April 18, 2008
Posted: 04:20 PM ET

From
Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama.
Sens. John McCain and Barack Obama.

(CNN) — John McCain's campaign is crying foul over what it characterizes as repeated distortions from Barack Obama, saying on Friday the Illinois senator is "recklessly dishonest."

The most recent dustup comes after Obama criticized McCain earlier Friday for comments the Arizona senator made in an interview on Bloomberg Television.

"John McCain went on television and said that there has been quote "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years," Obama told a Pennsylvania crowd. "John McCain thinks our economy has made great progress under George W. Bush. Now, how could somebody who has been traveling across this country, somebody who came to Erie, PA, say we've made great progress?”

The McCain campaign immediately took issue with the comment, noting the Arizona senator also said he knows families are facing "tremendous economic challenges."

“American families are hurting and Barack Obama is being recklessly dishonest," McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds said. "It is clear that Barack Obama is intentionally twisting John McCain’s words completely out of context. Obama is guilty of deliberately distorting John McCain’s comments for pure political gain, which is exactly what Senator Obama was complaining about just yesterday."

The McCain campaign has long argued Obama has a habit of twisting the presumptive Republican nominee's words. Referencing McCain's comments earlier this year when he said he'd be okay with some troop presence in Iraq for 100 years, Obama has said the Arizona senator "wants to continue a war in Iraq perhaps as long as 100 years."

The non-partisan factcheck.org later called that characterization a "rank falsehood."

Obama has since dialed back from that characterization, saying Friday that McCain is "willing to potentially maintain the troop presence there for as long as 100 years."

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


Molly   April 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Oh the fake outrage is so convincing. Bowl me over. Go ahead and question Obama on irrelevant stuff, whatever. It's not moral outrage about the questioning of Obama, it's just that most Americans simply don't care anymore. We want fair pay, housing, health care, and to get out of Iraq!

Readers   April 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

How does it feel?

When asked if he had intelligence on where Bin Ladin is in Pakistan, he said he would go after him, and McCain cried like a baby saying BHO was planning to attack Pakistan.

When McCain was giving a speech he said "I would follow Bin Ladin even to the gates of Hell"… i.e i guess if he had sources that Bin was in Pakistan, then he would go after him also.

Hmmmmmmm, so who is the twister?????????????????????

OBAMA '08

Ig   April 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Right on Jane. DEMOCRATES UNITE!!!!

William   April 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I find it funny that they call foul when Barack points out words "out of context" yet the instant he may say something they are all over his word choice. If you can not take it do not make it.

Obama'08-'16

Earl R.   April 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Obama only wants to bring about change in DC because he does not know and is too inexperienced to know how politics in the national level works.

I have spoken   April 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

McCain is physically and mentally inept. Period.

Alex H   April 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Hey, CNN, how about you report a WHOLE STORY!

You just told us absolutely nothing except that there's bickering! How about you give us the exact quote McCain said instead of a quote of Obama quoting McCain! You made Obama sound like a liar without giving any information that supports or refutes that he is other than a McCain statement saying that he is and also making McCain sound like a contradiction (economy is good… family's are going through economic challenges… which is it?). How about you give us the facts and the quotes to support or refute something said by a campaign instead of statements that mean NOTHING! You have the capabilities and therefore the responsibilities to report a story in its fullest. HOW ABOUT YOU DO YOUR JOB!!!

Pam   April 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran. Enough said. Go home McCain.

Dexter   April 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Jeremy, PA, buddy, you gotta give it a rest.

Seriously, Hillary is not going to be the nominee. She lost her chance through her arrogance and bad managment and dishonesty. I'm sorry, but it's true. I'm not a big Obama supporer, but I am when it comes to beating the Republicans in November.

As upsetting as this nomination process has been for both Hillary and Obama supporters, we can't lose sight of who we're really against. Bush and McCain and their band of criminals are flat out evil.

To throw a temper tantrum and vote for McCain because your preferred candidate didn't get the nomination is not only immature and selfish, but it's irresponsible.

I only hope all Democrats can grow up before November.

FRED Atlanta, GA   April 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Seems MCLAME needs to make up his mind he can't have it both ways either he sees economic progress or he sees tremendous economic challeges for some families or maybe he's saying economically he and his family sees progress but the rest of US have tremendous economic challenges.

Uncle Sam   April 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

In a recent interview with Sen. Joe Biden, he stated that he knows John McCain and that John hates war and would do everything he could to get us out as soon as possible.

Americans for McCain '08

Len   April 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

A liberals lie. lol

McCain 08

joe   April 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Mr. John McCain is a good man, I only disagree with his Iraq policy.. and also If Obama wasn't running I would have voted for him.

Jesse   April 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Well, I'm not quite sure how this latest quote can be said to have been taken out of context. The quote creates it's own context and states, what McCain believes to be, a definitive fact. It was not taken out of context. The fact that McCain will say that the economy has made great strides yet that American families are hurting just shows that he'll straddle the fence in an attempt to "win" as many votes as possible.

lil   April 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I think Obama repeated it right Mccain just dont understand what he
said because he forgot. Please play it back for him.

Mark,MI   April 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I thought Obama was suppose to be a "change" from these kind of political attacks…. why am I not surprised. I don't care who you are or what you believe, stop distorting the truth just because you want to make yourself look better.

Glen,   April 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

What did you expect? He has being doing this to Hillary all through the primaries. The man has no shame, he is a typical politician pretending to be all about change. Yeah right. Even CNN has supported his spin and I thought you were pro-American but unbiased on national politics.

Doug R.   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Great grandpa McCain knows next to nothing about the economy or economics in general. If McCain really believes his words are being twisted why doesn't he openly state his positions on issues. He's incapable of doing this because he flip flops the truth each and every day. He has no positions on anything. He's an empty suit playing the victim card.

***AMERICAN***   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

And so it begins. McCain is going after Obama because he knows he doesn't have to worry about Clinton.

Carl Sloan   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Does anyone else see the irony of McCain claiming Obama "mischaracterized" his statements by turning around and mischaracterizing Obama's statements?

Besides that, I don't see how anyone could mischaracterize "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years". There's simply no way to spin that besides making an Ad hominem attack, which is just what McCain has chosen to do..,..

chris   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

McCain – if he didn't twist your words, then can you please let the public know your exit strategy??

McCain – if he didn't twist your words, can you please explain what economical progress has been made over the last 7.5 yrs? (and btw, we're in a recession)

SueB   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

McCain is clueless where the economy is concerned and as to how most Americans feel about Iraq. I also think this shows that Obama will not let the republicans get away with the things he lets Clinton get away with (not calling her on her sniper-lies during the last debate, etc.). I think he's holding back against Clinton for the sake of the democratic party. The superdelegates know that the republicans wouldn't hold back against Clinton and they've been planning their campaign against her for the past 7 years. That's why McCain keeps hitting Obama. He wants Clinton to get the nomination.

Honest   April 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

McCain is the dishonest one. He flip flops on issues to suit him well…immigration, tax cuts, economy and you name it.

Nat   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Ok so Obama says:
"John McCain went on television and said that there has been quote "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years"

Admittedly, here's what actually happened:
When asked if he believed Americans were better off now than when President Bush took office, Mr. McCain conceded that people were facing “very challenging times.” But he went on to say, “You could make an argument that there’s been GREAT PROGRESS ECONOMICALLY OVER THAT PERIOD OF TIME.” “But that’s no comfort. That’s not comfort to families now that are facing these tremendous economic challenges.”

So, where does the "reckless dishonesty" come in? It sounds like it was right out of the horse's mouth to me…

Just b/c he said that's no comfort to struggling families doesn't mean he didn't say there has been great economic progress during the Bush years…go away McCain!

Democrat '08

D Williams   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

John, you are going to get CRUSHED in the general election!!

Get your tissue paper ready for all the whining and crying you have already started with!!!

No more WARS!!!!!

Doug   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Really? McWar is so reckless that half of the time he doesn't even know what words are coming out of his own mouth. …and what's more reckless than voting to go to war in Iraq even when the top secret intelligence reports and the flimsy evidence contained therein were available to read ahead of time?

Stacy Clarks, TX   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

OMG, AFTER READING WHAT HE SAID, YOU WOULD THINK OBAMA CALLED MCCAIN A TERRORIST!!!

WHO IS THE BABY NOW!!!

GROW UP MCCAIN, AS OLD AS YOU ARE, ONE WOULD THINK YOU ARE MATURE ENOUGH TO HANDLE THIS RACE

THE ECONOMY IS HORRIBLE!!! IF YOU CANNOT SEE THAT, WHAT KIND OF PRESIDENT WILL U BE?!?!?!?!

Edwards   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

He did not twist any words…MCCANE you said that the ecoonmy has made progress over the last 7 years…that is not twisting…..Mccane you twisted Obama's words calling him an ellistist…now that is twisting and false name calling for some one like Obama who through his life has depended on student loans, grew up with a single mother, just finished paying his loans for the house….Obama know the pain people go through because he was not born IN A RICH FAMILY…….NOT MARRIED millionaire.

yes we can …Go Obama

That Jay guy from up Canada   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Hey,

This means that we have a presumptive democratic nominee !

And oh yeah, Robert Reich just endorsed Mr Obama…

G08ama !

ihatewhitey@obama.net   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Truth hurts Mr. Obama. Whay a hypocrite, a senior advisor wrote and published a paper about how Mr. Obama would leave troops there for at least 10 years! Media won't cover that though, he'll say anything to get elected!

100 years in Iraq   April 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

McCain camp needs to mind their language. They are themselves to blame.
Is he not the guy who said he would be okay with our troops staying in Iraq for 100 years
Was it not McCain who was saying: bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.
Is he not the same person who say he does not know economy?
Was he not McCain who said the fundamentals of economy are strong?
Is he not the guy who say our economy is not in recession
the list goes on
Now, who is "recklessly dishonest"?

Jason, Atlanta, GA   April 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

What? Obama would twist someone's words for political gain? No way! He would never do that! … He's just like the normal everyday American and understands us … right?

Women 4 Obama   April 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

If you can't take your own medicine, then maybe you are too OLD to run for President.

SAM RAHNDALL   April 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

obama has been accurate in the characterization of sen. mccain's comments.

Shawn   April 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

McCain is a tool and a poor excuse for a politician.

Sam, Muncie, Ind.   April 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

It's interesting how cnn.com bumps certain stories on the Ticker to keep them at the top. Some readers might conclude a little bias in the selection of stories that get priority billing while actually new stories, say for example the Nunn and Boren endorsements of Obama, are swiftly buried in the Ticker hierarchy.

It seems especially telling when Clinton's so-called saving of the day headline is still the Ticker link on the main page when not only did she play the least of the rolls on Colbert last night – Obama was great, but Edwards stole the show – but serious and important things have happened during the course of this day.

Whatever will CNN do when Clinton goes to pasture?

Frank (Cleveland)   April 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

OK McCain…Perhaps you can further explain how we are doing so great economically.

Judy   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Old fart McSame should spend more time worring about his Depends.

Barack will be the next president!!! Tick Tock

McCain needs media coverage!   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Not getting enough press hey McCain? Hahahaha!

But seriously, "recklessly dishonest?" kinda like "nothing short of breathtaking" hmmm?

Ah well…all I have to say to that is (not that I'm saying Obama is twisting McCain's words), but how does it feel?

Deb   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

This is a good example of why Obama is no longer a viable candidate!

He has been caught in so many Public Lies already he no longer has any creditability with anyone who isn't blinded with the notion of

"I can't wait to vote for the first Black man to run for office. I don't care or want to hear about why he isn't qualified!"

He is never going to make it in the General Election because enough of us do care that we will out number the blinded!

Deart   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

No one have to twist John Mccane words for him,he is doing a great job, on is own.

ANTI CLINTONS   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Well, Clinton is worse than anyone.

Garry   April 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

John at 75 year old shouldn't you be in a retirement home & not in the whitehouse… Like c'mon already! Go home & take your metamucil.

Jack - Miami   April 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

But they don't deny that McCain said what Obama repeated…….

Alex   April 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obama, Hillary and McCain are roughly comparable to each other as far as distorting the truth is concerned. I can't believe people are so naive as to think one candidate or the other is somehow more ethical than the other. It really cracks me up with this trend of idolizing Obama. "Obama would never do that", or "Obama doesn't sell out to special interests!!!".

Stacy Clarks, TX   April 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

wow….this is strong words that ARE NOT TRUE!!!

OBAMA 08!!!!!!!

Obama wins PA   April 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Peter   April 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Tucker Bounds,

You and Obama are saying that republicans screwed up the economy for the American families? how is it that Obama is being recklessly dishonest?

Femi in minnapolis   April 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Not only did he say so he so, he also affirmed at the Ronald Reagan Library Republican Debate that Americans are better off now than they were 8 years ago….get the tapes people! when your wife is making billions, i see why! …..Release her taxes please!

Rich   April 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Tucker Bounds is a bigger liar than Hillary Clinton. Worse, his "responses" during the "bitter" controversy seemed to show that he hadn't listened to or understood a word Obama had said. Tucker Bounds does all McCain's dirty work to keep McCain's hands clean. Not buying it, Tucker and John.

Arizona Fans of Hillary Clinton!   April 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Wake Up America!!!………………..Hillary Clinton '08!!!

Fools for McBush and Hillary   April 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Old man need his medication. Wasn't you the one that just attacked Obama on his "Bitter Comment" that you took out of context?

Simon Jinx   April 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Why am I not feeling surprized?

Tamika   April 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

wah wah wah..old man..get this straight.. will dont like negative campaigning between our democrat nominees.. but you sir are fair game!!Play the game or get out of the arena!

DEMOCRATS 08, 09,12 and forever!

Sandy   April 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I believe John is a little out of touch here, but if you have been living off your wife (which one of the newstations just said) it would be easy to see where you are coming from.

I have to give this one to Obama…

Our country has NOT made great progress under the Bush Administration and if you were listening to the people, you would know that. Get off the bus, throw away the prepared scripts (that you still stumble with, as in 'atricity') and listen.

Your campaign is getting a little nervous about facing Obama.

I really don't know how you can make that comment. It is out of touch with reality.

California Girl   April 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama will do anything to win. He's errogant, disrespectful to women, behaves as though he has already won the nomination. Hey, Obama, there are other states that still need to vote (duh). If Hillary looses to Obama, my whole family and friends will definitely vote for McCain.

David, Silver Spring, MD   April 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

A rank falsehood? The problem is McCain talks and thinks in such simplistic terms that there's no way to know what he does mean. Hardly a "straight shooter." He says stuff like, "We'll stay until we win," but then says we may be there for 100 years and cites Japan and South Korea as precedents. So is he saying it'll take 100 years for us to win? If so, it sounds like a 100 year war. If not, why would we be staying? Last I checked, Iraq had not attacked us as Japan had. Last I looked, we didn't need to establish a front against Communism as we did in South Korea.

