May 2, 2008
Posted: 04:00 PM ET

From ,
A voter said a “Swift Boat”-style group should come to McCain’s aid.
A voter said a “Swift Boat”-style group should come to McCain’s aid.

DENVER, Colorado (CNN) – A voter at a John McCain campaign event told the presumptive Republican nominee that he needed a “Swift Boats for McCain” group to aid his campaign this fall.

Air Force veteran Clif Sams told McCain that he had done a “damn good job” surviving his imprisonment during the Vietnam War. He then told the senator: “I hope that we have somebody called Swift Boats for McCain come out and help you. You’re damn good.”

“Thank you sir, and thank you for your service,” McCain responded.

In 2004, McCain vigorously defended John Kerry against attacks from “Swift Boat Veterans for Truth,” a group which sought to undermine Kerry’s Vietnam war record. At the time, the Arizona senator called the ads “dishonest and dishonorable.”

Asked why McCain had not had a similar reaction to Friday’s "Swift Boats for McCain" comment, campaign spokesman Steve Schmidt said the senator had repeatedly staked out a “clear position” against third-party groups, and "the only 527 activity is against us."

Sams, the Air Force veteran who now sells life insurance, re-iterated to CNN after the town hall that he would like to see a group similar to “Swift Boat Veterans for Truth” to help McCain defend himself from Democratic attacks in the general election.

He predicted “there will be a lot of veterans like us who come out of the woodwork this fall” to assist McCain.

Filed under: John McCain


richard   May 2nd, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Hillary can withstand any swift boats that come her way. I am affraid Obama will have an armada of swift boats taking him down.

JP   May 2nd, 2008 8:50 pm ET

today McCain admitted that we went into war for oil. Wow – truth from a republican – how refreshing.

Brian   May 2nd, 2008 8:34 pm ET

campaign spokesman Steve Schmidt said the senator had repeatedly staked out a “clear position” against third-party groups, and "the only 527 activity is against us."

This is a blatant LIE. Come on CNN be fair call this out. There are 527's against Obama and Clinton as well!

Jermaine   May 2nd, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Don't worry, McCain will be SWIFT VOTE. He wrap himself in the flag and POW status, but John McCain give up US SECRET'S to his captors 30 plus times. John McCain in 2000 was said by the current President to be no real Hero, those are from G.W. own lips and McCain ill hear it all again in 2008. John McCain is a panderer, the reason neither he nor Hillary will become President not in this lifetime, maybe in another parallel universe but not on Planet Earth!

Esoxslayer   May 2nd, 2008 8:19 pm ET

CONSERVATIVES: Vote for Republican Barr, on the Libertarian Ticket.

lol   May 2nd, 2008 8:16 pm ET

moveon.org and oprah have obama's back. swiftboat has a lot to work with against obama rev wright, hamas endorsing him, and ayers, not to forget about the rezko trial and auchi.

Charlotte   May 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

McCain won't need much help if Obama is the nominee. He has plenty of ammno in Obamas' books. Obama has taken over a million dollars in donations from sub-prime lenders. Citigroup,Washington Mutual,Countrywide,Credit Suisse, Centex and Goldman Sachs. He is beholden to them and their tatics. He talks out of both sides of his mouth. He is a typical politician who will say what he thinks you want to hear. Rev. Wright said it all, Obama is a politician who says what a politician needs to say to win."

Ike DeLong   May 2nd, 2008 7:59 pm ET

No excuses for some people McBUSH is stuck on VIETNAM era!! let it go McBUSH!

Bruno   May 2nd, 2008 7:57 pm ET

The man is right. Only out-right lies will help McCain win the nomination. We need more people in Washington who think lies are positive things. Looks like McCain has a new VP candidate. Why do Republicans bring out the worst in people?

Obama 4 Our Future!   May 2nd, 2008 7:53 pm ET

….and the only way it's going to get better is to put Obama in the White House. This country needs to change and the Clinton's are not the ones to do it!

OBAMA 2008!

Now…..CNN, how about not being so biased and report on the Paul vs Clinton issue and the Clinton's pastor being convicted!

