April 14, 2008
Posted: April 14th, 2008 12:15 PM ET

From

(CNN) – John McCain on Monday called Barack Obama's recent remarks about small-town Pennsylvanians “elitist” - but he stopped short of describing Obama himself that way.

In his remarks to the Associated Press Managing Editors conference in Washington - his first public appearance since the firestorm over Obama's reference to some Americans as "bitter" began - the presumptive Republican nominee took the long view.

He praised those who suffered through the Great Depression for their contributions to the nation telling the crowd that “it had not shaken their faith in and fidelity to America and its founding political ideals.”

“Their faith had given generations of their families purpose and meaning,” he continued, “and their appreciation of traditions like hunting was based in nothing other than their contribution to the enjoyment of life.”

When asked after his speech if he considered Obama an elitist, he responded, “I don't know, I think those comments are elitist.” He described them as “disparaging” to people “that have fundamental cultural, spiritual and other values that in my view have very little to do with their economic condition.”

When pressed, McCain said he didn’t know Obama well enough to describe him as an elitist, saying only that his comments “are certainly not the vision that I have of America and its strength and its greatness and what its fundamental values and beliefs are.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


David, New Castle. PA   April 14th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Pennsylvanians–do the right thing and junk the Clinton machine once and for all so Barrack can focus on all the problems we face. McSame has no program and will need a walker soon. Hillary and McSame are identical gimme politicians surrounded by lobbyists payting now for the next administration to keep them greased. McCain lives off his wife's Budweiser fortune and is a veritiable elitist. Hillary gets cash through her husband's work for Columbian trade deals which she uses to finance her sorry campaign. Her sense of entitlement to this nomination has turned her quite spiteful and ugly. PA Democrats–please join me on April 22 in throwing her (and her smug, disgraceful husband) out of the race.

kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama   April 14th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Whoops, I forgot Hillary is a crook
Hillary is an elitist., So is Bill!!!!!

kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama   April 14th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Talk about "elitist". McCain is asking for people to donate to
pay for "poor Mr. Guilianis" debt for his campaign fund!!!!!
Have you ever heard of such a thing? McCain should be
asking for donations to help the poor of America, not Mr. "spend
N.Y. money instead of his own money to woo his girlfried about
the country at America's finest of hotels and restaurants. No
expense spared when the taxpayers pay for it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
McCain is a crook
Guiliani is a crook.
McCain is an elitist.
Guiliani is an elitist.
Guliani's wife is an elitist.
They won't win this election unless they cheat, which is possible.

KNOW YOUR CANDIDATE   April 14th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

why pick a fight with clinton over her party drink?
by the way everyone else was at that party were drinking.

but this man really dont know how to pick his fights.
DID HE FORGET HE HAS A REPUTATION IN CHICAGO
FOR GOING ON COCAINE BINGES?

Doug R.   April 14th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

McCain is frustrated and angry old man and it's going to be very enjoyable for us to view him losing his temper when the race kicks in to high gear. If any candidate is an elitist, hands down, it is McSame. This man left his first wife for a younger and very wealthly woman. He has no values or morals.

gil   April 14th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Be careful John. If Barack loses I'm voting for you unless you keep up this kind of nonsense. As it is, there is very little difference between you and Hillary anyway (other than the Hero thing and oh yeah, you aren't her)

Ratgurl   April 14th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Hey Nina "We need president who does say things right the very first time!!!!!!!!!!":

You mean like Hillary? Yeah, SHE says thing right the first time, all the time.

I see you're trying to pretend like you have something to say, but really, you don't.

Mari s.a. Texas OBAMA 08...........   April 14th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

OBAMA KNOWS WHAT HE IS SAYING ITS JUST PEOPLE ARE SO IGNORANT!

Jake Jamahl, Atlanta   April 14th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Perhaps Obama should leave his wife to marry up to a trophy wife with a beverage distributorship fortune to wipe away this elitist scarlet letter?

Randy   April 14th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Obama uses a lot of metaphorical language, and that's why people like Hillary seeks to take advanage of misconstruing what he says to try to incite and fool the public. It is a shame that the media dances to her tune. As to McCain, he is struggling to get his two brain cells to connect properly – so he dreads the idea of taking on Barack in the Fall.