Sherry   April 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama wants to play politics when it is convenient for him. He strikes but can’t handle a strike back. He was ready to throw a fit at the last debate (which shows he is not ready to be the nominee if he can’t handle a couple of journalist) He cries politics when he is questioned on something he actually said or is involved with! Character says a lot about a person, these were mostly issues that question his character. He can surround himself with people that hate America but we can not question it???? How is he going to follow thru with anything of theses “changes” if he can't play in his own game, He is a politician isn't he? I will not support him and his wife’s antagonizing remarks.

Thall999   April 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

hahahaha McCain is crying even NOW!

Wait until Obama or Hillary actually pushes his SCOOTER off the road!

McCain is a trumped up GI JOE that HATES ALL GI BILLS!

You can't un on a military platform, say you want to help the troops but do NOTHING to HELP them.

Yes McCain was a POW but when it comes to REALLY supporting the TROOPS McCain has always been MIA!

Robert NYC & Miami   April 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Johnny The Mummy will digest McCain alive.

fred   April 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I agree 100%, Obama IS 'recklessly dishonest'

He is a wolf in sheeps clothing!! EVIL….EVIL….EVIL!!!!

Ana   April 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

We know he is dishonest…. the question will he ever be held accountable for it???

Jimmy169   April 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

You know, Mccains a nice guy, but this is kind of ironic that he's making a big deal out of this when Mccain along with Hillary tried to twist Obama's words about the bitter comments, and they did it with no time to spare.

There are so many issues at stake, and instead of talking about substance, this is what Mccain and Hillary have to offer, the same old politics trying to make someone's character look bad, instead of focusing on the issues. America is tired of this kind of politics…

As I said, Mccain is a nice guy, but my vote's for Obama without a doubt.

Max   April 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

So according to Mccain, Obama is "recklessly dishonest" when he points out the truth?
What a weak, excuse for an argument.
Judging from how he can't formulate any substantial argument against Obama, I forsee mccains camp crashing and burning.
Obama is the Roosevelt that we needed during the great depression.

Electing mccain will only cause this reccesion we are headed into to become much worse. We need someone strong, sincere, pragmatic, and innovative, qualities mccain doesn't have enough of once you scratch beneath the surface.

ShannonL   April 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Politics as usual from a savior that claims to be above all of that. I don't understand how his cult followers do not see that Obama talks out of both sides of his mouth.

You people have been blinded by your own need to be saved. Obama is a man, not a god.

"Bitter-gate" never would have happened had HuffPost also not been so blind to the man's faults. They sank their own savior out of their blind faith in Obama's every word.

Get REAL!   April 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

The McCain campaign immediately took issue with the comment, noting the Arizona senator also said he knows families are facing "tremendous economic challenges."
——————————————————————————
Ummm…. Ok……AND???
That doesn't deny the fact that everyting else Obama said was TRUE!
They are just adding to what he said. But that doesn't make the comment false because THAT IS WHAT MCCAIN SAID!

yvonne frank   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

wow what happened to bo being the one above the old washington style of politics? when he is not twisting mccains he is twisting clintons and then he whines when they hit back.

Jessica from OKC   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

The economy made great progress…!? Geez, McCain, apparently! Great progress BACKWARDS!!! That's why he attacked, people. He got caught not paying attention.

b-liberal   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Obama gets away with loose facts and negative attacks in his own camp with his faithful followers. Hillary has called him on it once in a while but he has a free ride in the media.

But the conservatives will step it up and not let him get away with it. Hillary was polite compaired to angry conservatives. And if he gets in office (not likely), he will get a taste of the same persecuting attacks that the Clintons endured. Let's see how holding hands and singing works for him then.

Andrew   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

McCain just put foot in mouth. Obama's bitter comment was just 2 sentences from a lengthy explanation of average Americans hurting from job loss and a economy that works only for the rich. Plus people distrust in government. The Media, Hill, and McCain are guilty of misinformation day in and day out. I'm a middle of the road American frustrated with the political no-nothing hacks running the show. For any politician to say America's so great and leader of the free world, yet can't seem to share it's own wealth equally or fairly across all individuals, needs a reality check. Stop feeding us BS.

Christine Atlanta, Ga.   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

If Obama is the nominee, McCain will win, period. Perhaps with a Clinton-Obama ticket there will be enough Democratic support to defeat him. If Obama is the nominee, there are too many Clinton supporters that will switch to McCain, as Independents. I know that this election cycle has turned me from being a Democrat to an Independent. I can't handle the whiney Dems anymore.

Dan, NJ   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

So did McCain make the comment or not? The fact that Obama used the word "quote" makes me think McCain said it verbaitum. If that's the case, its pretty hard to twist a direct quote.

stanley p   April 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Hey McCain, you say it then mean it….no one is "twisting" your words,
they are the words you used!!!!!

say what you mean, mean what you say…don't blame Obama for taking the words you say at face value….so does everyone else in the
US!!! We are STRUGGLING TO EAT!!!!! this economy is HORRIBLE and has been for 7.5 years!!!!!

YES WE CAN!!!!!!!change D.C.

Franky from Cali   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

McCain admitted before that he knows nothing about the economy and it's showing. Do we need another four years to realize that the Republicans know nothing about the economy? If McCain becomes the president, i'm moving to Canada.

Julia   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

The non-partisan factcheck.org later called that characterization a "rank falsehood."

Yes. But we're not surprised. Senator Obama is the king of twist and spin.

bbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbbb   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

YES OBAMA CAN twist those words. Read his books to see just how much. Obama can not be trusted. He will say whatever is needed to get him the nomination.

Oscar, Rio Vista, CA   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

And Republicans would never do anything so devious. P.L.E.A.S.E.

chuck   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

NO COMMENT. SICK OF THE WHOLE THING. AMERICA HAS TRULY LOST IT'S WAY. IF THESE THREE CANDIDATES ARE THE BEST THIS COUNTRY CAN DO, THEN WE ARE IN DEEP TROUBLE. BETTER LEARN TO START SPEAKING CHINESE!

Really?   April 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

The problem lies more with McCain: how can you have great economic progress for 7.5 years while also face tremendous economic challenges?? Obama latched on to half — which is misleading — but what on earth is McCain even talking about??

joe from galway ireland   April 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Macain should go and rest he is too old 4 the rest.Americans doesn't need a 71 old man to rule down,this is a time 4 a change and that change is Obama.

TedM   April 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I can't wait intil we have a nominee to go head2head with McCain. On issue after issue McCain is just another Bush Lap Dog that has fallen in line to get the concervative vote. In 2000, McCain was a man who stood head and shoulders above the rest of the Republican Party. Since then, his desire to be president has spoiled him and turned him into the very same politician as those who destroyed him personally & politically in his first bid for the presidency.

Sam   April 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

McCain said it, he just don't remember.

Ken in Dallas   April 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

So McCain's a whiner, what's new? For a man from the party of demagogic invective, I'd say he has very little standing to complain about being called on careless off-hand remarks he happens to make in public.

If he wants something to complain about, his economic proposals depend on supply-side fantasy, the war he claims we have to continue indefinitely is rapidly bankrupting our next generation, and he's demonstrated either ignorance of or flagrant disregard for the facts on the ground in the Middle East.

What was on that little sign Truman kept on his desk? Oh, never mind, Truman was a Democrat.

Jean   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Good For OBAMA…Go give them heck

shan-fl   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

well, what the heck did mccain say so that we can get the correct context?

Say What?   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Yeah, this is "The Surge is Working" McCain? Or is this "I am for Bush tax cuts" McCain, or is this the "I won't support the Webb GI Bill" McCain.

McSame you are just that- more of the same ole same ole.

Lovely in VA   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Obama speaks the truth and McShame calls foul. It will only backfire on you McShame, just like it has the wicked witch of the east.

Obama, just keep telling it like it is. You are going to win and I am going to remember how long it took your superdelegrates to stand up for you. There's a couple right here in VA that are losing my backing every day.

SUPERDELEGATES COME OUT OF THE CLOSET. YOU KNOW WHO IS THE BEST TO LEAD THIS GREAT NATION.

Natacha from PA   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Maybe McCain was talking about his family's income, which he refuses to release, fully. I wonder what the McCains' are hiding. As a voter, that's my right to know.

carmen   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Look who is whining today… Teflon John.

Cat, Costa Mesa, CA   April 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

They all lie…who's surprised?? Atleast George waited until after he got into office to lie to the american people!

And John, don't go crying foul when what Obama is doing is the exact same thing that you did to Mitt!!

Maybe Karma is alive and well?!!

D. Thorne, Newport Beach   April 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Senator Obama is right. John McCain has been hanging around Hillary
too long. Her expertise on reversing the truth is starting to rub of on him.
If he decides to run his campaign like she did, he will surely lose.

larry   April 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

It's about time people figured out what a liar Obama is!!!! He has the same empty headed following as George Bush. These people will believe anything. And the truth will be heard and McCain wll be president!!!!

citizen   April 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

the article makes it sound that MCaine didn't say that? did he or didn't he? Adding that families are going through hardships does not add context to the statement. it is just an additional statement.

Travis Johns   April 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Wow,
for once I actually AGREE with John McCain. Obama acts like he is better than "politics" but plays the political game more than any candidate I have ever seen.

Jacqueline, Defiance, Ohio   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I really sincerely hope that people can see this man is PHONEY and a FAKE. A wolf in sheeps clothing is exactly what BARACK OBAMA is. I am still astounded by Obama supporters who are learning all of this information/scandal about him , and are STILL supporting him. Its amazing really how stupid people can be, when they ignore their
better judgement to jump on the next big fad. People we are not voting for our next American Idol or Prom King, this is the man u want for PRESIDENT????!!!-no i dont think so. Please Please wake up.

Obama Gal   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

It doesn't matter how McCain worded it all that matters is he is ok with the war when the American people are sick of it!

OBAMA '08

D.S   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Recklessly dishonest???Huh? As opposed to what… Planned dishonesty. And I checked that quote and that is what Mccain said…sooo I am so confused!!

Nicholas, CO   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Here is the crux of the argument: "The McCain campaign immediately took issue with the comment, noting the Arizona senator ALSO said he knows families are facing "tremendous economic challenges."

That's straight from McCain's camp. Meaning Obama twisted nothing. He quoted what McCain said. No matter what he said afterwards, to say the economy has made growth is out of touch, not just with the American people, but reality and basic economics in general.

Robert   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

But they're not saying he didn't say those words. It's one of those "out of context" defenses.

citizen   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

so did he say that there has been quote "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years" or not. regardless that he is saying that families are facing greate hardships. Does he not know that we are in a recession?

Danny   April 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

We know that Obama dishonest man that's why we said if Obama get
nominee for Democratic party we going to vote for John McCain.
Obama dishonest, lied, crying and not stand for Americans.

Belle   April 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Of course the Obama Camp TWISTS the truth. Look what HE did to Senator Clinton. He efficiently made Black Americans Hate the Senator and President Clinton.

Scarey…this is a NEW kind of politics?

The only "GAFFE" Senator Clinton made was the Bosnia gaffe. Obama and his campaign made sure that was in all of the headlines, but when he is questioned, he says people don't want to hear about that, and that is old style politics.

Yup…new kind of politics for sure…let's just twist everything they say right out of context while pretending to take the high moral ground.
Change…can hardly wait to see what's next.

TAHARI in CT 4 OBAMA   April 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Everyone knows what McBush said and what he meant.

It took him how long to figure out what to even do with the ecconomy?

Take a course!

JOHN MCCAIN YOU WILL NEVER BE MY PRESIDENT. I WILL MAKE SURE EVERYONE I KNOW VOTES DEMOCRAT! AKA 4 OBAMA!

ralph tyler   April 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Reckless? Invading Iraq and continuing those policies is reckless.

Mcsame   April 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Go home Grampa!

Richard Guzinga, Hobe Sound, FL   April 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Obama is a no-talent hack and has a snow-balls chance of getting elected in November…McCain will win in a landslide as Americans are not ready to hand our country over to a neophyte communist.

Rechi   April 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

McCain, you don't need to say anthing. We all know Obama is one big liar. He is not even so American at heart just like his wife, Michelle.

CP   April 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Just like the McCain campaign twisted his "bitter" comment by calling him an elitist. Can't take it, don't dish it!

Adam   April 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

If you said it, don't get mad when someone repeats it! Have you heard of bitter-gate? well if you haven't, it's the epitome of taking someone's words and twisting them for political gain…you know, when you say someone is elitist and looks down on people…that type of thing. Like Hillary said, 'if you can't take the heat…'

Dave in Orange County   April 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Barack is talking about things that matter to us: the recession, the quagmire of war, fully funding education, while the rich-by-marriage lobbyist-dating geriatric tries breathlessly to falsely label him.

I can't wait until Barack debates McSame 1:1 in the fall.

The moderators might need to wear plastic ponchos because McSame's temper is likely to explode like an old clunker's radiator.

Slick Rick   April 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Ohhhhh! You're dishonest on Iraq.

Jim   April 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Obama, dishonest?

That's funny, coming from a guy who is hiding his wife's tax returns.

Ken, LA California   April 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Well what exactly did he say, was it another senior moment.

Denise   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Barack Obama's comments were not false…it was only a humorous statement accentuating the fact that McCain will probably try to continue the war, if we let him in office so the Republicans can continue to line their pockets with blood money from the lives of our soldiers. I say let's not give him the chance. John McCain is the liar, and his twisted words won't stick to Obama.

ling   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

PEACE

Debbie   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

You've got to watch what you say in this campaign — as Obama can attest. People will twist your words. McCain did that to Obama. Everybody complains when it happens to them. Toughen up ya'll! We're going to need a tough soul to be able to handle the legacy of George Bush. It's going to be a no-win situation for the next president. I don't know why anyone wants that job. But, I appreciate their gumption.

Simon Says   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

CNN, you're better than this…. I thought.

Why do we give war-mongers a platform?

Anonymous-IL   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

well, John… did you say it or not??? Please…

George   April 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Obama is a pathetic liar, glad his hidden past is finally catching up with him. The bottom is about to fall out. Hope it is not too late for those undecided super deligates to notice and avoid crowning him as the Dems nominee. Hillary is our best chance for winning the presidency.

ju PA   April 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McCain you need to release your wife income tax. How can Amercan trust you that you will not put our tax money to your wife account.

bill pike   April 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McBush speaks and nobody listens.

Salim, Silver Spring MD   April 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Obama is not twisting his words….what Sen McCain said over n over the war should continue in Iraq for 100 years wow…….

Plus we need a President whos is ready for every challenge..and Sen McCain is too old to handle like these types of situations.

Go Obama'08

Linlo   April 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Which is it John? Have we seen great progress economically over the past seven years, or are people facing tremendous economic challenges? It obviously can't be both. McCain has already admitted he doesn't know anything about the economy – here is proof.

Typical latina Patriot n proud voting for OBAMA   April 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

MC Cain in your own backyard you have allowed sexual abuse of minors in the polygamy sect and have done NOTHING about it. You cannot even clean up your own state.
Even today another republican backed Obama and not you.

As far as war monger that is what you are. The American people want nothing more of this war.
You threw millions of American voters under the bus by implying they were financially irresponsible when they were losing their homes.. No McCain ,you are irreprehensible and heartless.

