April 15, 2008
Posted: 11:50 AM ET
CNN

Watch portions of McCain's speech Tuesday.

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania (CNN) – An end to earmarks, a gas-tax holiday, government-backed mortgages — they're all part of an economic-revival plan that a top aide to GOP Sen. John McCain described Tuesday as "big and ambitious."

The presumed Republican nominee also wants to create an alternative system for paying income taxes and double the income tax exemption for dependents, McCain said during a Tuesday speech at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.

The senator from Arizona is proposing an income tax system that offers two basic rates and a "generous standard deduction," he said. McCain would let Americans choose between the new system and the present one.

Full story

Filed under: John McCain


Darth Vadik, CA   April 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Why don't I let thieves guard my house while I'm on vacation.

***AMERICAN***   April 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

The more I read the more I like.

Get the facts not the hype!

PA   April 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Too little - Too late!! No more Bush/McCain!
We need a change in Washington!
Obama 2008

Lou   April 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Guess what else his plan does? Gives tax breaks to Exxon Oil. And they are campaigning on that issue! If the dems lose this year, they should just dismantle the party because there is no hope.

Nobillary Andobama   April 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

The Recession….Liberal style

spoiled rotten Americans = Americans who think the government should bail them out from their SELF INDUCED financial problems = an "Entitlement" society = spending money on luxury instead of saving it = lots of debt = complaining that it is the government's fault that they are in debt = media fueled claims of a recession = looking to the government to bail you out = Barack Obama supporters = spoiled rotten Americans….

it sure is a vicious circle….it spins to the left in case you were wondering

America….if you think Obama will personally solve your economic problems because he makes a rousing motivational speech or will wave a magic wand if he is elected and all will be well….WAKE UP!

"HOPE" is not a method….just a nice sound bite

April in Texas   April 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Good grief McCain. Its a tad late on the promises. We already heard many from Bush who never followed through on them. I refuse to be swayed by a flip flopper and who admitedly said he doesnt really get economics. Saying and doing anything to win is just what Hillary has been trying to do and it isnt working for her.

Btw, do you still think the soonies and shi'iats are playing nice with each other?

Obama 08

frank   April 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

I still believe that Hilary lied again that the father tought her to shoot, please can someone bring her to shooting contest, she couldn't measure well in bowlling, cos she always lie to know the best of all nonesens.
someone should take up to confirm this invislbe lie of her father teaching her to shoot. it's a typical lie

What?   April 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

a gas tax holiday? excuse me? When the government should be working (and spending) to pull the country out of crisis and help with mortgages and the sub prime crisis, McCain wants to help oil companies? Those ones with record profits that should be translated into tax revenue? I am ashamed that lobbyists have this much influence

Chuck   April 15th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I find it interesting that McCain wants to cut all government spending except for the WAR. Let Americans suffer at home in the cities and rural areas while America fights a war that can not be won. It seems like he does not remember war that could not be won in Vietnam. If you cut taxes, everyone should be cut.

Brendan D, Niles, IL   April 15th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

>>The senator from Arizona is proposing an income tax system that offers two basic rates and a "generous standard deduction," he said. McCain would let Americans choose between the new system and the present one.<<

So he wants to keep the old system, which doesn't work, in place, while pushing for a new system that is basically a revamping of the old one. The man's an economic genius, ladies and gentlemen — so much so that he can't stay in an intellectual economic debate with even Mike Huckabee.

richard, Coweta Ok   April 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I agree Darth. I wouldn't trust the Demoncrats to watch my house either.

bill in pa   April 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

A gas tax holiday??? You mean they're going to drop the eighteen cent a gallon federal excise tax. Whatever will I do with that windfall. How about collecting the money from Exxon they were fined over the Valdez? So far the taxpayers are stuck with that bill.

Ready for Change   April 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

I wish when all the republicans who were elected to change the way the country was run in 92 had fulfilled their promises. I'm ready for much much smaller government, much much lower taxes, much much less "help". Unfortunately, the republicans ended up being huge spenders, liars, thieves, and perverts.

The only reason I would even consider John McCain, is because the other republicans seem to dislike him.

He at least seems to say what he thinks, say what he really believes, and not pander or look down his nose at the rest of us "bitter" voters.

Paris   April 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

John McCain 08
Finally someone with a plan that could actually work.
America needs character and substance more than ever and McCain is the only one that qualifies.
John McCain 08

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   April 15th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

He is planning for nothing!!! His plans will never come into fruition!!! Thank God!!!

Alan, Bonita Springs, FL   April 15th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

It all sounds good. Solid stuff. If only someone from the Republican party could be believed. Unfortunately, after what Bush has done to this country, after all the lies and mis-guided (re: idiotic) screw-ups, who in his right mind would put another guy from the same party in to keep going, regardless what he or she promises?

J.R.   April 15th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Sounds like an ambitious plan to expand the National Debt. Yay!

FEDUP   April 15th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

I watched this speech, I thought he did a good job of outlining his plan. He seemed to promise a lock box on Medi-care and Social Security. He is more middle of the road then most republicians. I think he could be a good second choice. I like some of his positions, must make me sorta middle of the road. A good balance of ideas.

