May 15, 2008
Posted: May 15th, 2008 10:30 AM ET

From , ,
McCain and Pelos reacted to the president's speech.
McCain and Pelos reacted to the president's speech.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Speaker Nancy Pelosi blasted President Bush's comments Thursday suggesting that Democrats believe "we should negotiate with terrorists and radicals" and suggested Senator John McCain denounce them.

But the presumptive Republican nominee himself defended the remarks, said he intended to make Barack Obama’s willingness to consider dialogue with Iran an issue in the fall campaign, calling on the Illinois senator to “explain [that decision] to the American people.”

“It is a serious error on the part of Senator Obama that shows naiveté and inexperience and lack of judgment - to say that he wants to sit down across the table from an individual who leads a country who says that Israel is a stinking corpse, that is dedicated to the extinction of Israel,” said McCain Thursday. “My question is, what does he want to talk about?”

Pelosi, who is leaving later today on a bipartisan congressional trip to Israel, said there is a "protocol" of not criticizing the President when he is abroad, but then declared, "I think what the president did in that regard is beneath the dignity of the office of president and unworthy of our representation at that observance in Israel."

The California Democrat added that she hopes "any serious person would disassociate themselves from the president's remarks, who aspires to leadership in our country."

But McCain told reporters that Bush’s Thursday remarks made an important point. “It does bring up an issue that we are will be discussing with the American people and that is why does Barack Obama, Senator Obama, want to sit down with a state sponsor of terrorism?” said McCain.

“…I will make this an issue with Senator Obama throughout this campaign, I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.”

Filed under: John McCain • Nancy Pelosi • President Bush


Rohinton Rustomji   May 15th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

McCain conveniently for forgets that Americans had to sit down with Vietnam to make peace; and that is after carpet bombing and killing between 2.0 and 2.5 million Vietnamese and Cambodians...

If anyone votes for McCain, please remember that he was invoved in that war and was shot down. In my humble opinion, he wants his FAMILY name back.

Roy R

Ramz   May 15th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

....peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.

Yes, our nation has the strongest military in the world. Every soldier is a true American Hero in my eyes, but war alone hasn't brought about peace in Iraq.

McCain truly is Bush III.

Heidi in Houston   May 15th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

PS: McCain – there's a difference between 'peace through strength' and 'peace through stubbornness', the latter of which is the standard protocol of George W. that has led our country into the bad ecomonical and foreign policy situations in which we find ourselves.

I've always heard the saying, "Keep your friends close and your enemies closer". While I don't agree with us meeting with terrorists groups, and although Iran's leader talks like one, he is still an officially recognized leader of a soveriegn nation. Constant bullying by the US will only embolden him. There's something to be said by "diplomacy first". Failing that, we can look at more extreme options. However, Bush's policy of "Shoot first, ask questions later" needs to seriously be reconsidered.

Heidi in Houston   May 15th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

With yesterday's comments by the RNC Chair Mike Duncan about the bad brand the GOP has become, he has all but given McCain an open invitation to distance himself from Bush. I suggest McCain take him up on the offer or his chances in November are nil. The fear-mongering of the past won't cut it this time. The voters are wise to this game and want a positive message. BOTH potential democratic nominees give us this message.

People have shown they are hungry for change in this country, not more of the same. I think McCain should begin realizing this or his chances to become the next president will diminish greatly.

arbab ahmad toronto   May 15th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Israel should not be a platform in the GE, US is the platform. Why are all these people going to Israel, it's not on the campaign trail is it? There are 145 other countries we can talk about. This is so because Israel controls a big part of the economy in the US and has their hands in politics also. This is a something our leaders have always had to APPEASE to win, lets change all this and do what is best for americans and americans alone..then we can look at the other countries.

Gumby   May 15th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

McCain is a democrat

Paula   May 15th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

So why have Rice and Gates (under George Bush) been trying to set up meetings with Iran??? Also wake up America we have already seen 5 years in Iraq debt and McCain is already using 2013 for a Victory date for withdrawal !!!

robert, n.c.   May 15th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

McCain will just continue the cowboy ways of Bush and we can not
afford another war. He is trying to use the same scare tactics used in the last presidential campaign by Bush. Americans will not fall for the same trick by a different magician.

