April 8, 2008
Posted: 08:00 PM ET

From
Rockefeller apologized to McCain Tuesday.
Rockefeller apologized to McCain Tuesday.

(CNN) – John McCain’s campaign said an apology from Barack Obama’s team for comments from West Virginia Sen. Jay Rockefeller, who supports the Illinois senator’s presidential bid, were not enough, calling for a response from the candidate himself.

“It was a spokesperson. Just as with the situation with liberal attack artist Ed Schultz, Obama refused to reject the statements personally. It’s a trend that undermines Barack Obama’s credibility when he makes calls for a ‘new’ more ‘accountable’ debate,” said McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds.

The Obama campaign and Rockefeller both apologized Tuesday afternoon for his comments about the presumptive Republican nominee’s war record in a West Virginia paper.

“Senator Obama has a deep respect for Senator McCain’s service to this country and doesn’t agree with what Senator Rockefeller said,” said Obama spokeswoman Jen Psaki.

Rockefeller’s Senate office released a statement by the senator that said he regretted the comment. “I have deep respect for John McCain’s honorable and noble service to our country. I made an inaccurate and wrong analogy and I have extended my sincere apology to him.

“While we differ a great deal on policy issues, I profoundly respect and appreciate his dedication to our country, and I regret my very poor choice of words.”

At virtually the same moment, the McCain camp charged that his comments were “more than a coincidence that Obama campaign surrogates are making character attacks against John McCain without any repudiation.”

“Barack Obama’s silence is giving his surrogates a license to make attacks that don’t contribute to the dialogue on the issues,” said Bounds.

“As long as people affiliated with Barack Obama’s new brand of politics continue to make gutter attacks, we are going to call on Barack Obama to do something about it. And so far he’s done nothing.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


OlvrWhit   April 8th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

McCain have you not learned..Obama always hides behind his people.

Stacy Clarks,   April 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

and people accuse Hillary of whining…this guys is a bigger whinne

he apologized!! what more do you want

and i think it is really disingenuous to say that candidates make surrogatees say thing without real proof!!

OBAMA 08!!!!!!!!

MAKE HER LEAVE NOW   April 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

I feel for the enlisted. I come from a military family. (5 brothers, 4 served, father retired Air force) I understand the toll on the family. My mother learned to handle all sort of problems because my father was always gone. Money was always tight. I was years before I realized peanut butter came in little cute jars. The way the enlisted are being re-deployed again and again is sinful. If they're needed that much…reinstate the draft and let the rich kids serve. Maybe young women should have to serve stateside…I'm really for every ablebodied American doing SOMETHING for at least 2 years to serve this country. Freedom is not FREE! It makes me sick to see young men out there talking up war (Yes I'm talking about Mitt's sons) and then going home to their nice comfy houses and families. That is NERVE! We are destroying the good will of the enlisted and as Americans we should all be ashamed. Bring them home. NOW!

BARACK OBAMA 2008
BECAUSE HONESTY MATTERS!
BECAUSE INTELLIGENCE MATTERS!
BECAUSE INTEGRITY MATTERS!

vince - phoenix   April 8th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

um.. in the words of Cheney…. SO!!!!!

HE 'IS' a WAR-MONGER!!!

go ahead… keep this going while trying to score points with the base…

you will LOSE… Because we are WEARY of this b.s. war!

Gail   April 8th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

McCain stop looking childish. Rockerfella made the statement and made the apology….end of story. Stop trying to stir things up.

Carlo   April 8th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Okay, McInsane needs to take a deep breath. He sounds like my teenage daughter-You hurt my feewings!

Alexandra   April 8th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Shame on you McCain - so childish!

Let Peers work it out BTW Peers   April 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Let McCain stick to the campaign and let's see how he responds when the smears start coming in the General Election. He can try to paint himself as a sort-of Southern Gentleman, but that doesn't make him qualified to be President as a re-hash of GW and a hair-trigger, saber-rattling, Old West Pioneer style.

Jasmyne   April 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

McCain IS a warmonger and he really needs to get over himself.

zina   April 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Get off it, John.

Sen. Obama went out of his way to show respect in a situation he had nothing to do with, and you STILL complain. Give me a break.

Dems '08
Obama '08

Blake   April 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Dear McCain,

I am writing you to ask for a denouncement of yourself. I am sure that the Iranian women and children do not understand your humanitarian expression of "bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran". They are left confused and bewildered. Please take this message to heart.

Sincerely,
Concerned Humanitarian

Joe   April 8th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Why is it that Senator Barack Obama is suddenly responsible for everything a fellow Democrat says? Please. Senator McCain is a colleague of Senator Rockefeller. If Senator McCain has a problem with Senator Rockefeller's comments, then he should confront him directly. Aren't they adults?

If he can't resolve this colleague to colleague, then how could we expect him to resolve things as President? Sorry, this makes McCain look really weak.

Eric-PA   April 8th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

No surprises from the Obama camp, which has been attacking Hillary left and right for months now. New kind of politics. Yeah right. What liars! Obama should be ashamed of himself.

Frank, Missouri   April 8th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

I am here too ! Me ! Me ! Apologize to ME for something !

Ifeanyi Azubike Houston Texas   April 8th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Diversions. The McCain campaign should take what they got and stop poking problems where none exists. Obama did not make the statements shy must be the one to undo it.

Debra Austin, Texas   April 8th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Well, heck, Obama, needs to get on his knees and genuflect to Sen. McCain because, just like Hillary, we OWE the Presidency to them. Get off your high horse. McCain. Your service to this country is appreciated but it doesn't GIVE you anything in politics. We saw what your buddies did to Sen. Kerry who also deserved our respect. Let's see what you get.

Mark   April 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

It's pretty obvious that McCain is in love with the idea of war. It's what his campaign is based on and it seems to be all he sees in the future of his possible candidacy. It's obvious from his recent comments that, to him, all middle-eastern people are deemed terrorists or members of Al Qaeda, and that Iran is in is cross-hairs for a second invasion. The fact that he didn't support MLK day speaks pretty loud as well. He likes to glorify war, and if his war experience is what he wants to run on, he should be prepared to be deeply scrutinized. We don't need another warmonger in the white house. We've all seen where that leads.

Bob   April 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

McCain is scared because Obama is the only one who can win the general election!