Chris from San Antonio   April 15th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Hurray! Instead of paying $3.50 for a gallon of gas, we'll be paying $3.35. I can feel the economic burden easing already! What a brilliant plan, Mr. McCain. Er, I mean, Mr. President!

crx   April 15th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

This reaffirms my fear that McCain lacks a basic understanding of economic principles.
If the federal gas tax is removed, gas prices will not drop by $0.18. The price of gas will simply increase to compensate for the increased number of people that drive, negating any savings. If you lower a tax it will encourage greater usage of the good that is being taxed… isn't that the point of our upcoming tax rebate, to get us to spend more?
Anyone who has taken intro. micro-economics knows how supply and demand works. Apparently McCain hasn't.

Jimmy269   April 15th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

All good stuff - can't really argue with the man. I like the fact that he is proposing practical solutions and that he has the record to back it up, much unlike the Dem candidateds, who are too busy calling each other clever names to worry about solutions.

Cal   April 15th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

who cares if john mcsame is elected this country will be in for another 4 years of turmoil.

He may be a hero but hes a little crazy

10billion a month in iraq he wants to spend, but bail out fellow americans?

Linda   April 15th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Where did he get this? It isn't his idea. He seems incapable of doing anything without someone whispering in his ear. No thanks.

split   April 15th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Democrats have screwed themselves… it doesn't matter what McCain does.

The democratic party has been experiencing a slow split for the last 10 years.

Obama has accentuated and capitalized on that schism for personal political gain.

On one side you have the left wing elitists who intellectually embrace the idea of equality- but can not and do not put it into practice.

They continue to look down their noses at the less fortunate, who they label uneducated, and then profess to want to "save them".

They support Obama. Because of his skin color, African Americans also overwhelmingly support him, irregardless of political, educational or economic position

On the other side you have the lifelong democrats who are more centrist and populist. They believe in democracy and have protested marched and worked for equality. They see all Americans as one people with a shared future. They support Clinton.

We WILL NOT come together just for party loyalty and unity in Nov. We have a right and an obligation to support the BEST Candidate.

***AMERICAN***   April 15th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Why is this a tad too late? Did you say the same thing for Hill and Barak? Or are we just hypocrites?

Ifeanyi Azubike Houston Texas   April 15th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

The only choice McCain can give to us is between the very old and the very new; Politics as usual or a breath of fresh air. If I understand anything from what he said, we would be having a referedum to choose between the old tax code and the proposed one. Well I choose the new proposal: Obama.

Ilona Proud Canadian for Obama   April 15th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

To all Democrats.

Go to huffington post and read Frank Schaeffer's article, good news for Democrats. It is quite a lengthy read, but please read through to the end. You will be absolutely amazed about what you will learn. Share this with a friend.

Kev   April 15th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

It sounds good but you cant cut income without cutting spending.

So is he going increase the national debt or say where he is going to cut the spending?

kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama   April 15th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

And he wants to cut entilements!!! S.S. Medicare, Unemployment.
Do you know what that would do to our Country.? And he wants
to follow Bush footsteps in getting the Tax Cuts for the Rich Permanent. Some earmarks are absolutely necessary like fixing
the bridges so that people driving home from work will no drive off
into the ocean!!!!! If we vote Republican, that will be the last decline
of the people that are not rich and "elite".

Read my lips!   April 15th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

The federal gas tax is relatively small; 18 cents out of ~$3.50 (~5%). I for one am a fan of having money to upkeep our interstate systems. I prefer keeping my suspension system intact on the highway. But maybe that's just me.
Also, what would keep gas companies from raising prices? With no federal taxes, they can have gas cost the same at the pump with more profits for them!

McCain is a CORRUPTED elitist   April 15th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Some earmarks are good, some are bad.

some earmarks promote conservation, saving the environment, saving endangered species, afterschool programs in lower income neighborhorhoods, or saving the arts.
Other projects include ridiculously large sums of money for unnecessary
and extravagant things.

Getting rid of earmarks altogether is not a solution. Reforming the guidelines of earmarks so that it benefits communities and cleans our environment IS.

McCain is Corrupt and will create a larger economic gap between rich and poor if he becomes president. The work of an elitist.

mary cleveland, ohio   April 15th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

That is soooo funny! Why not let the thieves guard my house while I am on vacation!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I truly wonder how many people don't get that statement!

Really?   April 15th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

A Holiday from the gas tax? Like the rebates we're all about to get, and the famous tax cuts that McCain wants to make permanent (after he was against them), all of this is the biggest pander there is: give $$$ to everyone today without regard to how it is paid for. Between all of these giveaways, and the budget-busting wars, future generations will be saddled to eternity. At least if you enacted a stimulus package where the $$$ went to highway and other infrastructure building, future generations could actually have a return on the investment (i.e., debt to the Chinese) that they are being made to swallow.

AZM   April 15th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Now whay would he even waste his time trying to come up with ideas about the economy when we all now this election is about bashing the other person…. Oh… yea… that's right… he's not a democrat!

Carry on HRC vs BHO… Round 5, ding ding… hope it goes the distance!

kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama   April 15th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

A vote for McCain is a vote is a vote for Bush. McCain is a sneak.

Obi Wan Kenobi   April 15th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Darth Vadik….you think the force is strong in your elitist liberal candidate (Obama) because he looks pretty on camera and gives a great speech about how he will instantly make everything better for all us poor Americans who have been so horribly disenfranchised by their government (oh….but we still have the highest standard of living in the world by far).