PaulC   May 2nd, 2008 7:49 pm ET

Not to worry. If there is one thing that you can hang your hat on in this race is that the Republicans will unleash their full arsenal of "swift boats" and dirty tricks. THE UNFORTUNATE THING IS THAT IT WILL PROBABLY WORK.
Americans will gladly follow the John Wayne/Rambo character that will make them feel safe and protect them from gays and heathens.

wed   May 2nd, 2008 7:48 pm ET

CNN is not referring to Mickey Kantor but if the story was concerning Obama, they will be happy to comment in their situation room. MSNBC Chris Mathew is on right now but not making mention of the racial slur of Mickey Kantor but you brought the issue of the underground the other day that happen many years ago longer than Mickey Kantor. Go on CNN with your Pro-Clinton news.

Ben   May 2nd, 2008 7:38 pm ET

This country needs 8 years of President Barack Obama.

Jane, NC   May 2nd, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Well, the "swift boat" ads, played a major part in electing the worse president ever. Problem is, they worked then, and they might again. Otherwise, McCain's chances are surely so slim that I can't imagine anything else that could put him in the White House, no matter who wins the democratic nomination. I can just hear the whisper campaign too, "Did you know that Sen. Obama and his wife have 2 black children?" And if the nominee is Sen. Clinton, something similarly stupid will no doubt be tried in order to hurt her.

Eric Thornley   May 2nd, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Looks like the Vietnam war dumbed people down also, shame, I thought they all came back as intellectuals.

Quit Lying.   May 2nd, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Are the "Swift Boats for McCain" going to tell the truth this time, without any fabrication? And are the veterans really going to search McCain's real words about America while a POW? Are they the same veterans "coming out of the woodwork" the same veterans who cannot get their benefits because of McCain? Or the benefits who have had to go on 5, 6 or 7 trips to Iraq? I am a mother , wife, sister of a veteran!!!

s.positive   May 2nd, 2008 7:22 pm ET

No point, John just blew it by saying we go to war for OIL.

Leslie   May 2nd, 2008 7:14 pm ET

He already does, it's called Freedom's Watch.

dwayne   May 2nd, 2008 7:12 pm ET

Swift Boat vets aren't very swift. Well…maybe at lies and deceit. I think I lose 2 IQ points everytime I try to listen to them.

Rob - Vegas   May 2nd, 2008 7:07 pm ET

another example of the McCain flip-floping, he's getting REALLY good at it..

Fred, MS   May 2nd, 2008 7:07 pm ET

No comment, he puts me to sleep. Then he starts talking about war, war, war, and I want him to go somewhere, and leave the rest of us alone.

bob in LA   May 2nd, 2008 7:06 pm ET

Sad, isn't it that people even think that way? I don't believe its just Republicans, but for a Republican supporter to use those words in public makes it dificult to not think there is something wrong with the Republican mind-set.
Are all conservatives believers of tabbloid journalism? Maybe. Look at the Rupert Murrdock holdings!

JP, Chicago IL   May 2nd, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Why do veterans want to back McCain when he consistently votes against them in the Senate? (CHECK HIS VOTING RECORD)

aware   May 2nd, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Hillary Clinton 2008 and 2012 or John McCain 2008! :)

If the Democrats chose Obama as their nominee, the Republicans will be back in the White House.

The American people are looking for the kind of truth telling and serious policy making that is going to have an affect on their lives and this does not describe Obama.

Give the obfuscating, inept, freshman senator with the credibility and judgment gap some time to develop authentic values and a better resume.

Don't let the far left media choose their far left candidate for you. America is centrist and will vote accordingly in the General Election.

JohnLahai   May 2nd, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Hillary is NOT tearing apart the democratic party. Hillary is doing just what any Clinton does— take advantage of any situation given to them (e.g., Monica L., Sniper-fire; NAFTA, Michigan and FL votes etc.).

The real people splitting this party are the "bilnd" and uneducated supporters of Hillary. How can Hillary, with more negatives than any politican (except Gov. Bush), ever run a successful general election in this nation? The Republicans and Independents are praying for that day to come!!! We will have to thank, not Hillary (because she will be off somewhere with her $109 million), but her "bird-brain" supporters

Jim C   May 2nd, 2008 6:54 pm ET

The strong support of veterans for McCain is just one of many reasons why he will beat Obama if Obama is the candidate against him.

A. K.   May 2nd, 2008 6:54 pm ET

The Democrats have learned how to swiftboat and there is a whole lot to use on McCain. Check it out, please, starting with the affairs including the one he had with his present wife before he dumped his first wife after she lost a leg in a car accident so that he could marry a rich lady.