Tony   April 14th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

The media has turned itself into a laughing stock. Fox is right wing propaganda, CNN and MSNBC are all about keeping the race going for ratings.

Is it any surprised that when PA was in double digits, they were focusing on Hillary’s comments about sniper fire where they ignored them before? Is it any surprise that when PA started to get close, they had to have these Obama slips and comments taken out of context to make sure Hillary wins PA by a large enough margin to keep the race going?

Obama’s comments in context were about the frustrations of people being ignored and lied to for the last 2 decades by the Clintons and Bushes, but of course they would focus on “bitter” and eliminate context while running Hillary over and over saying “people are tired of being lied to for the last 7 years by their government and now Obama’s elitism”.

I am tired of the gross lies and distortions. CNN, Fox and MSNBC can miss my viewership. I am going to Comedy Central. At least then I will get to laugh more at this horse race coverage as news corporations try to invent news to feed the 24 hour cycle even when it is a gross distortion.

Mari s.a. Texas OBAMA 08...........   April 14th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

"ERIC............... WAKE UP"
Keep giving the Republicans your views bc they are blind side by what is going on!

Obama 08

Pat Riot   April 14th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Why call him an elitist when SOCIALIST is such a better fitting title?

Mike   April 14th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Apparently McCain was the only one who had it correct (IRAN). Satellite view from Sunday shows a longe range missile facility in Iran but everyone said McCain was wrong about that. It will take moronic Democrats about 30 seconds to put all our lives in danger. They will probably fire the missiles while Obama is meeting with his buddy Ahmadinejad just to make a point. Maybe they can invite Hugo Chavez along for laughs. For those that call Republicans the "war mongers" digest this for a while:

WWI-Woodrow Wilson – Democrat
WWII- Franklin Roosevelt-Democrat
Korea- Harry Truman – Democrat
Vietnam- John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson- Democrats

These high school Obama supporters need to take a history lesson.

Motov8n   April 14th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Ninja_Turtle McSame-as Bush. "Not This Time!!!! OBAMA – 08

Janel, St. Paul, MN   April 14th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Oh brother! I thought McCain was above such cheap shots!!

Now. . .once he is actually running against Obama as the Democratic nominee, I am wondering if he will go back on his word and start dragging up the tired refrain about Rev. Wright. I'm betting that he will, and this makes me sad.

Barb   April 14th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

I think americans are voting for Obama for the wrong reasons. They are voting because they hate Bush, the Clintons and anyone else that is part of this government. That is going too get the american people in trouble , because I don't think Obama should be talking too Iran. Iran put a price on the heads of america's military fighting in Iraq if he talks too Iran he is saying that is acceptable. Obama is not ready to be president until he can respect the american people the same way he respects Rev. Wright.

Janet   April 14th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Isn't it interesting that so many of these comments link Clinton and McCain together. Perhaps that's because Clinton spent her years at Wellesly as president of the Young Republican's Club. She would make a great running mate for McCain as she truly understands the Republican philosophy. Obama, comparatively, has been a Democrat for Democrats his entire life. Further, Ms. Clinton is constantly taking advice from the McCain camp. Is she really naive enough to think they have her best interests at heart? Rush is encouraging Republicans to switch parties and support her so that she will become the nominee as he says that she is easier to beat in the fall You better think!

TT   April 14th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

McWar and guntotting HilLIAR should team up. They deserve each other.

Trollmaster   April 14th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

McCain is afraid of facing Obama in the debates, that's why he's taking Hillary's side on this issue.

Ron   April 14th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

CNN hosted a debate last night in which Sen. Obama elevated himself above Rev. Wright by saying that he Rev. Wright was not his spiritual advisor or mentor as he had admitted in the past when he believed that it was to his benefit but just his pastor.Sen. Obama statement that people were bitter is not what angered people it is what he said being bitter made them resort to that upset them He dares think for them as if he is all knowing and seems genuinely confused as to why they don't understand his explanation .

Daniel, Loganville Ga   April 14th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

I am bitter, frustrated, and angry...Who isn't fuel increasing daily and food cost rising...Give me a break!!!

YES WE CAN ... OBAMA '08

MD in OK   April 14th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

I think McCain should just stay focused on learning about how our economy works. He's got some never calling Obama an elitist. I guess he's just following Hillary's leash.

