gasoline. Sen. Mc Clain shoul think more why the crime rate is so high.

James CA   March 5th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

To be honnest I see absolutely nothing in McCains policies that makes me think he'll be any different from Bush. I don't understand what 'independent' politics they see him presenting, he's become very aligned to the right.

tomdavie   March 5th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Mc Cain will win lationos.

Obama cant win Arizona, texas new mexico .

Mc Cain will win California. Huge Latino populatiion that will not support Obama.

Nancy Reagan will just have to make a speech or two.

Then, the real problem?

All the clinton supporters voting for Mc Cain. They have nothing in common with Obama except he is in the Democratic party.

Angelika   March 5th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Has anyone noticed? A LOT of Republicans have stated they showed up in Texas to vote for HILLARY BECAUSE MCCAIN WAS A SHOE-IN. They KNOW that with all of her baggage–Obama only has Rezco and the NAFTA thing, both of which were explained–she is EASY TO BEAT. PEople tell me to think for myself… I have. I have looked through their sites, watched the debates, and researched their histories. I want Obama.

Philadelphian trapped in Texas   March 5th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Nixon understood that the American public has no capacity to learn from experience. Note that Romney's ardent conservative backers forgot he was a liberal. See how quickly McCain's right-wing opponents have overcome their opposition. Now see how fast unthinking "independents" will forget how far to the right McCain swung to gain the Republican nomination. Because it's "just words". Maybe Obama is wrong. Maybe words don't change anything.

okoth   March 5th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

I think john mcain is a great american but with all due respect he lacks or choses not to recorgonize the complexity of foriegn affairs , first and foremost am had pressed yet to find exactly what being a pow translactes to a strong national security credential eg. to show how shallow he is, on resent issue on alqaida in iraq the senator failed completely to understand diverging our attention in a war of choice in iraq lead to increase in political and security instability in the region case in point pakistan and hence the regency of talaban in both pakistan and afganstan. its like having on one end of a building and setting diliberately fire on the other end of the building and turnig arround and saying the best judgement of being a fire chief.

Alice Newman Center Harbor NH   March 5th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

Less than 8 years ago, Bush painted McCain as the Devil Incarnate- mentally unstable from years of being a POW (in a war Bush's Daddy got him excused from)

Now Bush says McCain is the best possible person for the job – a conservative Republican's dream and the nations next Savior.

Bush either lied on 2000 or is lying now. McCain has sold his soul trying to get elected to the job he should have had 8 years ago but other than that – hasn't changed all that much.

Yeswecan   March 5th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

I like Blitzer, he acts as a professional news person. Last night Anderson Cooper and his team are all like came back from funeral, with such sad expression on them. Answerson Cooper and many people on his team is biased. Those people will not have any future in the news business, since they are sided and not fair. CNN keeps deleting my message, since I pointed out their unfair.

Matt   March 5th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Wolfy, Did you notice that Mc Cain struggled with the true conservative votes. It seemed like Huckabee controlled the vast majority of those votes. Also, after Mc Cain won his nomination last night both Hillary and Barack had a chance to speak. Did you notice in Obama's speech that he touched on some of the conservative tone. When he said "We need to put books in the hands of our children instead of a video game", doesn't this go a bit to the right? Also, do you think that this is strategy on the part of Obama to win in upcoming states. Now that the republicans have their guy, maybe Obama is trying to express some moral sense to shift this conservative rural pool of voters.

Puddytat   March 5th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE.

Puddytat   March 5th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

sounds like low slave wages … social issues ? Ya mean the things that would have been debated with HUCKABEE ? What do you mean , "Is he already moving beyond the need to reach out to the social and religious , conservitives " ? HAVE YOU LOST YOUR MIND ? What made you think JUAN MCCAIN OF THE B.S TRAITOR EXPRESS ever intended too.

You knew he wasn't going too . That is why you sissy's at cnn wanted him so bad .

Doug from Toronto   March 5th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Nice try CA, but Hillary was extricated as a defendent last January. Potential first "First Man" Clinton is still a defendent however. The Clintons have proven they will never be liable to fraud charges

As for McCain, he should run on his own principles. Anyone who could suffer broken bones in crashing and then torture at the Hanoi Hilton, and yet refuse exchange and freedom until all prisoners captured before him were first offered freedom obviously has the character to rely on his own principles.

