CNN

Be prepared for all sorts of crazy and bizarre insinuations as we go forward with the election process. John McCain IS an old man by anyone's standards. This is not an opinion or a slight this is a fact.

Another fact, George Bush and company will when they leave office leave America in the worst condition that it has ever been in history. Our world is falling down around us, we do not need politics as usual, we need drastic, meaningful, focused and peaceful change.

McCain is but another (older) George Bush, we definitely DO NOT need another non-leader like George Bush! We do not need more war. The time is now, it is long overdue, we must embrace new directions and solutions, otherwise it's just more of the past eight years.

America and the world needs a new approach if we are going to right ourselves. It is important that we elect Barack Obama, not just because he is a young man, but because he is a young, creative, unique and fertile thinker. Let's not settle for less.

Come on, this is something that many people say about the elderly. Why is it suddenly so bad when Obama says it ONCE?

I think he misunderstood the statement as well.

The statement Obama made has absolutely nothing to do with age. The republicans just need to find issue with him. But I think his age should be an issue. How many companies (besides Walmart) are willing to hire someone in their 70's? Now ask yourself why not?

With all respect, age IS an issue. 72 is too old for that job. And McCain IS showing what is either age or other problems. He has had a distinguished past. That doesn't mean he can hold up under this demanding a job for the next FOUR years.

McCain is old so what? He is ready to claim his experience but hide from his age? Give me a break grandPa!

Obama is waaay too young both in actual age and in a more general way, that is, no experience running anything, no experience overcoming obstacles as a public servant, not many years facing hard challenges in the Senate. He's unproven in character, he's easily influenced by flamboyant, radical mentors such as Tony Rezko, Jeremiah Wright, Jesse Jackson, Wm. Ayers.

Speaking of William Ayers, Obama won't answer questions about this person who bombed the Pentagon.

Why won't Obama answer the Ayers questions?

The sad reality is that McCain will have little to be critical about when Obama becomes his opponent because Ms. Kitchen Sink Clinton used everything she could get and i still wasn't enough to negate his strength of character and commitment to his message. The Republicans will be grasping at straws very shortly once they have to concentrate on making McCain look as a better president than Obama. And besides, he really is old and has had numerous slips that may b related to a waning mindpower.

Educated Hispanic for Obama

Its gonna be 6 months of the same type of baloney Clinton has been giving us only this time it will be coming from McOld...

Get over it old man...your wife stated yesterday that you would not be going negative in this election. I guess you forgot that you told her that.

Then why do we have words like Military Bearing in our military? I believe that the junior senator from illinois is simply saying that McCaine's principles are out of whack.

Really? Any campaign representing a highly decorated NAVAL officer should have an accurate understanding of the definition for the term bearings. Look it up you spin doctoring liars desperate to inflate an imagined controversy!

Sen. McCain , though I don't agree with many of your thoughts and ideas, I have a deep respect for your service to this country and your moral decency. Please don't lower yourself to accommodate these types of unscrupulous campaign tactics.

You are a man of great bearing and dignity. Please run on your own noble merits integrity and let the people and freedom your fought and sacrificed for be the "decider".

McWho?

Yes he is TOO OLD! What's the big deal and fussy about. he should be on retirement now. He is too old for the office of president. This is changing times. Country need someone alert and vibrate.

McCain may be losing his bearings and if Obama ever gets some bearings, he may lose them also when he gets old. I hope the nut jobs do not think that is racist. Obama should concentrate on accomplishing some legislation to get us out of the mess the Rs have us in while he is still a senator so he can claim that he actually did something besides being the #1 Monday night quarterback.

Well I think its a legitimate issue. No disrepect to Reagon but he was filmed many times taking a nap during high level meetings. C'mon...everything slows down at a certain age.

SEN McCAIN CHECK YOUR DICTIONARY, THAT WORD WAS SPOKEN CORRECTLY! DON'T READ INTO IT, AND ALSO STOP BEING SO SENSITIVE.

OBAMA 08

Well it is an issue. Where are your medical records and your pyschological reports. Dude produce that and lets see how well and stable you are and then no one will have to question anything or make anything an issue. Why are you holding out on you medical records, you most certainly have something to hide. No don't start beginning a baby about because everthing counts. What's the matter you don't have anything else in the kitchen sink to throw at Obama so you whine about age well you're old and you know it clap you hands.

It won't take much to make Senator McCain show his bad temper that he maintains he doesn't have!

McCain needs to tell his wife that he is running for President. He is old and his wife don't want all their dirty laundry and secrets reveal, so old man if the stove is too hot don't sit your butt on it and get out the kitchen.

When does a presidential candidate's age become an issue... at 82? 92? 102?

John McCain will be 72 years old on Inauguration Day. We have never had a first term president that old. Perhaps Mr. Salter would care to explain why Mr. McCain's age should not be an issue? He's asking us to entrust him with a pretty important and stressful job. Is it really too much to ask whether he is up to it or not?

We would be failing in our duties as responsible voters if John McCain's age were not an issue.

On point Paul Dobro !!

To clarify, losing one's bearings is a nautical phrase meaning you aren't steering your ship on the correct course. Losing one's marbles might be a reference to senility. "Ball Bearings" could be synonomous with marbles but it's a stretch. Age wll certainly be an issue but to look at his mom, it isn't the reason I oppose his candidacy. But rather his policies. Indeed he seems sharp as a tack. Age attacks will come from 527's and the media. Obama wouldn't intentionally throw that dirt. He trys to stay above the fray.I think it was actually kind of a stupid move for McCain to call attention to it.

McCain is not an educated person. He's a buffoon and doesnt even deserve the support of George Bush!

McCain is a buffoon. He not an educated person and doesn't deserve the support of even George Bush!

SOMEONE GIVE HIM A TISSUE PLEASE!

Hello......John McCain....of course age is an issue. You are getting older in years and Obama is young comparitively speaking. For anyone to think that won't come up is surely losing their bearings. Geez! When I look at the vocal exchange, one mean, manipulative comment does deserve a response.

McCain, that old geeeeezer need to be at home in his rock-n-chair.

Is McCain forgetful. I guess he lost his marbles!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Age would have been a better and nicer argument to explain the dumb negative remark. How can you come with that argument when there is no difference between Obama's and McCain's policy towards Hamas?

Mr. McCain, my friend:

Would it have helped if he called you a "crusty old fart"? I didn't think so.

So take your tired, old butt to bed before you break a hip, or something.

It is clear that McCain is loosing his bearings, he showed it half a dozen times.
Obama did bit attack him on his age, that is something new from McCains campaign tean, however interesting.

Oooo, looks like somebody's a little faux touchy... McWorse. If you're going to cry foul – at least make it over something legitimate – this is hooey, bad Rove tactic – just a political stunt – but hey, thanks for reminding me that your candidate is a doddering old man. You exposed your game by jumpin' on this a little too hard and too fast – you showed your hand. And I believe Obama's rep cleared up the intentions of the statement. Rovian politics 101 – when your opponent states the truth, and you don't like the truth getting out...slam the messenger over petty pointless nothing. Nice tactic – for 2004, but I doubt such games will do it this time around.

Johnny old boy, we admire your service to your country, but you're fair game in the political ring. By the way, get rid of that navy hat, it does not hide your gray hair and the fact that you're old.

McCain's camp is exactly right. Obama claimed a higher level of politics in his campaign with Hillary and his words and actions – and those of his surrogates – proved otherwise. I'll continue to support Hillary until Obama is officially the nominee. At that point, I will be voting for McCain. Obama is a hypocrite. More importantly, he is simply not ready to be president and certainly not prepared to be commander in chief.

He's not only lost his bearings, but he misplaced his walker, too.

When we're discussing the president of the United States, AGE IS AN ISSUE you idiot. In the case of McCain, the vice presidential nominee will be far more important than McCain himself. Studio makeup can only hide so much.

What about 'losing your marbles', is that better?? uhm??? senator, hum?????????it has nothing to do with age, but reasoning.

John,
You are two years younger than eternity so what's the big deal. Obama said you were losing your bearing not you marbles. Dang man think are least pay some to think for you.

Obama is too young and inexperienced. Should we make that an issue???

He was talking about his Moral Bearings. Mc Cain has flip floped on every issues dear to him to appease right wing, And he is to old but that wasn't the point.

Oh, I see so is OK for others to step over you and you have not right to defend yourself at least with 'words'. Senator McCain age is not important, it shouldn't be. Don't let that get you down. Our greatest presidents were old. OHsssh, sorry. But Obama also has to defend his integrity and his persona. Enough with the attacks.

MC Same, old dude old tricks (Bush tricks)

FUNNY THESE REPUBLICANS. THEY LIKE TO DISH IT OUT, BUT DON'T LIKE GETTING IT BACK. BARACK WILL NOT HOLD BACK AGAINST MACAIN, THE WAY HE RESTRAINED HIMSELF AGAINST HILLARY. GET READY FOR THE FULL ARSENAL OF OBAMA TO BE UNLOADED ON THE OLD REPUBLICAN.

He is craaazy. LOL........ These threads make me laugh so much I cannot believe it..................... I like the personalities on these threads whether it is Clinton, Obama or McCain supporters.. I laugh out so loud.......

i want republicans to know that this is not age issue and its a fact. john mcCain lost his bearings long long time ago.

???????????Who??Me???????????

Hey!!
Obama is being kind. I don't think McCain has lost his bearings, I think he's lost his marbles

McBush and Hillary whine more and more alike each day.

Really? This is the best McCain's team can come up with? I guess it's just a matter of time now until they start having to use the old "Sticks and stones may break my bones..." comeback.

yes he is old and in old age there are high chances of getting alzheimer's. Do you want president to farget his name also.
So end of story, he is Old.

I think Obama is insulting America by saying he wants us to lead the world , I think alot of the world still believes we do and knows we do .Any people in a castastrophe looks to the USA for help and direction. I think he has been influenced by the thinking of people who have been influenced by the propoganda of countries that are lead by religious zealots and dictators. i beleive that he is another politician who has lost touch with what the common person thinks or feels.
thank you,
zack

Pleeez...did John McCain ever have his bearings? Supports the war, the Bush tax cuts, sold out to the evangelicals on judicial appointments, cannot control his temper, claims to be a maverick while courting the old time GOP junkees, made amends with Pat Robertson and Jeery falwell, seeks the support of Dobbs and Dobson...what are John McCain's "bearings" ? Did he ever have any to lose?

How dare the Hamas beloved, must be Muslim because his name is funny Obama possibly imply that a 72 year old man is old! This is almost as bad as 2004 when John Kerry mentioned that Dick Cheney's openly gay daughter was *gasp* openly gay! Gotta love the Republican spin machine. They will posit their own reality whenever things turn against them – sorta like Hillary. Perhaps McCain will offer her the VP slot and she will accept it 'for the good of the country and to bring us together'. Riiiight.

WARBUCKS IS HAZY & CRAZY, NOT JUST OLD.

I APPROVE THIS MESSAGE.

that finally CNN let's me post my comments again, when mine were not even offensive. The ones here today are hillarious!
gDouglas: the senator was trying to make 'funny conversation' at the insulting comment that McCain said about him and the Hamas. And for your info if you see the CNN interview you will see that senator Obama does not negotiate with terrorist, however he will sit down and talk if they convey to stipulations,,,and blah, blah, never mind you probably won't understand it. How old are you? the commments of 'losing bearings' have nothing to do with age; there is a lot of people out there of young age who lost the bearings a long time ago, so I said it was fair for Obama to answer after him being insulted. Do not mess with Obama!! He is our next president! It is written..

This is what we call "fixing a square peg into a round hole"... McSame just wants to get a share of the spotlight, so he's resorting to playing the victim card...
Yes he's old, and frankly, he's older than my grandpa, and my grandpa cannot be left to manage himself, let alone a whole country...
Why won't he let go of this dream and enjoy retirement and his wife's billions???

Obama is right. McCain smells old....don't want our old granpa to sir up our nation....he can't handle the complexity of the world. He lived in a different world than we're lining right now. how will he overcome the generation gab? It's funny to hear from him about the future and hope. the hope or future in 70s is the same in 20-50s?

I wonder how McCain's spokesman came to that conclusion.

Here is Encarta Dictionary definition of "Losing one's bearings":
lose your bearings

1. to become uncertain about where you are and in which direction you should proceed

2. to become unable to react in a normal manner
Microsoft® Encarta® 2007. © 1993-2006 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.