I hope the Democratic supporters can go toe to toe with the swiftboaters this time. Two can play that dirty game.

ANTI CLINTONS   May 2nd, 2008 6:52 pm ET

I'm one of those veterans that will support McCain and not Hitlery the freedom hater. The one who hates our servicemen and women. The one who hates big oil, the one that doesn't want to have this country be self reliable, the one who hates this country, the one that wants to raise taxes until no end, the one that wants to have everyone turn to the government for there very existance. The very same one that is foaming at the mouth for control of everything. The one that lies about being shot at. The one that blames everyone but herself about the iraq war that she voted on rather she needed more info. or not, she still did it. Get rid of this cow onece and for all.

his is the same person that wants you to change your very existance on how you live right along the lines with the special interest groups like PETA, the global warming maggots. It is just a hoax to raise your taxes and put fear into you if you don't see things her way, just like yesterday when she said you are with me or against me about the big oil companies. SCREW the witch!

Laura   May 2nd, 2008 6:49 pm ET

I would not say that McCain "vigorously" defended Kerry. He did come to Kerry's defense, but he waited a while to do so. I give him credit for doing it but he initially held back for fear of offending conservatives and party activists whom he would need to please when he ran in 2008.

David Kolva, MD   May 2nd, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Those life insurance sales people sure do tell the truth, don't they?

John McCain could have corrected him and defended Kerry again, but he didn't. Why? McCain's thought processes are slowing due to age. It will become more evident as the spotlight gets hotter.

kayla   May 2nd, 2008 6:45 pm ET

your rocking chair awaits you mcsame.

Fran Martin   May 2nd, 2008 6:41 pm ET

When push comes to shove, McCain will gladly accept a swift boat strategy. In spite of what he said in the past, McCain has a problem with credibility.

marie   May 2nd, 2008 6:40 pm ET

Don't bother bringing out the swift boat strategies. This may've worked in a different time, in a different situation. But things have changed. They'll mark McCain's campaign as completely outdated, petty and irrelevant.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   May 2nd, 2008 6:35 pm ET

While we are all sorry that McCain had to endure being a POW, that does not qualify him to lead America out of the deep quagmire that the Cheney/Bush regime has created with their arrogance, deceipt and stellar incompetence. His temper, intimate involvement with the Keating scandal, and extreme flip flopping (some years back he said he was too old THEN to run for President!) all make clear we'd be in for a rerun and easily, one more war.

donchild   May 2nd, 2008 6:31 pm ET

I think Clif Sams needs to take a closer look at McCain. If anyone has a military career that is wide open to a Swift Boat attack, it is "Ace" McCain. Five aircraft destroyed, and none of them belonging to the enemy? Men who hated to serve under his command because of his bad temper? The Keating Five?

hillaryskank on myspace   May 2nd, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Yep, and I'll be there supporting McCain as well if Clinton steals this election.
I don't know why we even bother with the General election. Most Clinton stooges will not vote democrat if Barack wins, and I and many others will not vote democrat if Clinton wins. As soon as the primary is finally over and Hillary finally sets herself down for a tea with Liz Taylor and Madonna and Rosie, like she did in the Ireland Peace Tea Party, McCain will win no matter what.

RJL for CHANGE   May 2nd, 2008 6:30 pm ET

CNN — I am amazed that you didn't mention the fact that in his answering the question on the campaign stump, McCain links the US presence in the Middle East to the reserves of foreign oil that is the focus for US presence. I am ashamed of McCain and I am ashamed of your selective reporting.

CT Chriss   May 2nd, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Why would he want a group that lies?

The original Swift Boat group were proven liars. That is why the term has come to mean someone who lies to smear people.

What a shame!

Griff   May 2nd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

The only Help I think need John, is the same you've had since you were Chosen Nominee. Just keep plugging away. You're doing juist enough., don't push too hard….

Kim   May 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Why not support Hillary instead? She is more right wing than McBush. Hillary suports the Political pandering gas tax break that McBush dreamed up. Hillary (Bush lite) Clinton says that she will Nuke Iran! Even Bush and McBush don't get that crazy. The Right Wingers loved Hillary on Bill O'Rielly's show. Hillary should be fighting for the Republican nomination.

Lynn D   May 2nd, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Senator Obama has already written your screenplay for you.