Jeff, Australia   March 5th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

McCain is a very old man. Experience Shikspeareans, when the man talks his mono-tone voice has an amazingly hypnotic effect on me. Mind control conspiracy anyone?

Matt   March 5th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Mc Cain plans on running the same type of program as Bush. The "Smoke N Mirrors" policy. Yeah, it sounds good to have a stance on the economy to repeat the words of past policy. The bottom line is, if Mc Cain is elected we will continue to see rising inflation, lower wages, and more jobs shipping over seas.

Ronald Reagan, Hell   March 5th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

…..AAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHH………..

….I should have been a liberal, not betray them……………..

…..AAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHH………………….

Bill   March 5th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

I frankly do not believe that McCain will be able to beat Obama and would have a tough time against Clinton. However, while one poster stated that Obama would not be willing to take Hillary as his vice president because she is a woman, is silly. At the end of the democratic primary, it may be necessary for him to do just that for the unification of the party. However, there are reasons that this might not be a good idea. For the past three weeks, Hillary has said that Obama lacks substance, which supporter repeat over and over as if they forgot how to think for themselves. Likewise, Obama supporters discuss change in this same way. The reality is that Obama's substance cannot really be questioned. He was a state senator and is a US senator. He was law review editor of the Harvard Law Review. He did not take some fluff job making ridiculous cash. He went back to Chicago and was involved in helping low income people. I say this to make the point that he has plenty of substance and possibly too much integrity; however, I think that the next seven weeks can be good, because people need to see that he can be tougher when challenged by critics. The question is, when this is over in seven weeks, will Hillary Clinton be willing to take a VP position or was she just talking about a combined ticket on her terms(with her as President)?

TX Richardson   March 5th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Obama is a liar and he does not have the guts to answer tough questions.
———–
For months, Sun-Times investigative reporters have had a standing request to meet with Obama, face to face, to get answers to questions such as these:

• How many fund-raisers did Rezko throw for Obama?

• Obama is donating $150,000 to charity that Rezko brought into the campaign. But how much in all did Rezko raise?

• Did Rezko find jobs for Obama backers in the Blagojevich administration or elsewhere?

• Why did Obama only recently admit — after Bloomberg News broke the story — that Rezko had toured his South Side mansion with him in 2004 before he bought it?

Tom   March 5th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

CNN ought to free up the moderation of this blog…I don't see how my comments about the founding of this country versus the socialist/fascist bent of Democrat Party leaders is not 100% appropriate

Haley Rodman Clemson   March 5th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

McCain is his own man. Always has been. He is respected by all who know him. As the nation gets to see that he is a man of his word and that he lets his heart and mind work in unison to make this country a better place, I have no doubt that Americans will accept him as their next president. He is in the same party as President Bush but comparing the two is like comparing Joe Lieberman to Dennis Kucinich.

Vig   March 5th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

McCain should be offering American's mea cupla's after 8 years of a disgraceful Bush presidency, not seeking his endorsement. McCain will lose because American's won't be able to stomach another Republican president for a very long time.

shamous mc   March 5th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

With Hillary Clinton campaigning for McCain lately in her attacks against Obama..he not only has more experience than her, but he can use her words as evidence of her support of him.
McCain over Clinton.

I can think of nothing that brings people together like constant fighting!

Darth Vadik, CA   March 5th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Doesn't matter, he already sold his soul to the Devil (Dick Cheneys father).

Jose Card - Independent   March 5th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

I may not agree on all issues, but I can trust Senator McCain with my country. But it won't be much of a race if Hillary were the Dem nominee. I am looking forward to Obama's comeback.

I don't understand what House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was talking about. Whatever the outcome may be on the Dem side, it is already a great advantage for Senator McCain.