Rev. Mr. Robert Herrmann Fortson, GA   May 15th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Talking is not appeasment. Appeasment is something the isolationist Republicans committed before the attack on Pearl Harbor.
WWCM

Edward in Atlanta, GA   May 15th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Now Obama is getting a taste of the Kitchen Sink, what Hillary threw was just a mop bucket compared to what the Republicans are going to pull. Get ready the ride for the GE has started

Hms   May 15th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Pelosi should just shut up and do her job...

Terry Richmond, Va.   May 15th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Mccain's stand on this issue reconfirms most of our fears, that if he is elected president we face four most years of George Bush's policies.

Bert   May 15th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I think that comment was out of line b/c of the location of the speech. That sort of fighting should be done on our soil in our house. The content plus the location, shows the poor decision making skills and lack of tact the President seems not to be able to get away from and we as a nation are losing ground b/c of his apprent self serving agenda. Go U.S.A..

wd in calgary   May 15th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

This is just making the fall victory for Obama easier and easier – McCain is so stupid that he is literally setting himself up for looking... well, insane may become even more accurate than stupid. Keep talking John! You are the Dem's best support argument all by your ridiculous self.

Sangeeta   May 15th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Why blame the president or Mccain if they feel that democrats are appeasing the terrorists? By thrusting Obama down our throat as the democratic nominee, his views become the democratic views, especially about his view of meeting leaders of rogue nations "without conditions". Obama is leaving US exposed to ridicule by his inexperience in world affairs.

Frances   May 15th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

McCain is Bush #3. I'm not surprise that he decides to defend Bush stupid comments. Bush is as dumb as a pile of rocks. McCain is just as stupid.

All I have to say is bring it on in November.

Sandy   May 15th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

OK! HEAR WE GO! ALL I CAN SAY IS THE DEVIL IS BUSY!

Kris from AZ   May 15th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Our strength should also come through diplomacy not who has the bigger guns then the other. Thats the thing of the past. Our greatest weapon to win the hearts and minds of the middle east is diplomacy and lots of work. Also the right administration to be in there. Obama administration!

Rebecca   May 15th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Wow,

McSame really doesn't get it....I continue to be astonished at how he believes filing in line behind Bush will help him win the election. Mr. McSame, have ya READ the reports on Bush's approval rating??

But hey, I'm not complaining...Obama will sail right into the Whitehouse!!!!!!!!!!!

sportsguydave   May 15th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Hey McCain: Why don't you ask the same question of your BFF Bush's SecState and SecDef?

More lame rantings from a senile old coot whose only way of getting to the White House will be when President Obama invites him.

Diane Panama City Fl   May 15th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Senator McCain's comments reflect that he really is "losing his bearings" with his support of Bush's comments. After all, the Bush administration has been negotiating with North Korea and Iran over nuclear disarmament. Does that mean the Bush/McCain are appeasers that harkens back to the Nazis?

PCM01   May 15th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Mrs. Pelosi is a very strong leader.
Her clarity of toughts and impecable background are inspiring.
This is the type of women that we need in politics.

john   May 15th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

John Mccain is bush's lapdog who can't distant himself from this killer.

AK   May 15th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

While Bush's remark is outrageous, Pelosi's reaction is naive. Osama is having a field day. Hillary has the balanced view.

Steve ILL   May 15th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

What can you say about McCain. McCains living in the same "Foolish
Delusion " world that Bush has been living for the past 7 years..

Jim   May 15th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Nancy Pelosi has no clue. What does she think if you get all the terrorists in a circle and start singing songs that the world will be perfect? Or maybe if Obama brings his teleprompter to speak with mahmoud ahmadinejad they will be best friends?

McCain or Clinton 2008

Jeanne   May 15th, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Nixon went to China. If you don't communicate with leaders that have similar and opposing views, then you don't have all the information you need to make an informed decision. I don't believe it's an error to talk to people. I think it's more of an error in judgement not to.

Ro   May 15th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

maybe if bush had done a little more talking, we wouldn't be in Irag and wouldn't have lost 4000+.