But middle America, the heart and soul of this country (yes…the ones who are "bitter" and "turn to guns and religion"), will see through the evil plans of Obama and soon launch a rebellion against you and the Liberal Empire.

You have been seduced by the dark side of the force…socialist domestic policy, pro-terrorist foreign policy, pro-entitlement society, pro-Big Government.

May the force be with you….always

Jason, Omaha NE   April 15th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Yeah, that's a brilliant plan.

Stop Spending money IN AMERICA by cutting spending, and spend all our money IN IRAQ.

How Un American can John McCain get?

Cutiegirl@hotmail.com   April 15th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

McCain - Full of hot air - he is clueless about the economy!
Hillary - Supported NAFTA which took over 44,000 jobs overseas and right now her husband got $800,000 for another trade (Columbia) She cannot be trusted!
Obama - Wrong choice of words but the message was true and clear!
Hmmm lets see who is the best candidate!

My vote goes to Obama!

Dont cry when your sons or daughters are sent to war and dont cry when more of your jobs are sent overseas.
The WAR and TRADE deals are already in place Hillare/McCain are just waiting to take office to impliment it!

FEDUP   April 15th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Frank, you're off topic as usual. Since you insist on it:
I have heard what all the candidates have said, Hillary emblished her trip to Bosnia, lets call it a lie. Obama said he never heard Rev. Wright talk like we all heard, that is a lie. Obama then said he did hear it, but did not agree with it, a lie. Obama said Rev. Wright was his mentor, true. He recently said Wright was merely his pastor, lie. Rezko only contributed $125,000, Lie He receive no favors from Rezko,lie Rezkos' wife just happen to need a vacant lot at the same time Obama bought his house. The owner of both places required the lot to sell at the same time as the house? Obama claims he does not take donations from lobbist, lie. It is called bundling, a sneaky way to get the same thing. This is just the start of his lies. Dreams of My Father, trick the white folks by being courteous, smile a lot. He has certainly been successful at that trick.

Tim   April 15th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

I agree with you 'NoBillary'!

You folks that believe 'taxing' corporations and businesses is a good idea are a bit off. When you tax a corporation they will simply add this to the cost of doing business and place it right on the cost of the products that they sell to you with an added profit margin . . . so who pays? You do . . . or rather the people who use their products which in turn is a 'bigger tax hike'. Further, it is the 'government' and more specifically the Congress that has screwed the economy up and is responsible for sending the jobs over seas with their tax incentives to businesses and corporations to do so. And you want to have the 'Government' go in and fix it? What are you crazy? Take a good listen to what Obama and Clinton are calling for . . . 'More Government'! The best days of the year are the days that the Congress isn't in session so that they can't screw anything else up! It's all in the words by the way . . . 'pro' is the opposite of 'con' . . . progress as opposed to congress . . . Makes sense to me!!

mrtulip   April 15th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

War is different from economy, and he proves again that he doesn't know what he's talking about. Deal with the car manufactors and force a bill which reads: every car driving in the US shouldn't consume more than 2 gallon per 100 miles. That works, something the Europeans have been doing.

Rich Valenta   April 15th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

John McCain is proposing a summer gas tax holiday. Nebraska JUST raised the gas tax because the roads, bridges and the general infrastructure need work, the money that used to go to states for infrastructure rebuilding now goes to keep the war going and to rebuild Iraq.
John's "holiday proposal" means less money for rebuilding OUR country.
John, your the one who is out of touch with America, and you still don't know a thing about the economy!! (It's the infrastructure stupid).

Saad from NJ   April 15th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Targeting tax code and gas prices is great…. in fact, awesome…. hala loya… but how in God's name will we incorporate this lost revenue to Federal Government's sickening budget deficit, Iraq War, health care, social security and blah blah and more blah?

FNJ in Pa   April 15th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Too old too slow. Lets not vote for Bush's 3rd term? McCain over Hillary!

Obama 08

Jim G. Bethlehem,pa   April 15th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Yea, let's get rid of the gas taxes.That is real responsible. Let's make the trillion dollar debt worse than it is. This is so pathetic. That is the Republican answer to everything. Keep cutting taxes. Build the debt until China owns us outright!! Why not drop the subsidies for the oil companies and force them to pay a windfall profits tax. Then maybe you can afford to drop the gas tax..

Grif   April 15th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Re'arranging, and sharing the 'Load' always makes sense. If they're willing to carry it..

nicole jones   April 15th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I sincerely hope that Americans are paying attention to the standard rhetoric and promises being issued by McCain. The republican part has become infamous in its issuance of empty promises designed to pacify with a few extra bucks. This ideology is both empty and inadequate in combatting the serious issues we face: poverty, inflation, economic instability, etc. In my opinion McCain is simply offering up the same old agenda with a few new words designed to hook, don't be fooled!

I used to be a Democrat   April 15th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

All you people who say McCain is Bush… YOU ARE IDIOTS and BRAINWASHED and you are helping the Democrats lose.

That "argument" just won't fly. It didn't work in 1988, and it won't work in 2008.

Illinois   April 15th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

He actually had some good ideas. Makes me feel better knowing this information, especially since I may be voting for him in November.

RealityKing   April 15th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Reduce spending, end earmarks and double the income tax exemption for dependents???