We as american patriots will not elect a president who cannot remember the name of terrorists and has to be prompted to remember. We all know McCain you are Bush clone.

The office of the presidency is not where we babysit Mc Cain.
Only an adult like Obama deserve to be there.
OBAMA 08

scbrown   April 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

OBAMA LIE—THIS WILL COME OUT

OBAMA LIED ABOUT BEING RACIALLY AMBUSH AND MADE UP A
LIFE MAGAZINE STORY IN HIS BOOK "DREAMS FROM MY FATHER"– THIS ARTICLE NEVER EXIST

CNN WHERE IS YOUR HEADLINE—

OBAMA DROP 7 POINTS IN GALLUP POLL – IT'S VIRTUALY A STATISICAL TIE!!!!!!

WHERE'S THE HEADLINE—–

OBAMA DROP 7 POINTS IN LATEST GALLUP POLL OR

OBAMA LOSING GROUND IN NATIONAL POLL OR

CLINTON NARROWING THE OBAMA LEAD IN NATIONAL POLL

MSNBC AND KEITH OLBERMANN YOU PICK THE ONE YOU THINK IS FAVORABLE TO OBAMA!

U-S-hooray   April 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Obama can't compete with Hillary "Romney" Clinton when it comes to lying.

Hillary is a shameless liar AND hypocrite.

mitch from ark.   April 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

recklessly dishonest?obama's been the most honest politician i've seen in decades.mccain is one of the 'keating 5′,and has never gotten more than a slap on the wrist for it.i thought mccain would at least run an honorable campaign,but,we can see,already,that he's going back to the name-calling ,negative campaign tactics of typical old-timey politics,of the past.that will not work this time!americans are fed up with this type of politician,and mccain will pay for it,just as clinton is,now.he flip-flops more than a fish out of water.if he thinks he's going to pick up independent voters,with negative tactics,he's crazy,and playing right into obama's hand.

Matt, CA   April 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

McCain does have a point; but I'm still voting for Obama. He is the better of the two (and only two) choices

Jamaal Kansas   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Mccain it is no Barack fault that you are out of touch with common day Americans. Barack Obama 08

Harrier   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Do you want to continue Bush's economic policies or don't you, McCain?

Obama has your words right, you're just uncomfortable with the true implications of them.

Karen, TN   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

It's true that Obama misstates what McCain says. No doubt about it. I think if he would just stick to what was actually being said without twisting it, Democrats would still be against what McCain is saying. So why twist it?

Deana   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Poor mistreated Obama, he is being besmirched again, this time by that mean ‘ol McCain. If they keep this up he may take his toys and go home :( . When you worship at the altar of Obama facts are irrelevant.

Doug NJ   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Obama is "recklessly dishonest"in every aspect of his presidential campaign as well.

rlc2nice   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Democrats Pleeeeeeeeeeease stick together. We need to get the republicans out of the whitehouse. Something is wrong when McCain says our economy is improving. By what standard is he measuring that statement? Perhaps from Cindy's 100 million!!!

Obama for President

MCD   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

oh please, can't handle the heat already McCain? It ain't even started yet.

btw great article at huffingtonpost today abuot some of the questions that will get brought up to McCain in the general – the boy ain't nearly as squeeky clean as his followers like to think.

emile   April 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

There's no way McCain will be the US president! I heard him say that the Us economy made some progress, now he says he did not say it!
Another lier!

Obama 08!

FactCheck   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

To quote form his own web site; "As president, I will also order a prompt and thorough review of the budgets of every federal program, department, and agency. While that top to bottom review is underway, we will institute a one-year pause in discretionary spending increases with the necessary exemption of military spending and veterans benefits." tranlation: forget about education, infra-structure, economic growth and developement for Year 1. It's all going to the military. This guy is insane.

Ratgurl   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I imagine McCain is having a difficult time empathizing with the average American, given his financial state. The only people in America making financial progress are the extreme wealthy who are ripping of middle-Americans like me with their raising gas prices, and food & commodites so that the rest of us suffer. Obama isn't being reckless, he's being honest. John just can't tell because he is unaffected.

Jimmy   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

This is the pot calling the skillet black. Of course Obama is dishonest, but so is McCain and Hillary.That's why they are politicians!!! In a line from the movie "Brewsters Millions" Americans should vote "none of the above" in November. Just write it in! As a lifelong African American democrat, I am appalled at how Obama ignores African Americans in order to gain racist white votes. I am equally appalled at how Clinton patronizes the entire minority community, and she does it insincerely. As for Mr. McCain, he is still the same man fought a holiday for Dr King. Although he has since apologized, I will not vote for him then apologize to him after the election. I'm sure he will forgive me and be my "best friend"!!!

Nobama 08
No Hillbilly 08
No McCan't 08

NONE OF THE ABOVE 08

mama4obama   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

What is good for the goose….is also good for the gander. McCain and Clinton have both been enormously guilty of the very same thing they accuse Obama of.

I'll send someone over to change your diaper for ya. Will that help?

ART in TX   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

No sir McBush. The Economy has not seen GREAT PROGRESS under the Bush Administration. That was the Clinton years (try to keep the administrations straight). Nice try though.

Rob   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Well if McCain was quoted saying that then he's not being dishonest.

However, if Obama misquoted McCain, then he's just as slimy as Clinton is

Mike   April 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Sentor Obama has a problem with the truth. It seems the he (Obama) is much better off today than he was 7 years ago. His pastor and mentor Rev. Wright is much better off, as he is building a $10 million home in Chicago.

Obama is lying to America with the bold-faced lies that one always hers from far left socialists.

Obama = ZERO experience
Obama = ZERO tolerance
OBAMA = ZERO credibility
OBAMA = ZERO character

Ryan   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Doesn't sound like much of a twist to me. He said that things have been going well overall during the Bush administration and Obama called him on it. The fact that he also said that there are some people that are struggling doesn't change the fact that he though the last 7 years have been good.

Alison, FL   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Oh please McShame! You only cares what he says because you know you can't beat him. We all know the GOP is foaming at the mouth to have Clinton to run against!

Jen-0-palooza   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

McCain is recklessly weak on the economy and walking down steps without handrails.
Too old to be President.
Should have been Romney.

Krissy   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

But McCain doesn't deny that he said it…

candidate with three or four heads   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Oh Mr. McCain , you yourself have said you dont know a t from a z in economics, you have shown that.WHile we respect you for your service to this country this does not entitle you to be president.. and bring us back to war. you seem to see war all over , and that is not the case, this is the era for dialogue, where civilized people will talk and sit down, yes even with the enemy ..simply because we all live in one place called earth and we all have to share whether we like it or not..

so mr. mcclinton (you have just added one more head to the candidate who had only three). please calm down, you are a nice person but not the one to lead our country.

Jay Shah   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Mccain is so pathetic. He is blatantly trying to paint a blurry image of the last 8 years so that he can have it both ways. He knows that the last 8 years were terrible but he can't say that completely so he must say that "some progress has been made". What progress would that be John "i know the nothing besides war" Mccain.

Bob, Lyons Oregon,   April 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

well, John McCain has been recklessly dishonest in his twisting of Obama's words too, So whatever old man. You have done it many times.

Sue F   April 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

So what he said is true, it's just that McSame uses spin afterwards to try and relate to the "little people".

Grady Jay in Michigan   April 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I was going to vote for Obama until he started this stuff, now I am voting for McCain.

Ron R   April 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Excuse me….You said those exact words!!

Demmother   April 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Wow, why was this story moved off of the front page of the ticker? Could it be that it was too negative of CNN poster boy Obama?

Transparency: It's not just for taxes anymore…

black & proud   April 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Great grand pa need to stop being so sensitive over his own factual camments. i ecalled hearing that fool making that economic comment live and i almost punch my tv over he's so called hypocritic "straight talk". just how he is continously saying we are winning in iraq.

no mcsame for 09

Devin   April 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

How is directly quoting what John McCain said, and then providing commentary on it…"recklessly dishonest?"

How can you twist the words of a DIRECT quote??

Is McCain saying he DOESN'T think there's been economic progress in the last 7.5 years, even though that's the OPPOSITE of what he actually said?

I think it's blatantly obvious that a national debt that's been skyrocketing ever since Clinton left the White House, the mortgage crisis, and our new recession is NOT "progress" – but apparently, McCain says it IS, but then thinks…it's not?

I think the old man is the confused one.

Allison, NH   April 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Obama reckless….now, McCain – we all know that is not true. You've been kissing Bush-butt for too long now, and you've made SEVERAL comments regarding American economy – all of which have painted it in such a rosy picture.

Thing is, McCain, I doubt you have any personal friends or family who are facing "tremendous economic challenges." When you say you "know"…you mean, someone told you.

Come November, Dems will take you out…nomatter who the Dem. nominiee is!!

Laura in PA   April 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Its about time someone called him out on this. After his "fibs" during the debate Wednesday night (he apparently made notes on a questionaire that he didn't fill out and his campaign had nothing to do with pushing the story about Sen. Clinton's misspeak about Bosnia) he seems to think that he can say anything at all and won't be called out on it. His arrogance is astounding. Good for you McCain for telling the truth.

I'm a life-long Democrat but if the nomination goes to Obama, I will vote for McCain.

Roscoe   April 18th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

One question for McCain "spokesman" : Did he say it or not???

Dekonti   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Once you have a military "occupation" in a country, you're always potentially at war. We don't have a "military" occupation in Germany but we do in Iraq.

Dina Phila., Pa   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This back and forth is nonsense! When I heard John McCain mention the 100-year presence in Iraq, I like most of the American public thought he meant exactly just that. A presence in Iraq. To my knowledge, presence is still presence, this would require our troops to always remain in the Middle East and that is unacceptable. The American public also knows that John McCain knows nothing about the economy, which he as already openly admitted.

Please, this November, there will not be another Republican in our White House. So, John McCain should just relax and enjoy his tour of our great country, and take plenty of pictures to add to his memories of when he was the Republican nominee. Relax OLD MAN….it's almost over.

What-A-Mess?   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

McCain!!! Maybe you should think before you talk and what you term as "miss-statements" will not be take advantage of. I will keep a list of your "miss-statements" going forward.

1. W will be in Iraq for over 100 years
2. I don’t know nothing about the economy
3. Great progress economically over the last seven and a half years
4. I want public financing
5. Oh no, I don't need public financing
6. Bush's tax cuts are unnecessary,
7. Oh no, let's made Bush's tax cut permanent

You guys can add more to this list. These are not distortions; these are exactly what he said.

Hank in PA   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

OBAMA HAS A REAL HUGE EGO AND IT IS A REAL PROBLEM WHEN YOU ARE AS IMMATURE AS HE IS!!!!!!

WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

NZ, NJ   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Obama Obama Obama……

When are you going to learn that you can't lie yor way to the presidency. You may have fooled many blind individuals into believing you are the next JFK…..but you will never fool enough to make it the the presidency……

MARK MY WORDS!!!!!!!!!!!

FloridaVoter   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

I find it interesting that the candidate who has based their entire campaign around change is using the same old political methods of the past. What happened to change Mr. Obama? We need solutions, not fancy oratory. Let's not forget Obama has won in safe "Red" States which would never go Democrat in November while Hillary has won "Purple Battleground States" like Ohio, Florida, New Mexico and Arizona.

Superdelagates: You need to look ahead to the November math and think about who can secure wins in those states. Hillary can! YES she can!

Hillary 08

kate   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

McCain is right he is dishonest. He has given so many different answers on the Wright issue you know you can't trust him. He's saying what ever he can to get through the election. The DNC has chosen him and you can see how they come out for him and demand that the Supers support him NOW. They don't care about the process if Obama gets questioned. LOL, but they let every one pile on to take a shot at Hillary. I've never seen such out right corruption in a political party. From the FL/MI fiasco to the demand for Obama.

McCain…you gotta win this one to save us all from this bunch.

Jack   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

If you want to talk about Obama being dishonest, why doesn't anyone mention his repeated statements of not taking money from lobbyist and PACs? as of January of this year, he has collected some 80 million dollars from lobbyist and PACs. He takes their money then claims he doesn't. That is what I call blatantly dishonest.

NZ, NJ   April 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Obama Obama Obama……

When are you going to learn that you can't lie yor way to the presidency. You may have fooled many blind individuals into believing you are the next JFK…..but you will never fool enough to make it the the presidency……

MARK MY WORDS!!!!!!!!!!!

Les   April 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

There is video with John McCain saying that the American people are willing to have their troops in Iraq for as long as 100, 1,000, or 10,000 years if that meant getting the job done. How can you argue against Barack's use of 100 years? Was McCain kidding? If so, I don't think we need a president who is joking about this kind of stuff. Especially, one who wants to "bomb, bomb, bomb,….bomb bomb-Iran!"

Dekonti   April 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

What will our troops be doing? teaching in a high school?

john from los angeles   April 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Yay! My favorite political idiom! The pot's calling the kettle black!

Vanessa   April 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

McCain's distortions of Obama's statements are far more flagrant than Sen. Obama's characterizations above. McCain has committed American troops to the Iraq War and vowed that however long it takes, even if it takes 100 years we are committed. And now he characterizes great progress in the economy despite the fact that American families are facing tremendous economic challenges. And he has the audacity to call Obama elitist!!

pc   April 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

McCain doesn't have a clue about our economy. He is toooooo old to be in public office anyway. McCain is adopting Bush's policies and he, too will fail. Go Home McCain!!! YOU ARE TOO OLD!!! You are afraid of Obama and don't want to run against him.

Obama for President

YES WE CAN!!!

Mary May King   April 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

There McCain goes again, political doggerel as usual. Enough! Yes, we have made great progress in 7 years, but you need to remember than we had to dump all the progress we'd made up to that point 7 years ago and start from scratch. Bush took us from 7 down to zero and now looks like a genius for moving us back up to 3?

Dean Kent   April 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Watch out John. Hillary will call you a complainer if you don't just take it like a man…

David   April 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Twisting words. MR.MCCAIN you did say we made great economic progress. Yea… if you are rich and if it's your multi-millionaire wife. We are earning less than we did 20 years ago. The problems about the economy didn't happen because our economy is doing good and we made progress. It's doing bad because we regressed during the Bush terms.

Chris from San Antonio   April 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Twisting words out of context?

Kettle. Pot. Black. You, Mr. McCain.

steveg   April 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

What did McCain actually say about the economy under Bush's seige, I mean administration?

Instead of just reporting tit-for-tat accusations, how about some substantive reporting on the statements made by McCain that Obama was referring to, and let us evaluate them, rather than a bunch of political hacks telling us what to think about what they said someone else said.

What is this, an ABC "debate" ?

Walter   April 18th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

There is no question, Obama is recklessely dishonest. He is considering restitution of damages for black slavery under the guidance of Rev. Wright's sermons!

Independent in IN   April 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Who is Larry Sinclair? I've seen references to him and Obama.

What is that all about?

Jeff M.   April 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

McCain: "I think if you look at the overall record and millions of jobs have been created, et cetera, et cetera, you could make an argument that there's been great progress economically over that period of time. But that's no comfort. That's no comfort to families now that are facing these tremendous economic challenges."