Karen   May 15th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Once again, Republicans are playing to the fears and ignorance of many voters.

DEBBI   May 15th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

This is just what the DEMOCRATs needed.. A stiff kick in the pants to remind us all why we have to win the WHITE HOUSE ...
This is how we UNITE the DEMOCRATs .. Now we all REMEMBER why we MUST WIN back the WHITE HOUSE ….
Hillary and Barack supporters need to PUT DOWN THE SABERS STOP FIGHTING EACH OTHER and remember WHY we are ALL DEMOCRATS …
And UNITE OUR PARTY …..

Katy   May 15th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

4 more years of Bush. Could that be clearer?

kim portland, oregon   May 15th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

good, please DO make this an issue "throughout the campaign", mcsame, then you will lose in a history-making landslide, which will give the american people a wonderful boost of positivity that will get us on track to rebuilding our country back from the depths you repugs have buried it!!!!

Kaci   May 15th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Mr. Bomb Iran? How are we stronger? the US is a sponsor of terrorism for going in and bombing a sovereign nation as a "preventative measure." Yes, McCain, you are a warmonger!

Joe   May 15th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

This is just another example of why McCain is not qualified to be President! What an idiot!

Lets unite Democrats   May 15th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Goes to show how different McCain is from G "Worst" Bush ! He going to be what Bush Jr was to Bush Senior.Let me make it more clear – Bush Jr went in to Iraq, left there with job half done – not procecute Saddam("bad guy").Bush Jr was the one to finally close the "bad guy" chapter for good.Now the "bad guy" is Osama.And Bush jr has caught him yet and i dont see anything happening before his term is over.So maybe the repubelicans hope for McCain to finish the job if elected.

Pathetic.How can anyone sensible vote for this party?

Terry in Fl   May 15th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

First the democratic leaders destroy Hillary, our only true hope. Then when they see that the democratic VOTERS refuse to vote for the DNC choice of candidate, they start attacking the PRESIDENT and therefore the Republican nominee. DESPERATELY trying anything to get OBAMA in office. They should have left well enough alone and we would have had a democratic president this year. Eat it and accept it DNC. You screwed the pooch and now the chickens have come home to roost!

kim portland, oregon   May 15th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

are these repubs living in AMERICA?!?!?!? they are soooo out of touch, losing solidly red seats on a regular basis, have the lowest approval ratings in the history of this country, and they STILL "stay the course", following their FAILED plans. mccain/bush/etc would be comical if they werent so DANGEROUS!!!!

who IS john mccain. he has grotesquely morphed into whatever it takes for him to become president. how can someone even CONSIDER voting for this guy who's lock-step with a president who is the most unpopular, ineffective, and most damaging to our country and the world's stability in HISTORY?!?!

that kind of terrible judgment and decision-making is NOT EVEN CLOSE to what is expected and needed from the most powerful person in the country, and arguably the world!!!

DannyCali   May 15th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

I think Democratic blasted Pres Bush for what? he said same as Obama
said in the campaign only. If their want to blast Bush why their didn't blast
Obama when he said when he get elect he going sit down and talk to Iran
and Cuba leader? and why the Democratic leader want Bush to fire his
Secretary of State and Defense Secretary why didn't fire Obama when he
said in the campaign and now he still on the top of Democratic Presidential candidate? Just shut-up if your guy want to win in general
election because now you attack Bush is same as you attack Obama too.

big daddy from california   May 15th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

the tactics of the past have not worked and new ones have to be instituted, why are we scared of something new? that is what is holding this country back, I believe in a very strong defense but you must begin by talking

Shakur   May 15th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

I guess we can see where the Republicans are going in the fall elections. When in doubt smear, smear, smear. Or fear, fear, fear.

David D Kollie   May 15th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

A man of war is a man of war. McCain wants to follow suit but he denied a generous GI Bill that will help fighting men and women upon their return from the war fronts. No, let us support the soldiers if we are to shorten their lives by creating wars.

It is time for peace. Peace, peace and no more war.

Intelligence first   May 15th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Can you believe this guy? Peace through strength? Like Vietnam? Like South and central America and the school of the Americas? Like IRAQ?