MAKE HER LEAVE NOW   April 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Barack Obama did not say it . Rockerfeller is a Senator, McCain is a Senator. They should sort it out themselves. McCain's camp is just trying to score cheap publicity since their money is low. Barack Obama is responsible for HIS words…not every senator who disagrees with John McCain. If the Mccain people weren't so busy trying to put Senator Obama into their little word wars…they'd have more time to search for donations and be able to BUY the air time the campaing needs. CHEAP SHOT!

BARACK OBAMA 2008
This time I want a smart President!

Michael   April 8th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Why should Obama apologize? Did he make the comment? Wait until the general election. The McBush campaign will need to send fruit baskets on a daily basis to the Obama campaign.

NX from VA   April 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Obama shouldn't apologize… McCain is a warmonger who supported the Iraq war despite lack of any credible evidence that Saddam was a threat. And now he is singing "bomb bomb bomb Iran" for no reason… Last thing we need is another pointless war while OBL & Co roam around freely…

sy in tx   April 8th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

LOL

dang…for a republican, McCain's camp sure is sensitive

Tex   April 8th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

The truth still remains: McCain is a warmonger and now a whiner.

Vee   April 8th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

oh common crying baby!!!

Gary   April 8th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

yes, why is that Obama's CAMP continues to be Obama's mouth? Speak for yourself Barak.

Michael Guinn- Ventura, CA   April 8th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

John McCain's plan for the future of this Country is what "falls short"!

Jan   April 8th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Isn't it ironic, that Obama and his supporters always apologizes
after the fact. THEY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT THEY ARE DOING>

SO SAD

Concerned Democrat   April 8th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Of course Sen. Obama won't personally apologize for the remarks made by those who support and campaign for him. This is consistent with his past refusal to specifically denounce those who work for him. Apparently, he doesn't see this a dirty politics. Lets face it , the one thing I don't think anyone can question McCain on is his service to this country during Vietnam. I doubt Obama would have last as long as a POW. For someone who did not serve and has not served a day in the military he should respect someone who has answered the call of this country and has done a job he apparently sees as beneath him.

Chudi   April 8th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Clintonites and Obamanians! MUST READ! Its the republicans that are posting and pretending to be Obamanians/Clinotonites to drive us mad against each other.

YES both Obama and Clinton sides have been battling each other but the most divisive and rude statements come from the republicans! We've been had DEMOCRATS! Check out the links.

THIS MEANS WAR! Smarten up democrats.

Please google this "Republicans bloggers posing as democrats on blogs".

honkey white guy from cali   April 8th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

ok! give me a break Mc Same! what did you hire carl rove over the weekend and some how CNN missed it. You have got to be kidding me there is tons I mean tons of conservative republicans on radio,TV, and the internet making all kinds of nasty comments about Obama. Some of those while he was there in present company! I think him not responding to Mc Cains obvious attempt to drag Obama back down in the gutter and away from his message and campaign very sad!!! Remember Hillary tried to do this to and she almost had him down there but he stood back up brushed off the pieces and went back to work on his campaign. Better watch out campaigns have a tendency to explode after you try something like this

RH   April 8th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Obama didn't tell Rockefeller to go say those things. Obama did the right thing. A personal apology would represent a tacit acknowledgement of culpability - Obama knows it and so does McCain.

Kab   April 8th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Is he not the same guy who wanted 100 years war in Iraq…

is he not the same guy who says "Bomb Bomb Bomb Iraq/ Iran"

Common Stop this drama…

SilverSpring   April 8th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Since when Obama is responsible for stuff that comes out of somebody's mouth?

Poor Johnny McCain   April 8th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Got his feelings hurt? If he wants soldiers to die in Iraq for 100 years, he can face the response from the American people.

jj   April 8th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

wow, Obama admitted he didn't agree with him??? I'm surprised he didn't turn that around too.

David   April 8th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Is McCain playing the victim card again? Why does Obama need to repudiate every supporter? Also, does the McCain team not know that Obama is in the Foreign Relations Committtee hearing with David Petraeus? This demonstrates McCain's true phoniness.

What Really Happend   April 8th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

No matter what the Obama Campagin said the McCain camp was going to say they haven't gone far enough. I would ask the McCain campagin to stop playing politics and to please stick to things Obama says and does and not supporters he cannot control.

Independents for Obama

Nick from TX   April 8th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

John McCain IS a war monger. He VOTED for the war and completely supports it and would continue if this country voted for him in November.

If it walks like a duck…..

Connie, Tennessee   April 8th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

The truth always hurts!! Of course, he's a warmonger and that's probable the nicest thing they could say about him.

Brenda, CT   April 8th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

It is getting to be ridiculous. Senator Obama should not have to apologize for everything someone says.

Svetlana   April 8th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Ridiculous! If McCain's so tough he shouldn't need such coddling.

William Martin   April 8th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Obama is a liar! He talks about "Change" and "Hope" when it is only More Of The Same.

He is just as negative as any other candidate. The only difference is that he is too afraid to say it on his own so he has his surrogates say it for him.

Obama has to apologize. What military service has Obama given this country? Nothing.

EDW   April 8th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

PEOPLE NEED TO STOP BLAMING THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN FOR THINGS THAT OTHER SENATORS, SUPPORTERS, PREACHERS AND THE HOUSEKEEPER SAYS!!!

Now we know   April 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

The reason most news agencies won't report anything bad about Obama, even the truth, is because lots of them are getting death threats if they do.

It's not just that they are against Hillary, they are afraid to say anything else

Jenn   April 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

if it was something McCain's camp said about Obama or Hillary's camp said about Obama, the whole world would be in an uproar that they didn't personally apologize.
It cracks me up Obama can say and do no wrong but everybody else is wrong depending on the situation.

Ilona Proud Canadian   April 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Come on!!

Sen. Obama's campaign apologized to Sen. MCcain! Give it a break!!
If the candidate is expected to apologize personally for ever remark made by one of their supporters, Sen. Clinton would forever be apologizing.

Ron R   April 8th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

Give it a rest John…..geesh

Myra   April 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Oh for pete's sake !!!! Do candicates have to apologize for everything someone said just because they support their opponent. This is getting ridiculous.

bob   April 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

yea thats right..

obama is in the foreign relations committee..

thats the committee where obama chairs the european foreign relations subcommittee

and he has yet to chair a meeting…

who is the phony david?

