April 30, 2008
Posted: 02:25 PM ET

From
 Rove says McCain needs open up more.
Rove says McCain needs open up more.

(CNN) — The man largely credited for organizing a campaign to defeat John McCain in 2000 now has some advice for the Arizona senator: Stop being so private.

Writing in the Wall Street Journal, former top Bush adviser Karl Rove called McCain "one of the most private individuals to run for president in history," and said the presumptive Republican nominee must reveal more about his unique life story in order to win the presidency.

"Private people like Mr. McCain are rare in politics for a reason," Rove writes. "Candidates who are uncomfortable sharing their interior lives limit their appeal. But if Mr. McCain is to win the election this fall, he has to open up."

Specifically, Rove says McCain should reveal more about his wartime heroics and days as a prisoner of war in Vietnam. He also says McCain should spend more time highlighting the fact he and his wife took in a sick Bangladeshi child in 1991, their adopted daughter Bridget.

"Mr. McCain cannot make this a biography-only campaign – but he can't afford to make it a biography-free campaign either," Rove writes. "Unless he opens up more, many voters will never know the experiences of his life that show his character, integrity and essential decency.

“There is something admirable in his resilience, but he needs to overcome it."

Filed under: John McCain • Karl Rove


Johnny Boy   April 30th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Rove is an enemy of the state in my book!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Glenn   April 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I am not even a McCain supporter, but who gives a crap about Karl Rove!

After further review,Texas   April 30th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I hope to read Carls book someday,its called "Prison Blues".

Ostriches burying our heads in the sand   April 30th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Rove's offering free advice to everyone these days! He wants to remind folks that he is still relevant……………

kris   April 30th, 2008 11:26 am ET

Rove makes me sick!!!!!

kris   April 30th, 2008 11:27 am ET

why is this guy not in prison yet??

Brian Ross, RI   April 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Boy can he dance, though.

Sam   April 30th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Is Rove looking for a new job or something? Why all the unsolicited advice to Hillary, Obama, and now McCain?

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Yeah, McCain open up and tell the truth.

Sunshine from University of Florida   April 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

So, he wants to Mccain to open up about his adopted daughter- the same daughter Rove said vicious rumors about when Mccain was running against Bush. I am a democrat and i thank mccain for his service to this nation and i would hope he would run a respectable campaign against the democratic nominee- but I cannot see it happen if he is taking ANY advice from MC ROVE.

obama lover   April 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

i have wrote 2 commits just a min ago. where did they go

once again
rove is spreading it around
just yesterday he was advising barack.
now print this

Tony, NC   April 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Thanks CNN…, I just love watching libs spew hate about a man that whoop'em fair and square twice in a row.

Robert NYC & Miami   April 30th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Rove the Pig needs to stop advising anyone. The reason the republicans are in the mess they are in is because of him and his stupid candidate, George Bush.

Paul   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Rove is a terrorist by definition. He uses terror to influence people and groups politically. Rove is not alone, though, anybody who uses terror and threats to scare people and ifluence them some way or another for political reasons is by definition a terrorist. It's funny how the Bush Administration is attempting to redefine terrorist because in many ways they fit right into the very defintion of terrorist.

andy   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Rove works for John McCain! Why isn't anyone in the media disclosing that????

Dave   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

There's a reason McCain is so private. It's 'cuz he has a lot of stuff to hide!

Michael   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Why is it always puerile Bush hating Democrats who leap first to make a comment? Perhaps you should develop other, less rabid interests. Reading would be nice.

Rose A   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Why would any news worthy network report anything Karl Rove had to say? He is the Scum of the Earth.

aughhhh   April 30th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Rove should be in jail for war crimes. McCain should distance himself from this guy and quickly. How arrogant, why would anyone take advice from him.

ab   April 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

why is everyone paying attention to karl rove, all of a sudden? the man has no honor. there isn't a scrupulous bone in his body.

MD, Glenmont, Ohio   April 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Karl who!!??

Apollyon   April 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Biography is the only thing McCain has to run on. Anything else and his name morphs to McBush, and that isn't going to fly this time around. Also, (and this is the best part), Rove isn't going to have anybody to give him a pardon when the doo-doo hit's the fan. He really ought to start doing his worthless commentary via-satellite where the US doesn't have an extradition treaty.

Dan, TX   April 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Rove is an idiot. Why don't we just have a new CNN show with Rush Limbaugh and Rev. Wright as the experts and Rove as the moderator. Oh wait, CNN already has the equivalent.

Journalism is dead.

Al, Sacramento Ca   April 30th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Not suprised FOX News hired a crook! Wait Fox News are crooks.
So now he is giving advice to Obama and McCain, see the trend here.
How to defeat a Clinton. Something his mafia buddies couldn't do for 8 years.

Clinton 08′, they can't stop her, they can only hope to contain me.

@americans   April 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Rove is old news and used up rag.

He should be writing about how his advice to g dubya ended up costing american:
jobs to be shipped overseas
skyrocketing gas prices
rising foreclosures
weak dollar
unending irak war
sharp increases in food prices; etc, etc

nobody should listen to this looney Karl Rove. He is toast!

David   April 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

What about the fact of HOW McCain divorced his first wife? Go ahead McCain, open up. Tells us what selfish, soulless prick you are

sameoldjunk.blogspot.com   April 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Rove's intentions are really unclear, who is he for?

First he is giving Obama advice and now Mccain.
He is giving each of the rivals advice.

Perhaps he wants Obama against McCain and McCain should win. Because he cant win over Hillary.

True Independent, MD   April 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

What does it say about our country? Karl Rove is not only NOT IN Jail, he has the gall to tell people what to do.
What has become of the vaules of our country? This man is one of those responsible for our bankrupt state.

DoneWithDems   April 30th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Rove…..give me a break.

CNN why do I have to see this fool again???

Priscilla for Obama   April 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

McCain is too private and he is too sneaky! When a candidate is not transparent, they have a something to hide. I also believe McCain is an Atheist, but he can't let America know that because he would get a lot of votes.

Priscilla for Obama   April 30th, 2008 11:34 am ET

I meant to say that McCain would NOT

shirley   April 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Why is Karl Rove being quoted. What happened to investigative reporting. To Hard.? Why don't reporter's look up the Jan. 10, 2008 issue of the North Carolina Republican. Hillary is quoted "I will not withdraw troops from Iraq", now this is news because Hillary voted yes for the war and based her entire campaign on her promise to withdraw troops from Iraq. This would be a story based on facts instead of someone's opinion reported as fact.