Wow! It really doesn't take an economist..

Wake Up US   April 15th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Katie, FL I am sure your father is very proud to know that while he risks life and limb for his country you are partying! If the maoney you are raising is going to support Obama be sure to tell your Dad that your are supporting a campaign for a man who has a problem with "certain" members of the military-true heroes. In case you haven't heard, Obama said that he would repeal

Hydrogen Bob   April 15th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Ok, give a multi billion dollar break to drivers this summer at the pumps, but how are you going to make up the lost revenue? Who are you going to tax to pay for a gas tax holiday? There is no free lunch, someone will have to pay.

Chuck in Oregon   April 15th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

What? This is so wrong. Why should those with out children be penalized? Some people do not have kids because they can not afford them, they are too old to have them, or they just can not physically. Sorry, nothing personal for those of you that do have kids, but I do not feel that, but this is an unfair tax. Those without children even have to pay additional taxes for schools and such which is also unfair. It was your choice to have children, why should I have to pay more taxes so you can have children or more children?

ariel   April 15th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

I know this isn't the prevailing view, but I think Obama can beat the pants off this guy.

Darth Vadik, CA   April 15th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results, if you expect different results from McCain….

….then MY FRIEND, you are trully insane.

neocon is a neocon is a neocon

dmdns2727@yahoo.com   April 15th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

I will except anyone that the American people choose, but not the media. Are you listening Sean, Rush, Joe Scarborough, and the others? You will never pick my president.

California Girl   April 15th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Too little - Too late!! No more Bush/McCain!
We need a change in Washington!
Hillary 2008

Re: Peter Paul   April 15th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Does anyone have any kind of information on what is going on with the Peter Paul vs Clinton court case?

tks.

Hickory Is A Rat   April 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Seriously, is Hickory paying Saturday Not Live, Joe Scarborough and the others to keep her life line going? She is a piece of work, but it's not just her, it's the Democratic leaders who are prolonging this election. If we lose, it will be their fault.

Hickory will never be my president no matter what. She is worse than a mouse, she's a rat, with racist henchmen (Rendell) and others.

Lord Voldemort   April 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

why don't you CONSUMERS pay the taxes and send your children to war and let the corporations merge into monopolies and get subsidies from the government….

oh sorry,
you already did that,
my bad,
carry on….

mike   April 15th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

mccain is an idiot. destroy our country and cut the taxes stupid

nicole jones   April 15th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

tim,

In response to your comments about taxing corporations and the democratic party's call for more government, I have to ask, has the Republican approach of minimal governmental involvement been working? If you say yes, then who has it been working for. Yes, I agree that Congress has made less than productive decisions regarding our economy and the interests of our people, but I do not think that this is a reason to completely count them out. The government needs to take responsibility and become more involved in promoting betterment for its citizens. Likewise it is the duty of said citizens to both question there government and hold its representatives accountable! There is a biggervpicture than the peep hole view of our government that you are providing!

Franky   April 15th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

I gotta say, it wasn't that bad Senator…..but my favorite part was when he mentioned the "Department of Education". Well, in a sense he really didn't called them out but is a start…..

Seldom   April 15th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Hope may not be a method but isn't it the premise of hope tht we founded america on. Not allowing a cycle that was draining the hearts and souls of american people causing us to reject the standard? How can we not hope that people will wake up and pay attention. The biggest disparity between us is the education on what is needed to succeed. The education on how we can obtain and direct funds that carry us to our dream of america and where our lives fit in that dream after the congress, president and senate work to leave us in the dark! Making it so hard for us obtain the very things legal immigrants seem to have. Why is it almost every cigarette, liquor store etc. seems to be owned by someone not born here in the good ole U.S.A.

gigi   April 15th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Kathleen
Retired Professional
White Woman for Obama.

Don't you think you should change your title/name?
Are you for or against Obama?
Are you just trying to confuse everyone?

mccain is an evil   April 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

this guy is stupid we already pay so much taxes and we should just leave it the way it is. this guy is stupid funny sometimes because he thinks were fools to vote for his tricks. i hate this Bushes little puppy he needs to disappear from the media. his just another Bush to destroy our country and he has the stupid face like Bush.

Sharon, Seattle   April 15th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Lemme see, no jobs, can't afford to drive a car, can't even think about buying a home.

I don't care about an alternative system to paying income tax. We hardly have any income to tax. Earmark that!.

Lacy   April 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

hey Hillary…whom would you rather YOUR HOME PHONE at 3am? You or Bill? well, now you can decide…see ya !!
Lacy 4 Obama

Val   April 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

McCain / Romney 08!

Good luck to you Democracts in GE! It is becoming very unlikely that either one of your candidates will be in the WH come November. And I must tell you, this election was suppose to be a "given" to you.

Obi Wan Kenobi: great post. We need to fight to preserve our country for our children's sake. Thank you.

Alonzo Demetrius   April 15th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

McCain is right! Lower the taxes to make our economy stronger –it has always been true and always will be. My question to you Obama-maniacs is why do you want to pay even more taxes when you are already so bitter about what the government does to you?

j. king   April 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

split: what you wrote is quite startling to me and speaks to who you are. Please don't presume to speak for anyone but yourself. These broad statements are very damaging and quite false. The inference that people vote for obama because of skin color and people who vote for clinton are true democrats who care about equality is way off base. It's actually demeaning.