I'm gonna have to side with McCain on this one and dock Obama a point. Luckily McCain still has a lot of catching up to do 'point'-wise in my view.

FEDUP   April 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Obama is not good at words, he twist everything others say, as well as his own. That's okey, he just got endorsed by Hamas, which he declined Now add Louis Farracahn, which he also declined, Jerimiah Wright, and all he needs now is Al Qaeda, and Muqtada al-Sadr and that Iranian guy. That would just about cover the Muslim Islamic terriost network. Even though he has declined their support, don't you wonder why they do support him?

DM, Detroit, Mi.   April 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

It's about time someone called out his spin. He acts as if he is above this …because he says so. And unfortunately many are deft to his double speak. No go Obama…I'd like to see you quit.

Chuck in Oregon   April 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Tremendous economic conditions? Try words like deplorable, unacceptable or impoverished and you may be a little closer to reality.

Demhypocrisy   April 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

A voice for change, right? He will change your words? Borrow them? Memorize them and shout them eloquently? or stammer and studder duh uh duh uh yeah what she said that's my plan

Good Ole Boy   April 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Those Dems are a funny bunch of sheeple and apparently they don't do their homework. If they want Oblama as their best option…bring it. This nation will not elect a novice like Oblama. Simply put, McCain will freight-train him with no need to back up and finish the job.
Oblama will be exposed as a wind bag full of twisted one-line'rs …nothing more. Pathetic.
heheheheh.
Good Ole Boy (Chaos Operative)

Perrell, Lincolnton, NC   April 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

John you have no argument here, you need to just live it alone you know what you said and Obama has just called you out on it… Now you want to call foul…

eli   April 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

We have to understand that McCain is also trying to play with the people insinuating how good the economy is and minimizing how bad really is the magnitude of our economic problem. Tha's not fair either. McCain wants it both ways.

We cannot minimize it and Mccain needs to be called on it.

McCain's intent was to say how wonderfully our economy has expanded, but sure….some people are suffering. The focus should not be how good it was for some, but the reality that it's not working for most people. That's why I can forgive Obama for this one.

It's ok for his oponent bring to our attention how important it is to not underestimate how fragile and weak our economy is becoming by the hour. THI IS A BIG ISSUE!!!

I think McCain needs to let go of trying to impressed right wing, but be right for the country, without compromize.

We as normal republicans have been so careful to not upset the more conservative right wing that we sell our souls and become blind folded.

McCain flip flopped on the taxes, he has toned down on the war but, my fear is that he is going to be less pregmatic to recognize when we should get out of Iraq. What is success?

mat   April 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

that's kind of like the pot calling the kettle black.
he's lied about what he's said so many times it's starting to look like alzheimer's. he refuses to admit that he said he doesn't know much about the economy.

Jeff M.   April 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I'm…not really sure how you can spin a statement like that. It seems pretty unequivocal unless there was something like "There has been no" or "I think you'd be hardpressed to say that there has been" that got cut off.

Colleen   April 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

I'm really surprised at McCain's response to Obama's comments. The bottom line is McCain is the one who's "out of touch" If it weren't for Lieberman, McCain would probably think gas prices were down and the housing market was booming!!!

wolfsbane   April 18th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

To McSame, $4/gallon is a booming economy.
To McSame, record oil profits is a booming economy.
To McSame, record foreclosures is a booming economy.
To McSame, rising unemployment is a booming economy.

McSame is out of touch. We don't need another out of touch president. We've got stupid and out of touch now, let's get a smart and in touch president.

Obama 08.

Obama Supporter from Canada   April 18th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

If you elect McCain, please dont complain afterward as you reelected bush after he lied to you.
If you dont figure this one out by yourself Americans, I guess You deserve it.

Anti-Clinton!   April 18th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

What kills me about this, is Clinton and McCain seem like they are on the same team. Clinton has an attitude that says,"If I can't win it, no dem will". So, she's doing her best to try and destroy Obama. And McCain is sitting back, trying to look like a saint, riding the waves. Everytime Clinton attacks Obama, McCain does as well. Why is that? I'll tell you why, because the Reps know they can beat Billary. They want to run against the Clintons, so that they can release the dogs on them. That's proof enough, that we need Change!

Obama 08!

Susan   April 18th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

And, man, can he whine when things don't go his way!!!!!!

Razia   April 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Mr Lou Dobbs is another opponent. Obama is right about bitterness. Mr Dobbs himself sounds more" bitter" and frustrated than anyone else on Govt Policies. He is "clinging" to word nonsense all the time to show his bitterness in his SUPERIOR tone. He continues to go negative. Obama doesn't deserve his open hostility

J from DAHOUSE   April 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Obama should focus on Hillary and leave McCain for another day. He was a habit of getting ahead of himself and it usually costs him.

Eric-Illinois   April 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

One more example of Obama saying one thing then having to "recharacterize" it the next day. It is not so much that Obama twists the truth…he just ignores it in his neverending desire to be all things to all people. McCain and the swiftboaters will make a joke of Obama if he is the Deomcratic winner…I fear once again my party is going for the fuzzy feelgood candidate….Does anyone really expect Obama to carry those crossover states in the general election? But it will make no sense to those Hillary haters who have to stop her at any cost….She tells the truth about Obama and it is called mudslinging…he attacks Hillary or McCain and why that is just the great Messiah telling the truth!…What a pity for our country.

Paull   April 18th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Clinton GO HOME! And take your wife with you!

pakuna   April 18th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Barack Obama is being recklessly dishonest he has proven it over and over again. I just hope the Republican Party wont make McCain back down from him as the Democrat Party has made Hillry back down. Obama is not qualified in the least bit to hold the office of President.
I have been a Democrat for 40 years and the Democrat Party is sadly mistaken if they think I will vote for Obama just because he is a Democrat. I will NOT. If he was on the Republican Party I wouldn't vote for him. If the Democrat Party can not stop this charlatan I just pray the Republican Party can or the United States is in very deep trouble here and abroad.

Susan   April 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Obama is MORE than recklessly dishonest!!!!!

Rich M   April 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

It getting ridiculous . McCain never said he wanted to be in Iraq a 100 years and Obama knows that. As a test of character Obama's comments are proof that he is unworthy of being President because he is intellectually dishonest.

OlvrWhit   April 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Obama has some nerve. He is complaining about the debate, his supporters as well, when niether had a problem when Hillary was and still is under attack over trivial issues.

Obama needs to man-up and answer these questions, and the mainstream media needs to get off the Obama bandwagon and do their jobs. Thank you ABC for having the guts to ask some tough questions. Obama looks to be our nominee. He and his campaign have used the character and judgement argument, so those questions were more than fair. Its not ABC's fault that you lost the debate on those questions and on policy issues as well. You are playing a game of distraction again.

If the MSM would get off the Obama Cult bandwagon, then maybe they would realize that they have failed to do their jobs. If he can't answer tough questions now, he should not be running for President.

GRR   April 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Obama has picked up some pointers from Hillary. Obama is either dishonest or maybe he doesn't listen.

This Montanan Loves Barack Obama   April 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

I heard John McSame say this comment.. Barack is right…

McCain is wrong and certainly twisting and distorting his own words to match a campaign slogan..

Sorry Ole' Johnny boy, I'm not buying it…

McCain has certainly jumped on the bandwagon with his own remarks when it suits him and tries to Swift Boat when it doesn't..

America is okay with you being VP John.. so sit back and relax and enjoy the ride.. You will GAFF soon enough.. You always do!

Yes We Can in 2008…

David   April 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

It's fine that people support Obama and are going to vote for him. And he may well win the election. But can drop the charade that he is a uniter?

JG   April 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

McCain: I know little about the economy; married to beer queen; and only recently acknowledged economic issues but still would like to reward the wealthiest individuals and corporations. By maintaining tax breaks for the few he is in fact demonstrating a belief that the Bush bonazaga for the rich is the way to go.

No thanks; time for change that is true; time for honest, tough and empathetic president; Obama's got my vote.

alexander   April 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

mccain doesnt know what he is saying obama all the way

joann   April 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

I am a Hillary supporter but I agree with Mccain. Obama keeps distorting everyone's words but his own to fit his situation. "a different kind of campaign" my foot!

Real Deal   April 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Like McCain even is aware of what the average American goes through!!! Has he ever lived wondering how to keep his home, job or even afford gas to get to the job. What has he even said to indicate that he cares about the stress we Americans are living with trying just to keep up with the economic problems that we the people did not create. I've not heard one thing in his campaign that even indicates that he is aware of what is really happening in America. He has lived the good life of a millionaire, not even aware of what we are striving to do to just survive. It's apparent with his continuous Bush kissing remarks about the past seven and a half years that he is blinded by what is real.

Then I hear the remarks made by some Democrats that they would vote for McCain unless THEIR candidate won the Democratic Bid. Oh, yeah, that will fix everything.

I hope that we the people can stuff our childish complaints, sneering, blaming, and negativity and come together to elect The One that cares first of all for us, we the people, and commits to the action necesary to lift us up again before it's too late. Yes, it can get lotsa worse. And we hold the ballot.

Milan N   April 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

It is amazing that Obama supporters don't see through Barack's distortions and dishonesty. He claims to want to end this type of politicking when he and his campaign are right in the forefront of it. Hopefully the fairy dust will wear off in time and people will finally see he is just like any other politician, except with far less valuable experience, who is willing to say anything and even lie just to get elected. I am an Independent voter that leans Democratic and would never vote for John McCain but in the same way, I would never vote for Barack Obama either.
His dismal performance in the last debate, when he finally got some heat, displayed exactly how his elegant demeanor and oratory skills evaporate without a teleprompter. He has proven that he is not of presidential caliber.

Tex   April 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Okay, here is EXACTLY what McCain said:

"I think if you look at the overall record, and millions of jobs having been created, etcetra etcetra, you could make an argument that there's been great progress economically over that period of time." [meaning the period since George Bush took office]

I fail to see any dishonesty at all. Obama quoted him quite accurately.

Barb   April 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama has done this to Clinton for the entire race. He is a liar! If he is caught he just laughs it off as if it a JOKE. Being the President of the United States is NO JOKE! We don't need a Jester with no experience in the White House!

Barb-Id

Kelley   April 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

The actual comment that Sen MCcain said,People were facing challenging times, but went on to say,"You could make an arguement that there's been great progress economically over that period of time. Just words Sen McCain, during this campaign you had better not mix your words and only state the facts.

seyi   April 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

I mean, just look at the pictures CNN posted. A sick person that wakes up from a coma would know who to vote for immediately. McCain is crying foul! I am laughing foul. Obama 08/12

Kelley   April 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

The actual comment that Sen MCcain said,People were facing challenging times, but went on to say,"You could make an arguement that there's been great progress economically over that period of time. Just words Sen McCain, during this campaignyou had better not mix your words and only state the facts.

Marty   April 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Wow, is McCain and his campaign really that stupid? It doesn't matter that he said that "some families are going through economic hardships." The fact of the matter is that he still said that the economy has been improving when it has been steadily declining for some time. It doesn't matter that he acknowledged "some families" because, in reality, most Americans are having some kind of economic hardship, not just a few like McCain makes it out to be. If McCain is elected, the economy will get even worse and this proves it. McCain and his campaign are simply trying to cover up a political blunder.

DemsV   April 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Finally someone said the true!!!

Bukky   April 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Ummm how is repeating his exact words a "rank falsehood" There is video of McCain saying stuff aboput 100 years of war. McCain actually said that the economy was doing better… how is this twisting words?

Ig   April 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Oh yes, like telling us that everything in Iraq is rosey.

Diego   April 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Thanks for reporting that somewhere something happened. How about a little analysis? Who is right and what was the context of each statement?

Samson   April 18th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

It's quite obvious that all 3 candidates have been dishonest. Obama is neither Satan or Saint in this campaign. This politics, and anyone able to get to the stage all of them are at had to have compromised their integrity at one time or another.

smokesignals   April 18th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Hardly!
McCain is the one who is outta touch.
Tell this struggling business/home owner that things have improved over the last 7 years and she'll tell you that she doesn't want to continue this war-mongering Republican empire!

Obama 08   April 18th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Obama did not twist any words. He disputed the notion. McCain camp is very despiteful and arrogant bunch of old people who have no idea what low income people are going through and they can surely say what they want but they (republicans) wrecked the economy.

Scott C   April 18th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

He quoted McCain directly… He DID say the economy has improved…

*looks for distortion of truth*

*Finds none*

Brooke   April 18th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Obama will say anything to get elected. And, any issue that is worth debating or discussing, is pushed aside with the comment, "That's old politics and we need to move forward."

Deema   April 18th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

The key phrase is "… the Arizona senator ALSO said…" which means that he still also said the other quote. So how does repeating that make Obama dishonest? Gee, I don't know. McCain is just another alpha-male wannabe (like Bill Clinton) who is threatened by Barack Obama.

Obama 08   April 18th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

So what does the McCain camp think? the economy is doing good? They are not serious. They can attack Obama as much as they want but the truth is the truth and Obama does not need to tell the common person that truth. It is there.

Dianna Flower Mound, Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

This coming from a man who jets around with a pretty lobbyist! Who was involved in the Keating savings and loan scandal!!

Hmpph!!

Tony Gonzales   April 18th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

See I am 65 and tripped up my words!!!!!

Rena   April 18th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Nothing is twisted about Obama repeating just what McCain said. He said that our soldiers could be in Iraq for 100 years. What would they be doing over their if they are not going to be fighting Al Quida? What sitting around twindling their thumbs; I don't thinks so. He said it now face up to it. McCain also said that we have made great progress under the Bush administration which is a lie. McCain is another Bush he say things then run and hide because he don't want to face truth. Our country is a disaster!!!! We need to get it out of the hands of people like McCain and Bush. I most certainly don't want to see my husband over their again for the 3rd time. AMERICAN VOTE TO BRING OUR SOLDIERS HOME THEY ARE TIRED AND BURNED OUT. HALF ARE COMING HOME FACING REAL SERIOUS ISSUES AND OUR GOVERNMENT DOES NOTHING TO HELP THEM. THEY KICK THEM OUT ON THE STREETS AFTER THEY HAVE LITERALLY DESTROYED THEM AND THEIR FAMILIES.

David   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

A republican complaining about someone else being dishonest and distorting the truth! What's wrong John? Worried that someone may be playing in the distortion sand box other than your hero George Bush and a majority of the repulican party? What a hoot!

MickyD10   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

wow!! Twisting someones words. Taking something out of context????? Oh heavens, no!! I'm shocked. That never happens in poltitics, never!!! Who would ever do that???? Oh yeah, wait. We're talking about Republican tactics here aren't we.

Never mind.

An Agnostic Democrat   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

So says the patriotic war hero ( Who, by the way, does deserve respect for his service and honor for his POW status ) who can't even find a way to support or afford the returning vets the benefits of a new GI bill, decent care at the V.A. hospitals, or the safety to bring them out of a civil war zone. You sent them "to war" based on the ever-changing rationale (Read: lies of the Bush administration) in the first place! That's recklessly dishonest Mr. McSame! And now you have the cajones to go around with your lapel decorated with flag pins selling your pseudo-patriotism and beating the same old false, everybody-but-me-hates-America drum as your predecessors.