Mireille, Charlotte   April 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

CNN STOP GIVING THIS CRETIN CREDENCE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Levae   April 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

He is such a back door politicians. He stinks.

Priscilla for Obama   April 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

I meant to say McCain would NOT get a lot of votes if America knew he was an Atheist.

Milton Stanley   April 30th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Are you sure the last line of the article is correctly quoted? As written, "resilience" doesn't make any sense. Surely you meant "reticence"?

Jon   April 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

I think the nation would be better served if Rove was more private and kept his thoughts to himself. McCain's being as close as possible to being himself as he can while being a politician. It's time we as a nation stepped back from electing "images" and started electing real people again. Part of that is accepting that not everyone is celebrity poster people.

history repeats   April 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

whats great is how ROVE is acting like hes brilliant strategist. the man got an idiot elected because he catered to the ignorant religous people in the middle of the country and called gore names. its like calling the creator of the jerry springer show a genius. meanwhile we ended up with the worst president in history. real smart.

Samuel in Atlanta   April 30th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Why is Rove giving campaign advice to campaigns now? Nobody asked for his opinion!

JOSH   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Obama's personal pastor did more than anyone else to take the glow off his campaign by dismissing the Illinois senator as just "a politician."

"He goes out as a politician and says what he has to say as a politician," Wright said in his interview Friday night with PBS journalist Bill Moyers. "I continue to be a pastor who speaks to the people of God about the things of God."

Ben   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Rove says Obama should do this. Rove says McCain should do that. Who cares? Rove belongs in jail.

After further review,Texas   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

Tell us what you told the Cong to stay alive John?

MainStream America   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

I have a question:

Can McCain explain why he voted against having the King holiday reckonized in his state? Also, when he campaigns in the general election, does he plan to use the same strategy as Barry Goldwater, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan and most recently Mike Huckabee in the southern U.S.?

Rob -BC Canada   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

No point in putting him in prison.Bush would just give him a pardon on his way out of the White House.

Stone   April 30th, 2008 11:37 am ET

CNN - Your actually giving this guy news time? Karl, go sun bathe at the South Pole. If we want corruption, we'll pull your chain.

Kevin   April 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

yeah, the same adopted daughter whom Rove referred to as McCain's "illegitimate black baby."

Sound advice indeed.

J Stuart   April 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

What is most interesting is that Karl Rove wants to move the voter's attention away from issues like the economy and Iraq, where McCain may be weaker and focus on like war time heroism/service and his humanity. While these are important, they are not issues that will make me vote for him.

I believe John McCain is a man of integrity, hopefully he will distance himself from Karl Rove and stay focused on the issues.

Ryan kr   April 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I think 85% of Americans don't like Rove……no one cares who he says or thinks…..except Bushes and Cheneys………..

Harry Scummer   April 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Look how great Karl Rove & his cronies have done. They managed to take the US from #1 in the world to a struggling country, dependent on foriegn oil and engaged in an endless war. Taking advise from a putz like that is a sure recipe for defeat. Karl, crawl back under that rock, you dont fool us. You should be ashamed of yourself.

joann   April 30th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Sure, take advice from the guy who helped George Bush become one of the most successful and popular presidents in history! I don't think so…

tom   April 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

put Rove behind bars that's where he belongs, or send him to Iraq prisons for a fair trail aganist humanity.

Independent-woman-voter-for-Obama   April 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Why is Rove even being given any media attention? He and the rest of the Bushies need to go quietly into the sunset. We've heard enough of them!

Doug R.   April 30th, 2008 11:39 am ET

Why is CNN giving Rove free publicity?? And who care about Karl Rove?? Mr. Rove can't fly straight. If anyone who posts here ignored a federal subphoena, there would be warrants out for our arrest.
Rove should be handcuffed and taken away to federal prison, where he belongs.

NYC Native   April 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Doesn't Rove have a job to go to?

Conor   April 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

I don't like Rove and his views, but he is a very good politician.

Obatala for obama   April 30th, 2008 11:40 am ET

lord, this guy is crazy, who does he thi nk he is..
I have advice for him,

since hillary is divorcing bill, get together with her, they are perfect for each other,

Hillary + Rove=

both have big egos
both are evil
both are liars
both are aftr money power adn self grandiose
both dont care about the american people
both love war
both want us to start WWWIII

so……..why not…………. a great couple…….. tyrants…………

BKB   April 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Rove is make your skin crawl creepy.

Bill   April 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

What makes you think that anyone cares what Karl Rove has to say. You give him way to much airtime.

Kevin   April 30th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Whenever I see images of Karl, I cannot help but recall M.C. Rove… at which point I have difficulty taking anything this man says seriously.

ne, Pa.   April 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

I understand Rove has been working behind the scenes for McBush. No surprise.

Sam   April 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Is Rove looking for a new job since his Bush era is over? Why else would he give all this unsolicited advice to Hillary, Obama, and now McCain. No one cares anyway.

Thomas Koshy   April 30th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Karl Rove is one of the best political minds this country has.So politicians should take serious look at what free advise he is offering.Remember the good old saying 'Nothing succeds like succes.
Thomas Koshy

ok   April 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

wow CNN

Steve   April 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Rove is a great American. His genius shines through.

Chuck   April 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Rove needs to put a sock in it. His opinion is of little to no value in this election. I just wish everyone including the superdelegates, the DNC and the RNC would put a sock in it and let the candidates speak for themselves. The remaining superdelegates should just sit back and wait for the end of the last primary/caucus then weigh in. McCain, Clinton and Obama need to take their case to the remaining voting public and then let the chips fall where they will. We that are left to vote would love to hear from the candidates, let them present concrete facts with out distortion or exageration. We are smart enough to know when the candidate is blowing smoke where it does not belong so let everyone keep it quiet and let us hear from those that count, the candidates.

Bob, Lyons Oregon,   April 30th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Rove needs to go away.

Honest Abe   April 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

If Rove wants McCain to win then his bet is to stay far away. I personally hope that he starts hanging out with McCain maybe bang his wife or something.

AJ   April 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Rove will go down with Joseph Goebels as two of the most propagandasts of all time.