McCain is as dead and gone as Bush is...dinosaurs of a thankfully forgotten age. Our concern now is ... to finally have some "Intelligence" in the White House.

Peter Mehlem Casanova   May 15th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I think the Bush noT the if he is a quality minded PRESIDENT
needs to get his Breain his excamed quickly
before he does more damage
& does more harm to great Americans people and the USA
and the world take a preacher Job Mr Bush you due well in the ropes

Kelley   May 15th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Sen. McCain, I really have to disagree with you. I do not want my only son to go to war because you are not mature enough to have an adult conversation with our enemies. What are you afraid of ,that diplomacy would work better than war?

Eddie   May 15th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Bush and McCain, Shut the Hell UP

DvlsAdvocat   May 15th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I have lost all respect that I had for Sen. McCain. I've admired him since I was a kid and read about his experience in the P.O.W. camps, and my admiration grew as I saw him stand up to the moronic positions within his own party. I voted for him in the primary because I KNEW he was a better man than his rhetoric had been on the campaign trail. But he has shown such a lack of judgment now, in chasing the support of the ultra conservatives, that I can absolutely not lend him my support in the general election, no matter who the Democratic candidate is.

So, onto the dustbin of history John McCain. The world could have been a better place if you were true to your nature.

Obama '08

ne, Pa.   May 15th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Bush and McCain= drumbeat for war against Iran.

foye joslin   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Gee, do you think it might be called "Thinking OUtside the Box?" to actually consider the option of dialogue exchange. You never know til you try and the old guys will always do things the same old way, getting the same old results. No wonder the young people are stampeding to a "change" candidate.

Alisa--GA   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Please go ahead and support these remarks by the Pres. Bush. Those very words will come back to haunt you Sen. McCain. The rest of the US live in the real world and want to live in peace. You and this administration can even spell the word peace.

OBAMA 08

mary czajkowski   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

John McCain just lost the Presidency with that statement.
ontario/

Senior from San Jose, CA   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

If Bush continues this kind of talk it will help Obama in Nov. It seems he is really sore about something. Is this how he acts out his failure as a president? He seems immature and rageful.

RAY   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

i hope and pray that nacey is defeated in nov. we need her out of the do nothing congress.
she is bullheaded.

MIKE   May 15th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

WHY WOULD ANYONE BE SURPRISED THAT MCCAIN WOULDN'T DEFEND BUSH ON ANYTHING HE SAYS.
FOR SEVEN YEARS WHEN BUSH SAYS S*** MCCAIN SQUATS AND GRUNTS.

AJ, IL   May 15th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Yes maam...You got 'em Nancy. McCain can't distance himself from GW Bush on important issues that matter most to Americans.

Mohamed Kabiru   May 15th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

It is very sad to see Washington cronies who used the fear tactics for the past eight years thinking they can still continue to fool the American people.
They want to clinch on power by using the old fear mongering card, please do not allow them this time, the whole world is tired of these Republican administration, Democrat be on the offensive expose these gays. They are weak they offered nothing to the world but Hunger and lost of wealth, America, look inside your savings to see the answer.

Smiley from Conyers, GA   May 15th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This old fool is so out of touch! Reagan didn't go to war with Russia to end the Cold War. Peace through strength doesn't always solve everything. This war mongerer isn't fit to be president of the glee club much less POTUS!

I thought they said that with age come wisdom. How much older does McCain have to get before he wises up?

Scott, NY NY   May 15th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I am so proud of President Bush. He has for the foreseeable future destroyed the Republican party. Thank you President Bush.

Barack the Vote in RI   May 15th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Why does anyone still take GWB seriously on any level?

Anyone who says that he "goes on the internets" and refers to google as "the google" is a moron.

rachae   May 15th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

McCain is an idiot to keep backing Bush. But I am glad he does. To insure a democrat in the white house.

HILLARY OR MCCAIN   May 15th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Mrs. Pelosi... With all due respect. This is why Obama cannot win the Presidency. Obama does not share the values of most of the American people.

I saw a clip of an old Obama interview last night on FOX where BO pretty much blamed Israel for all of America's problems with muslim terrorist. "Chickens come home to Roost" was pretty much the theme of his interview.

CNN, start reporting the facts!