As you see, it has nothing to do with with age.
That was simply another desperate attack from John McSame who wants to continue George Bush's failed policies

Paul Dobro May 8th, 2008 9:03 pm ET

why is saying "loosing his bearings" about age? How is that an attack on age? It was an attack on a guy trying to scare people by saying Hummas is throwing a $100 dinner for Obama. Why would the McCain camp bring up the age issue?
**************************

TO PUT YOU UP TO DATE PAUL DOBRO EXPRESSIONS SUCH AS

"HE IS HAVING A SENIOR MOMENT" OR
"HE IS LOOSING HIS BEARINGS" ARE SUBTLE WAYS OF SAYING HE IS OLD AND HIS MEMORY IS GOING...THESE ARE AGIESM STATMENT.
AND AFTER ALL AS YOUR HORSE KNOWS "word are just words"

1. I cannot vote for McCain, due to his advanced age.
2. Obama did not say anything about his age.

McCain makes this cheap remark about Hamas and somehow he wants Obama to be blamed for negative campaigning? Dirty Old Man

When CNN's Rick Sanchez had a panel discussion on Hillary's "obliterate Iran" comment, he rhetorically asked words to the effect "well, 'obliterate' is just a word...what she meant was we would deal with Iran harshly...so what's wrong with that?"

These attempts to jump on every word or phrase that Senator Obama uses against him is a not-so veiled attempt at portraying him as being prejudiced against any given group. How is it that the only person in this campaign with parents of two different races who was raised by an elderly grandmother is both a racist and now, an ageist?

Get a life Mr. Salter.

Senator McCain will just let that 3am phone call ring and ring. All about McCain is playing into the politics of fear.SAD! It's time for him to retire!

McInsane needs to be more worried about his WIFE saying she will NEVER release her TAX RECORDS .. What is she HIDING .. Doesnt she realize that their whole lives are there for the public to look over ..
The GOP and some Democrats on Obamas side have been screaming for BILL Clinton to release the records of who donates to his library .. Hes not running for office either .... That doesnt matter in this day and age ... .
Speaking of AGE !!
It is an issue ... age brings about untold health issues and he is in his 70s for goodness sake...... That is prime time for a number of things to start happening .... not limited to but a major one is Alzheimer's, the last thing we need is a PRESIDENT who cant remember what he's doing or who he is .. then what .. ?

hey, it was better than saying...he's just nuts!!

As an Independent voting for Obama, I would have to say this is Americas' best chance: The Democratic Party! The Republican partys election was very dull and you can tell how their party is doing by voter turn out for them and how quickly their election ended. They have no fresh air coming through…where as the Democratic Party has wind blowing in from many aspects/cultures in life.

Democrats, Independents and YES even some Republicans..If you scew this up and vote for Mccain AKA McSANE, you will be voting against yourself interest and will only harm your children, and your childrens children. That self interest will only desolve because a Republican will only solidify a more conservative view of how we portray ourselves and how others portray us abroad. A more conservative America can infact be compared to a Hamas or Al Qaeda idealism! This idealism is brought on by not wanting to giving in others points of views. I always belive in giving in a little to get out a lot. The ( alot) we want is peace. Conservatives are a scared bunch! They Cling to whatever they had handed down to them and think this is the only way this country works!

Question: If McInsane is so in control of his senses, would the Navy let him land a fighter on a carrier deck?

It's okay McCain, don't worry about the "age issue," NObama is going to have a "race issue," for the white-blue-collar voters are NOT going to vote for him.

Hey, I'm a white-white collar voter, and I'm not voting for him either!

Go Hillary! Go McCain!

THEY ARE LOTS OF WOLVES (REPUBLICANS) IN SHEEP (DEMOCRATS) CLOTHING HERE ..... TRYING TO STIR UP TROUBLE!!!!!!!!!!

Quoted by FACINGREALITY

IMHO – There is not a rational Democrat would could possibly believe that McCain will serve their best interest in the White House, with 2 Supreme Court Justices awaiting appointment, a continuation of the tax cuts for the rich, waterboarding, not wanting to talk to our enemies, gas at 4.00 dollars a gallon, milk at 4.00 a gallon, 2 dollars for eggs – COME ON!

I trust in America and I am a DEMOCRAT and even though I don't like Hillary – loved Bill – I would take a grandchild to the voting booth and let her push the button but I would NEVER give Bush a third term. That type of mentality is the reason we are in Iraq and allowed the GREENEST PRESIDENT to slip through our hands when we let lying Bush in for a second term. I vote for the best interest of my family and Obama is getting the support of the Party which says alot about their belief that he is the YES WE CAN President.

It is time for WE THE PEOPLE TO COUNT and WE WANT OUR HOUSE BACK!

Senator McCain is old. Watch him, if someone ask him a question he leans up and turn his ear to hear what they are saying. Does he need hearing aids?

The next thing is by saying that McCain has a bad temper is making his age an issue. And saying McCain will keep Bush's economic policies in place will be making his age an issue. And saying McCain will keep us in Iraq creating more and more enemies that hate America will be making his age an issue. And every time he lies or mispeaks will be making his age and issue. Are Hillary's aides working for McCain. They sure do sound an awful lot alike in their idiotic spins.

Why would anyone vote for someone with no experience? It is silly, we need a leader with experience not an intern.

Vote McCain 08

I'm no supporter of McCain, but this is pretty much of a piece with the ageist dogwhistling the Obama camp has directed toward fellow Democrats who aren't in their cool kids demographic.

Age is an issue.

We need a comander and chief who is ready for light speed war at 3 AM.

We don't need a guy who might not know who he is at 3 AM.

Its been my understanding that one of McCain's campaign cheers is "Four More Years!"(note of sarcasm) It is also my understanding that most of America isn't very happy with the last eight years...yes, I agree that the Senator may be viewed as "losing his bearings..." Time to change the game and move forward.

AGE IS AN ISSUE;
BUT THIS THIS IN NOT OBAMA'S FAULT;
IT'S JUST NATURE.

It is an issue. I seem to remember McCain brought up the age issue
himself during one of his senior moments discussing his choice of
a running mate. I have a friend that served in Vietnam and a few times
I have seen him stop and stare at the sky when planes are overhead.
He has flashbacks do you?

The McCain campaign is the one two months ago that McCain got two Islamic groups mixed up because he had a "senior" moment.

If your trying to saying rich elderly white people are oppressed, Congress is in trouble.

Umm. . . . I heard the interview and hadn't even though about losings ones bearing having to deal with age. But now that you bring it up, McCain is pretty old. Thanks for pointing that out.

Well, Obama is inexperienced, racist, and unpatriotic...So, that's the real issue!

Ummm...Paul Dobro....I agree with you, but hummas is a dip.

Just ... thought maybe...you might want to know....ya know for future debates.

Hamas...terrorists....hummus...good with pita bread.

Obama O-8??

What? more parsing of words?

Obama is a lying hypocrit who has managed to fool only half of the democrats and none of the Republicans.

Obama fooled the young and the African American half of the democrats.

Too bad he will need more than that to win in Nov.

I miss Hillary Clinton- the absolutely Best candidate.

You're so full of it, McStupid.

Umm....he IS old. Maybe he forgot. j/k

I know that Obama is a lying hypocrit just pretending to be better than the other politicians.

He didn't fool me. I saw the spin, the back-peddling, the selling out of his white grandmother and then of his good friend Rev. Wright. All for politics.

This man really WILLdo anything to be president. He already cheated his way in the primary to secure a tiny lead over Clinton. He just lets his thugs do the dirty work for him. That is worse than scum.

Why is my comment always awaiting moderation, this time comment was sentt at 7:47 pm and others sent at 8:59 has been published. If you don't want me to comment just say so.

I saw the interview and when I heard that comment, I thought it was obvious that Senator Obama was referring to Senator McCain losing his direction in running a decent campaign. For someone to interpret that as referring to his age sounds like someone is a little sensitive about the topic. Thanks for going out of your way to highlight the fact that you are really old, when it would never have been discussed in relation to this interview otherwise.

The Age implication didn't even cross my mind in Obama's comment. Its funny how the Republicans look into every little thing and tear your words apart until it completely means something else. McCain, you definitely can't talk after your Hamas implication towards Obama.

CNN: How 'bout posting this one this time...
Why do you people insist on being so vicious? Why is it ok for you to make derogatory comments regarding McCain's age? When did that become something to disrespect? If I were to mention anything derogatory towards Obama on this blog it would (1) not be posted, and (2) well, it wouldn't be posted...if it's not about age, why is it that you can only attack McCain on his age...surely not his record. Yet we can't say the same of Obama because there is no record to attack...
And if it is not about race, why do so many of you identify yourselves as "white" or "black" Obama supporters. Seems to only be about race because that's not only how you identify with him, its how you identify yourselves! And you all lik to tout how progressive you are and how we Republicans are the racist rednecks...hmm. I wish you luck in your election, because I will never identify that racist as my president.

why is saying "loosing his bearings" about age? How is that an attack on age? It was an attack on a guy trying to scare people by saying Hummas is throwing a $100 dinner for Obama. Why would the McCain camp bring up the age issue?

I thought McCain was supposed to be tough! Why is his campaign crying about the phrase that Obama used there?

The phrase 'losing his bearings' was not in reference to his age, but the fact that McCain had promised earlier to keep the discourse civil and substantive...and then he implies that Obama is a friend of the terrorist-group Hamas.

Just like Obama's reference to McCain's Straight Talk Express losing it's way, this is a similar reference to McCain's doublespeak.

I think it's a stretch claim that "losing his bearing" was in any way a reference to age. It clearly seemed aimed at McCain saying he wants to run a clean campaign and than resorting to such a low tactic.

It looks like McCain's adviser is raising the issue which actually was raised among Republicans. What Obama was refering to is McCains comments about Hamas and Obama, and doesn't have anything to age, it's a serious and legitimate point. McCain's camp is trying to spin it and oversimplify a serious issue that McCains are trying to push.

Why are the Republicans already nervous?

Are they tired of their "Rev. Wright" "Hamas" or whatever spins?

If Bush in his 50s/60s, has an MBA, still handled the economy like this, what do you think McCain who's old and senile, knows nothing about the economy, and always forgets important stuffs do?

I think McBush reminds me of a teetering uncle I had that fell a lot.

Losing bearing = sense of direction.

Losing marbles = going crazy.

Geez

See how easy it was for republicans to see the Obama hypocrisy.

The Clinton supporters all saw it too.

The Obama cult worshippers are blind to it.

Obama is NOT a uniter, he is NOT a new type of politician, he is NOT nice, and he is not honest.

He lied and claimed to disagree with Wright- why disagree? If Obama disagreed he would have left the church. Obama only pretends to disagree for political expediency.

There is nothing wrong with what Wright said- not in spirit and not in substance- just in style of delivery. So why did not honest Obama, be true to self and defend the Rev?

Uh... cuz... he's TOO OLD.

That's an issue for me.

UNFORTUNATELY , IT HAS BEEN SHOWN THAT AGE INDEED IS AN ISSUE IN THIS ELECTION.. tHE PRESIDENCY IS AN OVERWHELMING JOB WITH TREMENDOUS GLOBAL IMPLICATIONS ALONG WITH THE ENORMOUS DOMESTIC RESPOSIBILITIES OF THE OFFICE. THE OFFICE IS A TEST OF THE
METTLE, WISDOM, JUDGMENT AND DECISIVENESS OF THE MAN
ELECTED TO OCCUPY THE OVAL OFFICE. AND MOST IMPORTANT
THE FACE OF THE SUPREME COURT WILL CHANGE ACCORDINGLY. mOST AMERICANS BELIEVE THE SUPREME COURT NEEDS CHANGE FROM ITS PRESENT RADICAL
CONSERVATISM... OBAMA WILL CHANGE THAT, NO DOUBT ABOUT IT. bUT WITHOUT HILLARY CLINTON AS VP. OBAMA CANNOT WIN.

LOL!!! What?!

Where did "losing his bearings" come out as "he's too old"?

What Obama meant was that McCain is slowly becoming unware of his surroundings,that perhaps he's failing to look into what it happening both here in the country and overseas.

Nice try, Mr. Salter. You may want to recheck your dictionary. And, to be honest, Sir, Mr. McCain isn't exactly a spring chicken anymore.