Austin, TX   April 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Wowee - Rove sure seems to be doling out a lot of free advice these days. He must have a lot of spare time on his hands.

Hey Rove - can you help ME with some tough issues? Plastic or paper? Mustard or mayonnaise? What color should I repaint the garage?

Evan Coffield   April 30th, 2008 11:44 am ET

I disagree. It is no-one's business about a candidate's personal life. McCain along with all the candidates should only be judged on what will they do as president and how they will accomplish the impossible.
Recover the lost jobs to China by creating a 10 year moratorium on all outsourcing. Banning all outsourcing period overseas for 10 years due to its abuse. A company that has more than 50% of its company in another country can not be considered a united states corporation.
Then, Someone please tell those at Dept of Agriculture to stop making Ethanol from corn, it will destroy this country by making bread $10 a loaf, all animals we buy that eat grain and corn will be $20/lb along with milk, butter etc. use sugar beets but we need to grow more wheat and corn rather than less than 1981 levels. No more share cropping.
The presidential candidate should also tell Iraq that we are not footing the cost of the war. If they have $100 billion in cash for oil They should pay us for the cost of this war, especially when they can more than afford it. If you give a man a bag of grain to feed him for a week he wants more, but if you teach him how to plant grain and then harvest it he shall

Eric   April 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Stop covering this criminal. Nobody cares about Karl Rove except to be amazed that a known traitor is still walking around free.

susie   April 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Has Rove change from a Republican to a Democrat?

Suzanna Linthrom   April 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Karl Rove needs to stop "roving" around in other people's business. He's irrelevant now, and he's not the brilliant tactician that everyone gives him credit for being. He's just a corrupt man who could care less about America.

Ron   April 30th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Ah yes. Can all you democrats do is hate, hate, hate? Are you still angry that your bumpkins from 2000 and 2004 lost. You must be. What you should really fear, unless you are braindead, which most of you seem to be is having a president named Obama who lacks judgement to be a dog catcher but wants to be president of HRC–a pathetic liar.

Law O.   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

IDIOT!!!

yen   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Let McCain do what he can do best and that is flip flop. Who will listen to your advice. Look at America now.Is it better mow?The War, the economy,the hunger and despair, that is your legacy!!!!! If you love America at least be quite.

Yes we can!   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

FORGET ALL THIS…..COME NC AND IN VOTE OBAMA SO WE CAN SHUT THIS CIRCUS DOWN!…AS FOR FLORIDA AND MICHIGAN, PLEASE DON'T HOLD THIS AGAINST OBAMA….HE AND HILLARY AGREED "TOGETHER" WITH THE DNC ON THE "RULES"…REMEMBER THOSE?….IN JANUARY SHE WAS QUOTED SAYING "WE ALL KNOW THEY ARE NOT GOING TO COUNT"….YOU ONLY MATTER NOW BECAUSE SHE IS BEHIND AND NEED YOU…..YES YOU HAVE A VOICE AND YES MOST OF YOU EXCERCISED YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE AND THAT'S WONDERFUL, BUT PUT THE BLAME WHERE IT BELONGS, ON YOUR LOCAL STATE GOVERNMENT WHO KNEW THE RULES, BUT DIDN'T CARE ANYWAY….THEY THOUGHT HILLARY WAS GOING TO WRAP THIS UP BACK IN JANUARY AND DEFINITELY BY SUPER TUESDAY…THAT'S WHY IT'S A CIRCUS NOW, BECUASE THEY HAD NO IDEA MORE STATES, MORE POPULAR VOTES AND MORE PLEDGE DELEGATES HAD SOMETHING ELSE IN MIND AND THAT WAS OBAMA….NOW THEY ARE DOING EVERYTHING THEY CAN TO KEEP HIM FROM GETTING THE NOMINATION I SEE HE ALREADY WON 11 STRAIGHT VICTORIES….WE SPOKE THEN AND WE'RE SPEAKING NOW….A CHANGE IS GOING TO COME OBAMA 2008/2012

Apollyon   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

I've put this out there before, Priscilla for Obama; McCain claims to be a Baptist, but when asked why he refuses to get baptized he claims he doesn't have too. I used to be a Baptist, born a Baptist, you aren't a Baptist unless you're baptized. It just so happens to be the one top requisites.

tom   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

do not send him to jail yet his Brother Bush will pardon him wait till Bush goes back to Texas, then lock Rove up life in jail

Miller   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

I thought Carl Rove was in jail.

Cynthia   April 30th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Seantor McCain is constantly making comments about Senator Obama and the Rev. Wright situation. When asked about religion - he said that it was a private matter for him. Since they are digging so deep into Senator Obama maybe they should do the same with the other candidates.

We all already know that Senator McCain is a war hero and that they adopted a child.

Alfredo   April 30th, 2008 11:47 am ET

Rove and Cheny should shut up. Stay in your holes.

Seamus   April 30th, 2008 11:47 am ET

I don't know about you but I rather not know about mc cain's private life, Yikes!

And how can somebody who's been on Meet the Press more than any other politician be a "private person"

It's B.S.

Nice try "turd blossom"

mccain did almost die on a aircraft carrier when some munitiopns went off. have you seen the video?

Dan, Tampa FL   April 30th, 2008 11:47 am ET

You all are sad. Rove is no more an enemy of the state than you all are. Rove is the brilliant mind that defeated the liberal party, not Bush. This frustrates the Liberals. Rove has offered help to Clinton and she just laughs it off. Now why is it that Rove should be in jail??? Let us not forget the President takes the oath of office and is sworn to protect the United States and its people. I find it amazing that things like waterboarding terrorists who want to kill Americans is bad but protecting Americans isnt as important because then the Europeans might look down on us. If a liberal or conservative is elected to our highest office I would support them protecting us (Americans) in what ever means are required. Sad is the word for those who call him a criminal. Politically sad. We should rise like Obama says and be Americans first. Not one comment that isnt politically motivated here. If Rove helped Kerry or Gore to the White House no one in the forum would be complaining about him except conservatives. In which case you would now realize its politics not criminal.

Elle   April 30th, 2008 11:47 am ET

John McCain: Please no more WAR srtories. We have had enough. We know you were tortured and have long lasting health problems. We know this already! Please spare us the details. We don't care!

Jack   April 30th, 2008 11:48 am ET

ROVE FOR VICE PRESIDENT!!! THE WINNING TICKET!!!!