DAN   May 2nd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

This is boring cnn, you should show or interview Hillary more, I know Obama is your guy but did you see the ratings fox got last night interviewing sen Clinton! Imagine if you had more balance coverage you would be doubling your ratings and would be closer to fox in popularity instead of competing with msnbc for Obama nuts.

Chris in Va.   May 2nd, 2008 6:07 pm ET

I really hope Hillary wins the Democratic nomination. Does anyone out there think the Republicans will cater to Hillary and her dirty little secrets and keep mum like her pals at CNN? They will DESTROY her and we finally will see the last of the Clinton blight on our nation.

Gorbashov, Long Beach, Ca.   May 2nd, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Of course Republicans need another dishonsest and dishonorable grooup to spew their lies that is the only way Republicans can get elected.

Let's see how honorable Senator McCain is here with this issue.

sb   May 2nd, 2008 6:03 pm ET

WHEN A FAKE VIDEO TURNS UP TO TRY TO HURT HILLARY 4 DAYS BEFORE THE ELECTION MOST PEOPLE WILL THINK OBAMA DID IT BECAUSE OF HIS TROUBLES WITH HIS FORMER PASTOR

REMEMBER "CBS MEMOGATE!"

Rusty   May 2nd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

No surprise that JM will get "swift boat like help." Sort of surprised that he publicly welcomes and encourages it. Unless HRC steals the nomination, things should be very one sided and nasty this fall. Obama seems to be willing to only block punches and not punch back. He avoided sniper fire in the last debate right after HRC blasted him on personal stuff. I hope voters will see that he really does take the high road and reward it with their votes. He trusts that voters are paying attention and smart. I hope he is correct.

Ginny   May 2nd, 2008 5:59 pm ET

In October I will be 87 and would like Mc Cain tell me how much 5000 would pay on my hospital bill 3 days my hospital cost. over 18,000 dollars, I am one fortunate senior as my husband worked for General Motors in Columbus, Ohio. I bet you have a much better insurance you want to offer the voters. I am a proud democrat .

An American   May 2nd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

disgusting

Ennis, LA   May 2nd, 2008 5:50 pm ET

Yeah, and I hope they do as much for McCain as they did for Kerry.

D. May   May 2nd, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Who cares what John McSame did if he is intent on leading this country to a 100 year war in Iraq! Besides, if you get captured and heled for 5 years does that make you a hero? Not in my book.

JUANITO   May 2nd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

VOTE FOR RON PAUL

Edward Olan   May 2nd, 2008 5:44 pm ET

I am sorry to say this, the man is an idiot. That is why our country is the day it is because of comments like that. I commend him for his services, I say again, he is an idiot. We need civility in our political discourse.

TheLeftNut   May 2nd, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Swift this you traitor!

NickSanDiego   May 2nd, 2008 5:42 pm ET

PLANT! We all know about al of the veterens groups that re building up to expose McCAin and this is a simple ploy to head them off.

Google Vienam vets and McCain and see what comes up.

Billy G in Las Vegas   May 2nd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Lt John McCain had a reputation as a screaming jerk (and that's being polite) when he was an instructor pilot at Basic Jet Training at NAS Meridian before he went to Viet Nam. if there is any "Swift Boating" in this election it will be by former Student Naval Aviators that were abused by this guy and still hate his guts.

WAW   May 2nd, 2008 5:40 pm ET

The GOP died forever the moment the Swift Boaters showed up. McCain was right then and now. I might vote for McCain, the Republican Party had not counted on their stars fading and leaving the nomination to an also ran. But I will never vote for the Republican Party because of the Swift Boat scum it represents. Rev Wright is sinless compared to them.

John, Brooklyn, NY   May 2nd, 2008 5:39 pm ET

So…John McCain shows his true colors. The Swift Boat "veterans" decided to parlay their political views into slandering the integrity of a decorated war hero in 2004. For John McCain to agree that such a campaign would be appropriate in 2008 as well demonstrates that he is simply an old fashioned partisan hack – and not representing the interests of ALL veterans, as he professes.

Robert   May 2nd, 2008 5:39 pm ET

McCain doesn't need a "Swift Boat" group to help him. He's got Obama.

John   May 2nd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Knowing that the swift boat campaign was "dishonest and dishonorable" why would a vet, who believes in duty and honor, even suggest such a vile tactic.

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   May 2nd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

That vet should go back into the woodwork and sell the termites some whole life policies.