Of course McCain didn't address HIS SHAMELESS FEAR MONGERING about saying Hamas supports Obama.

I respected John McCain before he did this.

Not anymore.

Anybody who rode with Teddy and the Rough Riders, What do you expect? What war is McCain a veteran of, WWI?

With all due respect, I have the utmost consideration for Senator McCain as a WWII veteran, but it doesn't go any further than that. Do singers and entertainers make good politicians just because they automatically have a lot of headline and publicity time? We have to ask the same question about a man who is using his wartime history to push the political envelope.

Is the American society a society of Spartans? I don't think so.

Watch out McCain, the vicious Obamabots are at it again. McCain is a respectable guy. He is for one a real American Hero, not a hater and a real patriot, not a fake one like Obama. I know what's wrong with this country. It's the American Idol mentality even in picking their presidents. Obama is not qualified. I will not vote for him even though I am a democrat. I will sit it out and if John McCain needs more votes, I will vote for him. The obamabots really really scare me. They're as ANGRY as Michelle Obama and blame everyone for things that don't go their way. Really now, you want THAT as your first lady? uggghhhh....

Sorry Big Mac but your age IS a concern to a lot of voters and many will be watching very closely to see who you select for your running mate.

Hi Wolf, why don't you cover remarks made by Senator McCain pastor like CNN covered Senator Obama pastor? That's if CNN wants to be fair.

Let's face it – McCain looks like he was born prior to the discovery of electricity . . . .jokes aside, I would still pick EITHER of these guys before I EVER pick Hillary!!!!!

I fail to see how Obama's comment was bringing up the age issue. Seems that mccain and his campaign are pretty touchy of the subject.

As they should be. HE... IS... OLD!!!!!!!!

What an idiotic interpretation! And the real idiocy is that age was not brought up by Obama, but the McCain camp stupidly brought it up. McCain's age is an issue with me - not that I have anything against vital people at his age - but the job of being president entails a lot of stress - we've seen how it has aged much younger people. Is McCain up to the physical toll?

wow, Campbell Brown is now on with an entire panel "discussing" the 'bearings' comment.. She is just loves to stir up nonsense! Let me translate for you Campbell: the comment "losing his bearings as he pursues"... possible interpretations: changing direction; not going in the intended direction; off track, not on point, temorarily lost his way, past words and present actions don't jive, etc..
But old? I didn't think that until McCain pointed that one out. I guess you hear what you're insecurites are.

On a separate note: As a Canadian, I do believe Obama can and will help America be seen by the world in a more favourable light.

There should be no tolerance ever for race discrimination. But Barack Obama seems to think that Age discrimination is different and OK?

In other cultures Age is viewed with reverence and looked at with respect for experience and sober thought. Of course in America, with all the influence of Hollywood and the media, age is like having leprosy, where people of age are marginalized.

Well in my view John McCain is more acceptable as our President than some fast talking, inexperienced, know it all, that only can say "YES WE CAN". When he is asked about what he can do, he comes out with nothing new.

I think that's a bit of a stretch to make it a comment about age... and even if it was, that's hardly equivalent to essentially calling your opponent a terrorist, which was the McCain statement Obama was responding to

So glad the Republicans are calling Obama on his game. It's true. If you listen to him speak, he almost always delivers a compliment, followed by a criticism/attack. He uses his surrogates and campaign to attack and then pretends he would never do that or didn't know about it. Hillary Clinton acts like a politician, speaks like a politician and is a politician. You know who she is and I am more comfortable with someone being real.

The Clinton logic of "we shouldn't nominate Obama because the Republicans may Swiftboat him" with race or otherwise is ludicrous. It's precisely the reason why the namby pamby Democrats have not been able to garner 50% of the vote in a presidential election since 1976. Never forget that if it weren't for Ross Perot in 1992 and 1996, Bill Clinton may never have been elected...AND that Bill Clinton himself never cracked 50% of the popular vote.

To lose one's bearings is to lose a sense of direction – in this case the direction that he said he wanted to take the campaign – to the high road. If you don't understand English, then you really shouldn't try to interpret it. Now had he said he's losing his marbles.....

Perhaps Obama is just plain too bright for this country.

Anonymous May 8th, 2008 7:30 pm ET
"Wait… what?
That doesn't refer to age.. that refers to a hold on the situation.
I didn't before, but now I'm starting to think McCain is losing his marbles…"

So basically you're saying that he's not only so old that he plays MARBLES, but that now he's lost them? Stop making age an issue, hiding behind your anonymous cloak. P

OK – here's what I don't get. Why is it fair game for McCain to attack Obama's youth, but deplorable for McCain to be attacked because of his old age? And they called Obama hypocritical... (not that he isn't, the pot just has no place calling the kettle black –err, I mean, African American)

Idiots!!!! There was no inuendo on that statement......but frankly your folks McBush just called your candidate......"very old "and losing your bearing. Period. Thanks for the service and with respect but............That does not mean you can be a leader on everything else including president.

Obama never demanded civility from McCain. McCain proclaimed civility and Obama is demanding McCain to act upon his claim.

Obama is making a mistake if he pokes at John McCain's age. Its not only the white vote (oh, by the way, that's the majority vote in case anyone was counting) that Obama has problems with.... he has had an especially hard time with the older white vote. America's seniors (who have put in the hard work to make this country what it is) do not like having someone say that a person can't do something because he or she is too old. Unless Obama changes his tone, seniors are going to come up big for McCain in Michigan, Ohio, Penn. and Florida

Obama said he was offended when McCain said last month, "It's very clear who Hamas wants to be the next president."

"I think it's disappointing because John McCain always says, 'Well, I'm not going to run that kind of politics,' and then to engage in that kind of smear I think is unfortunate, particularly since my policy on Hamas has been no different than his," Obama said.

"And so for him to toss out comments like that, I think, is an example of him losing his bearings as he pursues this nomination."

......Tell me folks what does "age" have to do with this? I believe McCain easily forgets what Obama stands for in relationship to Hamas. Someone in McCains camp are losing their bearing if they cannot understand what Obama saying here.

If I had any doubt that McCain was senile, it has now been confirmed by his campaign. How could anyone read age into the straightforward statement that Obama gave? His campaign has clearly lost more than bearings...

That was great.....if they both have the same take on Hamas and McCain said tthey want Obama that's their opinion. Most people have one at one time or another. McCain said they didn't want me....had implications...so since he and Obama agree...he may be losing his bearings.................wow....what a great come back

It is an issue. Especially when he has to correct every other sentence he has.

No one, and i mean no one will hire a 72 year old man to do any job(not even a grocery packer at your local kroger) yet we are about to hire a 72 year old man to hold the most important job in the world.

We have lost our bearings!

Hillary supporters listen up-if you are thinking of voting for McCain for what ever reason, please consider this:
If he wins, he will have the opportunity to appoint as many as 3 supreme court justices. He has gone on the record that he will appoint conservative judges in the vein of Alito and Roberts. Be prepared to say GOODBYE to all the rights we, as women, have been fighting for all these years. At the very least, Roe V Wade will be overturned. PLEASE RECONSIDER!

You know John won't finish his term.... The stress of the job accelerates aging (compare the "after" with "before" photos) and John is old to start. It will be interesting to see who he selects as Vice President to carry on after he's gone.

LOL SEN.OBAMA NOT RESPONCIBLE FOR WARBUCK'S

AGE. OR HIS CRAZY OR ANYONE ELSE BUT HIMSELF.

LOONIE & MS,LOONIE, LOONIE ON THEIR OWN.

Just because obama is black does not mean that he doesn't discriminate. He discriminates against woman and people older than him. He has become too cocky!!!

McCain face the facts you are old you are a senior citizen so what is
your point.
Mirror Mirror on the wall is McCain old yes he is are you kidding me with that question.

I will prefer old /wise man, rather than young/arrogant one. Obama's energy lower that McCaine's and even not near to Hillary Clinton's! He is just a bubble boy!

McCain has Already LOST HIS BEARINGS.

NO McCain it is the fact that you ARE OLD! Now you are going to blame OBAMA for the fact that you are OLD?? People are going to concerned about that and they don't need Obama to point out that fact. I see you shared note with Billary. I can hear her grateing voice saying it too. "Just blame EVERYTHING on Obama, people will believe you. worked for me"

Obama made age an issue when he announced his candidacy. He has always reminded me of Issac in "Children of the Corn".

If I'm an African-American resident of N. Carolina and I don't vote Hillary, am I racist?

It is amazing how stupid the McCain campaign must believe the people in American are. Obama gave McCain a complement by suggesting he had any bearings to lose. McCain's plan for Iraq and the economy clearly demonstrate his lack of bearing. McCain suggesting that Obama is aligned with Hamas clearly demonstrates his commitment to issues politics. NOT!

Mr. McCain do you know where you are. Do we need to help you get there?

Obama made age an issue when he announced his candidacy. He has always reminded me of Issac in "Children".

I think the McCain people are confusing bearings with marbles.
I do, by the way, think that McCain has in fact lost his marbles.

MCFORGOT IS A LOONIE OLD, OLD MAN.

THAT IS AN ISSUE WITH US THE VOTERS.

AND WE HAVE EVERY RIGHT TO.

TRUTHFULLY WE DON'T KNOW WHAT MAKES HIM

CRAZY. ALL WE KNOW IS THAT HE JUST IS. AND

HE WON'T BE ELECTED PRESIDENT IN A 100 YEARS.

SOUNDS FAMILIAR?

I can see how it might be interpreted as referring to age, but that's not how I interpreted the statement. I interpreted it as McCain is loosing his values and beliefs about clean battle and no smear campaign.

He never said McCain is too old. Losing his bearings because he adores GW Bush.

Talk about dirty politics. They're just looking for a reason to attack and wrongfully accuse Obama.

Obama 08 and 012

If McCain's age is an issue, why isn't Obama's lack of experience, dealings with a racist minister, dealings with convicted terrorits and desire to directly talk with terrorists organizations an issue?

I can appreciate differing opinions, but can't your arguements be, at least, consistent?

Obama did not make age and issue he is old and that is the TRUTH

John McCain should know what losing one's bearing means better than most other people. Being an ex-military member, he should recognize that it means losing one's professional behavior. If losing one's bearing implies that one is old, then the entire military prospective is old when they say, "losing your military bearing."

He is wearing a hat, he must be lost!!

the republicans are at it again,political gimmicking.deceiving the people again just like the gas tax holiday.They prefer throwing dirt at their opponents but dont like the same being thrown at them.There is no reference to McCain's age but as usual they have decided to twist Obama's words.Obama's opponents have still not realised that the secret of Obama's success is his clean campaign strategy,sticking to issues and future plans for the people.The more dirt they throw at him, the more the people like and vote for him.Hilary Clinton learnt a big lesson and I hope McCain will make the same mistake that Clinton did and give Obama the presidency.We are tired of the usual dirty and deceitful politricks.

The way these campaigns twist each others words is madness.

When Obama said that people have grown "bitter" because jobs
were lost and no new ones were ever created to replace them
wasn't, in itself, an incorrect statment. One of the definitions of
"bitter" is "expessive of severe pain, grief, or regret." If I were
from a small town, and main sources of employment were
dissolved, I'm "express grief" as well. But no – they, and by "they"
I mean Hillary and McCain twisted it so it sounded like people
were a DIFFERENT definiton of "bitter" – that being "exhibiting
intense animosity" or "marked by cynisim and rancor."

And here we go again – Obama is saying that McCain is
"losing his bearings" because McCain's campaign has
repeatedly stated that wouldn't run a negative campaign,
and then they toss out hypotherical speculation and play
the devil's advocate by stating that Hamas wants Obama
to become president... because who knows? Obama
might be the Manchurian Candidate for the Hamas and
as soon as he's elected he's gonna turn on us and declare
his Muslim loyalty and rain fire and brimstone and put a
curse upon all our houses and turn us into a terrorist
paradise, and all of us Obamabots, as you like to call us,
will shave our heads and bow down to the magnificance
and bask in the radiant glory of His Supreme Lord and
Ruler Barack Obama! RIGHT?!

Wrong.

Politics should bring out the best in people. We should look UP
to these people, instead of watch them try to destroy each other.
Running for President used to be about patriotism, honor,
leadership, and character. And now it's about destroying your
opponent. We've gone from philosphers in the courtyard to
gladiators in the coloseum.