VoteRobot.org   April 30th, 2008 11:48 am ET

Rove is trying not to become marginalized in the 2008 election but the truth is that his legacy is tied to the monumental failures of the Bush administration. If McCain is serious about his candidacy, he needs to distance himself from Bush, Rove, et al.

truthurts   April 30th, 2008 11:49 am ET

Rove failed his party in 2006 and is part of the worst 8 years America has ever had….why does he keep giving advice and why does the media keep printing it?

KJA83   April 30th, 2008 11:49 am ET

Thats funny wasn't Karl Rove the one that sent the ads out about Mccain's child in the south during the 2000 primaries. Besides there will be no reason in the fall to vote Republican anyway. I'm an Obamican until my party gets rid of the people like the Bush's, cheney's, and Rove's. What a disaster

SPQR753   April 30th, 2008 11:50 am ET

Sen. McCain can open up as much as he, or Carl Rove would like, but the fact of the matter is that McCain is totally OUT-OF-SYNC with the real world situation (economical & health-wise) and with the needs of the majority of voters (moderate Republicans, Independents and moderate Democrats).

James   April 30th, 2008 11:50 am ET

Rove still doesn't understand that a president needs to have policies not just personality. It's sad he hasn't learned anything in the past 8 years.

Or maybe he really doesn't care about the wellbeing of our country only about winning power.

Lois Weimann   April 30th, 2008 11:52 am ET

McCaine will never be appealing to me! He has changed his mind too many times over his years in the Senate, usually to win elections.
He is not interested in the common person in my view. His ideas on health care will only benefit corporations. He & his Stepford looking wife are too wealthy to be intered in regular citizens & their day to day struggles. Last but not least he is too old for this office he already appears to have problems remembering facts what will he be like in four years???

I am a registered republican but he will not get my vote period.

Jason S.   April 30th, 2008 11:52 am ET

How ironic that Karl Rove is praising Senator McCain's decency and supplying helpful hints on how to secure the 2008 presidency when Mr. Rove is largely responsible for crippling Sen. McCain's 2000 presidential bid.

Where does the hypocrasy end?

Frank, Missouri   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

What's up with Rove ? He is handing out advice to everybody as if somebody actually asked him …
I think he has done enough with his 21%-Approval-Bush-Puppet .

alexis   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Why is CNN giving voice to Rove, a known homophobe who got GWB elected due to his fear mongering? Please stop, CNN!

Gas Tax suspension   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

I wish the Obamanaics wouldn't repeat their leaders ignorance that the average american will only save 27-30 dollars on this gas tax holiday plan. People wake up! Everything in this country is transported by 18-wheeler to its final destination. If the gas prices go down for truckers it is said to save over 2 billion dollars (2,000,000,000) in trasportation cost that will lower the cost of everything from food, to non-essential goods. It will save american faimlies like you and I more than the immediate trasportation cost of our own vehicle. Stop thinking about yourselves!! Hillary has the BEST plan!

trellskig   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

First words in helping Obama to get voters back, then defending Obama on the view and now critisizing McCain! OMG, is Rove about to switch sides?

keith   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Rove is irrelevant.

Jon, Pittsburgh, PA   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Funny he would mention the McCain's adopted daughter. The Bush campaign against John McCain said his daughter was the result of an affair John had with a black woman. Rove wasn't held responsible because it was outside the campaign but, I guarantee it was his idea. And Bush never denounced it either. This group of neo-cons is despicable.

Brianne Macy   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Wow. Karl Rove needs to stop "roving" around in other people's business. He's irrelevant now, and he's not the brilliant tactician that everyone gives him credit for being. He's just a corrupt man who could care less about America.

DC, SD   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Does anyone have a rock large enough to stuff Rove under?? This man should be in federal prison. Why does he think his opinion is still needed?

The way he approaches a campaign makes it obvious that he perceives the entire election process as a GAME that he needs to strategize. Truly an UNPATRIOTIC person.

Apollyon   April 30th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Kevin: you only stopped taking Rove seriously "after" seeing him do that ridiculous dance? I guess better late than never.

Biography is the only thing McCain has to run on. Anything else and his name morphs to McBush, and that isn't going to fly this time around. Also, (and this is the best part), Rove isn't going to have anybody to give him a pardon when the doo-doo hit's the fan. He really ought to start doing his worthless commentary via-satellite where the US doesn't have an extradition treaty.

Ted   April 30th, 2008 11:54 am ET

My goodness! CNN now has Mr. Sleaze himself as a regular contributor. Good Job, CNN. Make him your news director. You can't go any lower.

seattle sue   April 30th, 2008 11:54 am ET

I for one do not care what Karl Rove has to say. But on the other hand I really don't want to hear from John McCain either. In my opinion McCain is disillusional. A vote for McCain would be a vote for a Bush third term.

A. Harrison   April 30th, 2008 11:54 am ET

He gives advice to McCain and Obama, I guess HIllary is the one to beat.

GO HILLARY!

E75, Orlando, FL   April 30th, 2008 11:54 am ET

Rove is not a criminal, that's why he's not in jail. But speaking of criminals — why isn't Hillary and Bill in jail? Talk about the most criminal administration in the history of the United States. The hypocrisy of the extreme left boggles my mind. Selective amnesia on their part, I suppose.

Beverly   April 30th, 2008 11:54 am ET

This guy has way too much time on his hands, first advice to Obama now McCain. Didn't he retire to spend time with his family?

Jack C   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Rove is an ex member of the worst Administration in USA History and it is best he keeps his sneaky mouth shut.
Jack

Anonymous   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

To Johnny Boy ,Glenn, after further review,Texas, kris,Priscila for
Obama Ben,Levae. Stop drinking the "Cool Aid " and get
into "Fiber " It will do all of you a lot o good…!!!!!!

James   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Rove says that McCain should talk about the baby from Bangladesh that he adopted?

Gee, Mr. Rove…..you mean "the 'black baby' that McCain fathered out of wedlock"? Remember the 2000 campaign against McCain when you crawled out from under your rock with this all-time low piece of dirty campaigning?

So, now Rove knows all about the adopted baby from Bangladesh.

This man is a sick, sick individual.

Pam   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

You mean private like in that big ol elitist beer jet?

I think John McCain should denouce and repudiate himself for his BOMB BOMB BOMB IRAN comment.

He is not to private about cursing people, even his wife with the c word wasn't it.