Fred   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Come on, can't people see the light.. Obama acts like a child under attack. He is reckless. Can't anyone see that.. I am for Hillary, but
truly along with my family would in fact vote for John McCain if Obama won the Democratic nomination. Many American's would do the same. I thank the news should quite giving Obama so much praise.
The news is really afraid to say what they feel so it doesn't get turned racially against them. I thank this man is very dangerous and lacks the experience to lead this country. Somebody else would be pulling his strings if he were to ever win. Hopefully Not !!! Again and I've said this before, anyone that goes to the same church for 20 years and says he was ready to leave if his pastor hadn't retired has to be full of it. He should have left years ago. But that is not the only issue, His stance on many things that he wants to do. His put down of the working people of Pennsylvania. And to turn around and say his words were twisted.. Hey come on. Lets get this down. Either Hillary or McCain.. Looks like McCain right now as far as the news is depicting things with Hillary.. The Polls this , The Polls that. I would like to really see who you ask your questions to. I ask my neighbors who they are voting for and they tell me Obama ( I live in a 90% black neighborhood ) I ask why .. They say he represents the black man. I say what does that have to do with running a country.. They say all they care about is he is black. Now there is a poll. Nobody can even tell me that they are voting for any other reason without saying he is black as the reason. We don't need this. So you go McCain, the truth is he is reckless and as far as honesty goes, out the door.

Tiffany J, Cinci   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

The only one running for president that I trust is Obama. Period. I don't care what the other candidates say: their own actions have already spoke for themselves.

Perhaps they should be spending more time speaking about themselves. What can Clinton and/or McCain do for us? Who knows… All they talk about is Obama. That doesn't tell me patooey about them.

I'm voting for the one who has done their best to be honest, well-spoken, blunt, and the least negative.

Mr. Obama, you have my vote.

CNN, would you post this?

Tony Gonzales   April 18th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

John constantly trips up his wording which is signs of old age. I think it is best if gets out of the race. We need a strong healthy presicent.
He is totally out of touch with america.

Sue   April 18th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

You did say that Senator McCain. You cannot jump on this as you did the bitter, without being substanive in your comments. I ffel you have no idea of the pain the American public is in. America needs help – not m=4 more years of Republican politics that are not about the people you are suppossed to represent.

History buff   April 18th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

He's No "Honest Abe", that's for sure!

merle 7   April 18th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

JOIN THE CLUB OBAMA'S WORDS WERE TWISTED OUT OF CONTEXT,HOW DOES IT FEEL? WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND . MAYBE MCCAIN SHOULD HAVE SAID VERY LITTLE ECONOMIC PROGRESS HAS BEEN MADE,SINCE SOME FAMILIES ARE STILL HAVING IT HARD ECONOMICALLY.

OBAMA 08!

Jack Pitzer   April 18th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

I'm fed up with the name calling, negativity and he said she said of this campaign. It's just another symptom of how ugly our country is becoming.

dj   April 18th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Is that not the pot calling the kettle, black. When the words of McCain are twisted, then sound the alarm, but when the converse happens (elitist uproar)…….john is proving that he offers "more of the same 'ole washington" …the games, the spin, the "politics" NOBODY CARES about he said…he said…and she said. JUST STOP ALREADY!

zina   April 18th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Get off it, John. We democrats are not falling for anymore REPUB talking points…

Obama '08

Marlina   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

It looks like John McCain is projecting himself. McCain is distorting Obama's words out of proportion. Quit it, John McCain.
Obama 2008!

Wally Beaver   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Golly Jeepers Fellas, I don't think John McCain could honestly make such a blooper. As far as Obama, he is twisting up the truth like Bill Oreilly sets up his daily trash show. Nothing can convince me that Obama is ready for the White House. Really audience, do you really want Oprah as your Secretary of State, and Fernie Mack as the Secretary of Defense.

Baby Girl   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I am with Obama, where in the hllllllllll has John McCain been. John McCain is smoking something because the amount of food, oil and gas has gone up so high that people needs a horse and buggy to get to work. Don't he realize that we have to carpool because of the high price of gas. Because he is one of the rich kids money, food, oil and gas is not an objection.

christi   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Republicans don't believe there is anything wrong in America.

That has been obvious for a long, long time.

Norisha   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

OBAMA plus millions of Americans are waiting for the debate against John Mc Cain…..He's done! It will be over for the republicans as soon as that fake Democrat, Hillary, hangs it up!!!

OBAMA 2008!

Michael Lorton, Viriginia   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Words are always getting conventionalized to some secondary meaning for the political benefits of the candidates.

Sharon Olds   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I don't see how that is twisted. If you live in America, you don't have to be told about the worsening economic situation in the past 7 years, you live it every day. Mortgage crisis, gas crisis, food crisis, etc… McCain need not get it twisted.

Hillary Lies!   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Now get ready to see the Clinton supporters side with McCain.

JT   April 18th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

McCain did say 100 years, and he did say we have made economic pregress during the Bush administration. He is calling Obama "dishonest" because he sees that America thinks Hillary is dishonest, and her stock is falling fast. Interesting that McCain is saying Obama "took his statement out of context." Geez. When Obama said that, he was vilified. So McCain did not think 100 years of war was OK; even now he says we might be there for that long, comparing it to our continued presence in Korea, Japan and others. Was that really the deal we were offered in 2003? Uh. . . No it was not. We were instead told by w (and McCain) that Iraq presented a "grave and imminent threat to the US," and that Saddam was "tied to" al quada and was "pursuing yellow cake from Niger." All flatly untrue. He also recently said "we are no longer looking into the abyss of defeat" in Iraq. That suggests that he now admits we previously were – but you never heard him or any other R say that at the time. Who is reckless again?

Rick in MD   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

So be it…what's good for the goose is good for the gander. Afterall, turnaround is fair play. Go Obama and tell it like they tell it.

carlo   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Shut up McTurkeyneck! You DID say that. Fact check said that you didn't mean it that way. You know, kind of like they do to Obama.

Key West Sun   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Even McCain knows Obama is a liar, In the last week Obama looks just like the same old politicians we all know, lie, twist and spin everything to look good for him, and then he is ask a question that he won't answer, and he whines that they are picking on Him.
This man shows his lack of character and experience more and more everyday. Looked really bad in the debate and now looks worse with all the crying….A little cheese with that whine Mr. Obama.

Grayson   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Ahhh, the straight talk express is crying. Poor baby. McCain was flying off the cuff when he said 100 years and everyone took it the way he meant it. With all the experience Mr. Straight Talk has, he should know to think before you speak.

DS in SD   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I don't see what's so "recklessly dishonest" about these comments. This is a man who wants to make Bush's tax cuts for the rich permanent, afterall. If he really knows families are 'facing tremendous economic challenges,' then why does he have no real plan to help them? For an extension of the Bush White House, vote McBush '08.

What baffles me is that there will undoubtedly be Hillary "Democrats" posting on this thread to back up John McCain in bashing Obama. Who are you people and why do you still consider yourselves Democrats?

JR   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Wake up people, Obama is the same as everyone else. He LIES to all of you, twist words, and parapharses comments just like anyone. He may preach change but he will never accoplish it by doing the same old Washington polotics.

I support Hillary and if not her, than McCain. This has to do with the fact that they at least understand things. Obama has shown time and time again that he does not grasp the inner-workings of govt. We already had a puppet in the top House in the US, why vote for another puppet.

proud army and navy mom   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

hillary's people called mccain to old and you don't hear a peep. let Sen Obama repeat exactly what mccain says and he hollers like a hurt dog. for an old man, he sounding like a female dog..Beeeeeetch

Dan   April 18th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Did John McCain say that? I know, by the policies he endorses that he clearly believes what Obama attributed to him. If you didn't believe that the Bush policies of the last 7 plus years brough progress, you certainly wouldn't adopt all of them into your policies.

He wants to make Bush's tax cuts permament. He wants to keep the capital gains tax at its current rate. He wants to bail out banks, and ignore homeowners. He wants to spend far more then we take in, and stretch our military beyond its limits.

Juanita   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

McCain can be a bit confusing on where he stands or what he means, as can all politicians, eve Obama.
I guess that a truly civilized political campaign at a national level is just out of the question. Maybe it just wouldn't work. If sleeze comments/ads didn't work they wouldn't use them but….

Michael Guinn , Ventura, CA   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

McCain camp is gearing up for teh general- but they will find that their negative smears will backfire on them just as they have on Clinton.
America is tired and wants real change……not more of the McSame.

Sean   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Interesting to see EVERYONE attacking Obama when he "acts like a politician".

Scott, Wichita   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Luckily there's still a few of us who understand that saying that it's acceptable to keep troops in a country long term (Korea anyone? Japan?) ISN'T THE SAME AS WANTING THEM THERE.

Learn to listen to what they say, not try to intrepret them, leave that to the conspiracy theorists

Mark   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Sure, McCain's one to talk about honesty. Keating Five anyone?

Furthermore Obama has been attacked over and over again for things said by people he knows as if the words came out of his mouth. This is laughable that anyone is even giving these attacks the time of day. How would you like to be held accountable for things you didn't even say? Barack obviously represents the kind of change this country is looking for, as his favorable ratings keep going up. Maybe the kind of change the American people want is not the same kind of change Washington wants. The folks in Washington have too long stepped on the constitution like an old newspaper and have gotten away with it. I believe that Obama represents a revolution of sorts, but a peaceful revolution. If the current politics in Washington continue, and Obama continues to be slandered, by who I believe to be both parties, and the election is stolen from him, perhaps a non-peaceful revolution may be in the midst for the U.S. in order to secure the nation in the hands of the people whom make up its whole.

Anthony Flint, MI   April 18th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

It's real easy…

Did McCain say what Obama said or not? If he did, then why the backlash? If he did, Obama is right…Our economy is NOT better.

Ed   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

McCain is crazy and he flip flops and everything just to make the conservatives happy. He did say the last 7 years were good – he is told old to be President and says dumb things.

Brandon   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Did John McCain say "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years" or not? I don't see how to justify that comment. How is Obama being "recklessly dishonest" when he is quoting Sen McCain?

It seems that McCain believes everytime he says something completely out of touch he refuses to take responsibility..

Philly for Obama   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Well the pot calling the kettle black. Isn't that what you folks did over the bitter comment. McCain stop crying and whinning. For a Navy vet you sure are a big cry baby. What part of this being a campaign don't you understand?

Gino   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

What a McCrock! Did McCain say that claptrap or not? He did. End of story.

Get Real   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

MCain is the dis-honest one…what at laughing joke. Please someone find this man a comfortable "ursing home"

Mota Nginya - Georgia   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Wow, politics can't stop wowing me for real. How can someone repeat someone's statement and his openents turn around and accuse him of being dishonest and that he has taking someone's words out of context. Can someone tell those McBush fellows to get their dann acts together. They should be worried about their supposedly straight talk express that has lost some of its wheels and has become bushTalk express.

Obama o' boso …. "go go Obama…"

Mark Diplomat   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Not to worry. Please remember that John and Cindi McCain have her $100 million to rest on. dear John will always have the comforts of home. Let's just hope it's NOT the White House.

Pennsylvania – see that Obama is indeed the man (and candidate) he claims to be. Let's end this race on Tuesday – and thanks to you, put the Clinton years well behind us.

Tampa Voter   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

And McCainn recklessly flip flops…lol

Barack keep on keepin' on!!

lucyna   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

McCain knows he may not have a shot in November if Obama is nominated. Dishonesty has been always all over the walls in Washington where he spend half of his life. So who is he talking about? I guess those comments he must refer to himself.

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

McSame is 'recklessly reckless' with his ill-informed statements.

AND

get used to it, he does it all the time!

A vote for Grandpa McSame is a vote for 4 more years of the same failed Cheney/Bush policies!

We can do better! YES, WE CAN!

I supported HRC because of Bill   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Tell Grampa McSame to go where is mates are going…To the senior living facilities…
Compare the picture of the two…which do you want, Vibrant or Sagging?

Gail   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

He is recklessly dishonest and reckless and dishonest. If he thinks being the presidential nominee would be cake walk boy he is in for it. Things have not even started.

Cathy   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

What "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years" is McCain speaking about? Please point out specifics because I can't think of any without any real stretch of the imagination. McCain, please give us specifics and not the generalization like Bush does.

Mark M Kansas City   April 18th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

WOW! The folks who have subverted the truth for years are claiming someone from the democratic party has been "recklessly dishonest". Are you kidding me?

How long until the Republicans start there smear campaign? O can answer that, as soon as Obama or Clintion gets the nod.

I am an Independent, but man the Republicans and W have left a real sour feeling in my stomach. I don't even want to hear what they have to say for the next couple of decades. How W was able to trick the good people of the U.S. not once, but twice will never cease to amaze me.

Go take a nap, Mcshame.

GO OBAMA!

Here we GOO   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

GRREAT! Here we go again. Can we all just focus on the fact that McCain (McBush Jr.) was in deep denial about the economy and the current recession. When we start with name calling we get nowhere! Remember Mr McCain how much you didn't like the war mongering label???

So back off the smack talk and focus on the issues.

T   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

yeah sure, here is a guy who accepts the endorsement of Pastor Hagee and his false ministry.
Who is being dishonest here ?

David   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

So when McCain says "Obama is going to raise your taxes," is that recklessly dishonest? Off course it is. Obama has said he will not raise the tax on anyone making below $200,000. Yet, the media won't follow up on that.

Ross in MD   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

So Obama gave a direct quote of McCain's. That is not being disputed. Nothing dishonest about it.

It is McCain's decision to promote the Bush administration. Live with it.

NC   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Mccain is a reckless warmonger!

Eileen from Portland, Maine   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

I thought McCain was some sort of war hero. Why is he such a big crybaby all the time?

donnajane   April 18th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Between his politics and his personality he doesn't stand a chance against Barack Obama…if he is the best the repugs can do they are more desperate than i previously thought.

maria antbing   April 18th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Look at foxnews when Obama "makes the finger " at Hillary! If you elect Obama I will never visit USA again

Grif   April 18th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Obama thinks's, he's the "Black" "Robin Hood" But King John will always send him back to the Forrest in Tatter's….

Ron   April 18th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

IT DIDN'T COME OUT RIGHT. WHAT I MEANT TO SAY. WELL WHAT I REALLY MEANT WAS . I QUESS I COULD OF SAID IT IN A DIFFERENT WAY AND HE DOES EVERTIME HE IS ASKED TO EXPLAIN A LIE SORRY CONTRADICTION HE IS A MASTER AT TWISTING WORDS BUT DON'T YOU DARE ACCUSE HIM OF IT. HE FEELS HE IS SOMEHOW ABOVE REPROACH TO QUESTION IS WORDS IS BEEING BIAS RACIST OR YOU RESORTING TO WASHINGTON TYPE POLITICS.I AM NOT ELITEST JUST BEYOND QUESTIONING

Stephanopoluos NOT   April 18th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

For the record, George Stephanopoluos did a horrible job, and Charlie wasn't far behind him. I think the too of them should never do another debate unless they promise to be grown-ups. George should have recused himself since he worked in the Clinton administration.