Frankly, I'm disappointed in it all.

On this issue, well I think Mr Cain is wrong to link this terrorist name with Obama, whether he did it intentionally or not.

But the point is, we all have been hearing from Obama about his talk on counter-terrorism plan. But so far, it is just about the talking thing. In his content of explanation, I will say conversation remains as good chat but no real practical way to eradicate the problem.

After reading most of the comments here, I smell lot of American people (be it Obama supporters or others) with their filthy languages or insulting/slandering words being shown to other people. There are so much hatred or frustration in Americans nowadays.
Is this real America?

I think there is too much finger pointing in these presidential candidates, To someone who has clear mindset, and look at what is going on in the world, it is clear that force is not getting us anywhere. We as Americans need to talk to these people who hate us than bomb them or threaten them to do so, this has not worked, it has just caused fear and nobody wants to listen to one another, no wonder we can't stop the wars anywhere. I think we should talk to these bad guys so if they chose not to listen, at least they know where we stand than just saying "If you do this we will kill you or we will bomb your country"
This is why the Middle East has no peace, not because they dont want to, but nobody wants to hear the other, and agree to one thing. Politics of force dont work! nor politics of fear. Come on people talk to these guys for our kids's own sakes.

I respect you as a war hero, but you are too old.

GIVE ME A BREAK!!! Obama was not referring to McCain's age whatsoever. It was soooo clear from the interview that Obama was referring to McCain's comment about Hamas wanting Obama as President.

McCain's comment show that he will try ever scare tactic in the book to win. The craziness is already started.

Supporting the Democrats all the way to the Oval Office!!!

Hey Moderator! Please post my message.

Obama hasn't made the old age of McCain an issue. McCain is an old geezer. It's a fact. What else do we need to say?

The only time McCain speaks is when he's reading a teleprompter and that's either because he's old or because the Bush Clan has got him scared he might say somthing wrong. If all of his words are scripted, What's the value in that?

McCain has turned his position from a strong minded, free-thinking individual who wants to do what's best for the U.S. to a man riding the "Bush rail" thinking that that is what is best for the U.S.

Who is McCain kidding? Obama is the man for the presidency and let's hope that the big-business, old-school establishment of the U.S. doesn't try to end this creative individual's spirit, a person who is the best option for president of the U.S.

The U.S. government had better do all it can to protect Obama or he may end up like J.F.K. and Bobby, and that would be tragic.

Obama for President!

NO OBAMA HASN'T TO MY KNOWLEDGE, BUT I WILL.

WARBUCKS CAN'T EVEN REMEMBER WHO WE ARE

FIGHTING IN A WAR HE HELPED GET US INTO.

HE CAN'T REMEMBER IF HE IS A LIBERAL OR CONSERVATIVE.

WE DON'T HAVE A PROBLEM WITH AGE. WE HAVE A

PROBLEM WITH CRAZY.

80 years old? Hmmm, that's closer to 100 than 50, so I would say that McCain may be a bit old.

Hello Goliath, meet David.

Obama 08

These comments are funny. Hahaha

John McCain is a hypocritical old war pig. He is the last thing this country needs.

Okay folks, it's starting already. McCain wants to make age an issue because he knows more older people voted for Hillary.

We'v got something for him–the truth. Obama is for all ages.

Obama 08

Age IS an issue! If you can be too young (under 35) you can also be too old. I'm not sure what "too old" is, but it may be 71-72. McCain isn't a young 71 year old either – he's been through a lot! And from the articles I've read he doesn't have the world's best diet, either.

B / NYC May 8th, 2008 7:29 pm ET

"His bigot pastor and wife issues will surface to bite him hard!!!"

His bigot pastor or his wife is not running for the Presidency you moron. His bigot pastor was invited to the White House by Bill Clinton , when he was being impeached.

Solution: WRITE in Hillary Clinton.

She is the best choice.

We do not need American Idol who trys to be all things to all people and therefor can not craft a plan or stick to a position.

We do not need more Republican policy.

Write in Hillary Clinton and get the best choice.

Civil rights law does not allow discrimination based on race, sex, age, and religion. Democrats said they would make the age an issue. But they could not directly say that because that is against law. Obama used to say John McCain had servered country half a century and it is time for a new generation. That is a much better line against McCain on the age issue.

All this argument that McCain makes about being fit and spry, etc., etc., is one of those "methinks [he] dost protest too much" sort of things.

McCain's camp is terrified of the age issue. But let's not forget that–on top of all that–the guy has had PLENTY of huge medical issues and infirmities (e.g., can barely move his arms, and has had melanoma twice, if I'm remembering right).

Look, I have nothing but respect for older folks. My own parents are 79 and 83, and doing great and have all their wits. But being president is a pretty high-stress job. It might be one thing if McCain were in perfect health, but he's not.

But, back to the original issue. While "losing one's bearings" (or any other reference to "losing" something) CAN be a snide swipe at someone's age, that isn't the express or implied meaning here. Obama clearly was referring to the disconnect between McCain's stated intention to run a positive, respectful campaign and his apparent willingness to snipe at Obama through nasty innuendo.

I'll be writing in the best candidate- Hillary Clinton

The old and the young are equally distasteful to me.

I want substance and clear plans.

Not pandering and hedging.

Wow, that's all McCain has? Pathetic.

I heard/saw that Blitzer interview. Obama's statement wasn't in reference to McCain's age. The statement was in context to the phasing of the question he was asked. Obama was saying McCain had lost his bearing as it related to not involving the McCain group in negative campaigning, regarding McCain's "Hamas" statement.

Now, if you have been paying attention to McCain's public appearances lately, you will noticed, McCain is losing it. He can remember details from week to week. Don't blame him, it's a factor of life for some people, it's just a result of living long.

Did McCain's team seriously respond to the "losing his bearings" comment made by Barack. Come on. When sis "losing his bearing" become slang for old. We use it in the military all the time, "Soldier don't lose your bearing." Touché Obama!

In addition, I read this blog by some reader talking about Obama being concerned about McCain and his Hamas comment during Wolf's interview. I'd like to say, "Were you watching the same interview?" First off, Wolf asked the question and he responded. That's not being concerned that's called answering a question. It's easy to talk about being informed when all you are doing is regurgitating what you hear from a candidates' mouth, cause that blogger sure sounded a lot like McCain, it's an entirely different thing when you can formulate your own opinion based on your own analysis, experience and research. I've served in the military during and thru Sept. 11 and in the Iraq War. Obama has it spot on. We need an end to it not another 100 years and this is coming from a veteran just like McCain.

McCain, if you want people to stop bringing up your old age, perhaps you should release those health records you have been withholding?

You know, the ones that talk about your mental state, possible PTSD, and your history with cancer.

And maybe you should also stop being so confused about the difference between Shiites and Sunnis. It looks, well, like your mind is slipping a bit. Well, maybe that's because it is!

Read McCain's NAVY hat and then comment about losing ones bearings. They must be old in that campaign.

No matter what Obama and his supporters say, he cannot win the votes of the majority of seniors in this country and where do you think they are going to go? Straight to McCain. Love her or hate her...Obama cannot win in November without Hillary and her very loyal followers. Seniors, women and the blue collar. They just don't like Obama. His appeal is to the young and that is the very reason why the seniors don't like him.

Obama the elitist... you expect him not to make age an issue?

He has gone negative on Hillary Clinton about everything- and she was a fellow democrat.

Obama has no choice but to appeal to the bias and prejudices of his followers- you know, the newbies who were too lazy or too selfish to ever vote before.

The concerned Americans who had to wait for an American Idol candidate before gettin involved.

Losing your bearings is a military term! At least thats how we Marines have always used it. McCain knows exactly what it means. As a young Marine in boot camp our drill instructors would always yell at us about "losing your bearing", and I was 18! It refers to ones focus.

If John McCain's age is as questionable as Obama's clarity of judgment.

Only 19 years and 91/2 months left to become as acquainted as Obama with Black Theology and the ministery of Wright.
Think it will take you that long to make a decision?

This is too funny! McCain, playing the AGE CARD!
You know he'll forget and do it again tomorrow.

McCain–First of all regarding your statement to Obama...Did you honestly think that Hamas comment was meant for something other than what you intended? Do you really think America is that dumb to believe it? That IS very offensive and you need help. You ARE very defensive about the "old" challenge....but embrace it, grasp ahold of it..don't take things so defensively...that wasn't my first thought when he disputed your earlier comment...I felt that meant you weren't thinking in your right mind....do you actually have one?

Obama–Good choice of words this time.

McCain is too old and "Clearly losing one’s bearings" to be president.
Obama is too young and "inexperience" to be president.

Clinton for president 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

MSNBC, other wise known as "Musslin State National Broadcastting Company" is trying to sway America's Elections for the radical left. I think there should be a floor fight in Denver in AUG. For The Soul of the DNC.

McCain can't hurt the democrats... we have already damaged our chances for a Nov win beyond repair.

We chose beauty over substance...words over actions... Black over female.

I hope you all feel real good about a McCain win.

I listened to what Obama said, and it never occurred to me that he was making any reference to McCain's age. People of any age can "lose their bearings" – it simply means they don't know which way they're headed.

MAN I AM LAUGHING SO HARD AT THIS I CAN HARDLY TYPE. I YOU GUYS ARE MAKING MY STOMACH HURT FROM LAUGHING

MCAIN SWEETIE LOOSING ONES BAERING MEANS LOOSING YOUR WAY – THOUGHT PROCESS – BALANCE ANTHING BUT AGE DEAR MY STOMACHE HURTS I CAN SIT STILL FROM LAUGHING

HELP I FELL AND I CAN'T GET UP

Well with all due respect,Mr. McCain you are of age, and this is something we all ought to consider.
now dont get mad, just take it and answer.
that is what Obama does when you accuse him of the crazy things you said
and if you and Hillary are usuing the same lines, why dont you pick Hillary as your running mate,
I think you both will blow the whole world as you both love and support war.............and no diplomacy

Hey John..

You don't have to be old to lose your bearings. But since you ARE old, you probably forgot that.

What you said about Obama and Hamas...now that's offensive!

So what! It's always ok for McSane to say what he wants? He loved when Rev. Wright spoke out and gave Barack a few low blows with a smile. Barack is now fighting against, Hillary, Bill, Chelsea, Rev. Wright, Fox News, Lou Dobbs, Racists, Sexists, McSane, Mitt Romey and the entire Republican machine. Is this fair?All he said was McSane is losing his bearrings and everyones draws crept up their butts! Dig them out and get over it!

OBAMA-08!

CNN- don't be elitist, let all bloggers have there say!

For someone to be losing their bearings indicates their not in alignment with what their policy is. It was a correct statement and detracts from what Barack was talking about. John McCain said something hateful and Barack pointed out it was not the type of behavior someone would expect from John McCain. For John McCain to think that "losing one's bearings" impys "is old and senile" is totally incorrect. Had someone wanted to imply that, all they would have to say is "John McCain is old and senile".

McCain's hearing may be a problem. Obama said "he's losing his bearings", not, "he's losing his marbles".

McCAin is old

Obama is too busy trying to please everybody to be able to take A consistent stand: I will meet with our enemies... NO, I will NOT meet with Hamas- which is it?

Hillary Clinton is perfect- but all the haters kept her at just under the 50% threshold needed to be the democratic nominee.

The Superdelegates are too afraid to act in the best interest of a Nov win- and will pander to the youth and AA vote- or risk being labeled racists.

They will still see a large defection out of this screwed up party who wants Black but hates Female?????

McCain IS OLD, you can't deny that.
McCain smears Obama on Hamas, a position that McCain holds the SAME as Obama.

McCain says he doesn't want to run an "DIRTY" campaign yet "drops" statements about Rev. Wright.

McCain doesn't know the difference between Sunni and Shiite.., and he's the one with foreign policy experience.

McCain's camp have NOTHING on Obama and are just finding excuses to PLAY DIRTY.

With age comes wisdom, and based on what I’ve seen so far, Obama has a long way to go.

"Losing his bearings" was a dig at McCain's age? I didn't interpret it that way. The McCain campaign sounds paranoid to me. His age will, however, be a factor in this race. If elected, he will be 72 when sworn into office. Already this week he has made incorrect references to the League of Nations and Czechoslavakia (in an non-historic sense), and seemed confused about where he was (West Virginia vs. Wake Forest). He hasn't exactly been putting in the 16- or 20-hour days that the other two candidates have, either.