DJ in TX   May 2nd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

McCain is war hero and his service should be respected and thanked by all. That said, I totally disagree with McCain policies. He defended John Kerry against that type of politics, now when they seem to want to help him, he's accepting that kind of help.

I thought he was the one that has stated he was going to run a "respectful" campaign where the issues and policies are debated??

MD   May 2nd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

No one can help McCane. He cannot run away from his past. The truth about his conduct in the Navy, and the influence of his father in keeping him in giving him a pilot's license will come out.

Sean   May 2nd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Hopefully, the American people are smart enough not to fall for these kinds of empty arguments once again. The outcome is too important to be decided based on rhetorical, manipulative, irrelevant issues.

Tim   May 2nd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I'm from compton,,Whats your point. He did a good job in V W..Come to Compton..10 buck say he would not make it out.

merle 7   May 2nd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

During a town hall event in Colorado today, John McCain "decried the dangers of Americans reliance on foreign oil," but "also seemed to suggest that this reliance caused the current struggle in Iraq."

Here's what he said:
My friends, I will have an energy policy that we will be talking about, which will eliminate our dependence on oil from the Middle East that will – that will then prevent us – that will prevent us from having ever to send our young men and women into conflict again in the Middle East.

I think they call it Imperialism,yet the american people were told it was because of WMD which Sadam had and to fight a war on terriorism.
Please people no more republican in the white please vote democratic this election year!

Ryan   May 2nd, 2008 5:21 pm ET

I would support a group like this for McCain. Semper Fi!!

Interested Reader   May 2nd, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Will any democrats READ and understand John McCain was AGAINST the swiftboat ads back in 2004????

Jed in Texas   May 2nd, 2008 5:19 pm ET

His former captors must be laughing all the way to the bank now with all the trade deals they now get.

Joe Schmo   May 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

I AM GLAD TO SEE THAT BILL CLINTON IS DRAWING LARGE ADORING CROWDS!

HE WAS A GREAT PRESIDENT!!!

HE WILL BE AROUND FOR HILLARY IF SHE NEEDS HIM!
HILLARY HAS PROVEN THAT SHE HAS WHAT IT TAKES TO BE PRESIDENT!!!!
SHE GETS MY VOTE!!!!!!!

American Girl   May 2nd, 2008 5:18 pm ET

He needs a Swift Boat to a Sr. citizen Home in the Islands.

I respeect and honor his service… but the decisions that he couold maek as President will impact our nation 20, 30, 40 thru 100+ years when he is more than likely not alive.

People we need to vote for Youth.

Hunter   May 2nd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Yeah, just like they came out of the woodwork to help Kerry four years ago.

Alonzo Demetrius   May 2nd, 2008 5:16 pm ET

I agree with the citizen. McCain will be bombarded with MoveOn.org and DailyKos etc of the hate-mongering liberals who will tell half-truths or outright lies against McCain. I would like to see groups independently support McCain with truths about him. McCain is an American hero.

Neve   May 2nd, 2008 5:15 pm ET

You left out the part where McCain says the Iraq war was fought for OIL, not WMDs.

Honest Abe   May 2nd, 2008 5:14 pm ET

And there'll be a lot of Veterans that'll come out and attack him too, LIKE MYSELF.

I survived Bush Sr. 1st 'False Gulf War' – and it was sad to see his son send more of the troops to their deaths. Now McSame and Clinton (Iran Obliterator) – will try to follow suit. Let's vote against these war mongerers !

OBAMA 08 !!!!!!

dee   May 2nd, 2008 5:13 pm ET

I'm a Female, African-American NAVY VETERAN. I DON'T AGREE with swiftboating at all. Truth and integrity, is what I expect from our nation's president. I like everything about McCain EXCEPT his position on the war. Time to begin talking about bringing our troops home now!!

But, I DO AGREE that THIS VET WILL SUPPORT McCain, if the Clinton's steals the Democratic Nomination!

Veterans Against McCain   May 2nd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Please visit our website Vietnam Veterans against McCain to see how Veterans really feel! this man has let us down when we need him most.

Don't be fooled by what one Air Force vet says.

a middle aged white woman in SF   May 2nd, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Great, the swift boaters are already positioning themselves to do smear tactics on whoever is the Dem nominee. Don't these people have lives? The irony here is that since McCain has actually SEEN war, why in the world would he purport to keep us in Iraq for "100 more years?" Go figure – it makes NO sense.