America is furious, and Hillary, Obama is not whining, and he certainly will never cry the way you did in NH. But his supporters are stating the obvious, which is you had help the other night. Having to debate three people, I'd say Obama did a fabulous job.

Patricia P. in Austin, TX   April 18th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

McCain, who has 8 houses and is married to the heiress to a beer fortune, can't possibly understand that America has not seen "great economic progress."

Ian   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Am I bad for wishing that one of these candidates gets up on a podium and just starts cussing and hollering and throwing up heir middle finger at the other candidate while grabbing their crotch and making vulgar gestures? For some reason I would just love to see that at this point in this thing…

Doc   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Comedy! Like a republican is the one to cry foul ball. Hey Mc Cain it's not like you are busy campaigning, just get up there and explain yourself. But giving you claim that you are not strong on economics I mean its not out of order for people to think when you say the economy is not hurting that you are completely out of touch with the everyday people. By far in comparison with the other running mates you have been living well for a long time. Come to think of it why are you running for president at the age of 71 or so, knowing you should be more of a person on the board than at the helm (president) of the corporation. I mean when the society talks of candidates just wanting to run out of popularity or for power i'm sure you are definitely the one who fits it better than them all. Let it go my friend

After further review,Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Please dont get your diaper in a bunch John.

Uncle Sam   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Sen. John McCain has a point about the economy despite the recent downturn. Where were the critics of President Bush when the economy was doing well for the previous five years? Why no mention of the millions of jobs created and the sustained low unemployment rate? When do we get to see in the media the progress being made on the ground in Iraq, such as the infrastructure, schools, businesses, etc.? And how is it that we have not been attacked since 9/11? While it is easy to demonize someone, including the president, it says more about us than him.

Maria   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

What does 7 years of great progress mean under the Bush Administration? Economic progress?, The only people doing well are the rich folks. The CEO's,and big corporate companies that Mc Cain supports. There is no twisting of words here. It is pretty clear. I are onto Republican's.

MD   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Here's another child running for presidency.

McCain is the mouth of 100 factions. Every time this man says something, it gives Democrats ammunition to attack him.

McCain cannot say we have had economic progress in the last 71/2 years, and then say he knows people are suffering. He is delusional.

MM   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

well did McCain say what Obama said he did? You never really tell us that in the article. You said that McCain "also said"…….but didn't give us the whole quote of what McCain said. Again, the media gives us soundbites and not the whole story.

cat n kansas   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

OH……Quit Whining !!!! Wahhhhhh !!!

Praetorian, Fort Myers   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Great comeback John.
Look at all of our 401 K's and real job growth–compared to the rest of the world.

However…government decisions to spur biofuels and divert resources from food production–partnered with the burst of the housing bubble (that everyone predicted would come this year or next) are the biggest problems feeding our economic fears.

Jobless claims also–do not truly reflect the seriousness of our current recession. Remember–millions of jobs that people don't have now–are part time or seasonal and not eligible for unemployment benefits.

Both Clinton and Obama–are focusing on everything WRONG and BAD–to create fear and gain public acceptance "Nanny state" ideology as an alternative to the bleak picture they paint of capitalistic ideology.

I don't think our founding fathers, nor the framers of our consititution would have agreed with the unAmerican values of Karl Marx.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   April 18th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Hey McCain team,

If you want Obama to stop calling out stupid comments by McCain, maybe you should get your candidate to stop saying stupid things!

rumpusgoopus   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Yes! How dare Obama… how dare he… what did he do wrong here? McCain is sounding like Hillary.

Frosty   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Well John McCain did say it. It's not just some families facing economic challenges…it's MANY Americans except those with beer companies. I am not sure I'll be comfortable with a president who thinks this current economic dissolution is an advancement.

You went to Europe recently, the dollar ain't great there, is it Bush III?

Kira   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

wow, does mccain remember how many times he has flip flopped? He doesn't have a base of republican party because of changing positions. Give it up mc.
You are singing from the same hyme book with Hillary. You took so long to know we have a housing crisis and we don't need you telling us about war. Since that day you said Bomb bomb Iran, shows how reckless and dishonest you are since Iran has no nuclear weapons.
And:

No country for Old men!

Ian   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

If anyone is going to twist John McCain's words around it's going to be John McCain. He's for tax cuts, except voted against the Bush tax cuts. He's against policing the world, but supports the occupation of Iraq. He says he's a conservative, yet consistantly votes like a Democrat/Independant. McCain, the ultimate flip-flopper.

Jean   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Politics. Hyperbole matched with overstatement.

Desiree   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Obama is change we don't need or want.

Lindsay   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

How is it being "recklessly dishonest" by repeating what John McCain said about the economy? This is called discussing the issues. This is not the same as personal attacks. If John McCain can't understand the difference between discussing real issues and distraction issues, then he is out of touch with what the voters are truly concerned about.

Ron, TX   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

He quoted John McCain word for word?

I don't see how anything got distorted…

Al A.   April 18th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

For McCain to say there has been "great progress economically over the last seven and a half years" either makes him an economic idiot, a liar, naive, or all three. If he's not fooling himself then he's trying to fool the American public. Unfortunately, some actually believe him. For McCain to say that families are facing "tremendous economic challenges" is clearly a sugar coated understatement and contradictory to his statement of great progress economically.

We as a nation don't need McCain who's living in economic la-la land and not the real world.

Mike from Westchester   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Yah, Yah, Yah,

So I guess we should elect a befuddled old man who repeatedly gets Sunnis and Shiites mixed up – and foreign policy is supposedly his strong suit. Can't wait for his gaffs on economic policy.

If Lieberman has to stand next to him to correct slip-ups on foreign policy, who's going to coach him on economics?

Pepou   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Of course Obama is right. Are we better off today after 8 miserable years of Bush, war, slumping economy, rising gas prices …. ????

honkey white guy from cali   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Give me a break what a wind bag hello the more lies and negative garbage that Sen Clinton and Mc Cain toss at Obama helps him! They are both so out of touch they have no idea what is going on in America. He did very plainly say that we have made great economic progress over that period of time.He has got to be joking if anyone believes that they don't know the first thing about economics Of but that is right Mc Cain already said he does not know much of econimics

Go Obama 08

Will, NYC   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Yeah, he'd be recklessly dishonest if Grumpy McGrandpa didn't actually say that, but of course, he did.

mary-NH   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Guess what? McCain said it and Obama had every right to call him on it. How dare he call him 'recklessly dishonest' for a direct quote. Perhaps McCain had another senior moment and forgot he said it?

Mike D   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

This coming from the heir to the GWB legacy. Give me a break!

Darth Vadik, CA   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

All I need to know about the character of McCain is that he called his wife the "C" word in front of reporters back in 1992, and 1998 he said "Why is Chelsea Clinton so ugly? Because her father is Janet Reno.”

Thats all I need to know about McCain.

NOBAMA   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

CNN is so pro Barry Obama that its really beginning to make me sick. They post an article about Hillary telling Obama to stop crying and close comments after 10 responses? Or was it they only posted 10 pro Obama responses and not the 250 NOBAMA responses?

At least Fox and MSNBC post everyone. Sorry CNN but most of us don't believe your candidate can win.

GOBAMA and take your finally proud to be an American wife with you!

cnn rocks   April 18th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

well mccain,get a taste of your own medicine,when you twisted obamas "bitter" comments it was okay,hypocrite.
obama 08

For the love of this independent   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

The economy and how it is viewed is a legitimate issue. The only people who feels that this ecomony has made GREAT PROGRESS over the last 7 and 1/2 years are those who have profited from it. And that would be corporate america. Because it is surely not you and I.

Obama made not understand predominantly white middle america and said they are fearful of change (another word for bigotry), but at least he is not profiting off of it. And send you babies off to war to fight for an interest that you yourself have no clue of.

Republican Right Wing won't say predominantly white middle of america is fearful of change but they are banking on middle america's bigotry. And are going to say Obama does hold your values sacred then they are going to ship your jobs overseas. Make profit by selling your land to china corporations. Profit greatly from trade agreements made off your closing factories. Then ship your babies off to fight their wars. But they will cut your taxes.

Last question what good is a tax cut if you don't have a job.

wwf   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

One question. Did McCain say that over the past years the economy was good? Yes. What is there to misunderstand? It only took him three times before he finally made any kind of statement that American familys are hurting. Please tell me how are the words being twisted. I don't care who which Dem. candidate is saying it. I want an honest answer. Looks to me that the only twisting being done is by the Republican party. Oh, I am an Independent sitting on the fence.

Interesting   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

McCain has also said Obama will raise everyone's tax. When in fact he will lower taxes for those under $200k/year.

McCain is a little too pious. I thought the pope lived in Rome.

Clev   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Ok so basically O'bama wasn't dishonest. It was exactly what Mccain said. The campaign did not say that he didn't say that, they are saying that :he also said, that people are facing tremendous economic challenges".

My question is how can we have economic growth but you also say that we have economic challenges? If we had growth there would be no economic challenge!! Right?

I mean really!!

Len in Washington   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Senator Obama is correct, Mr. Bounds. You, sir, are wrong.

To look across this country at the millions of people without insurance, loosing their jobs and homes, retirement funds wiped out, futures either put on hold or completely demolished, Social Security and Medicare on the verge of collapse and then say "there has been great progress economically…" is not facing the true nature of the situation in this country.

It is a failed test of your candidate's understanding of basic America.

Carol/Lansing Michigan   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

For George Bush's entire time in office, McCain has been toughting that we are better off and that they hard times we have been going through a largely psycchological.

Remeber the GOP debates:

"FORMER SEN. JOHN MCCAIN: I think you could argue that Americans overall are better off, because we have had a pretty good prosperous time, with low unemployment and low inflation and a lot of good things have happened. A lot of jobs have been created."

With continued comments like that one coming out of your mouth, how is Barack or anyone supposed to think different.

Of course you admittedly have no experience with the econony or economic issues.

Eric-PA   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

We know. Obama likes to twist things to his advantage. He's been doing that and getting away with it for months now

Dave   April 18th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Those that fail to do justice don't deserve justice.

Rose - Baltimore, MD   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

And so?

James   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

How the heck have we made progress economically? If McCain's ever picked up an econ textbook he'd know all these tax cuts, spending, and deficit would lead to a recession and an even weaker dollar

Independent Moderate   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

I have become profoundly disenchanted with B.O. As soon as he discovered that he is not above scrutiny, he became exactly what I had so naively believed he wasn't….a politician in every sense of the word.

Gail   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

If John McCain does not want to be criticised for saying something, then best not to say it in the first place. It's easy to keep blaming Obama. But Barack Obama is simplyy being intelligent and quick enough to pick up on some of the truly absurd and out-of-touch comments John McCain says.

shirley   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

John McCain did say he would be OK with having troops in Iraq for 100 years if necessary, I heard him.

OH   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Anyone willing to continue George Bush failed policies would be crazy. It will be much more crazy to vote for anyone who wants to continue the failed policies of the last seven years.

Christine, Tampa   April 18th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

I don't see any context at all in which "there has been great progress economically" is a rational, viable statement. John McSame is an idiot.

Watching every move   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

But Obama doesn't even want to have a "presence" there for 100 years. He wants all the troops home and that's the difference. So I disagree. Obama is not lying about what McCain said. McCain is the one who is trying to renege on that hideous statement. He's just mad because Obama is picking up on it.

Zubair, CA   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

so let me get this straight… McCain can twist Obama's words and call him him elistist for the whole week, but if Obama uses McCain's words, thats foul play?
Only in McCain's world that argument makes any sense.

Amy R.   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Can McCain even remember himself what was said? That is without Liebermann at his side to give him the correct answers.

RENEA,PLYMOUTH,MI   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

MCAIN IS TWISTING GEORGE BUSHS RECORD ON EVERYTHING.THE WAR.THE ECONOMY….

Independent   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

All the candidates should stop paraphrasing each other. They should only quote each other in proper context and then explain and stand by their explanations if they misspoke. Its all a game and everyone is sick of it….we just want to know who stands for what and what they will be trying to accomplish when in office. Obvioulsy, they have to act according to the situation existing at the time the issue arises and work with the congress and the rest of the institutions so we know they cant do exactly what they hope to. We just want a general idea of what they stand for and if they can be trusted to try and accomplish it. All the rest is pointless focus on details that will change.

Krissy, FL   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

McSame is correct, the last 7+ years have been booming for a privileged few….

The truth   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

After admitting that there has been economic progress over the last 8 years, McCain went on to say "But that's no comfort. That's not comfort to families now that are facing these tremendous economic challenges".

Why did Obama selectively ignore this part when he decided to attach McCain?

jeff from Geneva   April 18th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

McCain does nothing wrong..just ask him and his campaign. John McCain is the weakest republican to run in ages. Either dem will eat his lunch. His camp especially fears Obama because he will draw in new people in waves and many republicans that don't like McCain will sit this one out.

Willis, Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

STOP WHINING! THE JOHN MCCAN'T CAMPAIGN WERE THE FIRST TO JUMP ON OBAMA WITH THAT "ELITEST" AND "OUT OF TOUCH" CRAP!

ADDITIONALLY, CINDY IS OUT ON THE CAMPAIGN STUMP YELLING ABOUT "HOW PATRIOTIC SHE IS" ALL THE WHILE USING FAKE RECIPES AND NOT TAKING RESPONSIBILITY AND FAILING TO DISCLOSE HER TAX RETURN!

YOU REPUBLICANS WERE THE FIRST TO ASK FOR BILL CLINTON'S TAX RETURN AND A LIST OF DONORS TO HIS PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND PLANTED SEEDS ABOUT MICHELE OBAMA'S PATRIOTISM!

IF IT MATTERS FOR BILL AND MICHELE — IT MATTERS FOR CINDY! THIS CRAP ABOUT HER CHILDREN ARE AN INSULT — BOTH OTHER CANDIDATES HAVE CHILDREN TOO!!!

gina   April 18th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Just once I would like to see Senator McCain attack Hillary Clinton the way he does Barack Obama.

Oh yes I forgot he would never do that they are cronies!
Senator McCain would you like to discuss what you and Clinton were saying in your "private meeting" after the Colbert show? And where are your wife's tax returns? Every citizen does have a right to privacy – until their spouse is about to become THE LEADER OF THE FREE WORLD

Cindy McCain will be in the White House if John McCain were to win. Clinton and Obama have released their families' returns. Why is Cindy McCain so special? Could it be that Johnny boy doesn't want us to realize what a hippocryte he was for calling Obama an elitist when he cheated on his first wife with his second, younger, FILTHY RICH heiress wife??

John McCain you are a phony. No wonder Bush endorsed you McSame!!

Obama in 2008!!

Talimee   April 18th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Thank you McCain! Im tired of Obama playing victim, when him and his campaign are exactly doing what they state they are against. Actions speak louder than words.