Republicans will play three cards against Obama. First is race, second is race, third is race. For any other issue they bring up, see first three cards.

. Vote Hillary 08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Is this Barak's best shot? He's in trouble. When the actual debates start he'll need to do much better than this and much much better than he did against Hillary. Scripted blissful talking points only take you so far and that has already run its course as we have seen in the final two debates with Hillary – where she outperformed Barak. Look he's a nice guy but way too inexperienced to lead America. Come back in twenty years!

I think Senator McCain's mental agility and physical capacity are legitimate concerns. I think it's fair to say he's no spring chicken!

uh...when McCain stated that Hamas wanted Obama...that wasn't subtle enough. Whatever. Don't attack Barack if you don't want him to call you out.

This is ridiculous! "Lost his bearings" is another way of saying, "The wheels have come off the Straight Talk Express." In other words, John McCain is not acting like the John McCain that appealed to Democrats and Independents. Now he's just trying to distract us from the real issues by protesting imaginary attacks.

Obama is a sneaky vicious campaigner. And you'[re not allowed to comment on it because his supporters cry race. What a sad day in our country.

We entrust the Congress and our Supreme Court to much older people .

Robert Byrd (third in line to the Presidency) is 90 years old?! Yikes ! John Paul Stevens is 88!! Harry Reid is in the line of succession and he's 68. Pelosi is also 68. With all respect, Strom Thurmond left office at 100 YEARS OLD. Did people have a problem with that at the time?

This coming from a guy who said that Puttin was the President of Germany.

Yeap, I'd saying he's loosing his bearing alright.

I always thought loosing one's bearing was loosing your way. I have never related it to old age and thats real funny to me because mc cain is old he should be resting at this time in his life with his young wife

If this is a preview of things to come...then this race is over and McCain will lose. Americans are tired of ridiculous parsing of statements – they want a discussion of the issues.

I have always had a great deal of respect for Senator McCain, but I thought the Hamas thing was quite low. Also, Senator Obama's comment regarding "losing his bearings" didn't strike me as being about age at all. I think that's quite a stretch.

Obama hasn't made the old age of McCain an issue. McCain is an old geezer. It's a fact. What else do we need to say?

The only time McCain speaks is when he's reading a teleprompter and that's either because he's old or because the Bush Clan has got him scared he might say somthing wrong. If all of his words are scripted, What's the value in that?

McCain has turned his position from a strong minded, free-thinking individual who wants to do what's best for the U.S. to a man riding the "Bush rail" thinking that that is what is best for the U.S.

Who is McCain kidding? Obama is the man for the presidency and let's hope that the big-business, old-school establishment of the U.S. doesn't try to end this creative individual's spirit, a person who is the best option for president of the U.S.

The U.S. government had better do all it can to protect Obama or he may end up like J.F.K. and Bobby, and that would be tragic.

Obama for President!

Well that should even the score.

McCain is less electable due to his age...
and Obama is less electable due to his desire to be all things to all people and thus has a genuine inability to create specific plans and goals.

McCain you'r just too old, as in SENLIE, you know, like you'r History, ANCIENT HISTORY. & not only that, you'r just an extension of GW. more of the same. Who needs or wants that? OLD POLITICS, OLD WASHINGTON, NO THANKS. WE WANT CHANGE WE CAN BELIEVE IN.

McCain's an issue just as much as Obama's inexperience is an issue.

HH, with comments like that, you'll probably never make it to 71. By the way, 80 minus 71 equals 9.

I don't see how losing one's bearings has anything to do with old age. It didn't even cross my mind when I read about Obama's comment. But now that McCain brings it up himself, he is pretty old....

Oh come on, Sen. McCain. "Losing one's bearings" is just an alternate way of saying "losing one's sense of direction," which is supported by the context in which Obama explained himself. Is this a sign of things to come if McCain is already so desperate this early in the race?

McCain's already running scared. This is looking better and better for the Dems.

Typical Obama move.

John keep attack Obama because he is unelectable. Take our country
back John do not give our country to other people control. John I need your guy bring out more about when Obama young and when to school
in Indonesia. Also, bring his friend that when to school with him speak
in the TV please.

HAMAS SUPPORTERS in GAZA STRIP are CALLING unsuspecting Americans to vote for Obama!

Hell yeah! Hamas is supporting Obama! Even one of his bundlers is supporting Hamas, a MUSLIM living in USA!!!!

Obama are supported by individuals, organizations that wanted to bring this country down!

President McCain the Whitehouse is waiting for you Sir!

Senator Obama can not cut him down like the late night hosts. They are ruthless.

I just can't wait for the debates! Remember the Nixon/Kennedy debates?

When you get young handsome Obama speaking well next to old McCain forgetting what the questions was, the race will be over and undecideds and independants (as well as republicans) will go for Obama.

Following '08 we will have a new term: Obama Republicans.

lmao...i never for a second thought "losing his bearings" referred to age. Actually, I don't even think the McCain camp even believes that story themselves.

Except McCain campaign want to re-define words in the dictionary, they should shot up.

"Lossing one's bearing" has to do with direction and not age; it means someone have lost his or her course or direction. At the beginning of the campaign, McCain said he will maintain a civil campaign and for him to decend low to link Hamas to Obama and used that in his mailers to solicite for funds; it means he has lost his bearing.

Sincerely, Obama was been nice to McCain by using that comments, he was simply reminding McCain of his promise to run a civil campaign and telling him that he is drifting and that he should come back to his initial promises.

Obama would have mentioned other things or groups whose activities are publicly rejected but would endorse McCain's presidency, but he chose the high road.

Now that McCain's campaign have brought this up, we will now remember to take age into consideration when going to the polls come November.

McCain and his campaign are acting like that bully O' reilly who can dish it out to other people but cannot take it. If this is the preview of the General Elections, I can't wait for it to start.

Mr. If you want people to buy into your "straight talk" mantra, why are you twisting "straight talks" coming from others?

The McCain camp is really stretching with that comment. I saw the interview and in no way was he trying to say that he was too old. McCain's camp said they would stick to the issues and not play dirty or use dirty tactics. Well, this doesn't make them look like they are going to stick to those principles. It seems to me that they are trying to turn the seniors against Obama by playing the "age" card. If that's not what's happening, then they must stop being overly sensitive to the point of being ridiculous.

The DNC has no choice.

The electorate is basically split 50/50- but the DNC is afraid of angering the youth and the African American voters.

So, even if Obama is the weaker candidate against McCain, their hands are tied. They MUST pander to the loud mouths.

Once again, the democrats must feel good about how progressive and open-minded they are and nominate the LEAST electable person in the general election. We always focus on the battle (within the democratic party) and lose the war (the votes of the rest of America that is just not as liberal as the Kerrys and the Deans and the Kennedys and the Oprahs).

When will we learn we can not win with an extreme liberal ideology? So once again we will not take back the white house even in an atmosphere of post-Bush dissatisfaction.

The older the violen the sweeter the music. It is a disgrace for Obama to say that Mccain is losing his bearings. I am a true Democrat and I know many others who are going to vote for Mccain. Obama will never get through the general election. Mccain will win. The reason I will not vote for Obama is not because of his skin color it is because he has split America with his racism and the lies he tells. Obama has been educated by Wright in racism and Black Theology. He has to many ties to Anti-Americans.

Xtina,

Apparently you didn't listen to the comment that was made. It had nothing to do with age, rather it was addressing Hamas.

Good Grief.....I don't know if I can stand this until November! Not only was Obama NOT referring to McCain's age, he was making a valid point that you can't swear you'll not go negative and than try to connect your opponent to Hamas!

The posts here that think it was an Obama cheap shot are mind-boggling. Could we please introduce some level of common sense into the dialogue...pretty please???

"losing his bearings" is basically saying that he is going in the wrong direction or lost his way so to speak. It had nothing to do with age and everything to do with taking a different path then he said he was going to take. Lay off the spin because it's making you sound nutty! Take a look at where tactic like that got Sen. Clinton....NOWHERE!

McCain is only 71 year young and older you get , wiser you become. I want to see NObama at this age. Even he is an inspiration (in dreams) speaker, he is very boring in person. Against McCain in general election he doesn't have a chance.

the old fart needs to go home and retire
nothing was said about his age, but he is old. my husband is his age and he is old live over it

This is pathetic. What garbage coming out of the McSame Campaign! Obama was responding to an offensive and unfair attack made by McSame himself... so what exactly are they complaining about??

McSame is guilty of precisely what they are complaining about here. They have absolutely nothing to run on and therfore must look for scraps coming out of the Obama campaign that they can pounce on.

Goodbye, Grandpa Muster. McNEVER '08

LOL...this general election is going to be a breeze!!!

Obama 08

John McCain is PARANOID- nobody said anything/implied anything about age.

hooray! someone besides a hillary supporter calling obama on his negative game. we are all used to it, but none other than those in hillary's camp would admit it prior to this.

Senator Obama should have Ted Kennedy help him change his diapers and just be silent... dead man walkiing IF he is the nominee.

I listened to Senator Obama's interview with Wolf and I did not take his "lossing his bearings" as an age issue, since the conversation was regarding Hamas. Apparently John McCain is projecting his own insecurities about his age.

"Losing his bearings" does not in any way imply anything about age. How ridiculous. It's just calculated whining from one of the sleazy lobbyists running McCain's campaign.

uhhhh that's cause it IS an issue.. of COURSE he's going to bring it up. you know, you're supposed to live a good life then try to retire at 65. he's 71 right now which isn't too far over the 65 milestone everyone looks at, but by the time 1 term would be over, he'd be 75. no way he'd be a two term president, so please, please, please explain to me how it's a good idea to go with McCain?

oh thats right, it's NOT!

at the end of the day, AGE IS AN ISSUE! don't try to pretend it's not.

Obama is an idiot for saying that as McCain was only quoting Hamas. When is the Elitest going to go to Iraq to see whats going on there and to visit our troops like McCain and Clinton have.

maybe McSame was confused, he is old ya know.

I for one am glad to see these two rumbling and not talking about the one who won't seem to shut her fat trap.

Rev Wright was not one of Bill Clinton's 'spiritual advisors.' He attended a White House prayer breakfast as did 1,800 others. He got his picture taken with Bill, as did many of the others. I also will probably not vote this year for the first time in my life or I will write in Al Gore who is our true President anyway. It will be my way of saying Democrat's wake up. I won't vote for Obama because I don't believe he's stayed at any elected position long enough to know what he stands for. He's been too busy jumping from state job to Senate and directly to Presidnet candidate before he's even served a term in the Senate. I will say Democrats better get ready because I don't believe he can beat McCain. Wait until the Republican machine gets hold of him. Every man, woman and child will be scared to death of him and his radical ways. Not true, but that's the way it will work out in the end. Stay in there Hillary. We really do need you.

Whether it was intentional or not, Sen. Obama has a point. I'd rather not have a president who might not even live long enough to finish his term, much less forget to put his dentures in, among other things.

Nothing wrong with John McCain's age, the fact is that he is an old man. Every generation have their time. 21st century is for the new generation. John served the country well and we should always respect that.

It doesn't MATTER...

Obama can't win in Nov.

Obama supporters keep saying, "the people have spoken"- but not really. Obama barely squeaks out a lead- and that is without Fl and Mi counting. He has NO clear mandate. With just barely greater than 50% support, he starts from a position of weakness.

Clinton supporters are disgusted with the unfairness of this primary and are fed up with the name-calling and hate and insults. So better not count on us to take you over the top.

Do any of the Obama supporters see him doing anything for old people, black communities, hispanic communites?

Did anyone see anyone from Harvard or extended family speak for this guy?

Only money grubbing politicians that want power have endorsed him, he even let his pastor down.

You people are sheep. Seriously sad.
This man divided the party when he got in a race a year of a front runner was declared.

Democrats will loose this fall, just like Kerry, just like Gore.

This is sad, all these emotional voters, you people need to grow up.

Give me a break! McCain knows he can't compete against Obama on issues so he's going to spin anything he can. Use a dictionary if you are not clear on a word or phrase McCain and stop trying to stretch this into another victim act for yourself. On to the issues.

One says the other is too old or too young.
This is funny.

It will be a pleasure to watch the republicans call Obama on his B.S....