Rove, Bush, McCain, Rove, Bush, and what is the freaky pastors name?

Screaming Eagle, Syracuse, NY   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Karl Rove! One must wonder what his motivation is? It has to be be something sinister and, for sure, dishonest.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Since Rove gave us morsels like "Mission Accomplished" and subverted balanced Constituitional government in America while making deceipt and incompetence the norm in Washington, I doubt few Americans value the opinion of someone easily viewed as a top notch traitor who should be in an orange jump suiot behind bars.

olga gardiner   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Karl Rove please shut up…..you make everybody sick. Go away please.

Bruce Munro   April 30th, 2008 11:55 am ET

Rove is wrong. Part of McCain's appeal is that he is not self agrandizing like so many politicians. Everyone knows his story as a Vietnam POW, but does being a POW mean you would make a good president?

Debbie   April 30th, 2008 11:56 am ET

Yeah CNN where is the dirt on McCain. That's why he's trying to be so nice to Obama. Pull the covers off of McCain and his wife CNN>

KMAN   April 30th, 2008 11:56 am ET

McCain is STILL a major league flip-flopper regardless of anything else he has said or done! He was against the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy UNTIL he was for making them permanent!! What a phoney hypocrite AND as far as him being a war hero … heros don't drop bombs on other human beings!! Heros save people's lives … not blindly bomb them from above!

still waiting   April 30th, 2008 11:57 am ET

I am a loyal Republican and have contributed to every Republican presidential candidate until McCain.
I am waiting for him to say he is a loyal Republican and will support the Republican party before I send him a penny.

JIM BEAM   April 30th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Karl Rove ……" MY GAUSH "

maybe a dem   April 30th, 2008 11:58 am ET

I have been voting democrate for 20+ yrs, BUT Lets take a good look at the dem controlled congress.
they keep bashing Mccain but they are the ones with a LOWER approval rating then Bush,hmm and they are the ones blocking us from using our own land for providing us the people with relief from the foriegn oil co. How about new oil refineries, think of the jobs that would create for yrs, But God forbide, we may turn up some pretty ground that the far left radical in congress has never seen anyway, because they live in million dollar homes or high rises, and to get away they run to some tropical island. I mean what do they care about us poor jerks. they dont worry about money or jobs. they blame the war on the unemployment rate 5.1 hmm thats what it was in 1996, then they said that was good. I'm no longer impressed with my party. They have been taken over by the rich and famous.

bush league   April 30th, 2008 11:58 am ET

Advice on how to get elected from a guy who got bush reelected by covering up everything he did in the first 4 years? What a joke.

Hillary McCain   April 30th, 2008 11:59 am ET

If McCain did open up more, you'll discover that he was not as a heroic as he makes him out to be.

Seriously, all he did was fly bombing raids at high attitudes. Then when he got shot down, he made up a story about how the villagers spat and beat him up. Strange … why would villagers save you from drowning and then beat you up later?

Truth be told, a villager saved him from drowning and the Vietcong singled him out for special treatment because his father was a US admiral. They wanted to use McCain for negotiations.

But it is very sad that McCain will not even acknowledge the man who saved him! This would diminish his *heroics*. Sad.

If Rove can put an idiot into the White House, he does know how to win elections.

Debbie   April 30th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Rove seems afflicted with the same disease as Rev. Wright…the overwhelmingly self-focused desire to stay in the limelight even when people are really, really sick of you!

Howard, Westport CT   April 30th, 2008 11:59 am ET

This is one private life I do not want to read about. He was a prisoner in a invasion of Vietnam and now he wants to continue a failed policy of illegal invasions of Iraq. Who cares about this guy's private life. His public life is bad enough. Against MLK birthday as a holiday and then showing up uninvited to the 40th. anniversary of his slaying, saying he was wrong to oppose the holiday. What about the Keating debacle. This guy is just another Republican slimeball just like the liar and hypocrite he is trying to replace.

Charlotte   April 30th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Maybe the prisoner of war mentality is what he has. Keep your personal life to yourself or it will be used against you. Look at Obama. His personal mentor has tore him a new one. His personal choices have affected his electability to win the general election. His wife has caused him problems with her, "Just now proud comments." Bill has not done Hillary a lot of good either. So keep your private life as private as possible, or get ripped to shreds.

Benjamin Linus, The Island   April 30th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Well, McCain wouldn't have to worry about running for President if Rove hadn't "reminded" everyone that he'd adopted a Bangladeshi daughter.

Actual South Carolina Primary 2000 Bush Campaign push-poll question: "Would you be more or less likely to vote for Senator McCain if you knew he fathered an illegitimate black child?" Then McCain shows up to campaign events with a clearly ethnic daughter. Disgusting, Rove.

Karl Rove has never been less relevant. All three candidates want to eschew his advice but he keeps dispensing it. And the worst part is that CNN and the rest of the media are playing pack-ball on the story and giving it weight when it has none.

RFP   April 30th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

What happened to Senator McCain as a POW and the adoption of his child should have no bearing on his qualifications to be president.

Andy Stein   April 30th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

If I'm not mistaken, Bush's 2000 primary campaign benefited from rumors that McCain's adopted child was illegitimate. I don't think Karl was going out of his way to correct that misconception at the time, but now he's giving unsolicited advice to McCain to leverage his daughter's adoption for political gain? Is it no wonder why so many non-politicians hate politics?

Paul   April 30th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Among other things, Rove's campaign tactics for Bush included directly targeting white supremacists for their votes. So, uh… He may know campaign strategy, but he has a lot to learn about integrity.

Ben   April 30th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Rove seems to want to get his say-so in everything these days. What I don't get is why someone who ran the current administration behind the scenes is getting so much respect. Is he trying to redeem himself? What he is doing is inadvertently pulling political strings everytime he gives his "opinion" to the media. He mentions that Obama needs to "get past the Wright issue" to succeed. Obama then gives a speech on command. I find it funny how he seems to have so much influence on these candidates.

DC, SD   April 30th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Charlotte, good call.

Charlotte   April 30th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

The Obama-bots must be sitting at their computers constantly. I start a comment at zero and I'm luck to get it typed before it is either closed or close to it…

concerned-citizen-of-d-world   April 30th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

This man needs a job. Someone should offer him one if he promised to pay his taxes like a good citizen.
America , you have all kinds of scum success stories…like Bush, Rove etc. How could he want to make a circus out of the life of a little girl, who's found a new family, just for political gains. SCUM

ronniraygunisdead   April 30th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Who gives a flip what Rove says? Why ain't he in jail?