FLORIDIAN DEMOCRATS FOR MCCAIN NOW

Ashamed Democrat   April 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Once again we have the Obama campaign and supporters spouting off about one's own back-ground without any back-ground of there own candidate. Barack Obama has got to be the worst Democratic candidate they have ever tried too shove down our throats. Shame on the Democrats and the party for not having the best candidate for this race. What a joke ! I will be more of the same who will vote for the republican party nominee , at least he has some back-ground for this very important job. More untruth and smear tactic's is all Obama camp can come up with. Lies about Hillary Clinton now on John McCain.

maya   April 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Again- very low to attack a man or woman SERVING OUR COUNTRY. You can attack our government or our policies- never ever the man or woman serving our country.

Obama and his radical followers will be the end of the Democratic Party…

Darth Vadik, CA   April 8th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

You give these guys (Republicans) an inch and they take a mile, what you need to do is run them into the ground, keep kicking them until they are so beat they would go down back into holes they crawled from, never to appear again.

James West   April 8th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Osama, this is America, go be the pres of your native Kenya, they need your kind of communism, we don't.

Sue   April 8th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Barack Obama did not make the offensive comments and has nothing to apologize for. Sen. Rockefeller already personally apologized for the comments he made. McCain needs to get over it.

P J Evans   April 8th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

If McCain is that sensitive, maybe he shouldn't be running for President.
Or he should get used to people saying what they actually think of him.

BTW, his war record isn't all that great.

Doug   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Wah, Wah, Wah . . . McCain's people sound like a bunch of cry babies. They better develop some thick skin before the general election if they are to stand a chance.

Ed   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

How dare these yellow bellied Democrats challenge the bravery of a of a former POW that was actually tortured.

sheanne   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Another misspoken statement from the Obama camp and the media and Obamacans agree it should go no further because he apologized.

If this comment came from the Clinton camp it would be headline news and Clinton ripped apart for a month.

I want fair treatment toward Obama as if it was a Clinton comment!!

EJ   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

McCain should stop trying to score worthless political points, admit the fact the he shouldn't have to apologize everytime someone ELSE says something, and "focus on the issues"

abu   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

McCain and his campaign can eat slugs

Peter   April 8th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Obama people have made a lot of nasty attacks, on both McCain and Clinton. Many people and Media seemed tolerating the attacks from Obama people very well.

Jack in ND   April 8th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

McCain is only entitled to an apology from Obama's mouth if the thing being apologized for came from Obama's mouth.

Susan / PA   April 8th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

what do they want ..blood??? Did anyone force Hillary Clinton to apologize for the raunchy lie told to the good citizens of Ohio?? NO. nor did she apologize to Obama for saying he was the one to "wink, wink" to the Canadians.( unfactual, Google it) I guess McCain wants to join the silly season.

Vote Responsibly April 22nd

Chris in Columbus   April 8th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

What the…he said that Rockafeller is the same as Ed Schultz?

McCain MUST be senile if he thinks that the liberal version of Limbaugh (Only with less following, if that's possible) has anywhere near the power as a US Senator. A senator that I respect a lot more than a man who the only impressive things he's done were getting shot down and causing one of the biggest scandals in the 80's.

No more warmongers. Obama 08.

Patty Atlanta GA   April 8th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

NO ONE SHOULD APPOLOGIZE TO THIS ADULTERER AND LIAR!

I WANT AN APPOLOGY FOR WHY HIS WIFE CAN COMMIT SERIOUS DRUG ABUSE OFFESES AND GET OFF WITHOUT A DAY IN JAIL!

Bring back HUCKABEE!

Roger   April 8th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Why is it that Obama is responsible for the DUMB things that come ouf of his supporters mouth? I am getting sick and tired of people blaming him for what other people say. He didn't hold a gun to their heads and make them say the things they said and that is including rev wright. Judge OBAMA for what comes OUT OF HIS MOUTH not his supporters.

Sam in Indiana   April 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Obama did not say it. Obama's campaign apologized nonetheless. Obama does not need to jump through hoops to please McCain.

Anonymous   April 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

If not Hillary, then McCain!

There is NO other option!

Hillary 08′ 12

Carl   April 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

McCain won't be able to tie his own shoe laces by next year. Maybe he should apologize now for the drool that will cascade down his chin.

Its True   April 8th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Never apologize to the enemy…

Bob Stephens   April 8th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Weather Vane McCain is insulted by a comment someone makes about him that is true??? i don't get it…

b-liberal   April 8th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

It is time for someone to call Obama on these negative attacks. he sets one of his mouthpieces to speak for him then says "I didn't know about that" "I wasn't there" "I wasn't in church that day". remember Obama is a slick rich lawyer in the fine tradition of politics!

Jane   April 8th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Rockefeller is around 80 years old…he, and he alone, is accountable for what comes out of his mouth. Obama is half the man's age for goodness sake.

This is becoming utterly ridiculous…McCain's campaign is simply playing POLITICS out of one side of the mouth while claiming to not be from the other. If McCain is truly hurt by this statement (which I'm sure he's not), then he needs to grow thicker skin. This reeks of politics as usual from his camp.

Key West Sun   April 8th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Obama 's new brand of politics, Take if from me, this is what he thinks of change in politics. John understand, he is only a smooth talking snake oil saleman, he lets the people around him do the dirty work, then looks shocked that they would say that, then in about 5 minutes of talking he will say nothing , take no action, but leave a slight impression that he think some what they said might be wrong.
This guy is slick, so far he can lie at will and the media will just look
the other way. Hillary is taking all the heat off him for now. Maybe his youthful following will tire of being used liked cattle and look with open eye's before it is to late.

Sandy in PA   April 8th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Obama himself did not make the comments.

Obama was also not the guy who sang "bomb, bomb, bomb. bomb, bomb, Iran".

Tesa P   April 8th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

OMG… THE MAN IS LIKE 170 YEARS OLD, AND THE REPUBLICANS FEEL SORRY FOR HIM THAT'S WHY HE IS THE NOMINEE…. PLEASE GROW A BACK BONE MCCAIN………….

Jeff   April 8th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

well, at least the obama supporters are just as nasty to mccain as they are to hillary.

this is what you want the rest of us to believe in? sad.

Alex H   April 8th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Jan April 8th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Isn't it ironic, that Obama and his supporters always apologizes
after the fact. THEY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT THEY ARE DOING>

SO SAD

And you would expect them to apologize before the fact? That's stupid… you can't apologize UNTIL after the fact.

SPQR753   April 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

John,

PLEASE STOP WHINING!!!

Jana   April 8th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

I found amazing that every time when Obama looks weeks in terms of his record, experience or patriotism compared to another person, Obama’s supporters insult that person. Do not forget Sen. Obama it will hunt you back.