"They support Obama. Because of his skin color, African Americans also overwhelmingly support him, irregardless of political, educational or economic position"

dEMABRAT   April 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Well I watched the speech. I love when the Repugs talk about the Dems "big spending" habits when the Repugs are always the ones that bring us to a Trillion dollar war.

What was the SURPLUS when Clinton left office again? How many wars did we take part in? What was the employment rate?

Give me an F'in break

Bob   April 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

To kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama

You post a hundred messages a day…. Maybe you should come out of retirement and get a job. You make no sense ever, shouldnt you be golfing or something and leave the politics up to us people who actually have a reasonable amount of time left on earth.

Thanks

Walt   April 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Headline!!!!! McCain supports "no sales tax" on "Depends" for older Americans. His wife Cindy will sponsor the Viagra trials, held in the US Senate, for all those impudent old men. McCain recognizes the economic problems in America. He ought to, he was around when the Boston Tea Party took place!! He is the same as "W", only 100 years older. "Vietnamvetsagainstjohnmccain" web site tells it like it is. He was no hero, just the son of an Admiral. Read and hear the testomonials on the web site, then ask yourself if you want this phony for President.

McCain=McGoo   April 15th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

McGooism:

Blindly support a war that the American people are against. Follow the policies of an unpopular president. Why is he unpopular? Because he is fighting a war that the American people are against.

Uncle Sam   April 15th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

My request to my fellow Americans is simple. As you may know, I support John McCain for president. But whomever you support, I ask that we treat one another with respect and treat our next president with respect as well. If not, our country will be the poorer for it. Our president can lead the way, but it is up to us to make the changes in ourselves.

Walt   April 15th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

vietnamvetsagainstjohnmccain web site. CHECK IT OUT!!!!!

James Nelson   April 15th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Brilliant plan– increase oil consumption with this ridiculous "tax holiday" at a time when we should be learning to conserve. Followed by more tax gifts to the privileged at a time of record deficit!

Now, instead of foisting the staggering national debt off onto our children, we can foist it off onto our grandchildren!

How clueless and out of touch is this guy?!

Nando, Florida   April 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

MCCRAZY'S PLAN FOR ECONOMY.

1.
100 YEARS in IRAQ
2. INVADE IRAN with BOYS AND GIRL SCOUTS. Because thats all who's Left.

3. HAVE HIS WIFE SELL MORE BEER.

James, SC   April 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Chuck,

Your view is very accurate.

Wake up people. If you cut taxes on everything how will the government be funded? That means we borrow more money to cover the costs of running a nation. So the answer is: vote in an old out-of-touch racist to the office of the Presidency to provide more benefits to the super rich, throw some bones at the average citizen, and then charge our children the bill for his Presidency.

Yup, sounds good to me. I’m casting my vote for this guy.

frustrated in PA   April 15th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

All three of these candidates would have failed economics 101. They are career politicians who have never really worked in the private sector. And if I have to hear one more time from a Clinton supporter how great things were in the 90's I think I will go insane. Yes, everythng was alot better before 9/11 (does anyone even remember this event?). And as long as we are talking economy, it's the man-made global warming farce that is dragging part of this economy down. There is no such thing as a cheap alternative to oil. Let us drill for the oil that is under our feet.

jaci in oregon   April 15th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

dmdns, unfortunately there are a lot of ignorant, lazy lemmings out there that love those fools—rush, oreilly, hannity, etc—-and havent had an original thought since they decided it was time to take the training wheels off their bike.

why do you people believe what those fools say, they dont base anything on the TRUTH or critical thought. they are so out of touch with the truth of the real stories in the world and this country, and just spout the ridiculous republican talking points from the criminals in the white house—you know the ones, the "people" who sent your job overseas, lie to you on an hourly basis, and make you pay $3.50 for gas while they make record profits in the billions (kind of a weird coincidence, dont you think!?!??!). if you love all those things, then vote mccain!!!!

people dont just take their word at face value, do some research of your own. then you'll see a vote for mccain is a vote for more of this nightmare stuff!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 15th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I heard and watched John McCain read his speech and I believe it as much as I believe he understands economics 101. He only understands fighting wars and he's too old to truly understand how to move this country forward. If we want to continue having a "broken government" voting for McCain will take us 100 years backwards.

frustrated in PA   April 15th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

All three of these candidates would have failed economics 101. They are career politicians who never really worked in the private sector. The economy may have been great while the Clintons were in office but that was pre-9/11 (does anyone even remember 9/11)? The world has changed and it is reflected (often times very poorly) in our governing of the country. And while we are talking economics, it's the man-made global warming myth that is tearing down most of the economy. There is no such thing as a cheap alternative to oil. Let us drill for the billions of barrels under our feet.

Abe   April 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

You're all a bunch of idiots. Do you really think any of the three remaining candidates is qualified to run the country? We have only ourselves to blame.

Paris   April 15th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Democrats will always complain with no real solutions to offer.
McCain on the other hand is practical and offers solutions that can be implemented and
are cost effective. Obama has no clear plan and Hillary’s plan is too expensive.
John McCain 2008.

No Republicans in Whitehouse   April 15th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Clinton-Obama '08
Obama-Clinton '08

Either one.