Hillary supporters may not all have college degrees, but we are smart enough to turn the channel once in a while.

Hillary 08

shirley   May 15th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

It is the responsibility of our Government to use every diplomatic resource they have before even talking about war. Bush has turned this Nation into a bully who will strike you down if he doesn't get everything his way. Yes, we need to talk to our enemies and reach compromise to avoid needless killing.

JW   May 15th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

OMG – This could be a record landslide election for the Democrats. Good grief John, the Pres has the lowest approval rating now in the history of world.

Eli   May 15th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

PELOSI go HOME. Life long Democrat that will not vote for DEMS this year.

Hillary Clinton as a INDEPENDENT this FALL ELECTION.

Eagle   May 15th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Old 71 year old man, you have made a mistake. Your accusations have caused you this electionn. You know this was not true. This lets America know that if you are elected it is 4 more years of hell. Good going grandpa.

Kel from Auburn AL   May 15th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Good job, McCain. You just tied yourself to Bush once again.

American Girl   May 15th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

America! Bush is not a wise man. We must hurry up and get him out of the white house and ban him from speaking to the nation and foreign governements. If he does not stop he will incite our enemies to attack. This man is dangerous.

Konji   May 15th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Peace through strength... What Senator McCain forgets that it's _overall_ strength; economic strength, political strength, not just military strength that brings peace. It's really ashame that the "Maverick" has conformed to a true "Party Man".

james Pa   May 15th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Bush… you're retarded idiot.

Dan from california   May 15th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I guess McCain is not only out of touch when it comes to the economy he also is out of touch with what the American people want out of a President.

Ben   May 15th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Of course it makes no sense tp talk to the enemy! Bomb them back to the stone age! Oblirate them. Let another 4000 young American die
That is the American way! How can we spread democracy and peace all over the world if we lay down arms for a few seconds and talk to someone?As rulers of the world we can't give prestige to these small people by talking to them!!They must have our "democracy" shoved down their throats.

Truth   May 15th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCain/ Bush policy has weakened our standing throughout the wold. If McCain experience is similar to Bush, then it is better not to have it.
Change is coming

kathy   May 15th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

A vote for McCain is a vote for Bush.If anyone can't see this, they are just plain stupid, ignorant, or both.I think there is something bad wrong with Bush and McCain.If talk like this doesn't prove it, what does?

Kathy

Club Member   May 15th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

John McSame,

Yea buddy just keep digging tha t hole you will be in China before you know it.

Did anyone wonder what President Reagan wanted to talk about when he talked to Russia? Did anyone wonder what Nixon wanted to talk about when he talked to China?

Hey McSame how about asking them what their beef is with out ally. Maybe if Mini-Me had a mind of his own he would not have to ask the question.

al   May 15th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

If McCain is not in bed with Bush then I must be dreaming! Didn't McCain at one time say that having a timeline is a huge mistake and today he gave us timeline for 2013.? And didn't he say that he was going to run a campaign that was "honest" and did resort to "old politics?" I am confused on who this candidate really is–the Maverick or Bush's do boy!

Nate in Mpls   May 15th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

“…I will make this an issue with Senator Obama throughout this campaign, I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.”

As if we are so successful.

D'Anne   May 15th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I wasn't quick to hop on the McBush bandwagon, but....

I am sorry, were we not all raised and taught that rushing to violence is not the answer. Can we honestly vote for someone who thinks that "sitting down with" instead of "bomb, bomb, bombing" is so bad. I hate to say this but not only is Pres. Bush an idiot, its looking like McCain is continuing to "lose his bearing" and join Bush in IDiotic Paradise.

Jai in PA   May 15th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

That is the problem with McCain and Bush – they live in the past. This country has changed, this world has changed and we need a change in leadership to address the current problems. Why are Bush and McCain so eager to attach and so afraid to talk? Democrats must unite to defeat this same old mindset in November.

MICHAEL   May 15th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

It just shows that if John McCain gets elected in November, our once great country will have to deal again with all the failed policies of the terrible Bush years. We need a real change to regain respect globally.