Marc in DeKalb, IL   April 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Does anyone find it ironic that a spokesperson is the one whining about a spokesperson apologizing… and why should Obama personally apologize for something he didn't personally say?

I'm not sure which way I lean in the general election, but I've had it up to here with whining. Clinton made sure of that.

Let's not make the general election a repeat of the Democratic primary.

Mike   April 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

This is getting disgusting. You Obama freaks are just that…freaks! If Clinton's supporter said this or if a McCain supporter made some false charge you all would be up in arms. I'm so sick of the Obama freaks. They have no idea what they are talking about and are just joining the bandwagon of a sly politician who will ruin this country if he's elected with his polarizing supporters and his hate for America.

Danny in Pittsburgh   April 8th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Funny that a McCain SPOKESPERSON expresses the disdain, and not McCain himself.

If you're going to try and create a "rule" for engagement, then you need to follow the rule when rebutting.

Keep in mind?

Had America's leaders not completely misread the Vietnam tea leaves…McCain would not BE a war hero. He served with distinction and no one can deny that.

But his sacrifice was in vain then, just as our brave guys and gals is now. That is a matter for serious consideration. And something this administration, and all who would follow in it, should be completely ashamed of.

NC4Obama   April 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

You've got to be kidding me…now McCain is going to campaign like hillary….we see how that worked out, LOL.

sozzi   April 8th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

McCain the facts are the facts. All you did was drop bombs and killed many inocent people. Now you want our young men & women of the US Armed Forces to keep on doing the same in Iraq for NO LEGITIMATE REASON.

stag   April 8th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Another BHO lie. He does not respect Mccain's service.

Steve   April 8th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Oh, come on boys! Wa! Wa! Wa! I am sick and tired of watching grown men and woman act like a bunch of spoiled, little brats. This, "Did so
!", "Did not.", Did so!", "Did not!", "Did so!" crap has got to stop. Grow up, children!

Paul from PA   April 8th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Obama has nothing to do with what the man said. McCain is trying to be on the news. Simple as that.

MD   April 8th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Oh shut up McCain. You fuss like a 12 year old girl.

kim portland, oregon   April 8th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

oh waaah, waaah, mccain! you know you cant run on your policies, record, or family life so you have to nitpick at people and waste their time over small issues.

i think everyone's time is better spent discussing the ISSUES of america today. NOt whether someone apologizes to you for being mean.

by the way, have you apologized to your first wife for all the names you called her and for divorcing her after her terrible car accident, then leaving her for your mistress?!?!!? NICE FAMILY VALUES, JOHN!!!!

Alonzo Demetrius   April 8th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

This is typical Democrat spinning. First, you insult publicly and then you apologize half-heartedly.

So, Rockefeller, just what is it that you really respect?

Kelley   April 8th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

I demand that McCain denounce Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity for their comments and untruths about Obama. Also Dennis Miller, Bill O Reilly and Ann Coulter. If this is the route that McCain is going I will lose all my respect for the McCain camp. I see McCain as an honest, patriotic man, but this is ridiculous and I will lose all respect for him if the campaign is going to force this issue of denouncing.

Go away Obama   April 8th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Glad someone is calling him out. McCain is right ! Obama is the worst kind of slime he has others do his dirty work for him. How many times have we heard Obama's people crying over some FACT that someone has spoken about Obama? I can't wait until McCain wins the election and Obama crawls back in the hole he came from. Obama can't win!! Too many questions about his ties, too few actions to back up his great speaches. What a fraud!! Someone should offer him an acting gig.

lil   April 8th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

That, something thats going on between rockerfellow and macain
its best that he stays out of it. sen oboma should not get involved in this back and forth debate the two of them have going on.

Dave   April 8th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

i'm sure this is going to get very dirty…the media is going to get paid this year from the presidential contest

Ross in MD   April 8th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

John McCain is a silly old man.
We're sorry John - Did someone hurt your feelings?

Fernandez   April 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Someone call Obama smart? Maybe it was CNN

Anonymous   April 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Are you kidding me? "I do not agree with what was said" is not enough? Give me a break!

Anita   April 8th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Have you ever hard the quote "the buck stops here." Obama, take responsibility if you're at the "top" of your campaign.

Nakae   April 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

All that was said was that McCain was an air pilot. That's exactly right.

McCain never fought on the ground. He doesn't know the suffering war brings - on our troops or on civilians. All he did was drop bombs and fly away. No wonder he sings about bombing Iran.

Okra Mouth   April 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

In the bible, even though God loved David, God did not allow David to lead his people in building His Temple.
The reason God gave was because, His temple represents peace, and David was a man of war, and his hands had shed too much blood.

In a similar way, I admire all our soldiers, but I don't think the leader of such a great country promoting PEACE IN THE WORLD should be a man of war like McCain, whose hands has shed human blood.

Sorry McCain, I don't think soldiers, especially Bomber Pilots like you…. should run for president.

What Sen. Rockefeller said was true, and there is nothing to apologize for.
His comment does not mean all soldiers should be hated.

Obama Nation   April 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

the protocted one..he has been pampered this entire campaign

Justin from West Haven, CT   April 8th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Let's face it Hillary supporters are bitter.

C Watson   April 8th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

"The Obama campaign and Rockefeller both apologized "

How is it that John McCain is 71 and I'm left wondering if he's grown up yet? I'd expect this from Clinton but I'm a little surprised McCain is being so petty.

They've both apologized. Get over it.

We have McCain's lack of knowledge on the economy and "war mongering" to discuss (j/k).

T   April 8th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

I served proudly. I'm not going to vote to elect an old man who is wrong about almost everything simply because he served, too.

All the people saying, HOW DARE YOU NOT HONOR THIS SOLDIER!!!, I bet a lot of them didn't honor John Kerry, or Al Gore, both of whom had service in Vietnam while Bush was falling off his barstool. These jerks honor soldiers when it's politically convenient, like when they schedule Medal of Honor ceremonies to preempt congressional hearing coverage.

Fazio Cufino   April 8th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

What exactly does McCain want? Obama's group apologized… now accept it and move on. Does McCain want something in writing - perhaps a "reject" and "denounce" declaration from Obama?…. This represents just another lame opportunity to get press coverage to disparage Obama and those that support him. See through this everyone.

NickNas   April 8th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

LOL WOW They are getting so filled with fear about running against Obama they are trying to help Hillary?? WOW

This attempt is just so weak it is actually funny.