Karlie   May 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

That's despicable. What's the matter with people anyway?

Grant   May 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

The Dems are in tough……McCain is formidable and very well respected…only Obama can match him character if he survives the Clinton attack…The DNC is in civil war…..NIghtmare!!!!!!!!!

Ivan, DE   May 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

McCain would welcome a Swift Boat tactic, trust me. He's not above any help he can get.

O/08

Veterans For Obama   May 2nd, 2008 5:05 pm ET

And even more for Obama.

Montana is Obama Country   May 2nd, 2008 5:04 pm ET

It is amazing people need to stoop to lies, false claims and vulgarity need to win elections. This guy may be decent but his words speak volume to the state of ethical despair our country is in.

Yes.. We.. Can..

Susa   May 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

great…. if you can't win because you are the better candidate, then simply slime your opponent. Doesn't matter if it's true.
I am so sick of that type of politics — and its partly the fault of the media too. you guys will print anything.

enoch needles   May 2nd, 2008 5:03 pm ET

100 years is 100 years.

Cast off and bring it on, sailor.

Oops, almost forgot – "Mission Accomplished" :)

Ben   May 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

If McCain's father was and admiral,and he himself was a navy pilot. Then he must have been in another navy than I was in the 2nd world war! Why? He said he didn't know who placed that big banner on the aircraft carrier that read MISSION ACOMPLISHED.
All you old navy veterans will agree to me that nothing happens aboard ship that does not meet the captains approval! Only one voice on that ship could override the captain and that was the voice of the commander in chief.Bush had it placed there and the captain did so, whether he liked the idea or not.

noemi in los angeles   May 2nd, 2008 5:02 pm ET

So McCain would like some Swift Boat Veterans protecting him this general election??

Why does he need protection….?

The real questions is: Does McCain have something to hide??

Ponder this   May 2nd, 2008 5:01 pm ET

it is not a double standard if you are hbi-polar…….like the American people

Tom Hadley   May 2nd, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Come out of he woodwork ? Come out of the psych ward is more like it.

Lila Mach   May 2nd, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Don't quite understand how having survived being a prisoner of war, though admirable and sympathy worthy, qualifies John McCain to be our President. I believe there are many negatives to this candidate and being a prisoner of war survivor has no bearing as a positive.

Chris, Middletown, CT   May 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Obama will win in 2008…..whereas Hillary would get pounded – I'm a Republican who supports Obama for a change – at least there is hope with him….and I feel as though I am part of it – but HRC supporters…you need to understand that 53% of the population are smart enough not to trust her…..(and the ad's about the real Hillary haven't even started yet) – don't make the mistake and vote for that mess

phony maverick   May 2nd, 2008 4:57 pm ET

McCain changed his mind on the Bush Tax Cuts the prosecution of the war, how he really feels about the religious wingnuts in his own party, etc… if he thinks a little "swiftboating" might help him get elected, he'll probably be all for it

NWindependent   May 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It truly frustrates me as an independent that the Dems. do not see that Senator McCain has attempted to do the right things in a very difficult political enviroment. He has defended two liberals, Senator Kerry as noted and Senator Lieberman when they were attacked from either side of the Isle.

I know he has a temper, but it seems to me he get's the most frustrated when he encounters behavior which is dishonest or dishonorable.

You may not agree with his postions, (half the Repubs. don't) but you have to admire his integrity.

King of NJ   May 2nd, 2008 4:56 pm ET

HIP "O" CRITE

Tate,Nc   May 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

So, what their really saying is you need to fool the American people again!

Doug Pierson Tohatchi, NM   May 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Swift Boats for McCain, that is what we really need this year. If that is the case he has lost my vote.

voice of reason, NC   May 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

And Obama thinks he can beat this guy without Florida, Ohio and Pennsylvania. He's in for a rude awakening. Standing next to this man he would look completely out of experience, out of sorts….

I don't want a Bush extension in the office. Vote Hilary, she is the electable one against McCain.

If this gets posted by CNN, that would be a real surprise.

Boomer   May 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

That's right. Swift Boat McCain! Ker POW!!!

Susan, Kentucky   May 2nd, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I wonder how much McCain paid that guy?

Video Guy   May 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I am a 20 year Air Force Veteran who will be supporting Obama. I agree with McCain on 527 activity, it has no place in a fair campaign.

MM   May 2nd, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Gee McCain, I thought you were above swift boating? If so, then say it loudly!