Justo - Vancouver   April 18th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I guess McCain and Hillary are really one big happy family!! But guess what, Obama is going to beat all of the four candidates: McCain, Bill, Chelsea, and the notty Hillary.

I must confess that I trully wouldnt mind if McCain or Obama won the Presidency, but not the LIER HILLARY.

McCain – Obama, America needs you! Good luck to both yo'll.

DEE in fla   April 18th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

OBAMA is right… Mccain is so rich that he cant even see how bad the economy is… MCCAIN said it…

OBAMA 08

oh really?   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

this felt like a punch from an 80 year old man :/

is that all you got, mccain? pop some geritol and try again

but as long as we're clarifying, which is it?

have we made great progress economically over the last seven and a half years? or do we facetremendous economic challenges?

which?

i'll step out on a limb and have the "audicity" to presume that you know what you're talking about.

Theresa   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Recklessly honest? Hmmm…

Does that mean that it's "safe" to lie to the American people? It is better to withhold information from the people? Are we to believe that the truth will somehow harm us?

Yep… That's the same old politics!

Brandon   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

"great progress economically over the last seven and a half years,"

So please Mr. McCain, tell us what that means then. Even without Obama's comments, I derived the same message from those words.

the drama queen=hillary   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

mCnuts Leave Our Country Alone.

Enough of the Same.

I Can Not Believe mCbush Collects Social Security.

they worth more than $100 million…

===Campaign instructions to Cindy:
1.Smile
2.Wave
3.Remain silent
4.Take your medicine

SJK in Denver   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

McCain,
You're old.

Salaam Lawrence KS   April 18th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

McSain is being pathetic … Obama just repeated what the AZ Senator had said. McSame is scticking to the Bush policies so he can gain the support of the core group of the republican party, the conservatives.

John, Lubbock, Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Uh….excuse me…I'm trying to remember anytime in the past two weeks where I heard anything other than sniping in the political debate–like, say, an idea?

Obama Supporter   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

But he is QUOTING McCain . . . I don't get it – is the quote incorrect?

Is it correct but somehow McCain saying he knows people are facing "tremendous economic challenges" is supposed to make it sound better that he thinks the Bush admin has brought great economic progress? Because if the quote is accurate, McCain needs to do a lot more explaining than just saying 'I know there are economic challenges'!!!

vic nashville,Tn   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Mc Cain Please don’t attack on Obama
Obama still whining and crying about the debate
Some main stream media are worried about their boy is crying
If you attack him now they will bit you
Obama what you are hiding we want to know

Pure Amazement   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Is the McCain camp serious? When the American people are struggling, the last thing you want to say is that great progess economically over the last seven and half years REGARDLESS IF YOU TACT ON THIS "tremendous economic challenges" statement.

To many Americans, the last seven years have been horrible so NO you will not win any points by simply indicating "tremendous economic challenges" statement as an after thought.

And to think that HIllary & the rest of the anti Obama supporters were worried about McCain. McCain is clearly out of touch!

McCain is Bitter   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Why are the Republicans attacking Obama more than they're atacking Hillary? Why do they want him out more than they want Hillary out?
hmmm….

Jay, IL   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Obama is the biggest lie of the century. He fooled a million donors. People who still supports him is kind of brain-washed by Obama cult. The presidency is too important to just based on "hope".

Research, research and research!

Wake up, America!

Oh please.   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Oh be quiet whiner McCain! You made a big huge deal of Obama's response to a question by calling Obama an elitist and you knew you were twisting his words, so stop being a hypocrite. You are definitely the one out of touch with the American people.

Delaware   April 18th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

John McCain is ou of touch.

Ilona Proud Canadian   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Do you believe this article?

Look who is talking about twisting words completely out of context!!!!!!!!! What is it they say? Oh yes.

What goes around comes around!!!!!!!!!!!!

LAM   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

All politicians are dishonest, including Mr. McCain.

Obama for President   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

America, please save us from the likes of John McSame
McBush
McWar
McKeating5 scandal
Mc…

A. Harrison   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Is OBAMA playing Politics here?

CHANGE INDEED.

HILLARY 2008!

Deb from Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

This is no surprise, he is campaigning with Hillary. Everyone knows this. Who can be more 'reckless' and 'dishones' than he and the Bush administration, and Hillary.

3 More Endorsements   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Barack just got three endorsements, I think from Robert Rice and two others. What's the scoop CNN?

Obama 08

AJ-Philly   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

"recklessly dishonest"
"intentionally twisting"
"deliberately distorting"

So in other words…McCain did say it, they just don't like that Obama is telling it to a crowd in Erie, PA.

This is completely laughable. And those exact words can be used to describe the Bush Administration actions in the last 7 years. Who wants more of McSame? Please.

Nancy   April 18th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Be careful McCain. I don't think your old heart can take the stress. You are no match for the healthy, young Obama. You can "spin" all you want, but the American people are way too smart for your campaign lies. Get out of the way and let the capable take the country to a new horizon.

Wise Dem.   April 18th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

John McCain said there has been

"great progress economically over the last seven and a half years"

Really? What progress? With a huge trade deficit with CHINA, the housing crisis?

What is this old man talking about??????????

Weiss   April 18th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

so instead of having daily spin conference call responses from Hillary, Mccain will be taking over for her?

I belive that is called a losing strategy.

dEMABRAT   April 18th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

No, no, no McCain…..Obama is the victim here. All of you are trying to bamboozle us, the old okie doke, hoodwink us.

I repeat Obama is always the victim.

Tony   April 18th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

So, McCain isn't denying that he said those words? Sounds like he essentially said "We've made great progress… and some people are still poor." A lie + a truth is still a lie.

merlisa   April 18th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

The truth is McCain said that. There was no distortion.

McCain didn't include everything Obama said in the "bitter" comment, so why should Obama include everything McCain said.

No More War   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Superdelegates…where are you? Come out, come out whereever you are, and meet the young man who just fell from a star, he fell from a star, he fell very far, and Illionois he says is the name of his star…..

Seriously superdelegates, we really need to focus on McCain. Pack Hillary's bags, and send her home. We need a leader we can support, and in my book–Barack is that leader.

Obama 08

NOBAMA   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

He's been doing this to Hillary for months, and it's "fair game."

He does this to McCain, and it makes headlines.

BIAS? You betcha.

CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT!

Kevin Pennsylvania   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

it is own now !!!!!! McCain is calling you out Obama you gonna take that ?!?!?!!?!? I can't wait until Hillary drops out and Obama can destroy McCain

Independent   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

So Obama repeated what McCain said – and McCain is upset about it because it doesn't fully reflect how he feels?

I think this is called politics. I guess it's okay when McCain and Clinton do this…but not when Obama does?

RYAN   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

CNN, where is the endorsement Sen. Obama get today on political ticker..is that not news?

case   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I can not wait for Obama to get McCain one on one. McCain is old and tired just like his GOP politics.

McCain used to be my favorit but in 6 months he has gone from maverick middle of the road to straight up GOP puppet.

Obama our next President.

Independent for Obama

ex-Obama supporter   April 18th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

There you go. Another Obama spin… this guy Obama is a true politician. He is one big Con artist. How long will it take for Americans to wake up.

Geoff, NH   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

So…. did I miss the part where people realized Obama is right on this one, or are we going straight to buying into the Republican nonesense

Beka   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

McBush is so out of touch and trying to run off the old politics playbook….PEOPLE ARE SUFFERING! I LIKE MOST PEOPLE CANNOT AFFORD TO SAVE $$ TO SEND MY DAUGHTER TO COLLEGE IN 8 years AND PAY FOR HER TO EAT NOW AT THE SAME TIME!!! If she doesnt go to college then she will be poorer than I am!!! The GOPers and corporations should be on trial for high treason for selling out to the no so almighty anymore dollar…

YBLN7   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Yes. That is exactly what he was, what he is,a nd what he will be. Unfortunately, so many people do not see through this. Americans stupidly voted for Bush twice, and they can not blame anybody if they make the same stupid mistake this time.

nina   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Actually, to say at all that there's been progress in last 7 years is laughable. Where???
And McCain did say is was going to have troops in Iraq for as long as 100 years. It wasn't unitl later that he cleared up what he actually meant.

And let's remember, McCain jumped on the bandwagon to critisize Obama's "bitter" statement. He himself did not address the whole of what Obama said. He took one fragment of the comments and ran with it. The only person who read the entirety of what Obama said, was Whoopi, on The View.

So McCain should think about what his imput was about someone else's comments before he gets all fired up when the same is done back to him. Obama took a sentence that he said, and focused on it.

Isn't what's good for the goose, also good for the gander???

Rashane Kansas   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

well well well I see Obama can trow a punch and any thing that Bush has dine you stand bye so the point is is that your out if touch!! your lucky Clinton is not throwing you the kitchen sink you can even take the mop he tossed at you!

OBAMA 08

Dr. Powers   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

I would probably vote for Senator McCain come November. But, it is fair to say that he has to watch what he says from here on out. What Senator Obama's says about Senator McCain is based on What Senator MCCain has said publically on dirfferent occusions ("100 years", "I do not understand econmics", "progress" ). He need not give many opening if he wishes to avoid such excanges.

joe   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

I was stunned to see Obama give Hillary Clinton the finger during a campaign rally in Raleigh NC. The Obama supporters roared in laughter when Obama did that.
Can anyone imagine Hillary Clinton giving Obama the finger and Clinton supporters laughing. They would have been called racists.
I have heard no Democratic Congressman or Senator call for an apology. That is shameful.
Obama is unelectable. He has self destructed in the last month!

SNOBama   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

OBAMA IS A LIAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ilona Proud Canadian   April 18th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Yay..yay…Yes He Can!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TWO MORE SUPERDELEGATES JUST ENDORSED……..My Barack!!!!

Congrats guys two more for the good guys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tom   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Obama has a big mouth. He apparently thinks that Americans will overlook the long recovery from 9/11, or else be willing to blame the economic fallout from that event on the Republicans. Either way, the message seems to be that Americans are at best gullible, and at worst, stupid.

Veronica   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Mr. McCain said Thursday to Bloomberg Television. When asked if he believed Americans were better off now than when President Bush took office, Mr. McCain conceded that people were facing “very challenging times.” But he went on to say, “You could make an argument that there’s been great progress economically over that period of time.”

a NJ voter for OBAMA   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

McSame did say that we were economically sound. only recently did he change his stance after some coaching by party officials that knows McSame has to play election year politics and know that none of these issues he is bringing up will stick if he becomes president. I will feel very sorry for all of us if he gets in the office. Nice man but is delusional about the war, economy and foreign affairs. Obama save us from him!!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

America heard the same thing Obama heard and John McCain's words were praise for Bush's progress on the economy and that's not the only time McCain has praised Bush. The only thing that's twisted here is McCain trying to turn and twist the feverent support he has always had for Bush. Further McCain doesn't get it on economy anyway, because he doesn't understand it, what a joke.

d   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

"The McCain campaign has long argued Obama has a habit of twisting the presumptive Republican nominee's words. "

That is why I call Obama- a shrewd POLITICIAN

And Republicans think he is a "boy"..LOL

Honest Abe   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

What McCain saying that Obama 'twists' his words!!!! Isn't that what he's been doing with Obama's words on rural america, the rev. wright talk, etc… I THINK MCCAIN IS ALREADY SHOWING SIGNS OF ALZHEIMERS! No wonder he won't release his medical records!!! Do us a favor McCain, drink your metamucil and stay in bed for the last 10 years of your life. The guy is just about reached the average life expectancy of men. And people want him to run our country from his geriatric chair.

Doug, Florida   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

McCain should go visit Charlie Crist in Florida and just stay there.
Please McCain stay with us in Florida and wait for your name to be call by God.

We don't need you in the White House.

SUCCESS:
>>>>At age 4 success is . . . not peeing in your pants.
>>>>At age 12 success is . . having friends.
>>>>At age 17 success is . . having a driver's license.
>>>>At age 35 success is . . having money.

>>>>At age 50 success is . . . having money.
>>>>At a g e 70 success is . .. . having a drivers license.
>>>>At age 75 success is . . . having friends.
>>>>At age 80 success is . . . not peeing in your pants.

No to Hillary and McSame

Kevin   April 18th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

McCain is smart enough to make Obama trip over his own words. Now if America would wake up from the "change tonic" they have been drinking from Obama they would see Obama is not right for our country!

Jack   April 18th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

A barrel of oil was selling between 50 to 60 dollars when the Dems took over Congress. So, the price of gas, food, etc has gone through the roof under Pilosi and Reid's watch. For Obama to claim anything else is completely dishonest and a lie that he and Billary continue to feed to the American people. McCain is not the answer to our problems either but he's the best choice of the three!

Grif   April 18th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

You Don't want the truth at CNN… Thgere is no more Cash to go around, only to redistribute…. Take off the White's and give it to the Black's..l. That's all Obama want to do.. And any white person who believe's different is another DREAMER……..

sacto joe   April 18th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

The only distortion going on here is from the McCain camp, which is accusing someone speaking the truth of distortion!!!

This is such typical right wing bullshirt that you KNOW the same people are running McCain's campaign as got this country into this royal mess in the first place.

PULL YOUR HEAD OUT OF THE DAMP DARK PLACE IT'S STUCK, REPUBLICANS!!!!

sean   April 18th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

errrr no mr. mccain sir. sounds like mr. obama got it pretty right to me.

not sure how you can cry foul when your policies do reflect a complacent attitude toward the economy. you must think we are doing ok

and why is no one ever allowed to criticize john mccain in terms of his stance on the issues? he gets so hot about it but it quick to criticize obama.

i call a foul for mccain on this one

Avis, Richton Park, IL   April 18th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

I don't care if John McCain thinks this country has made great progress !! Obama is right, he's still clinging on to the Bush disconnect with the little people. If you can make stupid comments like that, then you still don't get what's going on with the economy!!!!

People wake up, please a vote for McCain is more of the same. If McCain wins you have no one to blame but yourselves. Remember you put Bush in office, TWICE !! I address this to the people who'd rather vote for McCain rather than vote for Obama or Clinton. VOTE DEMOCRATIC OR HOW ABOUT VOTING FOR COMMON SENSE !!!

OBAMA 08

arun   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

what is good for the goose is good for the gander. Rank falsehood has been the bread and butter of the republican party for the last 8 years. They should be extremely comfortable with that.

Danielle, TX   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

"…noting the Arizona senator ALSO said he knows families are facing "tremendous economic challenges."

If he ALSO said he knows families are facing tremendous economic challenges, then what did Obama lie about? It seems to me he did say the economy is making great progress BUT, he knows there are struggling families. Unfortunately, there will always be stuggling families (whether the economy is good or not so good), however, the economy is NOT making great progress. So, McCain is still a little delusional in the area of economics.

CT Chriss   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Of course!

McInsane visited his wealthy supporters who have done extremely well under Bush and recently someone told him that there are a few people out there who are not, so he obviously knows how everyone is affected economically.

NOT!

Veronica   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

MCain did say that, Obama was just quoting his words. McCain also said that he was aware the families were having hard times, but he also said the economy has made great progress as well.