0.18 cents per gallon does nothing to address the US dependency on oil - OR - to pay for the millions flying out of the country to IRAQ every month.

IRAQ is draining the US economy - as long as McCain supports the war - we can kiss our grandkids inheritence in a safe and rich country good bye!

nancy   April 15th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

CNN is a racist station, they allow comments about Chinese race as "basically the same bunch of goons and thugs they've been for the last 50 years" aired in its broadcasting.

Texican   April 15th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

You Obamicans need to get a life. Try working for a living. It's good for you.

Darth if you are trying to convince people to vote for Obama you are going about it the wrong way. Try using intelligent discourse to get your view point accross instead invectives direct at John McCain or Hillary Clinton. These two public servants and patriots deserve better from you.

Don't be bitter, you will lose to McCain. Not because of the Republican party, but because of loyal American Citizens that know the real thing from the cream puff candidate you guys support.

LucieLee   April 15th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

McCain sounds like a used car salesman~!!

Dave   April 15th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Nobody in John's camp would propose a simple-straight tax, rather a [h]oliday. I switched parties.

Diane   April 15th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

You really like Darth Vadik's, et al, ridiculous comments dont you. Its so obvious who you repeatedly post and who you dont. Keep them stupid I guess is CNN's motto… You post mostly anyone who fits into your agenda…..free press, what a joke.!!!..

Marsha, VT   April 15th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Why I don't like Hillary.

As a Democrat, I never thought I would see the day when one candidate would dislike another so much that they would do what the Clintons have done.

Jamal Simmons said it best when he talked about how his dad would turn his head when he and his brothers were having fights. It was not big deal. But he said they knew the rules, you couldn't hit your brother over the head with a brick, or push them down the stairs. They were family.

Hillary has broken those rules; she gave the GOP ammunition to attack Barack. I will never have respect for her again. In my eye she is a traitor and a snake who does not deserve to be in American politics.

kathleen retired Professional w/woman for obama   April 15th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Jockabee is back! Raising funds for the Republican party.
A Republican no matter what coat they wear will be the ruin
of our country . No earmarks! Well, yes they should be drastically
cut. But what about our bridges that crumble and Americans
drive off into the sunset into the Ocean on their way to work.
McCain put that up for a vote to bring attention to himself. He
blamed the Democrats because they wouldn't vote to end earmarks
for a year. No, they could'nt vote for that, McSlick new it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Some earmarks are important to the very existence Americans
Safety. He knew it and pulled a slick one on who he thinks is
"stupid" in America. A vote for ANY Republican will be the
RUIN OF OUR COUNTRY. A CONTINUATION OF BUSH. SO
YOU BETTER CHOOSE A DEMOCRAT. ONE OR THE OTHER.

Tricia, IN   April 15th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I will consider him if the Democratic election is stolen from Barack.

Obama 08

CNN   April 15th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

McCain wins if it's Obama, Hillary wins otherwise.

Stacy Clarks, TX   April 15th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Oh right, because givine TAXES TO THE BIG OIL COMPANIES, WHO ALREADY PROFIT OFF OF US IS THE ANSWER!!!

UNDER WHAT ROCK DID THIS GUY COME FROM?!?!

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

Richard, FL   April 15th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Democrats: Tax and Spend
Republicans: Spend

Dan Petersen   April 15th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

This guy looks old and out of touch. Will he be awake when the phone rings at 8pm?

Loretta Jarrett   April 15th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Hillary is out of touch with the common person. We in PA, especially southwestern PA are sick and tired of the negative ads. Can she not be positive? Is she that desperate. We in SW PA are angry, frustrated and in crisis. There are no jobs or prospects. Towns are closing down, like Brownsville, PA.; and there are little or no local police forces in little areas around Fayette County. The State Police have had to take on the resonsibilities. WE ARE BITTER. We get confomfort in various things, IE: religion, guns, etc. to get our minds off of our problems. It is a natural psychological reaction to bitterness, frustration, etc. In other countries, this could turn into a revolt. The government has forgotten us and do not hear us.
I HAVE MADE UP MY MIND TO VOTE FOR OBAMA. Shame on Hillary for being so negative and petty. She needs to get out of the race and quit giving the Republicans amunition to use.

Loretta Jarrett, Uniontown, PA

Ilona Proud Canadian   April 15th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Has anyone heard about Sen. Clinton having to change her usual one hour speech at the Philadelphia County Democratic Party's Jefferson-Jackson event, to a mere five minute talk??? This was due to rowdyism and heckling! I really think that her chickens are coming home to roost.

This is not an exaggeration check out the Huffington post etc. I hope that we will hear something about this from CNN.

DJ, LA, CA   April 15th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Raise spending and continue the Iraq war for 100 years, then launch an invasion of Iran and N. Korea….

While at the same time cutting government revenue and give special tax breaks to only people with children.

That make perfect sense to Bush/McCain! That way we get to keep being subservient to big oil so they can raise prices (again) because McCain will cut FEDERAL gas tax. Also the states can raise gas tax to fill the void.

bob in L.A.   April 15th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

McCain is a nice old man that should just show up and smile at people. He is so out of touch with mainstream America that its almost sad.
No new taxes to pay for his prolonged war plans. Cut the gas tax which should be being used to correct our infrastructure and find alternative forms of engery. What's next? Maybe we should consider letting vets of the vietman war re-enlist if they want to fight in Iraq so that we can keep our forces numbers up. Who cares if they would be in their 50's or older now? Just as long as we keep fighting for…Why are we there?