Mike Coleman   April 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

If McCain is crying about someone saying nasty things about him, he should remember and take back some of his past statements. I remember when Obama first came into the Senate and McCain asked him to join him on some legislation. Obama stated that he wanted to check with the Democratic leadership first and McCain went off on him. Did McCain apologize? No he didn't. I don't think Obama should apologize for any words that don't come directly from his own mouth.

Doug R.   April 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Why should Obama apologize?? After all the trash and garbage and hate the right and Republicans spew out at the Clinton's and Obama and this war hero McCain is crying already. What do you stand for McCain?? Take a hike grandpa. Go back to Arizona.

YES WE CAN   April 8th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

JUST FACE IT PEOPLE OBAMA IS THE SAVIOR OF OUR COUNTRY

Hillary Clinton   April 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

SHAME ON YOU JOHN McCain… SHAME ON YOU…….

don't you know I am the only one who can trash Barack as well as make up stories about him…

If you don't stop you may find yourself under sniper fire like me in Bosnia… Oh wait I misspoke.. am I bad..!

sara michelle b.   April 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Senator Obama has masqueraded as a "new politics" candidate from minute one while slinging every bit as much dirt as he has caught from others. Though this has been an effective tactic for Obama, it surely is the same bare knuckles politics that Americans have seen for years. When will Americans wake up to this game? Support Obama for his ideas, not because you are follish enough to believe that he isn't playing the same hardball as everyone else.

Ken in RI   April 8th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

You know, back in the day, you could challenge someone to a duel if they insulted you. Now it seems that you can challenge someone to a duel if they're acquainted with someone who insults you.

For a politician, this McCain guy sure has a thin skin. But, I've got to give him and/or his campaign peop[le credit. This is the second occasion where they have made it clear that only McCain's standard for adequacy will apply to any apologies for perceived slights. Obama had to "distance himself" from somone the other day who wasn't even involved in his campaign, simply because McCain wanted a "satisfactory" response.

I think Obama should slap the old dude down on this one… since when did McCain start making the rules? Nip this trend in the bud… one apology is enough!

Redshift   April 8th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Wow, so McCain is going to apologize for anything objectionable that's said by anyone who supports him? Even if he only covers right-wing radio, he won't have time to do anything all day but apologize!

Nah, I didn't think so either.

Robert Santa Rosa CA   April 8th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Wow. I support Obama, I think I'll say some nasty things about McCain so that Obama will need to apologize for my remarks. I hope he does not need to denounce and/or reject as well.

Davis   April 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

McCain does seem to be sensitive. He has been inferring the democrats are losers and cowards. And he wants Obama to personally apologize.

Anthony-Minneapolis,MN   April 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Are you kidding me John McSame, McSame supporters and Clinton Supporters. You are what is wrong with America today, not taking responsibility for "YOUR OWN ACTIONS" demanding Obama, or Clinton or McSame to apologize for words uttered by someone that supports them is just complete crap and is a clear sign of an immature person. McSame likes to tout his war hero record and character but when he demands Obama apologize for the remarks of a supporter, please this guy is as fake as Pamela Anderson's sweater props. I am sure out of camera shot on the Senate floor McSame was called worse. I hold the candidates responsible for what they say and that includes what they say in response to what someone who supports them says. Key point what the candidate says not his minions.

Sandra   April 8th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

When a candidate has to apologize for a comment made by a supporter it is a poor commentary on the election system. Observations, comments and opinions made by a supporter are not observations, comments and opionions made by the candidate. The voters (and the candidates) need to learn the difference

Concerned Democrat   April 8th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Just more political posturing…..

IDonotseeanywrongwiththiscomment   April 8th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Why should obama apologize for some one grownup and repected Sen. Jay Rockefeller. The senetor already apologized for his comments, If I was the senetor I would of sticked with the comment , everybody knows MCsame is a warmonger.

Bryce Benton   April 8th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

“It was a spokesperson…” said McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds.

A spokesperson complaining about the insignificance of what a spokesperson says.

True Independent, MD   April 8th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

This is why the GOP has to voted into oblivion.

I am tired of McCain behaving as if we all owe him.
He is not the only PoW we know, yet, we know NONE who has benefitted and profitted from being a service man as he has.

The only reason he wants a 'decent' campaign is so we don't talk about his adulterous relationship with current wife, before he married her. As well as her drug issues.

We don't owe anybody. Yes, we are grateful to people who serve, but gee, he has had job security for decades. Let's say it like it is. People like McCain make me sick.

There are so many who paid the ultimate price, I would rather talk about how their families are coping than about McCain's holier than thou attitude.

Why should Sen. Obama apologize for what someone else said? Give me a break!

Glen   April 8th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Isn't it amazing how quickly the BO supporters cry racism and unfair when their man is attacked. I have never seen anybody attacked like Hillary Clinton (and I don't like her) and the treatment of Geraldine was unforgivable. I would not vote for BO because of his supporters, he has unleashed the Tyranny of the Self Righteous.

A. Harrison   April 8th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Obama never does any wrong and his campaign has done no wrong to date, that's how Obama wants you to see it.

Talk Change but seems like the same old poliTRICKS.

A real leader with real solutions, HILLARY CLINTON, 2008!

Chuck   April 8th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

It’s started. Obama will not make it when the Republicans start attacking him. Fox is going to make Obama look like a punk, and by this time next week Obama may look like Kerry in 04. Another Obama super delegate makes racist comments and now Rockefeller with this.
Keep your on the ball Obama fans its going to get ugly.

ken   April 8th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

no need to apoligize. that went out the window with the swift boat attacks on john kerry by the rove administration. that not only diminished kerrys service, it diminished all our service during the viet nam war. it's open season and i don't want to hear any republicans crying about attacks on veterans. they thought it was ok during the last election

Craig in Texas Democrat and supporter for Obama   April 8th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

I see republicans in the comment section lol

Brian - Trinidad   April 8th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Another example of the gutless,slimy Obama.He gets his surrogates to say all the dirty,nasty stuff about the other candidates for his benefit so he can say 'I didn't say that' 'I didn't hear that' etc. Leadership is about accepting accountability, not hiding behind loopholes.That's where Clinton has this empty character beat six ways to Sunday.She stands up and faces the music.Another great opening for McCain.