Joe Law   March 5th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Let's all be honest here folks, McCain will be the next President. Just as Bush was 8% down in the polls to John Kerry the day before the last general election, and won by 5 million votes, amazing, considering he was not the most popular guy at that time , just as now. There is this segment of America who does not write on blogs, do not give poll answers, do not speak to folks about politics…THE SILENT MAJORITY! Nizon was supposed to have his butt kicked by McGovern, the war in Nam was going bad, people, according to the media, hated Nixon's guts. The silent majority always wins the election, they are middle of the road folks, working hard, raising their kids, just going about their business, but the voted for Reagan, Clinton, and Bush, and they will vote for McCain, because he is the closest to middle of the road.

John, Lexington MA   March 5th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Hillary is dead in the water. She's no better off than Huckabee was 1 month ago. She can't win in primary delegates. So she's trying to beat the system. America, just say NO to an aristocracy. America is better than 2 or 3 families. Can you imagine Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton? The thought of it makes me sick.

pth   March 5th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

“protect the country and keep taxes low, and how to have a culture that respects the dignity of every human being.”……………

unless your gay, then you deserve no dignity. BS and we all know it.

nancy burns   March 5th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

why has CNN been on "hold" all day regarding the Texas Caucuses totals. Did the people just quit and go home?

Pat Canada   March 5th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

"He spoke at length about national security, noting that “America is at war in two countries.” He spoke about the economy. “We will campaign to strengthen job growth in America by helping businesses become more competitive with lower taxes and less regulation,” he said."

And this turns a page in America how? We know America is at war with two countries and so do Americans. We both have our men and women fighting this war did Senator McCain forget that? I don't think so as it was He who made the statement he'd keep our men and women in Iraq for 100 years if that's what it takes!

As far as strengthening job growth and lowering taxes for businesses that is band aid solution for a hemmorage!

Great Ideas Senator McCain. Next ………

Bill   March 5th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

McCain's greatest hurdle to getting to the Whitehouse will be balancing conservative values with his own values. For example, in Texas to win, the Hispanic (Mexican) vote will likely be necessary; however, how can he say what he truly believes and get the Conservative vote? On the other hand, how can he say what the Conservative agenda will no doubt force him to do regarding immigration, and get the Hispanic (Mexican) vote? He will have a similar issue in California and possibly in Florida, although I do not believe that Hispanic (Puerto Ricans and Cubans) have the same feelings as Mexicans in Texas and California, nor do I believe they feel as strongly about the issue of immigration. I would imagine that the economy comes much higher on their list. You cannot be everything to all people, and to keep the conservative vote on the conservative issues that matter (abortion and immigration always high on that list), this will require Sen McCain not to be himself. The question is, is he willing to do that?

rc   March 5th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Obama has to direct his attention to the constant CNN reporting of the negative news regarding Senator Obama. I believe that by redirecting the language, CNN reporters want to give the appearance that they are reporting equally, but in fact CNN is blind-siding, or back dooring Obama with negative, and unfavorable press. Obama really needs to watch out for CNN (very sneaky and suspicious).

Brad, Dallas Tx   March 5th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I am now a Republican for Obama because of just some of the reasons you have stated. In McCain's acceptance speech yesterday, all I heard was what he was going to do for business. Not once did he mention what he could do to help the american worker or average americans in general. That goes directly against the middle in which he claims to be an advocate for.

david   March 5th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Is it just my television or does he seem to have problems "reaching" anywhere?

Ed K.   March 5th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Bush = The kiss of death..

David, Gilbert Arizona   March 5th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

This article reads as if Wolf is trying to make news once again instead of reporting it. McCain's stance on social issues is one of historical record and he has not wavered from it. McCain would just be pointing out the obvious to us Republican voters.

McCain isn't "moving beyond" conservatives. We already know where he stands and that hasn't changed.

Chris   March 5th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Jeannie of Sacramento is exactly correct! I couldn't have said it better.

anna   March 5th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

I am a ron paul republican and will vote democrat. The neocons' agenda for the world is a disaster; they want to impose their will on other cultures at gunpoint! they occupy foreign lands and claim terrorism when the locals resist. it could'nt get any sicker and perverted! and this is just scratching the surface..

WhosehadEnough   March 5th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Ronald Reagan could get those Independent voters needed to win the Presidency…..but John McCain is not in that league and neither is George Bush. If conservatives are looking for the next Ronald Reagan in the White House forget it. McCain might as well ask the Reverand Sharpton to be his running mate.