Craig   April 30th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

In light of the techniques used to smear McCain in the 2000 primary (widely believed to have been instigated by Rove), I find this advice to represent a new low in shamelessness:

"He also says McCain should spend more time highlighting the fact he and his wife took in a sick Bangladeshi child in 1991, their adopted daughter Bridget."

Thomas   April 30th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

If McCain opens his private life we will see how he left his first wife, why he has temper problem, how underachiever he was in school and in the army, more than anything else we will see why he keeps changing his position on Economy, Foreign policy and his H-O-T temper.

Robert in Ann Arbor   April 30th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Once again, Rove praises the McCains for adopting their daughter. This is, of course, the same Karl Rove who spread who, when working for Bush in 2000, used push polls to turn the racists against McCain for having adopted a "black" child.

What a despicable character. What's more, how despicable is John McCain for now taking advice from such a man?

Texrat, Fort Worth, TX   April 30th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

The irony is just too much.

What Rove really means is only reveal life aspects that can be easily spun, ie, positively publicized. He's trying to get McCain to talk the last step off of the Straight-Talk Express and fully embrace the bizarro world of the neocons… where energy meetings are discussed behind closed doors and terror is the talk of the day.

Wake me up when 1984 is over.

Apollyon   April 30th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Why are all my comments "awaiting moderation" after posts are put up dated after mine? Is CNN playing favorites again???????

Robert from Arizona   April 30th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

Has Mr. Rove ever been a prisoner of war. Did he serve in Vietnam? No. Does he not understand the horrible things that Senator McCain had happen to him while he was a POW. It's not something easy to tell people. It brings back bad memories and is overall really hard for an individual to convey to people who have not been through that kind of situation. I would have to say that I feel most normal American's would understand if it's a little hard for him to bring up those issues, especially to his for his own political gain.

And on the subject of his adopted daughter. Does Mr Rove really think that McCain should flaunt the fact that he adopted her makes him an ideal candidate. If I heard that from someone I would not want to vote for him/her period. That's his daughter he is talking about, not a trophy to use to get him the presidents seat.

Why doesn't Karl Rove just dissappear. Does he think saying his mind will help him in his own political ambitions? Need I remind him that he is a "former" presidential advisor for a reason. Nice try Mr. Rove but it's not going to work. You need to shove off!

Rebekah M-M   April 30th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

I believe it would be great if McCain showed us more of his character! I would especially like to hear more about how he came back from being a prisinor of war- a war hero- and then went out and cheated on his wife with - now how many women was it? after she stood by him and fought so hard for his release.I heard him say this himself!!
Isn't that called betrayal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would not vote for him for this very reason. He can adopt all the kids he wants from whatever country- but that will not erase his betrayal to his 1st wife and the disrepect he consequently showed his other kids .
It is sad, his imprisonment and mistreatment in Vietnam - so he comes home and thanks his family by betraying them.
Thanks Rove for the great suggestion about showing more of his character!!

Robert in Ann Arbor   April 30th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Once again, Rove praises the McCains for adopting their daughter. This is, of course, the same Karl Rove who, when working for Bush in 2000, used push polls to turn the racists against McCain for having adopted a "black" child.

What a despicable character. What's more, how despicable is John McCain for now taking advice from such a man?

Juno   April 30th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Creepy Karl go away, no one cares about your opinion, the fact that you are still roaming the streets is what amazes me. He is partly responsible for the mess this country is in.

JJ   April 30th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Regardless of what is thought of Rove, the bottom line is he is 2 for 2 in winning elections, and really if this political season is all about results, perhaps Obama and McCain would do well to pay some heed.

lewc   April 30th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Topics of Interest:

Peter Paul vs. Clintons—17 Million Dollar Law Suit

HRC's (current) Pastor—Mosestation of 7 year old

We need to know more about the skeletons in the Clinton's closets.

Tom Huntington,NY   April 30th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Is it me or do those photos of McSame and Rove look like mug shots.

Somewhere in CT   April 30th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

I do not know much about McCain nor Rove. So I am writiing this without knowledge of the past.
When I read this it seems as though that Rove is just suggesting that the public needs to hear some more of the fine details of McCain that are positive and from a humanity perspective other then the obvious information we know about.
Rove is correct in this view, and I am not sure why others are shooting him down with relations just to this article.
Am I misssing something here?

Willy   April 30th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Whoopie!

Jerry from Illinois   April 30th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Mr. Rove makes a good point. He's not being critical, but simply offering good advice.

GM from MN   April 30th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

What's his name? M.C. Rove…..dance..dance

DC, SD   April 30th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

Obama-bots…..another good call!

Rick   April 30th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Rove who gave us George % company. He's the one to trust.

Didn’t Rove orchestrate the South Carolina mud in 2000 saying this adopted child of McCain was his "illegitimate" daughter?

Jed in Texas   April 30th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

The only way I would EVER consider John McCain is if he threw Rove under the bus.

Jay Shah   April 30th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

I love articles about karl rove, It's the one place where hillary and obama supporters can come together to bash a common enemy. keep em coming CNN. We need to unite the party!!!

mick   April 30th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Wow, the comments are so filled with hate. Karl engineered successful campaigns so he has credibilty and superior insight, like him or not. You can present an argument with thought and facts, but most waste this commentary section by spewing hate. How shameful.
Remember, you do care about Karl's relevance by hating him so much. You cannot have it BOTH ways.

mitch from ark.   April 30th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

who cares what rove thinks.he's a crooked politician,who should be imprisoned,but he won't be,cuz' republicans love his type of politics.

Joan   April 30th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Why should McCain make his life more open ? We still don't know about G W Bush's military records & his youthful shenanigans & he got to be President !

Ian   April 30th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

"He was a quiet man. Pretty much kept to himself." ; )

Starbuck   April 30th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Such a shame… McCain was held captive by the Cylons, they took out one of his eyes, and then when his wife worked to secure his release, he repaid the favor by murdering her!