“We have all become familiar with Senator Obama's new brand of politics. First, you demand civility from your opponent, then you attack him, distort his record and send out surrogates to question his integrity. It is called hypocrisy, and it is the oldest kind of politics there is.”

That is RIGHT ON target!!!

I was supporting Clinton but will gladly vote for McCain come November if my first choice is not on the ballot.

Obama will not receive my vote.

Go ahead, it is not Nov. yet

We WILL teach the DNC and obamalovers in Nov. I never vote for RNC but I WILL this time and I know a lot of people will the same.

Hillary is here to stay because many lifelong democrats do not like election fixing that has influenced this primary.

We will NOT vote for Obama- for no reason but to protest the corruption of this primary: Advantages for one, obstacles for the other. Media bias. Flawed caucus format. Obama supporters using bully tactics at caucus. Obama with his gloating, cocky, arrogant mocking of Hillary with his Annie Oakley antics (while claiming he does not go negative). Obama with his ridiculing of Hillary by dismissively brushing her off his shoulder ( again, not negative? is this the uniter?). And, of course the Fl and Mi fiasco. It is never good or right to disenfranchise your voter base.

So We WILL teach the DNC a lesson with our vote in Nov.

It is that simple.

Mccain knows he is short, so now his campaign absolutely has to make up drama about his age. Is he the best the Republicans can come up with? That man should be resting and taking it easy. We need change.....let the new generation create our own destiny. He is such the bafoon!

Shouldn't it read: McCain proves his youth by whining like a little girl.

Of cause Obama was trying to be clever and point out McCain's age issue in derogatory way. Loosing bearings is not just old but incompetent old. Look at the photos that accompany this story, does Obama not look like an innocent

I hope that people that are not blindly following Obama, see what this man is all about and it is not better future for all us, folks.

He really is no match for Obama!!

yes..i said Obama! He WILL win the Nomination
and i think its about time other Clinton supporters stop acting so
stupid and switch their support to Obama! thats if they are real
Democrats..

Democrats Unite!! 08

He is old! His campaign has to have advisors around him to correct him when he misspeaks, he looks old and decrepid, he puts you to sleep when he talks, and his ideas are ancient. He would have been better running for President in the 1950's. He is completely out of touch with the America of today. We salute his past military service but its time he was put out to pasture so he can take it easy for the rest of his life. I truly think he is in the beginning stages of Alzheimers. By the way, has he ever released his full medical records?

OH PLEASE!
Nice try McSame!
I think you jumped the gun on this one....

By becoming unduly defensive and misrepresenting Obama's statement, the McCain campaign has succeeded in making the very old man's age a RIGHTFUL concern for the American people.

Nobody said anything about age and 'name calling'. Barack just said McCain is nuts, that's all.

This is manipulation and spin at its finest, folks.

I can't wait to watch Obama and McCain debate.
It would also be nice to see some one on one basketball as well,
but lets face it McCain is too old.

Talk about looking for an insult! Are the Republicans already so desperate?

Well, Obama doesn't miss a beat. His camp has successfully gotten away with labeling Hillary and Bill Clinton as racist and now they will go after McCain as being to old. Meanwhile no one is able to bring up any issues regarding Obama because of course that would be racist or picking on him because he is to young and inexperience. Forget elections we must anoint Obama now or else we will make his fan base upset.

What on Earth is Mark Salter on about? How stupid can that guy be? The “losing his bearings” remark relates to McCain shifting from his stated principle of running a civil smear-free campaign. Salter, try listening to Obama’s interview before putting out dumb baseless lies that Obama is raising McCain’s age as an issue.

But now that you mention it, I think you have a point. (Oh, how the truth hurts). And while we’re on the subject of what kind of characters are unsuitable to go to the White House, idiots who don’t understand plain English should keep out too. (Salter, just in case you misinterpret that too, I’m referring to you). Go rest your brain now…

McCain is old.

Obama is black.

So what? Neither helps or hurts me as an American citizen. What is Obama going to do for me other than make me "feel good" about the future?

How in the world is that about age??? That is dumb–lots of young people lose thier bearings too!! That's just a little on the sensitive side–which means McCain is touchy about his age!! It is what it is!!!

McBush is losing it all: his bearings now, the general elections later.

It's the way you see age. Age also means experience and knowledge. Two attributes I don't feel Obama has. Not that he never will, but maybe he's TOO young and green. Not old enough. How long has he even been in the Senate? Why isn't this being discussed? Sorry he hasn't earned his stripes...literally.

Posting from a Michigan Democrat who will be voting for a Republican for the first time.

BEARINGS means to LOSE YOUR DIRECTION – meaning, McCain is losing the strong sense of himself by flip-flopping to please right-wingers in his party.

It has nothing to do with age. I suggest the McCain camp read a dictionary!

Finally, the Republicans are waking up to the way Obama operates. Still will vote for McCain over Obama seeing as our candidate Hillary won't be the nominee.

I didn't see that it had anything to do about age when I read what Obama said. So the only person I see bringing it up is the McCain camp.

First of all, who started this whole talk about Hamas? McCain clearly implied that Obama wouldnt be as tough on national security. By saying "oh how Hamas would be delighted to have Obama be president". So Barack replied, saying that they both have the same policy, so why is McCain claiming hes taking the high road when hes fear-mongering. So yes he is losing it.

The straight talk express has lost its bearings and is headed off in a much different direction then we were told.

Those who jumped on the campaign bandwagon with this comment has completely lost all credibility.

Age is an issue just like McCain uses race!

I think the clever but mild jab was warranted in response to the Hamas comment.

The Hamas comment McCain quoted compared Obama to JFK. Is he claiming that Hamas endorsed JFK as well?

"rumpusgoopus May 8th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Well McCain, age is an issue, and is fair game. Get used to it, because you're going to hear a lot more of it before November."

Well to be fair Obama is black and that is fair game right??? Look I dont like McCain but I dont want to get into bashing old people. My parents are old and I will someday be 30 so I want to respect the older generation and so should our new President Obama!

There is a reason retirement age is set.

It's not age that bothers me about McCain, it's how conservative our supreme courts will become, continuing failed policies in Iraq and in our economy. The list goes on and on. Voting republican is the old way thanks to Bush.

Oh please... Can we get any more pathetic. Who actually believes this garbage. We are reading way too much into this.

I think McCain is actually confusing the term with "losing your marbles" which, by the way, is also true. McCain is full of it. He knows darn well that his reference to Hamas and Obama is fearmongering and a dirty trick. He is a hypocrite on this issue.

Must be losing his bearings if he reads so much into a comment like that. Jeez Louise!

Call me crazy but I think I'm going to enjoy the Republican convention here in Minnesota. Maybe I'll see Hillary there. After the incredibly sickening way she was treated by the DNC she should just cut her losses with the dems and defect with the rest of us fed up with Barack voters.

McCain - you will look back on "losing your bearings" as one of the nicest things the country will say to you.

Go ahead and play the Wright tapes .. I am sure the Catholics will LOVE the Hagee speeches on youtube re Katrina, Catholics etc .. just go ahead can't wait ..

McCain we need to vet YOUR PASTOR !!!! Do you even have one ?? ohhh maybe you are a Muslim ??? LOL Can't wait !!!

Annnnnnnnnd It starts....REPUKICANS are distorting Obama's words...Now tomorrow Hillary will come out and say "SEE HE CANT BE OUR NOMINEE" LOL LOL

VOTE FOR McCAIN AND WE WILL HAVE 8 MORE YEARS OF WAR AND A DEVESTATED ECONOMY.

THE CHOICE IS SIMPLE:
OBAMA 08, because we cant afford not too!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

To McCain, I say, "If the shoe fits then wear it!"

He did not call Senator McCain a Bearing, he did not call him a lost bearing, or an old bearing. He said he was loosing his Bearings. Meaning that he has forgotten something, or delayed in his decision making ability. If this means you have lost your mind by not being able to handle what you say, then it's up to you the way you decipher the problem. whether you are old, young, ignorant, or absent minded. Some of these comes with old Age, but hey it's up to you on what should be done to prevent this again.

Find something else to talk about. Its aknown fact that McCain is old as dirt. Iguess now you are trying to say that Obama is against elderly people . Get a life

Big Ben and Xtina,

I am always willing to give your comments the benefit of the doubt on other blogs, but being that you have jumped on this ridiculous meaning of "losing one's bearing" I have come to the conclusion that you two have no bearing.

Forgive me. I hate to sound silly, but does "losing his bearings" mean the same as a person's age? Someone, please help me to understand the connection. Are we suppose to be stupid?

I think CNN is backing the wrong horse.

What?? That's not what he meant. He said McCain was "losing his bearing" in regards to using smear tactics in the campaign. You have to be too old if you don't get that!!!!!

First Joe Lieberman has to correct McCain, he talks in the microphone upside down, he admits the real reason for the war is because of oil, the list can go on and on. I think he lost his bearings a long time ago.

Hello??? It is an issue.

sensitive american .......I thought he was a war hero............oh ......he probably forgot thAt too

mccain should be ashame of his self for saying he want to run a clean camp and engage his self with this kind of smear politic. i think american people have understand who mccain is since some fell days obama now is securing the nom. that why hillary should quick drop out so will can focus on this old washington lobbist and their is enogh to hear about mccain soon.

are you kidding me..... really.... "losing your bearings" implies you are old???

kind of a stretch, don't cha think??

boy.... if these are the types of attacks they are coming up with so far... they need ROVE more than they think...

So, McCain can publicly state that HAMAS WANTS BARACK OBAMA TO BE PRESIDENT, and then uses this smear to FUNDRAISE....

...and somehow Obama is the bad guy for calling him out for it!? Gimme a break, McCain!

McCain is a HYPOCRITE!!

....bcuz hypocrisy is an early signt of Dementia, right?....LOL

...that old man needs a nap!

I can't see why Obama's comments are a knock on McCain's age. Obama is speaking to the fact that McCain has been a maverick in the past and now he is going the more typical conservative route. That's it...not his age. Give me a break McCain.

Lol, someone's a lil touchy about their age I see.... C'mon man you were a P.O.W. stop being so sensitive.

Seems to me Obama hates all old peeps. Remember when he threw his granny under the bus for being a typical white person, and for saying things that made him cringe. Maybe she said those things because he told her she was loosing her marbles. Now he's insulting McCains age to. Guess no one ever told him he should respect his elders! The republicains will win in November so we all better just get used to seeing gramps up there on those platforms!

From the context of the statement I understand it that Obama was saying McCain is diverting from the sort of civil campaign he[McCain] claims to run when he calls Obama a Hamas supportor

Put another way, Macain is diverting (losing his bearings) from the clean politics he[McCain] promised to run.

There is no way that 'losing his bearings' could refer to age..
Have you ever heard bear north, bear south, or bear east, west? It just means go in those directions and thus nothing to do with age.

Please is Obama too smart for these guys, I thought only Hillary was suffering under his inginuity now the republicans are about to get confused as well! Too bad!

yes you are too old
retire and spend more time with your family
Generation change, look around the world
No more old games

Obama is the nomanee but here is a fact

Obama has won
12 states that in the last 4 elections went republican and will stay republican
11 states that in the last 4 elections went demicrat and will stay demicrat
5 states that are swing states and are up for grabs

So in the general he will get his 11 demicratic states he won in the primary and Hillary's 9 demicratic states she won and he will have a shot at the 5 swing states he won in the primary.
He has no shot at the republican states or the swing states won by Hillary as those will go for McCain, just because they are too similar in may ways compaired to Obama, and these states that picked Hillary over Obama will lean towards McCain

Hillary has won
3 states that in the last 4 elections went republican and will stay republican
9 states that in the last 4 elections went demicrats and will stay demicrat
10 states that are considered swing states and are up for grabs

So in the general she would get her 9 demicratic states she won in the primary and Obamas 11 demicratic states he won and she will have a shot at the 10 swing states she won in the primarys

Now you tell me in the end who has the best sot at the white house .
If I had the time a space I could list each state so you pundits can take a closer look at the math

McCain should get a dictionary and look up the definition of 'bearings' and Hillary needs to look up 'denounce'.

One thing is for sure Senator Obama has a good command of the English language and it seems that the other two people do not!

Obama '08

McCain claims to be the "Straight Talk Express" grounded in truth.