Veteran   May 2nd, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Mccain doesn't live in the perfect little fantasy world of the liberals allied against him ! He knows that the world can be a terrible place for America and all the negotiating and peace sign flashing will do little to keep our enemies at bay and our troops at home! Come to think of it why do we need troops if they belong at home ? What would these liberals stand and fight for? Nothing I suppose when conservatives will do the dirty work in the world and the pure of purpose liberals will stand by and denigrate any and all efforts!

joe average   May 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

why will you not report on paul VS. clinton search for it everyone

Brian   May 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

This is terrible. This is the kind of low to which the republican party has dragged our public and political discourse.

Why someone would ever think it's okay to slander someone else for their own personal or political gain is beyond me. And it's disgraceful. We can disagree on policy, but we should all be working together as one nation for the betterment of the nation.

Based on my comment, I'll let you decide who I'll be voting for in the fall.

liberals' worst nightmare   May 2nd, 2008 4:49 pm ET

McCain doesn't need anything of the sort…. the two imbeciles from the Democrat Party seem to be "swiftboating" themselves without any help…. especially Obama. He's got more skeletons in his closet than Jeffrey Dahmer, with plenty more to come!

fred   May 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

McCain won't need much help if Obama is the nominee…McCain will win by a landslide!!!

WFK   May 2nd, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Sick. Just sick. The hate running through the veins of so many Americans is shocking and SICK. Attitudes like this are NOT American.

mitch from ark.   May 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

whatever.it doesn't matter because mccain is not electable.he's too old.

STOP THE MADDNESS!!!!   May 2nd, 2008 4:47 pm ET

What he meant was swift kick!

Darth Vadik, CA   May 2nd, 2008 4:46 pm ET

IF YOU LOVE THE VETS SO MUCH WHY DO YOU NOT SUPPORT THE JIM WEBB'S GI BILL, AND NOT ONLY NOT SUPPORT IT BUT GO OUT OF YOUR WAY TO PUT PRESSURE ON OTHER REPUBLICAN SENATORS THAT ARE BACKING THE GI BILL?

AND IT WORKED, THAT TRAITOR TO THE TROOPS JAMES ENHOFE PULLED HIS NAME OUT OF CO-SPONSORING THE WEBB GI BILL.

SHAMELESS

And there arepeople that would vote for this guy, shameless.

Ben, Merced CA   May 2nd, 2008 4:45 pm ET

I guess this just proves that fact that war makes a lot of people crazy.

ART in TX   May 2nd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

What was more interesting was when he alluded to the fact that the IRAQ war was over oil.

Let's explore that.

RealityKing   May 2nd, 2008 4:44 pm ET

And just how many of McCain's fellow officers are coming out about his 'sexed up' version of his military career??

Wouk   May 2nd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

This is one veteran who doesn't buy his "moderate" politician/hero image and who would never vote for McCain.

kingsley   May 2nd, 2008 4:43 pm ET

it will be exciting to see the swiftboat contest between mcain and hillary

clinton wouls beat mcain today— obama wont

whats wrong with this letter? the rise and fall of our democracy and how hypocrites like ED RENDELL will like to get fed again by the clintons. he will sell his soul for it. i also read the list of the reasons she should be the candidate and it didnt include black vote. why are we not relevant. and last of the question was "if the eletion were helf today". well its not being held today. it will be in NOVEMBER. and what about if it was held after super Tuesday? and how dare do they say she ran a better campaign than Obama? the republicans are waiting for her. SWIFTBOAT 08. WE CAN FIGHT IN THE MIDDLE EAST FOR DEMOCRACY BUT WE CAN'T PRACTICE WHAT WE PREACH IN OUR OWN BACK YARD.

DEMOCRACY FOR OBAMA 08

Marc PDX   May 2nd, 2008 4:42 pm ET

I don't want to see this kind of candidate attack mentality take place. I agree with the position John McCain took against this in 2004. Attacking your candidate on garbage issues in order to make yourself look better is not a good way to select a president. It is not good for the country. Elections should be based primarily on positions on key issues. I'm a republican and I am strongly against attacking the democrats with swift boat style attack ads. John McCain is simply the best candidate to be president and he should be elected on those merits alone.