Bud Curtis   April 8th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

Obama and his supporters need to remember something. While you can shear a sheep many times, you can only skin him once.
At some point the American public will realize that Obama's political skills are too sharp for his own good.
Bud
Miami, OK

kd   April 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Is this a campaign that is being run or a high school lunch room. I can't remember a political season where all you hear is one candidate demanding an apology for remarks that were made by someone else. What a bunch of babies…let's be adults and talk about solutions to the problems that exist in our country and stop the whining.

Penn State   April 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

This may not get posted because CNN does not want you to know about this, but there is a march on media bias and the suppression of voters on April 11th in New York. Its suppose to be huge!!!

carmen   April 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

For a tough guy, this man is a whimp and he should instead learn the difference between a Sunni, Shiite and Bin Laden

Edu Minnesota   April 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

I don,t know why Mcain is crying. He has not actually been tested. He has ejoyed a free ride this while. I wonder why he is making dust from the Obama supporter's comment. What if he had received shots like those between Obama and Clinton, Will he be sobbing? the should get done with those victim card and be ready to show that he has the booths.

Isaac   April 8th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

"Isn't it ironic, that Obama and his supporters always apologizes
after the fact. THEY KNOW EXACTLY WHAT THEY ARE DOING>"

Uh, no. Sorry Alannis, but that isn't irony. And how exactly would Obama go about apologizing BEFORE "the fact"? Riddle me this, Batman!

tony t   April 8th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Not enough? he expected more from that arrogant senator? He must be dreaming.

An Agnostic Democrat   April 8th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

O.K. McSame, are you going to apologize for all the right-wing tools and whack-jobs who are constantly attacking Mr. Obama? You are the typical political hypocrite! You have all your henchmen do the dirty work while you place nicey-nicey with the press corps. Sounds a little like your other competitor, Senator Clinton who just tried the Reagan ploy of holding her hand to her ear and smiling like she didn't hear them while not answering questions or being accountable about her corruption and dishonesty.

Lonnie H.   April 8th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

With all the negative comments being made by conservative news, and radio host about Senators Clinton and Obama, not once have I heard Senator McCain personally make an apology for any of them. I have enough sense to expect him NOT TO! Supporters will SAY ANYTHING in favor of their candidate of choice. If the presidential candidates spent time apologizing for every foul thing one of their supporters said, then when would they have time to bring to the forefront what really matters? This is being a bit too sensitive. Be happy your plea got any attention at all from Senator Obama's campaign. Why is this news? Let it go and stick to the issues. Try to figure out a way to win the general election in November, despite your support of a war that is constantly killing our American sons and daughters, instead of crying for apologies over foul comments made in April. Get over it and stick to the issues please…

How is your apology going to save jobs from being lost, homes from being foreclosed, and soldiers from dying in a meaningless war? If you or any of your supporters and/or bloggers can answer that question, then I will apologize to you myself.

Lonnie H. - Toledo, Ohio

linus   April 8th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I completely agree that the comment was out of line, but I find it curious that the McCain “campaign” is saying that a response from Obama’s “campaign” is not sufficient. If the statement is so awful that only Obama, himself, can apologize for it, then why isn’t McCain, himself, demanding an apology?

Debbie,NJ   April 8th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Come on war hero. Stop whining. I can't believe everytime somebody hurts your feelings you demand an apology from Obama.
Your feelings aren't hurt. This is just a ploy to turn people against Obama. It may have worked for Hillary but it won't work for you. You're a war hero right? And for all of you who feel I'm disrespecting him, I am a widow of a war hero who earned a purple heart and silver star while fighting in Vietnam. This is just a ploy to make Obama look bad.

jer   April 8th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Cry me a river. And you think you can handle the Presidency McCain?

John   April 8th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

MCCAIN YOU NEED TO APOLOGIZE TO ALL THE VETERANS YOU LIED TO. YOU VOTE AGAINST VETERANS BENEFITS ALL THE TIME

SHAME ON YOU

Evie   April 8th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

The point is not that the statement necessarily expresses Barack Obama's own belief, but that he is implicitly condoning gutter attacks by not making a strong statement specifically rejecting them.

Typical.

JB Oakland   April 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

McBush needs to grow a pair.

Mike   April 8th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

It is ok for Obama to ask for Clinton to appologize… when the tables are turned it is not ok??? Obama has left himself open to these kinds of attacks because he is trying to run a "change" campaign…

do any of you see the writing on the wall… this is what the general is going to be full of from the Republicans… they will blast Obama and then say he can not respond because of his campaign for "change"…

How is he going to win??? How electible is he???

mep   April 8th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Oh, shut up McCain and McCain's campaign!…I'm getting a little sick of lthe free ride the press is giving you…Seems to me, there has only been one man who walked on water.

bonna   April 8th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Please, Mc Cain just wait until you and Obama have a debat, . to start whinning.

Wisconsin for Obama   April 8th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

These surrogates really spoil for the candidates. McCain needs to watch out for them.

ABC '08   April 8th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

West Virginia Sen. Jay Rockefeller, a sitting US Senator is the one that said it not Barack Obama.

Ever see the 527 Swift Boat adds that were planned for South Carolina but called off by RNC???

April in Texas   April 8th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Good grief! Its not like Obama himself said it. The guy who said it is the one you should be going after. Obama did all he could without going against the freedom of speach law. Get a grip then again you may not remember the conversation tomorrow.

Obama 08

jer   April 8th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

These comments have been mild.
I respect McCain as a Senator but I think his being held captive for 5 years and tortured is a negative to being our President.
He has to have a lot of demons floating around in himself.
Sorry. I do not want to take chances with him.
He served his Country with a price no one should have to deal with.

Anonymous   April 8th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

We all respect and honor McCain for his service, but are we supposed to beleive we are not allowed to critcize him?

Tell the truth   April 8th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

It was the truth. I wish everyone would based there statements on facts and issues. A vote for McCain equal war and another 4 years of Bush. Please read and think and vote Obama

Nedu   April 8th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Is this simply a desperate attempt by the McCain campaign to stay in the news? Since when did bomb bomb McCain become so sensitive? Did I mis-read something? Should Obama also apologize for the fact that I believe McCain is a warmonger? Give me a break.

Jim   April 8th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

We all respect and honor McCain for his service, but are we supposed to believe we are not allowed to criticize him?