Losing his bearings would mean that he is getting away from what made him succesfull (ie. starting rumors about Hamas connections)

Come on people

Why Mcain is upset....Does he wants to be called a youthful, energetic candidate....come on. Old is old and young is young no matter how nice you want to put it.
Done!

P-l-e-a-s-e! You call that an attack?

McCain is human but Barack is super-human, he doesn't make any mistakes, do anything wrong, say anything out of place, look anything but perfectly groomed, has a perfect family, is the perfect gentleman and is on his way to saving the world. Sorry, the Obama koolaid got to me too.

Nah, it's just me making fun of you guys!

Proud to be SHARON FROM MINNESOTA

Obama doesn't even have to make age an issue. McBush, old man, you are really old. You need to release your medical report that you promised earlier.

Also, age as an issue is nothing as compared to what McBush will face as an issue in the November election.

McCain is old that but, losing your bearings has nothing to do with age. Just look a Hillary Clinton.

Well McCain is older than me, and I am pretty old.
Maybe I can be VP.

That's just an old way of thinking for the McCain camp. But if the shoe fits!! Fact is, he is old. There is no other job in America that Sen. McCain could apply for at his age and get. None!!! He is past retirement age. Is he not?????

B NYC: I think you have not been paying attention. Even the strongest Hillary supporters are caving in and admitting that most of her voters will indeed vote for Obama. I know it is going to confuse you after all of her lies during this primary but When Hillary comes out and says that you should support Obama in the general election (for her own personal gain of course) are you going to suddenly stop blinding following her every word? Don't forget that John McCain made an absolutely incredible error yesterday admitting that he intends to appoint Supreme Court Judges that will look to overturn Roe v Wade (thats the abortion law if you need it dumbed down) and with up to 3 judges likely needing replacement in the next 8 years you can all but bet that a huge portion of the Hillary supporters are going to jump ship to Obama for just that one issue. Throw in healthcare, Environment, Economy, Education...........I think you can see the true math.

Now McCain what's to whine..he like BILLARY wants is both ways or no way. He is OLD...and losing one's bearing has nothing to do with age unless ur a REPUB candidate looking to get off the REAL ISSUES WE are having...OBAMA gets it...LETS GET RID OF THESE SAME OLD POLITICAL WAYS...

IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE IN WASHINGTON!!!!!
WONDER WHAT HIS CAMPAIGN WILL TRY NEXT..

OBAMANATION!!!

HAHA! You have got to be kidding me. I can NOT believe the McCain campaign said that!

To the "moderator": I didn't "already " say it and I don't see where anyone else did. But I do see which way you not so subtly lean.

with AGE comes experience, something Obama LACKS..... and oldie but a goodie GO! McCain

if mccain doesnt understand what obama meant and said, then maybe he is what we all think he is.....senile!!!

"He is almost 80 years old. It ususally works the older you get the dummer you get. "

HH, given this comment, you must be at least 110.

I took Obama's statement to mean that McCain is desperate and anxious about winning so he is pre-maturely attacking Obama. McCain is losing his bearings whether he is 71 or 17. It has nothing to do with age.

what? That doesn't mean he is talking about your age, but way to go in raising the issue unprovoked, real smart there. You can lose your bearing over the issues, or over your ideals. I think you are just paranoid and trying to cover up the fact that you said Hamas wanted Obama which is clearly against your own policy of running a clean campaign.

it is so stupid from Salter to accuse Obama of making age an issue.
I ask Salter : haven't you found any other problem than McCain's age in Obama's speech yet? I think McCain and his supporter are not able to fight Obama on the important issues like War, economy, healthcare,.. and instead they are looking for childish and fussy things in order to make the water dirty for fishing.

I thought "losing one's bearings" equates to not being sure of one's direction. Maybe I am just naive, but that makes perfect sense in the context. I don't think it had anything to do with senility but rather to do with moral conviction.

Do you ever notice that when people want to divert attention from an accurate criticism they try a little slight of hand to change the focus (e.g. Bill Clinton saying he wasn't a racist, when the real issue was whether he was using race as a wedge).

lol...the McCain camp is feeling a little nervous about the age issue. I would have never thought "losing his bearing" had anything to do with age. But since you brought it up....

Oh , but it's okay for McCain to say Hamas will be happy if Obama gets elected? Enough already. Lets stick with the issues, please.

I really hope the clinton supporters stop being sore loser. YOu could still believe she is the strongest candidate but the very fact is that Obama won. So stop being cry babies and support the democratic nominee...jeez

more fodder

I am confused by Hillary supporters who indicate they will vote for McCain if Obama gets the Dem. nomination! Are you folks not Democrats!!?? Would you really prefer to cut off your nose just to spite your face?
McCain is not an independent! He is a Bush Republican! He has sold out any "maverick inclinations" in him to pander to the right-wing conservative base of the Republicans. His reversal on the tax cuts, his speech on appointing conservative judges, his denial of not having voted for Bush, etc. all speak to this pandering.
Obama is a black man running for president. He has received Secret Service protection earlier than any other candidate in history. His life, his wife's life and the lives of their two daughters are being threatened every day. Would not only a patriot go through this!?
Don’t Obama and Hillary agree on most major issues!?
Thus, the question becomes: Are you more racist than Democrat!?

and all these people saying I will vote for McCain out of spite for Obama or out of spite for the DNC are just Limbaugh Republicans trying to stir up controversy. What Democrat in their right mind would want McCain to be our next president, which would be, 4 more years of the disaster that Bush has put us through? Please, spare us your tactics, we are smarter than that. If you are willing to scarifice your future country our of resentment for a person or a party, then you have been a Republican all along!

john mccain is older than plutonium

Buhhhh, there was a devastating article in the French press about the age of Mc Cain, stuck in cold war and Vietnam era.
It's pretty cool for me to talk about it, as my father was killed in Vietnam, and I recall the Berlin war fell in ........ 1989. Which means inthe last century.

As an officer daughter, I respect the man, but sorry, he looks like my grandpa, and between my world and his world.....sorry, but we are not talking of the same world.

You know Mr CNN we are are watching you all over the world and sincerely we are wondering if you are making your job. You should be talking about issues, issues, and only issues, or to make it shorter, economy, economy, economy. But no, you love ranting and squibbling hair.

So, the age of the captain, go to hell.
This is not what people want to hear about.

All I have to say is Keaton 5! That was a long time ago.

He's also lost his marbles! LOL

McCain's people have Obama pinned as he is. I hope they nail Obama for his shoddy politics. I'll never vote for him.

If Hillary isn't the nominee then I'm voting for McCain with the new motto of "Hillary in 2012!"

McCain IS old !

It's just the truth.

Age is an issue Sir..... the White House has no senior citizen services

It is an issue, lot of people retired before getting this old. I wonder if McCain wears pampers yet or not yet?

In reading Obama's comment, I'm having a hard time finding why McCain would find it as having anything to do with his age. Is McCain just grasping at political straws, or is he overly sensitive about his own age?

Oh my God. I didn't think "losing his bearings" had anything to do with being old, but with becoming unwieldy as his campaign proceeds to be a national one. Salter's the one showing what McCain's campaign is going to be like, which is apparently hair-trigger sensationalism.

Well...it's better than "marbles" John...face it. I think he is stretching just a bit, a little like the so called "flip off" of Obama scratching his nose.

How low can Obama go? So much for 'change.'

I guess McCain just said age is an issue. Well, if i was Obama, I'd let McCain make age an issue.

McCain is going to learn real quick the lesson Clinton learned, that when you attack Obama it just sort of comes around and bites you in that part of the body most of us sit on. lol

Uh, no John. YOU made age an issue, by being 72! Obama doesn't need to point out the obvious... he knows the rest of America can see you're old.

BACRACK IS YOUNG AND GAY !

He must be losing his bearings to cry about this when he so blantantly negative in his own campaign. He is sensitive because he knows his age is a real issue. Where are his medical records? Hidden with Cindy's tax returns? Real transparentcy McSame.

Why the constant over analysis of everyday phrases? "Losing bearing" means just that, it simply means losing direction. Is the McCain campaign trying to raise the issue of his age (which truly is "aged") and then blame it on Obama? Make things simple and campaign on issues.
Go Obama Go Live !

kepp telling the truth Obama. Some people do not like the truth. Vote not with your heart but for issues like the gas taxes,payroll tax,your bank account. This is way I'm voting Obama.

P.S. Clintion supports we are on the same team. You never know who is a Dem or Rep. Starting trouble within the party. Please think.

He can't be old, he still plays with Barbie

Losing your bearing refers to being "Stupid" more than it refers to being old. Being called "Stupid" is what they should be complaining about?

I had great respect for Senator McCain and Obama because they both were uplifting. Obama has been gracious towards McCain's war record and his work on global warming. I respected McCain.

But after reading that viscous memo they sent out, with the same old attacks that people have rejected and he promised not to produce, he has lost all respect I ever had for him.

Democrats, this is what we're up against. Someone who calls us naive because we don't support a war, and that we don't know what we're talking about just because we don't support tax cuts for the wealthy.

No matter who our nominee is, we need to unite behind them and get rid of this old politics and failed policies of the past.

Democrats '08

Um, age needs to be an issue here. Many people his age are in retirement homes or have families check in on them often. It's a fact of life, not politics. I've even seen his wife cover for him during a few speeches. Not in an obvious way but in a way that those of us that have had to go through it with parents or, in my case, grandparents, recognize.

I have no issues with McCain but I'll sure be paying very close attention to who his VP choice is as odds are they will be stepping into the Oval Office before the 4 years is up.

Oh for God's sake.

'Bearings' as pertaining to Navigation or 'finding one's way' has NOTHING to do with age.

Now if Obama pointed out that McCain is older than FM Radio he might have a point.

Let's see

McCain
– more war (100 years)
– favor the wealthy
– a useless $5000 deduction for health care
– more Gestapo judges

Obama
– sorta mighta insulted an old codger by using the term 'lost his bearings'

Hmmmmmmmmm....... now who should I vote for?????

Hey McCain...........................THIS is an insult to you age you senile old womanizing coot. Why would I vote for a man that anadoned his wife and three children after they faithfully waited for him to return from captivity.
You going to abandon us to Johnny Boy?

The fact that he thinks Obama's statement refers to his age, is proof that he is old and losing something.

Can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen; Sound familiar???

See if I've got this straight. If Obama says it, it's automatically o.k. That about it?

First of all, losing your bearing can mean so many different things. I watched the Obama interview and the message i got out of "losing his bearings" is losing the standard that McCain himself said at the beginning that he would not play dirty politics. That's what Obama was saying – it had nothing to do with McCain's age. BUT now that Mike Satler spewed this accusation out of his own mouth, maybe Mike Salter does know something why he's so on the defensive. Furthermore, lets not even get into all the negative cheap shots McCain has thrown towards Obama. Obama is more intellectually mature than McCain will ever be.

LOL...It is an issue!!!!!

But I took it more he was taking about McCain's straight talk. He had just finished saying that McCain said he wasn't going to run that type of campaign, and then to turn around and smear Sen. Obama right out of his mouth with this foolish Hamas talk was not McCain being straight and keeping up with his Maverick image.

I would expect that Hamas bit from someone like Limbaugh, not McCain. He claims to be the man of honor, integrity, and respect. So he needs to start conducting himself as such. And run a clean campaign as he initially said he would. But then again, we know McCain is a flip flopper. So we can expect more. Especially when things ain't looking good, right Hill?!! lol

When you're at retirement age and you want to run a superpower, AGE IS AN ISSUE!

Oh get real. Sen. Obama meant about McBush's old age in that remark. The media is yet again trying to instigate something - I guess because of a slow news day.

However, if the senator from Arizona is offended by Sen. Obama's remarks, a chord may have been struck. At any rate...the old man needs to get over it.

I am not for McCain, but disappointed that Obama is making negative remarks again.

McCain, I know..when age catches up on you, you tend to forget things. Who started Hamas accusation? Obama? So Obama accused himself somehow he was endorsed by Hamas...hmm doesn't make sense. You are old. Get over it.

Obama has been very clear and consistent through the entire primary campaign and is remaining consistent. He will not attack you (Senator McCain) but he will defend himself. Your reference to Hamas, whether purposful or not, was a smear meant to question Senator Obama's loyalty to the United States. He will respond and should respond and since you have vowed to keep your campaign clean the only other explanation is that you have lost your bearings. That being you are either unsure of what you are saying (as we have seen so many times already) or that you are losing sight of what is important. If he had said senile you would have an argument on the age issue but you do not.