Grif   March 5th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Away to go John!!! I guess your chosen!!!

Security comes First!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Maybe the rest of America has notist than also… Go John!!! Go…..

Grif   March 5th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Why are so many of the Middle East Countries, choosing Obama!!!

That's his weakness,,,, His Big Weakness!!!

When does the Swaying stop!!!!!! Can't see the forrest, for the Tree's

Rosa Birmingham, AL   March 5th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

who cares, Hi will lose because he is dangerous not because of anything related to social issues. 100 years in Iraq, Bomb bomb Iran. Is he going to try to start up the Vietnam war again since he thinks we left to early? Can he get along with anyone?

concerned cit   March 5th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi said that a prolonged democratic primary race is good for the party. What? Nancy Pelosi don't know shiit!

C.B.   March 5th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

John MCCain thinks he can win the presidency with Bush behind him, no way that is crazy, another Bush in office. I have had enough of these high taxes and all these Republicians in office. They spend our money like "Drunk Hillbillies" something has to change. Hilliary doesn't have it either so what because she won 3 states, he won 12 in a row. I guess now she won't be crying about the media. I am a Mississippian and I do plan on voting for Obama this Tuesday.

Brian   March 5th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

So CNN, please tell us why the "Obama Camp" article is stuck at the top of today's ticker, when usually the newer stories come in at the top. Is it because you are biased towards Obama?? I think so. Shame on you…

John Huynh   March 5th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

McCain will rule with a centrist fist.
Like Clinton did.

Either one again will bring back the good years :)

CA   March 5th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

"Republicans will vote for Hillary !!!!!!!!!"

————————

Oh, no they won't. Hillary will be exactly what the doctor ordered to rally Republicans to the voting booth in favor of McCain. Of course, all this is contingent on Hillary being cleared of fraud charges in the Peter Paul trial in October 2008. Watch for Hillary and the gang go down.

Rom   March 5th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Simple math:
1 loser + 1 loser = 2 losers

chuka ezeh   March 5th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

it seems America are so carried away that most of the time, a predestined death can be avoided when peoples mind are appeased, i know for sure that America are fighting for a just course but they are having less supporters cos they cant sell it to the rest of the world , it is divinely programmed that some minds must understand before others, but as for those who does not understanding it must definitely come but till then, you believe.there is every need to awaken the the mind and make it understand these things at this point terrorism will cease. and the war is won

chuka ezeh

Hoosier Pete   March 5th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Bayou Joe – You hit the nail right on the head!! Well done, Sir!

Hispano   March 5th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Obama win furget mi voto. Macain much better than Obama. Clinton ok with me two.

Leonard   March 5th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

I would never even think of voting for McCain. He totally lost me after he did not stand up for his wife during and after the now famous S.C. primary. My husband feels the same and he was a Navy officer.

Nope McCain flows too far to the right just to get the votes.

Now as far as the famous Day 1 Hillary talks about she can expect that on that day and every day after that the right would go after her for the entire time on a daily basis and nothing would get solved or changed.

We are in a mess and if we don't stop voting like it is personal rather than about this country we are in for a continued world of hurt.

Terrimac   March 5th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I used to look at McCain from my left leaning perspective and think that he was a man of principle; who could be counted on to remain true to his beliefs no matter who challenged him. I would have been willing to vote for him against a lesser candidate from the democratic party. Now he is just another politician pandering to the far right and aligning himself with a failed administration in the desperate hope it can get him elected. Dream on, John.

Big Dee   March 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

McCain has become a short lived lackey of the right wing nuts to win the nomination. Now, he will return to the center in order to defeat Mrs. "I have the solutions" Clinton. Just think of how many idiots will vote for John McCain and Hillary. Neither of them deserve the American people's vote. Commander in Chief of what??? The Clintons almost killed the military in the 90s.

dj   March 5th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Mr. McCain frankly but, with respect.. is just to OLD.. Enough old Men running our great Nation…It's time for a BIG change..
HILLARY!!!!!!!!!! is that change… She is all the change we need..