Anonymous   April 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Well, I'm a independent that knows both camps are full of it…what I am seeing is to date the lunatic left is making all the smear attacks, when those radical right wingers start the attacks the lunatic left will start crying as usual. If you are going to start a fight don’t look to the independents to bail you out. Maybe you should stop finding fault with your rivals and really come up with solutions for the country and stop placing your political party or favorite special interest groups ahead of the country. Oh yeah one last comment if you really think you and your political party know all the answers than you are really no different than the devout political party supporters from Nuremberg and Munich during the 30's…………..

John   April 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Obama and camp scream bloody murder when Hillary's surrogates make comments like these. Then he fails to repudiate them when his own surrogates do the same thing to McCain. He claims to be taking the high road, then he sends his minions out to crawl right into the gutter.

So much for new politics, same old politics as usual.

Willy   April 8th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Did you expect a democrat to stand up aganist a fellow socialist?

notso   April 8th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

as i welcome myself to the land of stupid, bored, underinformed ,overly opinioned, circular logicly challanged, and unfortunately, registered to vote people, i offer the following: nobody cares what JR says, said, or will do, therefore why should Obama denounce anything; next, anyone who thinks being a POW is a political advantage is an idiot, because if it was a political advantage they would all do it; finally, being a POW and or pilot in a war may not make JM a hero in everone's book but he served his country and his life was on the line (kind of like HC at the airport in Bosnia or BO in ……. , nevermind).

George   April 8th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Is freedom of speech going to be an issue in this presidential campaign? I am an Obama supporter - gave my $25.00 - who happens to think that Mccain and Pres. Bush are both warmongers. Will Obama be expected to apologize for my comment?

Joe   April 8th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Obama did not say anything derogatory and has nothing to apologize for. The only important thing to think about is how O8ama will extract us from the mess in Iraq. McCain will send our grand children to be killed by roadside bombs while playing referee in a civil religious conflict that is a thousand years old. This is a no brainer election.

Bukky   April 8th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Are you serious? Why should Obama personally apologize for ANOTHER senators statement. McCain and Rockerfeller work in the same building, why doesnt he just want down the ailse and get his apology from rockerfeller.

They are trying to make it seem like Obama insulted Him when Obama had NOTHING to do with what was said.

Proud American-R   April 8th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

If Obama won't step up to the plate now, then what would he do if he were President? This just goes to show you what he really is!

Real change   April 8th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

It makes you mad doesn’t Senator McCain? It’s disrespectful and unfair isn’t it Senator?
Now…here is what I would tell McCain if I were Obama. I’ll apologize to you just as quick as you return the money you have taken form the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, and apologize for what they said about Kerry. Until then you can just sit there and be mad (and be a hypocrite).

John   April 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

From the news: Ms. Ferraro, . . .who backs Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, [said]: “If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position. And if he was a woman of any color, he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept.”

She made the comments last week, but on Tuesday, the Obama camp latched on to them, calling them outrageous and demanding that Mrs. Clinton repudiate them.

You see, Obama demands that Clinton personally repudiate comments from her surrogates, and then refuses to do so himself. What a hypocrite.

heather   April 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

oh mccain stop being a cranky old man. is this the temper acting up? what do you want him to do reject and denounce and whatever else term is good enough for your ego? you are sounding like hillary

let go

anon   April 8th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Rockefeller needs to appologize to every US bomber crew or fighter pilot who ever dropped a bomb in warfare. He suggested they don't care about life

SUE, Michigan   April 8th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I also think all the "new" Democrats registering for the PA primary are bored Republicans who want Obama to win so they can beat him in November.

Obama Supporter   April 8th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

People - if you are a senator supporting Obama that just means that (A) you are a democratic senator and (B) you decided not to support Hillary Clinton. Just because you decide to come out and say "I support Obama" doesn't make you the mouthpiece of his campaign!!!

I'm starting to think McCain may need to "chill out," in the words of WJC, as well as the dem candidates. Everyone calm down and don't be so touchy!!!

kim portland, oregon   April 8th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

chudi, thanks for sharing that, i had no idea. but it is so interesting cuz i have been thinking that people on here have been sounding more angry and ignorant lately—-and that would DEFINITELY explain it!!!

i was seriously getting depressed cuz i was beginning to think that we dems had turned into a bunch of stupid name-calling half-wits that would do anything a bloated, self-hating, idiot radio host told us to do.

Dusty   April 8th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I thought McCain was supposed to be tough. Look, what Rockefeller said was inappropriate - but come on, people. When are we as Americans going to say enough? Let's be a serious nation here, people.

Rockefeller is not a paid staffer of the Obama campaign. He's accountable only to himself, and he apologized.

Don't be fooled, folks - it's plain now that McCain's people are trying to make a mountain out of a molehill here, hoping it smears Obama with voters. Obama didn't say those words, and there'd be no benefit for him to have a surrogate say something that (politically, at least) stupid. Now McCain wants to exploit his victimhood. For someone who uses the footage of the most horrible episode in his life as campaign advertisement fodder, I can't say I'm surprised.

Big Tex in Texas   April 8th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

How can McCain complain about twisting words….remember how he twisted Romney's words…"timetables"…..McCain can only win if Clinton's team keeps it up , as in RUSH, HANNITY, SAVAGE, all of KTRH…Obama also has to battle BIll, Hillary, and CHelsie…..what a man!!!

Dan   April 8th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

It was a spokesperson…” said McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds. Haha what a priceless quote. You beat me to it Bryce.

Darryl   April 8th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

McCain is full of himself. Obama need not..

SaneTexan   April 8th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

RE: Chudi -Wrong…I'm a life-long Democrat and I will NOT vote for Obama. He is a phoney. He gives a big race speech and then says crap like "typical white person". He is going to lose the general election. Many like myself are tired of being labeled racists eveytime that we question his integrity, etc. He has divided the party and will divide the nation even more if he is elected…which isn't going to happen.

bakersfield   April 8th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

OBAMA - TYPICAL POLITICIAN

Chuck in Oregon   April 8th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

This appology thing is getting silly. Why should any one applogize for what someone else said. Here Mc Cain I will appologize for them both. I am sorry that someone said what they felt about you. I am sorry that it hurt your feelings. Truth be know, I in a kinda sorta way agree with senator. To me you seem to willing to continue the war that is obviously against the will of the American People. I am a retired US Army man myself, and I detest the Idea of fighting for a people that have no apparent desire to take the horns and govern them selves and to fight for their own right to self govern. Come how can you justify fighting where over a 1000 turn and run and for those that decide to take a lunch break before the battle that allows the enemy to consolidate and or escape. This is a joke.