DON'T ELECT ANYONE WHO THINKS OR AGREES WITH THE CURRENT CLOWNS IN THE WHITE HOUSE

leon   May 15th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I agree while we need to change the image of USA around the World I think that there are steeps and to sit with someone to negotiate without precondiditions show lack of good judgement and lack of experience.

Obama should explain why he wants to do that to the Amercian People.

8 months 2 go......   May 15th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

It's almost over for the Weasel and the OLD goat.

Consider The Source!

Paul   May 15th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Bush is right, we cannot be naive when dealing with our enemies

Hillary 08!
She has a plan and the experience to lead our nation.

Jeff Radun   May 15th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Again I am jewish I am a great suppoter of Hillay Clinton and and I am appaled that Obama would sit down with any country who wants the destruction of Isreal.
I am not a republican but I would vote for McCain instead of Obama for this issue alone

Kentucky   May 15th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

This proves that Bush and McCain think alike. McCain will just continue that programs that Bush currently has in place. This country will be in the Middle East for 100 years.

Darryl   May 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Like George Bush, this man is full of S..t and will lead America in the wrong direction.

Just find this man a nursing home so he can keep dreaming......

Necie   May 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Oh Brother.....Has anybody ever heard the phrase: "Keep your friends close and your enemy closer???" We are SUPPOSED to be Leaders in this world. It is Barbaric NOT to attempt discussions with our enemies for the sake of not just America, but other countries. If everybody just started obliterating everybody else, where is our childrens future? McBush must be shell shocked.

Jubilee   May 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

What would be more valuable to a nominee in the presidential race right now? An endorsement from Bush? or an anti-endorsement?

If I were running, I certainly would not want the increasingly unpopular president to endorse my campaign. Bush is one of the worst Presidents to ever step foot into the White House. Obama definitely benefits from Bush criticism. Thank you Bush. The blubbering stupor at which you hold the office never ceases to amaze.

Max in San Diego   May 15th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Simply posturing through 'strength' of arms never works without dialogue. Lasting peace and progress is negotiated. Eight years of diplomatic "Silent Treatment" has brought increasing trouble and disrespect upon this nation. The Bush-Cheney method has been disproven, Senator McCain. The earth is not flat.

Bob Stephens   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Mr McSame, maybe you could get Dick Cheney to run as your VP, and he could babysit you like he has done to George W, for the last 7 years, and explain to you who is fighting who in Iraq......

D.C.Mataya   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

We have been supporters of McCain- until his lastest run for President. He should take advice from his wife- winning at all cost is NOT a win! He has lost the art of truth telling and is such a disappointment. We love Cindy and disappointed in our present Republican leadership- Republicans deserve better!!

THE PROPHETE   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Hey! this not 1939, this is 2008

If Bush do not want to talk to Iran a country not an organisation then,
We should all start thinking again what gonna happen if Mc Cain win november election.

Remember Iran also have friends.

By the way when Bush is going to Bombe them? should I say nuc them?

I just can believe he said that.

Ray Kuta   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Where would we be today if President Kennedy refused to speak to our Russian enemy during the cold war? World War III ??????

disenfranchised   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Obama is going to have trouble with the republicans, Hilary wont. Wish you people could see that!

Nuwan Samaranayake   May 15th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

It is not what Bush said that is most damaging but where he said that. A U.S. president criticizing a fellow American and a potential presidential nominee in a foriegn land shows his lack for ethical standards and lack of judgment. This is not the first time we have seen those anyway. He has been acting like a cowboy for past 7 years and why would he change now. McCain should have at least said that the way Bush did it was wrong. If he made that comment here in US, that is a different matter.

Anonymous   May 15th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Told you McCain is Bush's 3rd term

FL   May 15th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

PLEASE bring a camera crew, BO, when you go. Let us all watch this! We couldn't get enough of this mentally ill monster when we spoke to US university. Much better to talk in his own country. Have to agree, what exactly does he want to discuss with him?? While you're at it, why don't you meet with Chavez next or is that next on your friend Carter's list? A Nobel Peace Prize awaits you, Senator – if you make it back.

richard   May 15th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I think McCain and Bush next objective is to go to war with Iran.
more oil = more money

Fran   May 15th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Which is why Mr. McCain will lose BIG TIME in November!