S. Wright   March 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Poor, Wolf. Reduced to uttering Nixonian rhetoric.

Look, Nixon was not a conservative. No president that would levy wage and price controls on this nation could possibly be thought of as a conservative. There are many other reasons why he is not a conservative, but then, you would have to know what a conservative really is, now wouldn't you?

Wolf, you are emblematic of the problem with the left; you don't know who is conservative, and you don't know what conservatives believe. What you have learned is only what the left preaches.

Learn us. Live us. Love us.

Bob   March 5th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

The Democrats are not liberal. The Democrats are conservative, and the Republicans are just scary.

K.Celina from IL!!!!   March 5th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

NO !!!!! TO !!!!! McCain !!!!!!!!!!!
Republicans will vote for Hillary !!!!!!!!!

R from Ohio   March 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

I think the Right wing nuts have been put right where they belong.
Let's have a "thinking election". Please don't worry about
these fanatic right wingers. They are not the majority.
Many of us are Christians but we sure don't want a preacher running
the country. I thought we made that clear yesterday.
Please don't think you have to pander to these people.
it will ruin what we all love in McCain.

John   March 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

In other words tell the voters anything it takes to get the nomination and get elected, then go off and do whatever you want to, sounds to me like another G.W. Bush.

We don't need another four years of Bush.

Leroisia Burke   March 5th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Go Obama, keep your head up high, high. you dont have to be a cry bady, whining for votes. You stand for change, you stand for the people, you are a better, more respectable person among your colleague. You donot have to stoop to the level of Mrs. Clinton. Be strong, be positive in all your dealings, but dont let no one play you for a fool. Attach them back, but in a positive way. Remeber if God is for you than it does not matter who is against you. Brother Kings' words are "We shall overcome, a change is on the horizon. I have a dream and that dream is right in your sight, reach out and grab it. It's yours for the taking. Go and labour on , remeber to keep your eyes on the prize.

raisy, kianna & lynn

Steven   March 5th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I believe that John McCain would do better without President Bush's help. Yes its fine he would give his suport, but no one really wants the same Bush policies of economy that have destroyed this country. Love your show, I watch it every day.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   March 5th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

You get what you asked for when John McCain was nominated, so stop complaining.

Grif   March 5th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Fair Do's! It was just a question…

Sheik   March 5th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Wolf u make a excellent point

jane   March 5th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

POOR JACK AFTER ALL THE BAD THINGS YOU SAID FOR A YEAR AND SHE DOES WIN THESE 3 STATES. DON!T CRY WHILE YOUR EATING CROW AND BY THE WAY SHAME ON ALL OF YOU MEN………I LOVE TO LOOK AT YOU AND CHRIS AND KEITH AND HAVE A GOOD LAUGH.

richard   March 5th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

I voted repuplican in the past but never again. John McCain sickens me.

Jeannie, Sacramento, CA   March 5th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

John McCain is but a shell of the man he used to be. He took a principled stand against the Christian right when he called the fat boy Falwell an agent of intolerance. He stood on principle when he voted for campaign finance reform. He declared with principle that waterboarding is torture and that Gitmo needs to be shut down. Now, he embraces everything he used to disavow. Bush smeared him, his wife, his daughter in 2000. Now, he embraces him?

Here come the Democrats — they're taking the White House!

Roxy   March 5th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

It is not his stance on social issues what's going to defeat McCain, but rather, his embrace of the failed policies of the present administration.
nough said.

Nicole   March 5th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

That is exactly WHY the GOP gets a bad rap. You can't be on one side during the primaries and go the other during the general. THIS is exactly what gives politicians their BAD names!

Bayou Joe   March 5th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

McCain does not need the right wingers to win this election. All he needs is loyal freedom loving Americans like this writer. Conservative Democrats that have seen their party hijacked by the left wing, independent free thinkers, and loyal moderate Republicans will propel McCain into the whitehouse. He is not Bush and should not attempt to be another Bush. If he does, that will be his undoing. He needs to make it clear that McCain is Right for America, not for the Right wing nuts.

Grif   March 5th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

No! He can't be ignored, not now…. He's

The Old Man! Of experience____.

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