Dan in CO   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Sorry John…you're gonna get laughed out of the courtroom with that claim.

prudence thomas   April 18th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

Mcain means nothing that he says and says nothing that he means.
Okay I guess he means that Americans face "tremendous economic challenges." even though the country "have made great economic progress over the past seven years"
And that would be correct. The 1% centers have raked it in over the past seven years leaving the rest of us with deep holes in our pockets.
Now how is Obama recklessly dishonest again.
Show me the money. where is it who has it. The government, the people or the 1% where is the progress?

J Williams   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

How is he being dishonest? McCain said what he said!

If anyone has ever read 1984, they can conceive politicians have a particular knack for simultaneously saying things are better *and* worse.

…you can't say "oh, there has been great economic progress" then turn around to those suffering worse than they have in years, and say "I know, I know families are facing 'tremendous economic challenges.'" At the least, its double-speak, so you can safely be on both sides of the issue. At the worst, its a denial of how bad things really are, particularly if you insist continuing Bush econ policies.

JUDE CT   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

How is that dishonest John? Everything Obama said, you were quoted as saying or maybe paraphrased. Oh! you just needed more of your lines to be repeated!.. I think it's time to call on Romney because you still don't understand how our economy works pups. CNN, post this please.

rachel   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Now lets hear all the obama backers cry fowl. I am a democrate and McCain spoke the truth about this. Obama twists everything to his own advantage and then crys fowl when he is subjected to the same thing.

Shakur   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Is it dishonest not to reflect on the plight of many Americans who have suffered under the Bush Administrations "wreckless" economic agenda?! Speak to countless of Americans and you will here the same stories: gas prices, healthcare, and jobs. Where has McCain been for the last 7 years. Oh I forgot. Stuck somewhere?

Jbecks   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Obama doesn't have to distort McCain's comments for political gain. McCain shoots himself in his own foot.

Linlo   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

This is laughable. The Repubs can dish it out but they can't take it. McCain is totally out of touch with the American people.

David A   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

McBush is out of touch.

Zeka-jones - Ontario,Canada   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Mcsame, what's Good for the Goose it's sweet for the gander lets face it and this is just the beginning, welcome to Obama arena.

factcheck.org   April 18th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Awesome site! Check out factcheck.org and find out the facts behind what the candidates claim as truth.

Jim S. PA   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

OK. Let's try honesty. Did you ever call your wife a trollop and a c-word that rhymes with runt?

You are an angry crude old man that sold your soul to the devil a long time ago.

gaea in NC   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Well, which is it McShifty, have we made "great progress" or are we "hurting"?

Anthony-Minneapolis,MN   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Its amazing how Grandpa McSame clings to sanity. "Recklessly Dishonest" ???? Look Grandpa, you did say in YOUR OWN WORDS, we could be in Iraq for 50 or 100 yrs, that isn't distortion its verbatim. You said and are being quoted as 'We have made great progress economically in the last 7yrs", once again not distortion but verbatim. Out of context, I think not, out of touch is what John McCain is.

If I were to read the subtext of his latest statement that "We have made great progress" he actually means the rich, white, elitist neoconservatives that got rich off of the war in Iraq. It was great progress for them but not the average american. Someone please call the nursing home, there no-it-all-geezer is missing

maya   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Yep, and he has done it to Hillary also.

Obama and his campaign are a bunch of thugs.

Paris   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Obama did the same thing about the 100 years comment.
The arrogant hypocrisy on the Obama camp is undeniable.
I am glad McCain stood up to him.

John McCain 08

AJ   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

As a loyal democrat (I have never voted for any republican for any office) I can say that the longer this goes on, the worse Obama looks. He does not tell the truth, he has done nothing of substance during his entire political career.

Cindy   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Obama will take you DOWN in a heart beat!

Oh Please   April 18th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

McShame, McPain, McSame as Bush, McBomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran…enough said!

Jonathan   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Obama the liar strikes again. He's playing nice to get the nomination and then when he does get it he's going to do exactly what he says he has been going against. He's already getting some practice in!

YO   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

WAH WAH WAH!!!

Silly Season   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

They are both delusional …Hillary 08!

Paul, Tampa, FL   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

McCain distorts Obama's words and calls them elitist. Cry me a river.

Jay   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

OBAMA IS A BABY!!

Independent   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

McCain camp calling out Obama for twisting his words and taking it out of context? Sounds like McCain is a little "bitter". Can somebody define "hypocracy"?

Cindy   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

McCain has the nerve to complain about Obama? He and Hillary twisted his comments regarding small towns just a few days ago!

It hurts when your comments are misconstrued, doesn't it! What, you can't take it!

So McCain which is it? And which exactly do you believe? That this country has made great progress of the past seven years or that families are facing tremendous economic hardship?!

No McCain, you can't have it both ways!

Jay   April 18th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Obama is nothing short or a spoiled BABY!

He will Never WIN…PICK HILLARY!!!

Oh Please   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

McShame, McPain, McBomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran…enough said!

Al, NY NY   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

and the GOP has never been "recklessly dishonest?" McCain experienced it himself in 2000 from the same smear-merchants (Rove et al) who will now help him in trying to be elected. They made up all sorts of lies about him. Everybody does it so please put a lid on it "Mr Straight Talk."

Penn State   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Obamas support has that cult feel to it?

"Do you understand that some people in this state find that patronizing and think that you said actually what you meant?" Gibson asked.

According to Obama supporters, Obama has already apologized for his poor choice of words. There is no reason for journalists to keep bringing this subject up except to generate more negative sound bites.

Some of the reaction from Obama's supporters has that arrogant, cult of personality quality to it, as if questioning Obama on these matters is simply beyond the bounds of decency.

I could never belong to a group such as his. He could seriously start his own cult organization. Im sure that CNN will not post this because they are playing damage control right now for their candidate. ABC nailed him point blank.

Frank, San Diego   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Regardless of what else McCain might have said, the fact that he said that is all the evidence we need that he was telling the truth when he said he didn't know much about the economy.

Problem is, that was the last truthful think the old right-winger said.

Dale   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

I don't see much word twisting here. McCain did actually say the economy has progressed in the last 7 1/2 years.

jl   April 18th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

………………..DISTRACTION………………..

WHAT ARE YOU HIDING IN CINDY'S TAXES???

WHERE ARE YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS????

Just because you file separately, does not mean that you do not reap

the beenfits of your wife's money or political favors that may be

expected "via" business deals.

Demmother   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Which pod person with zombie-like minions should I trust? That's a hard choice…

Paul   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Why didn't CNN give John McCains exact quote so we could determine wether or not his words were taken out of context?

Leslie - KY   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

McCCain is running scared – and he should be……….

Marine   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Typical politics. A candidate says something and it gets twisted around so that no one understands what is said. This goes in both directions. The best thing would be for all the candidates to not say a word but we know this will never happen. Talk about a bunch of hot air and ozone layer depleting emissions.

michelle, atlanta GA   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

…and twisting obama's comments about pennsylvanian's being bitter wasn't being "dishonest" either?

mccain is 100% out of touch, this country has NOT been economically sound or prosperous, or have made any gains whatsoever when you factor in the $Trillion + deficit we have dropped into. maybe if you're rich and have the tax code working for you, or fill up your gas tank on the tax payers' dimes, the economy is doing well, but for the rest of us, it's not.

NC Voter   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

McCain gets a "two-fer" now, whenever he blasts Obama:

1. He is trying to hurt Obama's chance at the Dem. nomination now; this would let him go up against Hillary in the fall… which he'd much rather do than face Obama (his advisors have admitted as much; they can read the polls, too).

2. If it doesn't kill Obama now, then this is a good warm-up pitch for the November election.

Smart strategy for McCain.

ATLian   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

So, did he say the country has made great progress or not?

Jan   April 18th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

It's exactly what everyone is saying that has a brain.

OBAMA TALKS OUT OF BOTH SIDES OF HIS MOUTH.

HE IS A REAL SLICK WILLY… NOT TO MENTION HE AND HIS WIFE
ARE BOTH ANTI AMERICAN.

Walter, Long Beach   April 18th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Oh, so Obama is recklessly dishonest because he quotes McCain directly and precisely?

Could there be a better illustration of why we need to get rid of the Republicans? They don't deny the stupid things they say. They just scream at people who point out how stupid they really are.

Yvonne   April 18th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Yes, McCain is a good one to talk about "dishonesty" after he piled on and lambasted Obama about bittergate.

Donny, MT   April 18th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

The Straight Talk Express will not survive the Obama Juggernaut.

Obama 08

Jane, NC   April 18th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

We democrats who support Senator Clinton may feel free to criticize Senator Obama, but we do not appreciate it from Senator McCain, especially when it comes to questions of character and not policy. How about waiting until we have a nominee.

Brad   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Have we made great progress? Or we have seen the manufacturing base moved over seas, seen the outsourcing of major defense contracts outsourced over seas, seen our national debt raise to monumental levels? It is obvious that John McCain neither understands the economy nor cares about how deep a hole many of our citizens have fallen. No one is twisting his words…. he just said stupid things.

Alex   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Beyond the fact that Obama is a charlatan, what of the fact that in all reality, as a whole, there has been economic progress in this country? Minus the past 5-6 months where things have been dipping, can anyone deny the fact that this country has experienced economic growth?

Carl   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Can't wait to here the McCain bashing from ignorant people and the other way around.

They are politicians. They all lie through their teeth. Obama proved he can't handle the situation after that horrible display at that so called "debate."

The truth is this: if they actually talked about the economy, you would turn it off because, as a society, a great many of us dont' care or lack the education to understand.

So for that, a great many of Americans will blindly vote based on catchy slogans or how they bowl… I think Amercians generally forget how well we have it…

Republican Pete   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

You did say those thing Mr. McCain and you have lost my vote.

Zoinks   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

100 years of great economic progress! KABOOM!

Bob (PA)   April 18th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Obama is certainly a silver-tongued devil who has a lot of innocent people fooled.

Wouldn't you just love to know what kinds of things he says about America behind closed doors when he thinks no one is listening? I know I would.

Voice of Reason   April 18th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Let the 2 on 1 season begin. Both McCain and Clinton are trying to sink Obama.

C'mon Dems! Let's get behind one candidate or the other so they dont have to fight two battles at once.

I think it's too late for Hillary to gracefully bow out, but not too late for her to slink away. (But i still have a picture of her in my head at someone else'e inauguration, still staunchly maintaining that it's not over yet…) Maybe she's just trying to get a head start on the 2012 election…

Maybe Obama needs to just start ignoring everything that HRC says/does/etc, and begin acting like the presumtive nominee that he says he is…

As long as McCain (W's Mini-me) doesnt win i'm fine…

Max, OH   April 18th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

NEWSFLASH–troop presence in Iraq means war. Mr. McGoo is not talking straight. The Straight Talk Express must have derailed.

Obama 08

Tim   April 18th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

It's so obvious Republicans want Hillary to win b/c she is the weaker candidate…

This is from the NY Times today:
In response, an Obama spokesman, Hari Sevugan, said Thursday: “Since Feb. 5, Senator Obama has garnered the support of 80 superdelegates to Senator Clinton’s 5. We’ll let the results of Senator Clinton’s ‘kitchen sink’ strategy speak for themselves.”

Seems like that speaks volumes.

Tom in S.A.   April 18th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

He's a liberal, of course he's twisting words, he twists more then Chubby Checker ever did!

sozzi   April 18th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

NO McCain is being dishonest to the People of the United States of America.

April in Texas   April 18th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Ummm McCain is your memory already going? You did say that as its on tape… You dont care how long the war goes on as long as it keeps going and going and going no matter what the cost financially or the loss of lives…. This is an unwinnable war…..

Obama 08

Dan J   April 18th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

Well, yeah, he is dishonest, and cheap. Obama donated less than .6% of his income to charities. His excuse was that he had a child on the way and college loans. He made more than 98% of Americans, and the average American donated twice as much as he did. He's greedy and cheap.

He lied during the debate about not criticizing Clinton on Bosnia unless provoked, he lied about his gun control positions, and he flip-flopped on several issues.

Obama is neck-deep in these silly political issues he claims to be above. Change? Yeah right!

real change   April 18th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

He either said it, or he didn't! Looks like he did as a McCain supporter has come out and said…"HE ALSO SAID…." No twisting here, just same old "politics as usual". Obama speaks it how it is, he isn't dishonest, he just failed to mention that you also said what this report entails. What happened to not running a NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN as you so elequantly put it on Hardball the other night McCain. What a joke!

OBAMA '08 — REAL CHANGE

Scott ATL   April 18th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

whooooooooo… He said , "Yo momma!!!" If you're baaaad, I betcha you won't knock this stick off his shoulder??? You folks at CNN need to stop instigating and start investigating…

I'll bet you won't post this…

OBAMA 08,12

citizenwells   April 18th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

That is the understatement of the year.
After much research I can state on authority that
Barack Obama is a liar.

Sallie Mae   April 18th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

How is this dishonest? McCain wants us to believe that everything is great–which they McAIN'T!

OBAMA '08

RYAN   April 18th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Americans 're smart…he can't change his position on 100 years war…it won't work this time.

Getting Notes From Karl, Already   April 18th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

And McCain wasn't dishonest when he had an affair, the minute he returned from captivity? You would think after 5 years, he'd be happy to have his wife and kids back–Not.

If you want to talk about honesty, Mr. Straight Talk, let's talk about your wife's tax return. You can start with that, Mr. Slick.

We are on to you, Mr. McGoo–you're a loser who just wants another war.

OBAMA 08

Bitter Voter   April 18th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Could John McCain just go somewhere and rock in his rocking chair. Come on, you talk about a person who is so out of touch with the general population, I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't think there was a recession going on. Oh and by the way we couldn't sustain a 100 year war, even the General in charge said we can't do another two years. Wake up from your afternoon nap Mr. McBush and drop out of the race, pleeeeeease.

Marc, Tacoma Wash   April 18th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

I don't get it. He did say even if it is up to 100 years. Where is Obama twisting his words. Didn't McCain say he knows nothing about economics? I wonder if Obama will be twising his words there. We don't need 4 more years of Bush. He didn't even want to have a National Holiday for MLK. No Way McCain. Thats going to be the new chant.

Obama 08

John   April 18th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

media elite directly censor the news in favor of Obama. Just look at MSNBC, and CNN, then look at their owners.

The eleven media organizations have interlocking directorships with each other through 36 other Fortune 1,000 corporations creating a solid network of overlapping interests and affiliations. All eleven media corporations have direct links with at least two of the other top media organizations. General Electric, owner of NBC, has the highest rate of shared affiliations with 17 direct corporate links to nine of 10 other media corporations

Hillary 08

Jeremy, PA   April 18th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

I agree with John McCain. I am a democrat. Obama's secrets will come out and could cost 4 more years of Bush-like Politics. We need Hillary Clinton to be the Democratic Nominee!!!

McCain or Hillary '08   April 18th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Go get him John. Show this newbie he doesn' t know what he's talking about.

jw, canadian,ok   April 18th, 2008 1:11 pm ET

Headline: McBush loses by 20%.

Veterans for Obama   April 18th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

No Country For Old Men!

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