Oh wait…

jUSt Read This   April 30th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

He not Private there is nothing to him

Why Is Rove in the news??   April 30th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Didn't Rove mastermind a plan in the South Carolina primary in 2000 that called McCain's adopted daughter from Bangladesh his "illegitimate black lovechild" in order to scare up racist votes for Bush? From what I remember this was a turning point that got W the momentum to end up getting the nomination. Rove is a racist disgrace to the country and he is the posterchild for the politics of old.

OBAMA 2008!

midnight   April 30th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Someone in a prior post commented about McCain being an ATHEIST. Is this a fact?

Not that I have a problem with atheists, but it certainly would give a whole new story to pursue in the media with him. Someone should research this.

Tony   April 30th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

Rove is one of the most influential people of the 20th and 21st century just like Farrakan. Now they should both go make man love with each other.

Bob in Des Moines   April 30th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Who cares what Karl Rove has to say? I can't believe he is getting any press coverage.

Nam Vet64/68   April 30th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Not to take away from the heroic things my brother vet has done, but…

Why is he the only Vietnam vet to have a memorial built to him in Vietnam??

If he would just explain that maybe he would be more believeable.

Dave W   April 30th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

This is rich with irony. Sort of like a grimy, greasy, black pot calling a shiny, stainless steel kettle, "gray". I wonder if Senator. McCain has any advice for Karl? Perhaps just, "Thank you Karl. Go and sin no more."

"Oh yeah, and by the way, there will not be any place for you in my cabinet, nor even on White House property."

David   April 30th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

You know, I cannot stand Rove but I do agree with him here. McCain is not being very transparant, especially with his checkered past.

scared of her   April 30th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Karl Rove giving anyone advice is laughable.

George Williams   April 30th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Remember when John Kerry"s story got out there. He got Swift Boated.

George Atlanta

Anne E.   April 30th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Why is anyone giving ANY time to put into print the words of this
uber-nerd?? GO AWAY, Tubby — you're as bad as a certain reverend who can't seem to stop wanting his 15 minutes of fame.

John Meyers, Philadelphia   April 30th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Kind of an odd statement from the guy who helped one of the most secretive presidencies since Nixon.

N   April 30th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Most hated campaign manager in history. Maybe if Gore and Kerry had gotten competent ones…

John   April 30th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

One of the positive things about McCain as opposed to Bush is the way they treat their biography. I completely disagree with Rove on this. Bush avoided the Vietnam War but made it sound as if he hadn't. McCain went through a long struggle in the war and he doesn't mention his sacrifices that much. I would call the former a liar and the latter a hero but humble about it. I don't understand what's wrong with a president with a little humility for a change.

Annamica, OH   April 30th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Rove seems to be dishing out advice rather eagerly this season…first Obama, now McCain…I bet Clinton is next. This guy just needs to go away.

Enough   April 30th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Oh, I can think of 100 reasons why McCain is unelectable - and being too private didn't even make that list.

Mike   April 30th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Christmas has come early this year…thankyou Rev. Wright. Watching the democrats implode yet again just solidifies the fact that the Dems would do ANYTHING to have a stragetist like Rove in their camp..but obviously they dont. McCain doesnt have to say a word about anything from this point forward. McCain WILL be the next president!!!

MC- Atlanta,GA   April 30th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Word of advice for John McCain - Don't listen to Karl Rove unless you want served an indictment. Rove is a criminal and most likley will be prosecuted after Bush Leave office.

tigerjcs   April 30th, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Karl Rove has the insight to see through all the strategic angles. His advice is true. McCain should bring out more about his great biography. I do admire McCain privacy, but he is running a public office. It is a plus to bring up those suggested inside of McCain. I am a Hillary supporter, however, I do like McCain as my second choice.

Sean   April 30th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

If McCain was black that private life is over. The media is focus on Barack.

James   April 30th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Is this gonzo- journalism? Maybe Karl Rove can orchestrate all of our lives if the media keeps giving him the platform to do so.

D.Kimbro OHIO   April 30th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Ok!! Isn't his fifteen minutes of fame up…

Vig   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Karl Rove is now giving advice to everyone. If he's so good at why is George Bush's approval ratings in the toilet? Another blow hard who made his living by manipulating the public.

tom   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

ROVE IS SATAN

jason   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

A presidential candidate with a private life and motives they don't share?? THIS HAS NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE!

Evan   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Do you remember what Rove & Co. did to McCain 8 years ago…

You don't need his help Johnny!!

Mike in NJ   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Rove is yesterday's news. Let him say whatever. I don't really care, and I suspect neither does anyone else.

Christian Conservative for OBAMA   April 30th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

not private enough!

he should keep his pants on expect when with his WIFE and not be committing adultary at the drop of a hat.

Also wish he had chosen a wife who was not a drug addict so that he would need his office to get her off drug charges!

Evil in the Whitehouse will not be allowed. Jesus knows a sinner and there is no bigger sinner that this adulterer!

donAnastase   April 30th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

We believe Karl Rove. However, he should have respect to McCain. OBama is going to win over McCain, but he still respect him as a National Hero. Come on Karl!!!! Are you saying that McCain should tell us about his wife's money?? Why don't you ask Clintons about all the scandals in the White House? Double standard
Obama 08

Robert, Los Angeles California   April 30th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

If Mr Rove can sell the baffoon Bush to the American people then surely Mr McCain can't be much of a challenge. Then again, this is the United States.

case   April 30th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

McCain is a flip flop artist hopefully it will get him the way it got Kerry.

I am against the Bush tax cuts wait I am for them.

I am against fiscal deficit, wait I can balance the budget in 4 years.

McCain ex-middle of the road maverick > GOP puppet.

Jo, ATL GA   April 30th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

McCain is not the problem. McCain knows he can not win with GOP vote.

Here is my issue if McCain had being linked to a KKK person or anyother White man, their candidacy is over. The media will crucify the person.

Obama! CNN is almost appologizing for his pastor. Everyone in the blanck community knows you never have an Ex-Pastor. Once your pastor is always your pastor. You attend a church based on your believe in the black community. These were Obama's believe before he ran for President.

Thanks CNN.

tom   April 30th, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Dan, Tampa FL,
Starting a fight is one thing, and protecting America is another thing. As far I know if you start fights you will likely to have more enemies, so do not bring that fear tactic crap, He put us in this hole which is very difficult to get out,for generations, and a lot of American blood has been lost, wheather you lose it here or abroad it is American blood gues you do not know that
Mr Dan, Tampa FL

San Jose   April 30th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Rove is nothing but an empty barrel

Michael, Farmington, NH   April 30th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

What McCain needs to explain is why he moved to block the release of Vietnam POW/MIA information to families who were and are still in need of it. He needs to let us know what kind of brainwashing he was subject to while he was a prisoner of war. The last thing this country needs is a Manchurian Candidate in the Oval Office.