John in PA   April 14th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

McCain and Clinton do not support elitist views, regardless of their incomes. FDR was a wealthy man, did not make him elitist. JFK had a lot of personal wealth and was not an elitist. It's Obama's own words, spoken from his heart, that make him an elitist. He is what he is, and most of America does not want him.

Danielle, TX   April 14th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

McCain calling someone an elitist? LAUGHABLE!!

Mike   April 14th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Obama keeps making it easier for McCain to win in November

Jennie Ramsey   April 14th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Nina,

Tell me, which one of the candidates says anything right the first time.
Clinton (Bosnia) McCain "Now where is the war being fought???" So now their all even. Enough said!

Cennon   April 14th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

to Nina post:

If someone says 100 years in Iraq and got it right the first time, I don't want him no where near being president.

John   April 14th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Liar Liar time to retire!!!

James   April 14th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

CNN where is your reporting that HRC has a 20 point lead on BHO?

Certainly kept letting us know when it was narrowing.

Hummm Bias!!!

Mk   April 14th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

elitist: belief in control by small group: the belief that government or control should be in the hands of a small group of privileged, wealthy, or intelligent people, or the active promotion of such a system

Sounds an AWFUL lot like the current administration. McCain will be an extension of that.

person too   April 14th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

and how often Obama already had to EXPLAIN his words? Again and again. Do we really want a president who does not know what is he saying?

Pam   April 14th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Lets not talk about law suit here unless we also acknowlege that Hill and Bill have one coming up three days after the PA primary.

Why is Cnn not discussing this???? Really makes you wonder when everyone knows but doesn't talk abou it.

nina   April 14th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

it really looks like Obama is out of touch with some people. It is obvious that he has to explain his words again and again = he does not speak properly = he does not know what is out there really.... I mean in big picture.

He just does not say things the right way first, then when reaction, then he goes and says : " i did not mean that" - this is not good for president!

We need president who does say things right the very first time!!!!!!!!!!

Maybe he heard few comments, and he bases his speech on it, which is wrong.
I think that he spends a lot of time and money on his campaign, videos. He spends his mind of criticizing Hillary and who knows what else.
He does think that he knows it all ( typical teenage attitude). He does not make any research in depth, he just throws "popular" words there and there hoping it will be the right hit. But many times he is wrong.

Sorry, Mr. Obama, you have long way to go to be really mature, experienced leader. You might have some good ideas, but you do way too many mistakes, miss-speakings, miss-treatings so far for many people to feel safe and comfortable with.

Mike   April 14th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Obama is an elitist. Even when he stands next to people he hold his nose up like he's better than the person next to him. Watch the debate on Wednesday night the way he looks up; so cocky.

lan123   April 14th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

McCain is worth over 100 million dollars. Hillary and Bill Clinton made 100 million dollars last year. Obama just finished paying off his student loan and he's the elitist. LOL!

Mike from CA   April 14th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

McCain ignores what 65% of America wants with the war in Iraq because he thinks his "judgement" is better then ours for some reason. ....and obama is an elitist?
Excuse me while i go throw up.

bell2   April 14th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

come on guys. you are better than that. didn't anyone tell you "Some things are best left unsaid"

David from Canada   April 14th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

McCain, your family is worth over $100 million, and it was not earned by you or your wife it is family money. Might as well have a picture of you, McCain, beside elitist in the dictionary.

Bob, Lyons Oregon,   April 14th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Get Real people, Obama was speaking the truth, people are angry, bitter, what ever word you want to use, its true, you can see it in these comments, and people need to wake up to what has been happening in our country and in Washington. People are fed up and angry, this is just rediculous. Obama is the only truthful candidate,

He is no elitist.

Obama 08

Jamaal Kansas   April 14th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Mccain How in the world are you for small town people when those people need a goverment to help them not to leave them High and Dry.I hate Hilary Clinton will all my Heart but if it was a choice between Him and Her it would have to be Her. Went can't have Bush in the White House for a Third Term Democrats Unite around the Nominee Please for the sake of this Country

Ex-Hillary supporter   April 14th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

It seems that both Clinton and McCain, an eliltist pair if ever I saw one, are running scared, attacking Obama as often as they do to detract from their lacklustre campaigns.
Most of the country wants a reprieve from the status quo and Obama will bring that.