STOP THE MADDNESS!!!!   May 2nd, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Appreanly this guy is not a aware of what MOST vets & pow survivals really think of fellow war time survival John MxXain they can't stand him. Maybe he needs to check with that group of vets that made the you tube video titled "John McCain, Lying Shunk!"

Mike - Texas   May 2nd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Somebody has to do it, McCain won't put up a fight.

AZM   May 2nd, 2008 4:41 pm ET

I'll give McCain a bit of credit for that one… he was pretty hard on the swift boat group… He does pretty good staying away from the negative campaign stunts… something the Republicans are known for. However it should be noted that the Democrats have led the way in that department this year… as much as it pains me to say it… Obama and Clinton have taken it to a whole new level

Kenneth M   May 2nd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

I AM A OBAMA SUPPORTER BUT I DO THINK MCCAIN IS A MAN OF INTEGRATY. IN FACT I PLAN TO VOTE FOR HIM IS HILLARY WINS BY HOOK OR CROOK, OR HONESTLY. MY POINT IS THAT MCCAIN IS TOO MUCH OF A GENTALMAN TO SWIFT BOAT OBAMA. IF HE WINS IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE OF HIS POLICIES OR MERIT. NOT BECAUSE HE CAN CAUSE THE BIGGEST STINK FOR THE OTHER CANDIDATE.

Zachary   May 2nd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Whoa, your reporting the same event but without the real meat! Come on CNN, tell us what McCain said after the man suggested swift boat ads for McCain.

My friends, I will have an energy policy that we will be talking about, which will eliminate our dependence on oil from the Middle East that will – that will then prevent us – that will prevent us from having ever to send our young men and women into conflict again in the Middle East.

He indicated the war was for oil. that's kind of a big deal and needs to be fleshed out.

MD in OK   May 2nd, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Is this the only way Air Force veteran Clif Sams believes that McCain can win? Shame on him!!! Shouldn't he (McCain) be able to win based on facts not cheap ads by people who simply want a republican to win. This kind of thinking does not represent truth…it's a lie wrapped around truth.

Dylan   May 2nd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

What an incredible hypocrite! Apparently John McCain no longer has any problem with sleazy Rovian smear politics that dishonors the military service of war heroes.

John truly is McSame as McBush. McNever '08

Darth Vadik, CA   May 2nd, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Yes swift boats, a term used today to slur somebody with lies, go ahead and do it and see what happens.

After further review,Texas   May 2nd, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Check the facts.The Swift boat folks have a huge money ties to Communists in Vietnam today.

FEDUP   May 2nd, 2008 4:38 pm ET

If Obama is the nominee it wont take much more then Obamas own life story to bring him down. Dreams of My Father is packed full of ammno.

Patriot   May 2nd, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Barack Obama was born in 1961 and there wasn't a war going on during his college days to fight in- so I don't know if a lack of military service should be used against him.

Don't forget about the true draft dodgers like Bush, Cheney and Clinton.

Florida For Obama   May 2nd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

He's NOT going to be president. Lets just leave him out in the cold and stop acting like he's got a shot.

Frank D   May 2nd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Look out Obama, the Swift boats are coming. if you think you had it tough with Hillary just wait and see what is coming in the GE.

All of your whining will not help you and all of the truth about your unknown past will be known to the world.

James   May 2nd, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Whatever!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now what?

MM/FL   May 2nd, 2008 4:36 pm ET

What Planet is this guy living on?

Stacy Clarks   May 2nd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

MCCAIN IS FULL OF GARBAGE!!!!!

I HONOR HIS SERVICE TO THIS COUNTRY, BUT HE IS NOT RIGHT FOR THE WHITE HOUSE!!!

DEMOCRATS IN 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

John Smith   May 2nd, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Hillary is NOT tearing apart the democratic party. Hillary is doing just what any Clinton does— take advantage of any situation given to them (e.g., Monica L., Sniper-fire; NAFTA, Michigan and FL votes etc.).

The real people splitting this party are the "bilnd" and uneducated supporters of Hillary. How can Hillary, with more negatives than any politican (except Gov. Bush), ever run a successful general election in this nation? The Republicans and Independents are praying for that day to come!!! We will have to thank, not Hillary (because she will be off somewhere with her $109 million), but her "bird-brain" supporters

DAVID   May 2nd, 2008 4:33 pm ET

MC CAIN IS A MAN OF HONOR,IF IT WASNT FOR THE FACT HE WANTS MORE BUSH POLICY HE'D HAVE MY VOTE

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