McCain-in-4, Clarksburg, MD   April 30th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Typical Rovian Tactics. Flash & Dash instead of substance. Distract the voting populace with appearances instead of addressing our immediate poverty is quite Katrinaesque of our Good Ol' Boy Karl Rove.

Ignore that man behind the curtain !!!

Clinton, Obama, and McCain would make suitable Presidents. It would be their DIFFERENCE on the ISSUES that determines the next President. John McCain will have to tell us why we must divert our fuel and suffer in a toublesome economy for soldiers & contractors in Iraq.

Obama & Clinton has it easy. Returning our troops would give an immediate payback with more fuel making it to the market instead of being siphoned off to the war effort.

morning calm   April 30th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

our needs are before us …. JOHN mcCAIN to become the next man in the oval office…………………………………………………………

David, Miami Florida   April 30th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

The fact that Americans haven't rioted in the streets over this entire administrations actions is beyond me. And with Mr Rove being in the middle of selling Bush and company to the American people I'm only hoping that if and when puppet Bush is put on trial for his actions that Mr Rove's trial will follow.
What a joke they have made of this once great country, as the rest of the world laughs at the mistakes, crimes and blunders that we now are living with.

WHEN WILL THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WAKE UP?

Kevin   April 30th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Rove advised one of the worst presidents in history. Yes, he's a genius in getting a buffoon elected and manipulating an electorate, but he's proven to be a complete idiot when it comes to helping America become stronger and more prosperous.

My advice to Karl Rove - become more private. Your 15 minutes is almost up. We really don't care about you that much anymore.

Beartrack   April 30th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Why would anyone want to listen to Rove. He is just about the most despicable people to ever be involved in politics. It still amazes me that there are so many ignorant people in this country that buy into his, and the Bush, lies. Wake up America, look where these thugs have taken the country.

Hung Q. Nguyen   April 30th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

I think in this matter mr. Rove is right on the spot about mr. Mccain.

People want to know more about this candidate. He should open more. And especially about his wartime effort. It shows his fight in the prisoncamp, his fight for keeping decency while in captivity. And the most important thing how he conducted himself in that time, will show the people what a great president, he can be.

Mr. Rove does not provide good advice to the democratic candidates but to his own kind, I must say that he does.

Straight Talk   April 30th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Remember what they did to McCain in South Carolina in 2000? They accused him of having a baby with a prostitute. That baby turns out to be the adopted daughter, Bridget. Why is Rove not in jail yet?

MC, Maryland   April 30th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

You know maybe Hillary should be the Democratic nominee because she is right in line with the games they play. I am a Democrate and a Obama supporter. One of the reasons why is because I am sick and tired of watching the Democrats and Republicans play these silly games. The DNC knows full well McCains comments were taking out of context. He went on to say "as long as American's are not being killed or harm" Put the whole quote in the commercial and explain how that would not be feasible. Don't distort the truth. I don't care if he is a Republican. Also there is so much more they could hold against McCain. Legitimate problems and issues. Stop distorting the truth. I believe they're good people on both sides but the rest are blinded by party lines.

Carol - Grandma for Obama   April 30th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

McCain was outed on The View for using Carl as a consultant - Another four years of Bush/Rove anyone?

Right on Day1   April 30th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Rove always reminds me of Darth Vader with his helmet off.

You can just feel the dark side of the force.

I agree with his advice for Obama, but this is just a stretch about McCain.

Everyone who is honest knows the only way McCain wins is protest votes against Obama (or Clinton, but she's not going to win).

Porter   April 30th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

CNN, check the source of your quote. I'm looking at this morning's WSJ and its simply wrong.

DarkStar   April 30th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

I openly admit I've never voted for a Democrat in my life, and I've been voting since 1978… I simply can not and will not vote for John McCain, I don't care what Rove has to say. The Republican party is dead and I plan to vote for either Obama or a 3rd party candidate…

If Juan McCain is the best the Repubs can do it won't matter what Limbaugh or Rove or any of the other 'experts' have to say, McCain will lose and lose big…

58 old white wemen for OBAMA   April 30th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

WISHFUL & WISHING ON YOUR PART.

WE KNOW MORE ABOUT WARBUCKS THAN,

YOU WANTED US TO KNOW, & FRANKLY

WE EVER WANTED TO KNOW. & SOON WANT

TO FORGET ABOUT HIM & YOU.

Elizabeth Smith   April 30th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Maybe he should "open up' about his wife's drug addiction and theft of narcotics from a medical charity she started in the 90's. Possibly he could explain why she didn't spend any time in prison or suffer any real consequences like the 'average Joe" would have

GloriafromPA   April 30th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Rove is handing out so much free advice to both sides. So generous. Look what it did to Bush.

Sharon Minnesota   April 30th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

check it out

Yes we can   April 30th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

The era of Karl Rove politics and Scutter Libby justice will finally be over. The person who has dismantled the gigantic Clinton machine is up to the task. Watch this space

Bill (Pennsylvania)   April 30th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Well Mr Rove:

I don't agree with you. We all know about Mr McCain and what kind of person he is. The fact that he is not a hard line Republican speaks loudly for him. Mr McCain did not get where he did so far following hardline principles of the republican party.

Hilliary Clinton is also not a hard line Democrat, which sets her apart from Obama. I don't believe the Congress and Senate would ever get anything done with hardliners with the take it or leave it attitude. We all have to negotiate, we all have to debate. What makes me sick is listening to a hardliner. The world is not that simple.

Mr McCain knows this, Hilliary Clinton knows this, Obama will learn this.

I think the candidates should tell the truth and let the American People vote for who they think will be best. Most Americans (Not the hardliners) care about the issues and not necessarily the personal things such as a man's religion or family.

Most politicians and Lobbiests will never get it till there is a second American Revolution.

Uncle Sam   April 30th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

What Karl Rove is referring to is Sen. McCain's modesty in sharing stories of the senator's heroism unknown to most Americans.

Nora, FLORIDA   April 30th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

LOL LOL Gotta Love Him.