Tara   April 14th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Obama is the last person out of the three candidates that should be called "elitist!" He knows more than anyone the problems Americans face. Hillary and McCain are multi-millionaires who make more money doing dirty politics.

Hillary The Real New President!   April 14th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obama is NOT going to win anyway!

Brandon   April 14th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

This coming from the man who can't distinguish between Shia and Sunnis without the help of Joe Lieberman. Elitist is saying that there isn't a mortgage crisis, or it will "work itself out".

Jordan Roman   April 14th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

should i even bother......

more the of the same..

time for CHANGE!!!!!!!

OBAMA 08!

Mack   April 14th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

We small-town Americans are very mad at the comments made by Obama.

HYPOCRACY 08   April 14th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Well I called that one right...

Justme   April 14th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Not even worth commenting on ....

Dee   April 14th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Every American should be 'bitter' right now. For the last 7 years, we have watched our government take complete advantage of us. McCain has no problems keeping our exhausted troops fighting for something many of us were against to begin with. He's just another Cheney, who doesn't care about 'We the People'.

Obama!

i'll say it   April 14th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Obama always is disparaging towards others.

But when he constantly mispeaks and makes mis-statement.. he lectures and admonishes: "now, now, don't parse my words... what I really meant is..."

He is a joke that will never be president.

Ratgurl   April 14th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

That's rich, coming from a man married to a Billionaire!

Amy   April 14th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I find it ironic that McCain and Hillary consider Obama an elitist against small-town, rural America. It is Obama who set up headquarters in every state in the Union – no matter how small and insignificant the other candidates found the state to be. It is Obama who campaigned and met with voters in rural states such as Nebraska and Idaho when both McCain and Clinton decided those states do not matter in the political race. It is Hillary who said that the Iowa caucus is irrelevant and does not matter.

Who are the real elitists in this race?

McCain supporter   April 14th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Mccain...keep QUIET

Let that Hillary Tear that Obama down

We should just enjoy the Show

from Hill to Ob   April 14th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Elitist is code for Uppity.

bILL   April 14th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

McCain misspoke again. Obama's no elitist. He may be a bigot but he's no elitist.

Unite America   April 14th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

McCain-Hllary for President. Two Real Americans that put their country first.

PA Mary   April 14th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Obama is elitist. He makes elitist comments (to rich San. Francisco donors) behind the backs of ordinary voters and demeans those ordinary voters who he claims to understand. He lives in a $1,650,000 dollar home (with the help of indicted REZCO), went to private school and Harvard law school, earned millions of dollars on his books, his wife alone earns over $250,000 a year. So for him to try and back-peddle from his insulting comments by trying to pretend that he is an ordinary guy, is ridiculous. He is elitist, but more than that he insults the very people who are the backbone of America. It is shocking that any candidate running to be President would say the things Sen. Obama recently said. It is unacceptable and it is seriously damaging.
Democrats please support Hillary Clinton so we can actually win in Nov. We need a President who will lift us all up – not look down on us. Vote Hillary '08.

Glenn   April 14th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

McCain/Clinton '08

With the like minded rhetoric you two spout, this is not too far fetched. I truly look forward to the spanking that this so called "Elitist, Inexperienced, Out of Touch, Junior" Senator is going to give him in November! Well after the election maybe you Hillary and Cheney can do some duck hunting to forget about your troubles.

Obama '08
Yes WE Can!

Go ahead Clinton New Network, keep deleting pro Obama posts! Whatever happened to journalistic integrity?

mama4obama   April 14th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Funny coming from McCain....whom has lived the high life and nothing but for so many years he cannot even comprehend what it is like to worry about where your next meal will come from.

btw...Im from Arizona....anyone looked at the economy there? Its called Bankrupt....and who was running the show? You got it....McCain.

Brown   April 14th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Heather, everyday I pray that Hillary is not president. So I guess I know how you feel.

good witch of the north   April 14th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Obama did not say he was sorry, he only regrets he got caught! Country first–party second--NO OBAMA !!!!!!!!