DJ, LA, CA   April 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Government backed mortgages? Let the corrupt real estate robber barons hike variable interests rates as high as they want, let people that can't afford homes or are merely speculators, gouge the taxpayers when they make bad decisions?

Richard Jarrett   April 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I agree with my wife. There is little to no tax base in Fayette County and the schools are in bad shape. The education for our young has deteroriated. The local politicians are corrupt and I feel are largely behind the drug problem. (IE Kick backs.) It seems like everyone is selling drugs of form or another.

Steve   April 15th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

What's this? A presidential candidate has laid out their plans. What blasphemy! I thought politicians were just suppose to bad mouth each other and talk in generalities.

Jim Mackle - Phila. Pa.   April 15th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

The most, unnecessary and costly earmarks in 2007/2008.

HILLARY CLINTON.

Delaware   April 15th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

. Stop all the division about race and let us elected a good democratic president in the white house. Obama has no explanation to make to no body or no race group because he did not mention any race that was bitter with guns and religion. The comment was about Americans that live in rural PA and I far that I am concern there are all different races of people living in those region.
People come on! This is almost the end of the 21st century and you have not over this nonsense yet. America if you did not know is a country that is compose of many races of people and I do not think there is a single one of us that is more American than others.
Welcome back Anderson.

L MIAMI FLORIDA   April 15th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

WHILE DEPENDS USER =GRANDPA MACSAME TALKS SCRAPPY
ECONOMICS,
=OBAMA =MUST BE PREPARING = HIS BITTER SPEECH , =HIS CRACK SPEECH , AND =HIS GAY SPEECH !

GO HILLARY=== A REAL WORKING HORSE !

Steve   April 15th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Get rid of horrible Obama and Clinton.

Both are total losers who will kill this country; and send it into a downward sprial we will never recover from.

NH for the left   April 15th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

"CONCORD, NH – Rep. Betty Hall, D-Brookline, had plenty of company Monday in urging the state legislature to impeach President Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney."

Mike   April 15th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Just look how the liberal insane behave…………….you have Hillary & Obama-sama as example. It would be terrible to go through any full term of THAT! NO WAY. barf.

Washington State Republicans   April 15th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Way to go John!

Finally a candidate we can trust for both change and experience.

You da man!!

Ed Fl   April 15th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Judging by Mccain military flight record/history he doesn't have a very good record involving TARGETS unles it is a woman that he is targeting.

sacto joe   April 15th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

(NOTE: This is FAR, FAR more relevant than Obama's "bitter" comment, and yet we don't see a media circus being made out of it!)

This is a really stupid idea. 18 cents is NOTHING compared to the money Big Energy is ripping the U.S. consumer off for!

A far better idea is to give a "tax rebate card" based on how wealthy you are ( the more money you have the less rebate you get), and then RAISE the tax to something like $3.00 a gallon!

This would directly target the Hummers and other fuel guzzlers who presently zip past at 80 MPH because they've got more money than God.

AJ, IL   April 15th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

A summer tax break on gasoline? Sounds good?!?! This tax break is smart politically, but dumb economically.

The gasoline tax goes into a transportation fund that is used to inspect, repair, and build bridges and roads, new and old. This tax amounts to billions of dollars (some say ~$9 billion in the summer driving season alone).

Without the gasoline tax, some other tax will be needed to make up the revenue lost. If no news or additional taxes are imposed, then America borrows the money from countries like China which then includes the national deficit. One other option exists which for the Department of Transportation to simply stop repairing the roads and bridges over the summer.

Dumb! Dumb! Dumb! Dumb! Dumb!

DM, Arlington TX   April 15th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

My one question to Senator John McCain,

If you reduce the amount of money via tax that the government have to for the purpose of paying down the Nations Debt and to operate how will you do this.

McCain Plan is really just another RobinHood Plan.

While he have you distracted Rich and Powerful is just getting richer….

The Dollar will never be equal in the world again…

Thanks John….

The US Dollar $1.00 is value at $ .55 on the world stage.

It will never be equal until we pay off our debt.

jaci in oregon   April 15th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

"Way to go John! Finally a candidate we can trust for both change and experience."

this has got to be a joke. change? mccain? what on earth are you talking about?!?! go look up his career voting record people! he's always voted for big business, against the environment, and he thinks iraq is a success and invading iran is a good idea?!?! he physically attacks people and called his wife a vile name IN FRONT OF THE PRESS—what part of ANY of those traits makes you think that old lunatic would make a good president. jiminy christmas people, have some self-respect and quit backing a guy who cares NOTHING for you or the safety of this country!

NH   April 15th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

to Chuck in Oregon

Go ahead and complain about having to pay taxes to build schools. The result of uneducated children is what you see now.. Morons going to the voting booths and voting GW Bush in for a second term. and their kids that vote republican just because their daddy does.

You may not have kids, but those kids that are going to those schools that you pay for are the decision makers of tomorrow. So you'd better hope that they're getting a good education.

Dan (TX)   April 15th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Politically attractive, but stupid economically!

What happens when gasoline hits $5-6 dollars a gallon next year? Do we start getting rebates based on consumption??