AY   May 15th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

This is the kind of experience that keeps the United States in Iraq till today. 100 more years. Good luck!!

Phil in KC   May 15th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I think Sen. McCain is, at heart, an honorable man. I think his service to this country is exemplary. I even agree with him on a few issues (although not many).
The fact that he defends President Bush's remarks, though, should be enough reason for anyone to vote Democrat or stay home this November. President Bush's comments were out-of-line and McCain should be condemning them, not defending them.

April Garlow   May 15th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Who is she that she has been choosen to defend Obama.I know he is still trying to remove his foot from his mouth,and can't be trusted in front of a microphone,but Pelosi's– wait until your father gets home ,approach to her job as speaker of the house has made her opinion null and void.

idahosa, Canada   May 15th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

i know Bush will be to John McCain what Rev Wright is to Obama. funny enough as John tries to court independents and democrates, he is faced with a more daunting task of satisfying the conservative republicans.

my advise to John is that "you can't eat your cake and have it"

Jan, Knoxville, TN   May 15th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

You go girl, Nancy. I cannot wait for January 2009 when the Democrats take command. Thanks for all you do in the House of Representatives!

"Honky white guy from chicago"   May 15th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Pelosi, ...... said ........, but then declared, "I think what the president did in that regard is beneath the dignity of the office of president and unworthy of our representation at that observance in Israel."

She needs to make up her mind. Cant be flip flopping on issues. Theres no time to please people.

stop the madness   May 15th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

John McCain is as big an idiot as his predecessor George W. Bush and just a dangerous!

RJ   May 15th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Bush has to be the dumbest rich guy in america!

NO-BAMA   May 15th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

NANCY BIG-MOUTH PELOSI

SHUT UP & STOP THE WAR LIKE WE APPOINTED YOU TO DO....

QUIT TELLING HILLARY TO QUIT, BUT T-OUT

GET BACK TO YOUR ORIGINAL JOB

vic nashville,Tn   May 15th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Hi Both parties
Gas price is $ 3.99 9/10
you all Wasting time in our tax money

Jen   May 15th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

I feel like McCain is out of touch...or maybe just "lost his bearings"...as an American I WANT my country to use diplomacy rather than war...in fact, I thought that was what America is supposed to represent, peace and liberty...well Mccain, Obama does not need to explain his comments to me...I am in total agreement...maybe Mccain should reexamine his own position on the matter.......
Obama 08!

fontapa   May 15th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

And another link is forged in the chain connecting McCain to George Bush....

So Reagan was naive and irresponsible to keep an open line with the Soviets? How about, um, every other president but Bush? It seems to me a fatal error to stand by disastrously failed policies of the worst President in US history.

But, please, John, by all means, make it easier for us to roll over you and your party in November. Pay attention, folks, John McCain just lost the election today.

Sterling Brown, Kansas City, MO   May 15th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

imbicile

McBush won't be in the Oval to wield his brand of moronic adherence to Lil' Bush's policy up-chucks. Bush is like an infant continuing to eat and spit up on himself and fill up again instead of allowing himself to be burped and just take his nap. And Ole' McBush is drinking the same Kool-Aid.

Dummies

N. in Texas   May 15th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Bush has more ties to the Nazi's than most – ask his granddad.

Brenda, Dallas, TX   May 15th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

McCain has the war time experience hands down. Loud mouth Pelosi is on a learning curve.

Michelle in Philly   May 15th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Pelosi is a silly woman, I'm sick of this crap that you can't say anything against Obama, get over yourself man, if you can't stand a few harsh words then drop out.

I'm glad Hillary is still in this, I hope America wakes up and dumps this whiner

Sharon Minnesota   May 15th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Hold your ground Sen. McCain. Pelosi is just another Obama liberal cultist who will do anything including selling out America to terrorists nations to get the democrats back into power. She and other Obama supporters are power crazy with no common sense or reason.

Chris, Silicon Valley, CA, USA   May 15th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

A war on "terror" is a war that will never be won or lost.
It will forever be continued. It will bankrupt us as a country.

BJ in PA   May 15th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

McCain talks about protecting Israel while he is saluting "Furor" Bush. Nobody's fooled.