Kenneth   April 14th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Isn't this like the tenth time McCain has run for President? The only reason why he has the nomination this time is because no real strong Replubican wanted to run now. Everyone knows that who ever the next President is will have to clean-up a huge mess. Also, the Replubicans felt like there was no way they could win in 08 because of Bush, so you had the real viable Republicans stay out of the race. So McCain the nomination by default. He needs to retire.

from Hill to Ob   April 14th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Elitism is code for Uppity... why do you think HRC and McCain are using it... they know who they're "base" is.

cdt   April 14th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Wake up we have been slepping for the last seven years. We have been taken by politicans promising us they are thinking of us. tragedy happens in our country it is okay we can send money around the world but not here to save our own people. A flood happens in a third world country it's awful I know but Katrina happened here nothing to say. Mccain can not talk about Obama he did not even vote for MLK holiday in Arz or what his supporter said Obama can keep Tiger Wood we have Mccain why Fox News ain't playing that over. Race is comng to head all you racist be careful of what you wish for I see trouble down this path you are going. You don't want Obama like you called MLK a communist now you act like he meant so much. You are trying to the same thing to Obama.

Bayou Joe   April 14th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

That's it McCain stay above the fray. Let the Demos destroy themselves. Obama is doing a good job of destroying the Democratic base.

Hillary hit the nail on the head when she said that the Democratic party is out of step with the American public. Amen to that.

i'll say it   April 14th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McCain is right.

If not Hillary in Nov, then I go with McCain.

Honestly, us old hippy activists lifelong democrats who have always voted democratic... ask yourselves, where has it gotten you?

We are centrist liberals- not left wingers... So Hillary or then McCain reflect our values and protect our interests better than Obama.

Time to see the writing on the wall. The democratic party is not us anymore... it is the hateful, insulting vulgar young Obama supporters.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 14th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

McCain's street is paved in gold so why even bother to comment.

dbacchus   April 14th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

McShame and HRC should really go hunting duck together. I even hope they will take Cheney with them :) ))

Slowpoke   April 14th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

McCain's Net Worth: 41 Million
Obama's Net Worth: 1 Million

Stavy   April 14th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Mcwar, who left his wife and kids for a rich Cindy. I guess you could not resist an elitist lifestyle.

HH   April 14th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

A barely millionaire Obama is called elitist by multimillionaires McCain and Clinton. Now that is funny.

Jazz   April 14th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

How rich! McCain and Clinton who live on hundreds of millions of dollars are going to criticize Obama who lives on far, far less. They're in touch with the down and out voters? Give me a break!

sherry   April 14th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Obama just says one stupid thing after the other, then says he sorry and and states "what I meant to say was..."

Obama please just drop out of the race. You're not presidential material and are hurting the Democratic Party.

ropol, Wyo   April 14th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Isn't an eltist someone who is so arrogant that he would support a bad idea (this war) for the sole reason that he thinks it is a good one and the rest of us just aren't smart enough to know McCain has it right and we don't?

Isn't it also curious that Mccain and Clinton have the same talking points? Wow...we do need a change!

Abrams-Seattle   April 14th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I think the point is that if clinging to guns and Bibles doesn't seem to be easing your bitterness, then maybe there's something else to be tried.

123   April 14th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I am offended by Obama's use of the term "ordinary people" on American Idol. Who is he calling "ordinary?"

Wallace   April 14th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I wonder to McCain know what elitist means or does he have someone telling how to spell and talk as well. He just can't seem to remember any names or what he say after giving speeches.

Jennie Ramsey   April 14th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Susie,

Give me a break, you were never planning on voting for Obama anyway. Your just hoping people read your comment and go the same direction you did....By the way, I know you and this isn't my real e-mail. Guess who I am???

fred   April 14th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

McCain will win if Hillary isn't the nominee!!

Obama is tooo stupid, he proves it more and more everyday.

Down with Obama!!

Get out now Obama!!

Kentucky   April 14th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Obama is an elitist. McCain is hoping Obama is the nominee.

Marla   April 14th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Elitist? Whose a multimillionaire son of a long line of Admirals? Whose beer fortune pays for multiple homes and a private jet?

And who started his career as a community organizer, working for the voices of the oppressed?

The difference is clear, and Obama wins.