Keep the reasonable federal tax in place, but spend the funds wisely instead. Gee, what a concept! :)

k8   April 15th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

This is one of the dumber things I've ever heard.

The federal gas tax only takes out about 18 cents per gallon, whereas exxonmobil, Chevron, and other polluting fossil fuel corporations get around $2.30 out of our $3.29 per gallon gasoline.

Mean while, the federal gas tax is the primary fund for important transportation projects. remember that big bridge collapse last year? The less funding transportation gets, the more like that we'll see.

kathleen   April 15th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Look folks, you will vote for McCain if Hillary or Barack don't please
your ticket. We, read up. F-ckabee will be convincing the evangelicals
to vote Republican, so they won't need your vote. McSlick is tricking
us everyday!!! Earmarks? Recipes from Cindy, "Elitist" remarks!
Vote for Him, yes and kiss American Soldiers lives goodbye and
entitlements. He voted AGAINST the GI Bill just very recently. Kid
yourselves!!! and GROW UP.He don't need your stupid vote. Read up!!

one nation under god!!!!   April 15th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Pay attention dems this is how you lead.

one nation under god!!!!   April 15th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Raising tasxes will never fix anything you knuckleheads

one nation under god!!!!   April 15th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

typical libs when all else fails insult a great man like McCaine

one nation under god!!!!   April 15th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

hey dems mainly obama supporters,promise me youll leave the country when McCaine wins in a landslide.Oh yea i forgot immagrating to another country is hard,i keep thinking its as easy as it is for mexicans

JOSH   April 15th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Wow, smells fishy to me. This reminds me of the time Obama said he never heard any controversial remarks from Wright, then two days later admitted he had heard them. I bet in a week or two his memory will clear up and he can recall being at this party.
FOX NEWS PLEASE LOOK AT THE NEW STORY WITH TONY RESKO AND OBAMA ON THE CHICAGO SUN TIMES OH MY GOD OBAMA IS A LIAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!

AZM   April 15th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Nice to see you started working on ideas John… might as well do something while the other two spend their time kicking each other in the teeth…. they keep it up just a few more months and you can start moving your things into the white house!

No bashing… just ideas… nice change…

Thanks for the article CNN!

WhosehadEnough   April 15th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

Who does Sen. McCain think he's fooling? Everyone knows right before the general election,,,,,the Saudi's are going to flood the oil market, making the price of gas go down.

Our country screwed up…..while countries in Europe and Japan were investing in high-speed rail lines….America was busy investing in widening our highways.

Bryant   April 15th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

Thanks for the plan John, but wouldn't it make sense to curb unnecessary spending on "useless and outdated" government programs AND put an end to the seemingly limitless spending in Iraq? Funding for schools and the homeland security programs are also part of the programs set to be "freezed" if McCain becomes president. Also, your proposed gas tax cuts seem great however the cuts would lead to an increased demand which would in turn send the already record setting oil prices through the roof! Would be a great Labor Day present for all of us when we are forced to pay 5.50 for a gallon of gas instead of 4.He was right, the economy is not his strong point.

Eric   April 15th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

McCain graduated near the bottom of his Navy School, Obama graduated near the top (or at) of Harvard's Law school………who would you pick for the job?

60 YO white female , Springfield, VA   April 15th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Yeah, suspend the federal tax and the state tax will probably rise!

Obama 08

Bukky   April 15th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Instead of a gas tax holiday how about
1) Requiring better MPG for cars
2) HIGHER taxes for the idiots that wanna drive cars that get 8MPG
3) Actually find out HOW ppl are stuggling to buy gas but exxon in RAKING in the loot and STILL getting tax breaks
4) How about NO tax breaks for companies posting profits and more for airline industry that is sinking BECAUASE of gas prices.

Instead of MORE TAX CUTS how about
1) Bringing DOWN the national debt so the dollar can get out of the crapper.

He has all these ideas to put more money in the pockets of rich people but its not rich people that are suffering…

Richenel   April 15th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

I am so glad that i am a citizen of the EU.

EURO is going stronger and stronger as long as your funny republicans stay there on their throne.

Obama 2008!

DJ, LA, CA   April 15th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

How about RAISING gas tax for all SUV's and LOWERING taxes for the rest of us.

All these Hummers, Gas-hogs and what not that people drive for status or make them feel more secure should be penalized for driving-up the fuel demand 200% from 15 years ago before all these gas guzzlers were on the road.

Yeah and all it would take is making Congress ban NEW auto sales of vehicles that get less than 20mpg except for business-related trucks.

Cal Jim 2   April 15th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

Dear John, I want to thank you for your service to our country, over the years. This country is lucky to have a man, of your high character, running for our highest office. As a democrate, I am pulling for Hillary, but if the anti- American, gets the nomination, due to the extream far leftist, infesting our party. I feel very comfortable, and even honored, voting for a republican, with your stellar history. I think you have a good and needed point, with the gas tax issue you mentioned, for this summer. I hope it comes to be. A few more brakes to the public, would be good. God knows, we can use a few more brakes about now. I believe that you are not only a man of your word, but a man of the people as well. All Americans needs is a fare shake, to get us going again. You know, a hand, not a handout. Whatever happens in this Presidential cycle,God bless you and protect you. You are truely one of the toughest Americans, and honorable patriots, to come along in my lifetime. Jim.

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