Jacqueline, NY   April 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Cry baby! Get over it, McCain. Do we really want this winp in office?

Chief lagosboy, NJ   April 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Grandpa McCain is a war “Warmonger”….what a waste of time!

Our President Obama 08′ & 12′

James   April 8th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

This is getting ridiculous. I want everyone I know to apologize for every insensitive thing I've said in my lifetime. It's not my job, it's theirs.

skylark   April 8th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Geez! What do you want him to do? Open a vein??????????
Get over yourself McBush. Obama has nothing to apologize for. He didn't say it. His campaign did't say it.
"If you can't stand the heat get out of the kitchen" (Truman). Please.
But don't blame Mr. Obama.

Mark   April 8th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I don't honor McCain for his service. Speak for yourself Jim. He's a warmonger plain and simple.

Chris   April 8th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I think the only thing that Barak would say is "you're wearing me out brother". Poor guy probably needs another island vacation. LOL!

Ellie   April 8th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Why should Sen. Obama apologize for anything here?

McCain needs to get a grip, he's not 5 years old where he's NOT open to other people's comments and scrutiny. Geeeez, give us a break.

Talk about acting like a baby!!!

If this is any indication of his tantrum, he's not going to last come November.

Joseph   April 8th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

How about McCain individually apologizing to each of the 4000 families that have lost a service member's life for supporting an ill conceived and poorly planned war?

shirley   April 8th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

I guess Senator Obama could put duct tape on Rockefeller's mouth.
The news media is making to much of what either candidate's supporter's 'say'. It is impossible to put a lid on everything inappropriate that is said by a huge body of people supporting any campaign. Just let it go and it will be forgotten.

jon   April 8th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

obama does not hold what's good for this country in his heart. he only wants what's good for him. i do not true him and think he will be proven as a fake.

Snap Falkenberg   April 8th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

McCain would certainly prefer it if he could boss Obama's campaign around and tell them what to say and when to say it. And the press will help him in this. Have you read the Free Ride book?

Pixie, Murfreesboro, TN   April 8th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Since when is stating the truth grounds for an apology??

The future   April 8th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

So.. McBush was tortured.. held as a POW and yet.. after all these years, his feeling are hurt from "name calling"?

Wow.

Obama 08′

Who needs a presidential candidate who has a short fuse, and appears to be upset over "name calling"

Tanya K   April 8th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

I know this probably won't get posted either, since CNN is obviously biast, however Obama will not apologize he is to green and immature. According to these comments so are most of his supporters. What a change he will bring if elected. God help us all.

justin   April 8th, 2008 5:10 pm ET

for a war hero, mccain sure seems like he doesn't know how to take apunch. LOLLL

Thomas, LA   April 8th, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Next thing you know McSame will be saying any questioning of keeping the war going for the next 100 years is unpatriotic.

McCain, sit down, and shut up.
Your time is past, like last year's calendar.

Veterans For Obama   April 8th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Oh be quiet Grandpa…go sit on your rocker and mind yer own business.

Matthew   April 8th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

This is getting out of hand. Im sorry Obama apologized if that wasnt enough to bad. McCain is just trying to start something to get the focus off him and its not going to work. Just like with Shultz, he said McCain is a Warmonger and yes he is and he is old and he is not going to last a full term in office not that hes going to win. Shultz said it not Obama or anyone in the campaign. McCain wants obama to apoloigize for Shultz comments. Heck i will call him a warmonger and i can think of a lot of other things to call him as well and what is McCain going to want Obama to apologize for me. McCain needs to stopping acting like a child , act his age (71) and grow a pair and run his campaign for the 3rd Bush Term… Thank you

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 8th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

With all respect McCain's military service, we keep hearing different stories about his tour of duty in Iraq, what's the real story.

Louis   April 8th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

…and McCain can apologize to all of America's citizens, especially families of killed and injured soldiers, for his support of an unnecessary war that has squandered our resources, destroyed lives, and severely diminished our country's stature.

George   April 8th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

McClan did drop bombs on people, didn't he? Let's not defend dropping bombs from thousands of feet on innocent people. Only a coward would think of such things to do to people. I would kick McClan's azz in a minute. He has no right to lead. He will always be a follower!

Tim   April 8th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

John McWeak is looking weaker by the second by complaining about other people criticizing him. This has nothing to do with Obama.

Joel   April 8th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

See, this is why Obama will get crushed come November. He is so locked in his "new kind of politics" so much that if he tries any negative attacks, he is seen as hypocritical. He's trying to get others to do his dirty work so he isn't being hypocritcal. OBAMA, AMERICA IS NOT THAT STUPID. BY NOVEMBER, AMERICA WILL SEE WHO YOU REALLY ARE AND YOU WILL LOSE. ONLY CLINTON CAN WIN IN NOVEMBER.

4REAL   April 8th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Will someone please tell me why Obama always have to apologize for statements made by others. Obama did not crtiize him Rockfeller made the comment. I agree that McCain people are such a wimp and can't take a punch. Would they act the same way if a Clinton supporter did this?

Thom in OH   April 8th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

McCain stop crying foul over every little thing an Obama supporter says against you. It's an election season afterall! His campaign released a statement on his position regarding the comment and Rockefellar apologized. Enough said. It's really arrogant to expect Sen. Obama to apologize in a manner that is only acceptable to you each and every time you request. I guess this is the RNC's attempt to claim ground for releasing their kitchen sink at the Dems. Bring it on RNC cause we already know it was in the plans anyway!!!!! It's election season afterall!

Cornel   April 8th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

wow, for such a brave guy, he sure is sensitive….

Richard   April 8th, 2008 5:22 pm ET

It would be nice if Obama would apologize for remarks.
McCain is a hero. Period.

Susan S.   April 8th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I never heard of this comment before this demand for a retraction — the Republicans are the one spreading it around and playing the victim card.

Rockefeller should apologize, but why should Obama?

julie35   April 8th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Oh my God , as a dem I would like to see the end of the party! This Obama campaign is a joke! He's a far left lunatic,being praised for his lies and arrogance, This dem + at least 50 more for Mccain over nobama.

Antoinette   April 8th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

If u ask me, he didnt have to apologize in the first place

He did nothing wrong and the Sen, who said it was not a representative of Obama nor were they even in the building at the same time

McCain, stop being a baby.

Donald, SC   April 8th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

McShame is at again. First he says ALL Americans have a right to Freedom of Speech. Yet, every time someone who knows Senator