Tony   April 14th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

You hit it right on the head, but I take it a step further, he thinks he is a aristocrat! The next mistake he will make to middle America is "Let them eat cake"! Hillery in 08!

Jo, ATL GA   April 14th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

The guy is a fraud. I wonder why american's can't see that. A vote for Obama in the primaries is a vote for third Bush term.

Joseph Adewole   April 14th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Does he know the meaning? How can someone that is not well educated rule America?

Angel   April 14th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Mcain is a fool and has no room to call Obama an elitst. Mcain supports the same failed policy as George Bush does.

Obama 08 enough said

Ms. GA   April 14th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Funny! 2 Elitist calling another person one. WOW! McCain and Clinton are the elitist

Alexandra   April 14th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

And what do you know about economics?
Even my 5yr old has a better proposal to curb the mortgage crises.
John you are toast!

Heather   April 14th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

I pray that for the sake of my children Obama does not become our president...that would be a truly sad day for our country.

Reality Check   April 14th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

The Republicans are going to hammer Obama over Obama's unbelievable comments. Obama will never win in Nov. because he can't win swing states (Ohio, TN, AK, NH, NM, Fl, MI, PA) and now he will push the Reagan Democrats back to the Republicans with his anti-religion, anti-gun, and anti-white people comments.
Sen. Clinton is the only Democrat who can win in Nov.

steve   April 14th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Please will the real elitist please stand up.

Susie   April 14th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Hillary is the only one that can beat McCain in the general election. The Republican machine has way too much ammo on Obama now.
My friends have switched to Hillary because of the weekend drama over Obama's condescending remarks regarding Pennsylvania folk.

Cathy   April 14th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

McCain, from one minute to the next you don't know what your own position is on the real issues. Your whole platform is on a total US government lie....the Iraq war. So please don't comment on anything else because most Americans know you don't care about anything or anybody else.

A matter of fact, what's your position today on the housing crisis...???

McCain or Hillary '08   April 14th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

And I hope the first thing President McCain does is raise the voting age to 25.

Rich, New York   April 14th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Obama, the typical politician. Where the hope has gone? The more this presidential race goes on the more we see who really is Obama.

Eric...wake up.   April 14th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

You know, Obama said these comments in the wrong way, but he is right in what he was trying to say. People are discouraged by politics and washington and they don't vote on issues like the economy because they are always let down.

I don't like mccain saying 'america is great this, and the america i know should be proud that..' That is a bunch of lies. This nation is in trouble and i dont know if Obama is the guy who can fix it, but at least he recognizes that this country isn't a fairytale anymore. This isnt the land of opportunity anymore, and someone needs to step up and say they aren't ok with the status quo and they won't go try and fix everyone elses country. Someone needs to say America is broken, and i care enough about it to fix it.

Mccain and hillary are fine to just stand around and say america is great and the people are great, they need a reality check. To me, thinking this country is doing well, that is the true elitist remark. Wake up.

Justin   April 14th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

McCain has a higher net worth than Obama and he is part of the big business party. I would say McCain is the elitist.

gene   April 14th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

I was just wondering why CNN allows the derogatory Clinton and McCain name calling and when I say something (even if it is true) about Obama, my comments disappear off the screen. It must be my computer, I am going to have to have it checked .

Brown   April 14th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I do respect McCain because he doesn't use gutter politics to get his point across unlike Hillary. Hillary has stepped on Obama every time he makes a mistake. Did any one hear Obama talking about Bill and Hillary lies. Let's be real. That last two presidents that were liars were almosted impeached (Bill and Nixon). Hillary is ready on day one to continue the lie legacy.

Now for Obama   April 14th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

gery

and it seems like the uneducated old people are trying to ruin America by supporting Hillary :)

Venus   April 14th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Yea! Heads up McSane – you are next on the list! First we must finish Hillary and Bill Clinton OFF!

Johnny Boy   April 14th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

WHAT????? This guy is worth, like a zillion bucks. His wife is loaded. John, I am a fellow Navy man, but this too funny, you of all people calling him an "elitist" I know why you are running. You are the "yes man" of the GOP. The GOP knew, and still knows now that they are finished due to Bush, and they had to find someone to run for the GOP. Sorry it had to be you.