By insinuating that Obama is somehow affiliated with Hamas, McCain is being hypocritical when claiming to be offended when Obama shoots back.

And even though no one dares to say it – McCain IS too old to be president! He had his shot 8 years ago when he lost to Bush and now it's too late for him – sorry There's a reason why 72 year olds aren't appointed CEO's of large companies etc – They retire and move to Florida. Come on McCain, you've worked hard your whole life and deserve a break... And so do we – A break from Republican rule in 08!

John McCain somehow insinuating that Barack Obama is somehow linked to Hamas is the real hypocrisy here.

Remember when McCain advocated a civil campaign? I guess that idea is just lost to republicans.....

Umm.... I'm pretty sure Sen. Obama said nothing about your age. He only referenced the discrepancies between the kind of campaign you began to run and the kind you're currently running.

Perhpas Sen. McCain is a little self-conscious about his age. I, for one, have no problem with Sen. McCain's age, only his policies.

McCain's age is an issue!!

McBush, you started it by saying Hamas is for Obama. Is this all you've got? Go home McCain, it's about time this country is run on common sense, something which you lack.

Paranoia, Mr. McCain?

He never said anything about age. Way to jump to conclusions.

OBAMA WAS BEING KIND YOU OLD COOT

Obama doesn't have to hint at McCain's age. It's obvious when McCain nods off while speaking to his constituance.

It's starting already– the twisting and distorting of words. The sad part is some people will believe it. However, this is just the start. If you thought the primary campaign was bitter you "ain't seen nothing yet." The Republicans are ruthless and relentless. Fasten your seat belts, young Obama supporters, it's gonna be a bumpy ride.

Remember, it's not personal– it's politics.

Mcbush has zero chance of sealing this election, zero! The whole world will take a breath of fresh air once Obama is sworn in as Pres. of the U.S.A. and we will once again gain the respect we have lost in the last 8 years.

What a joke. Clearly challenging that statements made by another candidate is not "attacking". Obama defends himself and both the Hillary and McCain camps start claiming he's gone negative and reeks of hypocrisy. Give me a break. Is he just supposed to lie down and take it? A negative campaign is when you bring into question someone's patriotism or personal life (such as religious affiliations) in order to score points. Questioning their stance on the war, economic issues, etc. is just plain fair political discourse.

The irony here is that "losing his bearings" was meant to suggest that McCain had strayed from his initial claims that he'd be running a cleaner campaign. It had nothing to do with age, and has everything to do with his own hypocrisy. It's a lovely strawman that they've put up though.

Wait a second...

A back and forth between two candidates and it's not cetnered around Hillary Clinton?

This is good. She's starting to fall out of the limelight.

Tell Grandpa McSame and his camp to chill. McSame's judgment to embrace – (Literally – and there are pictures to prove it) – George Bush until it became politically toxic are documented and oh-so transparent. Does he really think we are stuid enough to believe that he's a maverick? Just wait unti the media spotlight refocuses on this guy, renames him the ultimate flip-flopper and face-changer, and he'll end up looking like a bug on the windshield. Stomp!

Obama never suggested that McCain was too old to be president! This is a McCain ploy to upset seniors to gain their votes!

he is old, but that has nothing to do w/ the fact that he has lost it

McCain is old as dirt.

“We have all become familiar with Senator Obama's new brand of politics."

....

"It is called hypocrisy, and it is the oldest kind of politics there is.”

WAIT IS IT NEW OR OLD??

Lost his bearings indeed...

Before all the bashers begin to chatter just remember that .... We are the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA –NOT– THE DIVIDED STATES OF AMERICA.

I look forward to the GE if Sen. Obama is indeed the nominee because there will be stark differences especially when they are side by side during debates. Hopefully, they will stick to the issues and not trivial drama. Ultimately, this years election is about the Future vs. the Past and this year we have a chance to decide which direction we want to take this nation.

Don't worry McCain!

We blue collar Democrats, 60 million strong will be voting for you and not Obama in November.

McCainocrats '08!

Age is an issue. There is a real possibility that McCain could die in office and so who he picks as VP is even more critical than who Obama or Clinton would choose.

yes I know how to spell " says" It was a slip I often make because I am very old and truly am losing my bearings

McCain = Draft

McCain takes away womens rights

*lol* ..age "gesture"? As the Republicans always are happy to point out...wait till the General Election.
The FACT is, McCain is an old guy. That isn't a bad thing, unless you are trying for the most stressful job in the United States.

well...McCain is old..why do you keep reminding me that he is old

um...Obama nor his camp doesn't have to make age an issue...we all know McCain is old...that's not a secret and yes we should be VERY concerned about his age/health...that's a legitimate concern for anyone and should be for McCain as well...the Presidency is a stressful job..

Obama can't help it that McCain is in his 70s....not his fault!!!

SO WHAT... McCain is losing his bearings.. Not to obvious when you hear McCain speak..

get Over it.... McBush... there are a lot more important issues to discuss before the GE is over.. It's called substance.. which this claim lacks..

Yes..WE.. Can..

Whatever the fact is that McCcain is old as dirt and should not be allowed to drive or run for president! And for anyone who thinks that he is in touch with regular americans should go ask his multimillion dollar wife who most likely has never cleaned her house a day in her life. If we elect McCcain he will work for the kind of people he is married too Rich People who could care less about the problems of regular people.

HA!
Nice Spin McCain!

Wow McCain give me a break. You knew your age when you entered the race. Most folks your age would be trying to retire and soak up the rays. With the stressors of being the president the ticker may reach the tock.

I don't see where this was aimed at his age. I think it was more aimed at his (McCains) change in his self-proclamation of a "clean, respectable campaign."

Obama cannot be held liable for the comments of every person on the planet that says "I endorse him."

Good grief!

By "losing his bearings" Obama clearly meant that McCain promised to go in one direction, but veered off into another. I took it as a reference to the McCain "Straight Talk Express lost a wheel" Obama has made in the past. I did not see this as an attack on age. But, now that they mention it, McCain is OLDE!! (Old with an "e" on the end like in "ye olde").

Age is not an issue here. Senator McCain has the experience but he must convince voters he has the stamina to correct some of our problems.

We don't need a man called Romney who wants to destroy social security. This is not what this country is about.

Wow. They are suddenly going at it. This is like the Clinton-Obama feud, but without the guilt!

'Losing bearings' is open to interpretation. I think Obama was implying that McCain used to have policy positions that were more in line with his but now is changing tone and message as the Republican nominee. There is nothing about age there. Salter seems a bit jumpy. If this is a sign of things to come, Obama's team is going to absolutely slay McCain. Whew!

You got to be kidding me how lame Mc Cain! Give me a break there was nothing said of your age that is a term used to describe people of all ages you should remember it well! It is used alot in the military "military bearing"? ring any bells used to describe kids 18 and 19 year old kids being a war hero you of all people should know that!

Go Obama 08 Yes We Can!!!!!!

On the one hand when he say Obama's remark was insulting because it referef to McCain's age.
Now when he say Obama is losing his bearings, does this mean he thinks Obama is too old?

Now well dangit McCain..you are old...face it

I lol'd

not only is obama a racist , he hates old people too.

Bearings is not questioning McCain age. It is questioning whether McCain is in posession of all his faculties. Is McCain sensitive to this issue concerning his appearance of senility? What is his behaviors that could possibly bring this out?

Well McCain, age is an issue, and is fair game. Get used to it, because you're going to hear a lot more of it before November.

Senator straight talking express McCain stated at the beginning of this campaign that he would run a clean campaign. I do hope he sticks to this pledge and don't play a hand the American people do not want to see. George Bush made him a lame duck for eight years. i am sure these eight years have been very tormenting for him. this time, he just might be able to walk the white house lawn with a special permit if he starts to behave. that is just my piece of advice...

Is McCain's camp serious? According to Kernmanen English Dictionary-Losing Bearings- to become uncertain of one's position, Example: He's confused me so much that I've lost my bearings completely. This is absurd. Stop yelling at the cloud OLD MAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wait... what?

That doesn't refer to age.. that refers to a hold on the situation.

I didn't before, but now I'm starting to think McCain is losing his marbles...

Losing bearing is falling into the failed policies of Bush than anything to with Age. McCain disagreed on Bush policies in the past and now falling into the same policies he opposed. That is what Barack referred to as "Losing Bearings" per my observation

Why is McCain making this an AGE issue?. Can McCain explain why AGE is not an issue at all?. Can McCain get a job any where else in the country at this age, realistically?. Doesn't he get Social Security income now

i agree obama awas talks about change and taking the high road and what does he do he goes dies the same old thing that politicians have done through the ages. he makes snide remarks and tries to belittle a person. He might be the media's poster image but its a transparent one as he is easy to see through.

yes!! so what thats is true a 70+ old man can “losing his bearings due to age i support obama for that,and what else you people wanna complain about

Oh shut up Mark Salter. How is that statement referred to McCain's age. Nice try.

"Clearly losing one’s bearings has no relation to age,"

You know, I was just thinking the same thing, LOL!!!! B

Senator Obama really should watch his words... He is riding real high right now but the fact remains that a great deal of Senator Clintons supporters are going to vote for John McCain if she does not get the nomination...
Do you think Obama knows that he was just used by the media because he will be the clear loser against the Republicans?
His bigot pastor and wife issues will surface to bite him hard!!!

McCain cannot have it both ways. I think questioning his abilities at his age is fair game. Barack appears to be an honorable person with no ill will...only a willingness to fight back when necessary. My daughter is 12 and a big Barack supporter as well. GO BARACK! We have a crush on Obama.

Birmingham, AL

That's funny, I never would have looked at McCain "losing his bearings" as a shot at him being old until they brought it up. So now we're going to attack people based on perceptions? It's obvious that McCain's age is an issue... That man is senile.

Democrats Unite '08!

I remember McCain say he and Senator Clinton would have a civil campaign. I don't recall that being said about Obama.

Watching the Republican War Machine from now until November is going to be the best reality TV we've seen in a long time.

A year ago when Senator Clinton was considered the leader of the Dem party America believed there would be a change in power. Now a year later with Obama in the lead it looks like the Republicans will stay in power again.

McCain you are an old fart, get over yourself.

McCain IS too old. Reagan was also too old and then we later learned that he had been suffering from the onset of alzheimer's the whole time (remember the Iran -Contra hearings and "I don't recall" over and over?) Looking at McCain now, he also seems doddering, unsure and weak. The last thing we need is another suggestible, gullible, vulnerable puppet as president!

Obama can't match McCain for character and experience, so he has to attack him on the age difference.

I don't think that has something to do with the age, but it's what at that age you say...

Oh I'm sure we will hear worse from the Republicans. They will spin anything.

Oh Good Grief! "Losing one's bearings" can only become senile old coot if you are a paranoid lunatic. I mean reading between the lines is one thing – changing every word and then making up a whole new definition is another. If Senator McCain is so sensitive about his age then why are he and his surrogates constantly telling us how "spry" and "energetic" he is. Good Grief! Whole new level of silly!

McSame is paranoid trying to figure out if any one noticed that he’s 72. Yeah we noticed, and yeah you’re losing some things including your bearings.

Why does McCain always want to be the victim? He fundraises off of Hamas saying that they like Obama to scare voters, then he cries foul when Obama calls him on it?

Stop trying to play games with us, McCain!

I have always respected McCain, but PLEASE. Let's not start with the ridiculous parsing. To follow this logic, Obama implies that all old people have a bad sense of direction. THat is the most you could get out of that–and it doesn't even make sense. I myself have less respect for McCain because he has lost his way as the straight talker. Any other interpretation is just playing on people's stupidity. Salter, get a life.

John McCain is a Loser!

The response to a straightforward comment on morals does seem to head down a Freudian slippery slope.

He is almost 80 years old. It ususally works the older you get the dummer you get. And with the missteps and mis-spoken words, it makes you think does he have it together. If it was not for his sidekick Joe Lieberman he would be in lots of trouble.

yes mccain you are losing your bearings for sure!!! when you voted against the bush tax cuts in 01' and on your way to the nomination you change course and now support those same tax cuts yes you are losing your bearings and compromising your beliefs to soothe the republican base who despise you, also you will lose by a landslide in nov!!!

Well he is old and it is an issue.