Jennie Ramsey   April 14th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

You know Hillary is trying so hard to win this nomination, which by the way she never will, that she is saying and doing everything and anything possible to make Obama look bad in everyones eyes. At the same time she is ruining the Democratic party, It's "if I don't get it, I'm sure as hell going to make sure that Obama doesn't get it either". She had to distract comments regarding Bosnia away from her by talking about the "Gun/Church thing" . She's pathetic!

SayNoToHillaryBillaryCheslaryClintrous   April 14th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Look who is talking MCsame calling obama's comment elitist give me a break. Go retire old man we do not expect anything from a 72 years old man. He belongs to the nursing home he had his time this is a battle for the new generation.

gery   April 14th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Let's face it. This is a high school popularity contest and the high school kids are lifting Obama to be president.

mary-NH   April 14th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

John McCain calling Obama 'elitist'??? Oh, just keep it coming McCain. You are such a moron.

HATTIE   April 14th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Poor Grandpa McCain... being rich like yourself and Clinton makes you elitist not poorly chosen words...

GO OBAMA '08

PA for Obama   April 14th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

We are not stupid. We know that McCain and Clinton are the elitist. Both are more interested in influencing big business that supporting the little person. Yes, I am bitter about the state of our economy. Obama is the only one that can feel the sting of that bitterness.

lbh   April 14th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

He is elitist and hyprocrite! He laughes at someone else while he himself does same thing. Well, he is worse, he did drugs, he got money from lobist and the $ he admited is 100,000 or more different than later found out, he also lied a lot about his pastor!

King of NJ   April 14th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

O realy McCain .... thats funny I heard you own 8 houses! and you dont want to even address this housing mess!
you my man are Bush the sequel!

Now for Obama   April 14th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Hillary should just go back to being a republican

Uncle Sam   April 14th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

When do the Democrats and Republicans start to work together?

Unshrub   April 14th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

When McCain first heard someone call Obama an elitist he was upset because he thought the Republicans were the elitists until an aide told him that was a bad thing.

BIG PETE SR.   April 14th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Sen. McCain try and remenber who we are figthing in this war that you plan on figthing for the next 100 years!and why don't you go ahead a pick Sen. Clinton as your running mate since she is doing all of your dirty work while claiming to be a Democrat.The two of you are a prefect match!but remeber this when the General Election start you will see the full force of how we support our canidate;in time and money!that is why the republician party needs to fear Sen. Obama,because the people of this country wants our country back!and our battle cry is " YES WE CAN"!

Angus McDugan   April 14th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Alex H – I would love to agree with you, but the reason I am supprised is that the news in all types of media have drifted to a more tabloid format.

Casy   April 14th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

I happen to agree with McCain. People want to mention that Obama apologized. Well his apology means NOTHING! I believe Obama spoke what he truly felt! He made these comments at a closed door event in CA! He had no idea that they would get out! Now that they have, he want to apologize–well it is a bit too late for the apology we can see right thru it!!

carlo   April 14th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

John and Cindy, owners of eight-that's right, count em-eight-homes, Cindy of the beer heiress fortune, Johnny boy of the admiral father and grandfather, are the REAL elitist. With the exception of his time as a POW (and BTW I respect POWS-my uncle was one, my grandfather died as a POW in Korea, and my father is a Vietnam vet, so don't get indignant with me), McCain has never had to struggle for any freakin thing. Hundreds of thousands of brave men and women came back from Vietnam, and THEY didn't get a hero's welcome. A lot of them still suffer from PTSD and are drug addicts and homeless. If he weren't the son and grandson of admirals, he'd never be able to run for president. Obama and his wife just finished paying off their student loans for crying out loud. That's hardly elitist.

NW Independent   April 14th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Obama is finished in the general. The Reps will make HRC's attacks look like childs play. She has had to play with kids gloves for fear of alienating the base. The Reps. have no such problem. They know thaey can't win over the left side of the Dem. party anyway so they'll shoot for the moderates, white blue collar dems. and independents and these attacks will resonate.

hello   April 14th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

The way Obama is going he will beat clinton to become elitist with in may be one year.
Don't blame clinton he did not rob any body to became rich he earned it by giving speech.

caroline berney   April 14th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

His background could have created elitism, growing up in a upper scale neighbourhood, going to a private high school being sent to Harvard. I find him condensending which is the worse of two evils and can barely stand listening to him.

sal   April 14th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

shut up john mccain. you don't even have an economic plan and you wanna criticize others.

Think About It   April 14th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Look, Hillary has out republican'ed McCain!

Sue   April 14th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Obama can justify what he does? Hillary can't? Double standard here. What he said is not true!! A way of life has nothing to do with being bitter over a job loss. Obama's true colors come out!! Between Wright, this statement and the Bill Ayers issues we are slowly learning about the true Obama.

Darth Vadik, CA   April 14th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Uncle Sam,

stop trying to sound smart, it just doesn't suit you

Obama Two Thousand Never   April 14th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Obama is a cheap talker. I will see all these Obama supporters in 4 years, lining up to vote for someone else. Most probably a republican candidate. People like Obama inspire in public, conspire in private closed chambers and the younger stupid people do not see the difference.

Darth Vadik, CA   April 14th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

McCain is a moron, Hillary already tried this tactic and got jeered, no wonder this idiot doesn't get that if something doesn't work and backfires on you, maybe its not a good idea do try it again.

But then again, with McCain there is Iraq...

Alex H   April 14th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

YOU NEED TO KNOW – Or you're a conservative/republican lol

Lee WV   April 14th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

What is McCain thinking?He uses this stratagy now to try to get Obama voted out ,then what will he use against Clinton in Nov?There is only 1 Elitist in this race but I won't mention her name.

Oregon IS Obama   April 14th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

McCain is old so i understand his misguided statement , Clinton is just living in another planet.

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   April 14th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Only in the corporate media can Washington Elitists, like Clinton and McSame, take words out of context and twist them to accuse someone else, who still lives in the REAL world, of elitism.

Typical Washingion Doublespeak! This is what this great nation is tired of!

McSame/Clinton in 2008.........................................for more of the same!

Alex H   April 14th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Angus McDugan – Conservative radio uses EVERYTHING as a forum to revisit the Rev. Wright discussion. This is the news, it has decency for factual statements.

Uncle Sam   April 14th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Well said John. A man is known by the company he keeps and the words he utters. Supporters of Sen. Obama are doing him a disservice by shielding him from continued missteps that will inevitably doom his presidential bid. Although gifted, Mr. Obama is immature, personally and politically, and his intellectual arrogance prevents him from acknowledging his weaknesses and thus learning from them.

Americans for McCain '08

Scott   April 14th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Blah Blah Blah.. This isn't even news.

NELSON Colorado Springs, Co   April 14th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

will please let know what is a "Elities

PA   April 14th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

We have suffered for eight years due to Bush. NO WAY are we putting up with four more of the same!

NO JOBS+ NO HEALTH CARE= NO MCCAIN

Darth Vadik, CA   April 14th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Talk about the pot caling the kettle black.

I don't get this at all, why are we so affraid of the truth, why do we feel like some things should be swept under the carpet hoping that the problems would go away. How about we discuss and deal with them....

ah heck, thats too hard, I'll just go watch American Idol.

HYPOCRACY 08   April 14th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Curious how many people come on this thread and call McCain an elitest... and dog him for calling Obama one (which he didn't do)...

I think he was smart to keep a little clear of this... he doesn't have to say much cause the dems are killing themselves...

November will be interesting for sure...

Tampa   April 14th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Hmmn...Changing the tone of your economy solutions to match the dems after 3 trys? Elitist? Besides, old guys running for president are so 4 years ago...

YOU NEED TO KNOW   April 14th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Obama has Already stated that he chose his words badly and he has apologized for that.

But when you really search yourselves you know the meaning of what he was saying is true.

If you are not angry and bitter about jobs being sent overseas then you are not in touch with what's going on.

Angus McDugan   April 14th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I am supprised that Obama's comments have not yet been used as a forum to revisit the Rev. Wright discussion.

Angus in 08!

Stacy Clarks, TX   April 14th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Yet he has no problem sending young men and women to die in a war that was not meant to be fought in the first place

and support the funding of a war of a country that has A SURPLUS!!!

OBAMA 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

anthony   April 14th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

lets be honest mccain has no chance to win after 8 years of bush.......even if he is diff. then bush. noone can tell.

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