Gregory LA   May 15th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Great plan, Mr. McCain! I applaud President Bush for his comments because Obama is a weak and inexperience candidate and Americans need to know exactly where he stands on foreign policy. Frankly, we are sick of the Democrats bickering.

You will have the last laugh in November, Mr. McCain.

jim mosier   May 15th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Is it just me, or does Nancy Pelosi look like a drag queen in that photo.

Jimbo   May 15th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Its about time someone raised this issue. Democrats coddled Al Qaida in the 90's and we paid the price. I'm sure Obama can't wait for his Neville Chamberlain moment while the clerics laugh and finish the bomb.

President Bush is absolutely correct. Liberals will be the death of freedom and western civilization. You can already see the appeasement in Europe. I'm glad McCain had the guts to defend it. Pelosi is naive.

READ HISTORY PEOPLE!!!

mitchell from arkansaw   May 15th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

you are so done mccbush!you and your party are history,and you know it.just keep backing bush,and his criminal cronies,and they'll lead you down the same path.i hope you all get arrested for misleading the american people,into supporting an illegal war!and we're not giving you the chance to start another one ,with iran.

julieMn   May 15th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I ask all Hillary and McCain supporters to leave cnn blogs to the Obama supporters, Nancy Pelosi just enforces my fears that the dem party has been taken over by the new dem socialists, Obama will be the downfall of this country. to left,to radical,to extremist,to much sympathy for terrorist!!!!!!

I hope cnn that you will post my request, we are a little tired of all the name calling!

BV   May 15th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Well said Pelosi.

elmerg   May 15th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

McBush is an idiot. He'd rather just invade and bomb a country than try to resolve issues using diplomacy.
We don't need this guy in charge.

Joe Regis   May 15th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Oh, yes Bush Republicans Mcain, you are right.

We get the BOMBS, why talking to anybody.

Disagree with us, just bombs and bombs again, then we have the nuclear option too.

Michael   May 15th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

So Gates and Condi can say the same thing as Obama, but not get blasted?

Fear-mongering is the reason this country is in the red in the first place.

TAHARI in CT 4 OBAMA   May 15th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

ARE YOU KIDDING ME! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!!!

HOW LOW CAN YOU GO.

OUR PRESIDENT, THAT I VOTED FOR HAS OFFICIALLY DISMISSED HIMSELF FROM THE HUMAN RACE. HE IS LOWER THAN LOW!

Crawl on your belly sir and all those who follow you!

Jason   May 15th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

McCain in '08!!

Stay the course, fight the fight, take the battle to them...we will not back down, we will not live in fear...

BTW Nancy, have you looked lately at your approval ratings?? What ever happened to the 90-day blitzkreig you promised your voters once the Dems took control of Congress?? hmm??

Anyone who in their right mind thinks we should sit down and chat with President Ahmadinejad is either crazy or watches way too many episodes of Dr. Phil.

Go get them Johnny!!!

What do YOU know   May 15th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

I'm leaving the country if this guy is elected.

SAM   May 15th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

What can you expect from a narcistic man of little intelligence? My disgust for Bush hit an all-time low when I read he's given up golf out of respect for our soldiers in Iraq. How profound, Mr. Bush. Did you also give up whipped cream twice a week for those who have died?

He's posturing, frantically trying to win some level of acceptance rather than go out as the worst president in decades. He's a posturing joke, purposefully slanting Obama's position. The USA will be so much better off when Bush is GONE.

janey   May 15th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Good for you, McCain–you have my vote as a former "democrat, disenfranchised".

Gary (Life Long Independent)   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Bush has plundered the USA's reputation, finances, and world standing. He is, was, and remains a simpleton. By not denouncing him Senator McCain you have confirmed to me that I must not allow you to apparently continue in his tradition. Therefore I will be voting for the Democratic candidate regardless of who he or she may be.

Anonymous   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

I strongly agree with Pelosi on this issue. She is right on. I can see where McCain is taking us right now and it doesn't look good to me. Peace through strength. Can't say that it appeals to me.

Miami   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Obama should just call him "sweetie". Then it would be over.

Edgar - Orlando, Florida   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

True democratics in the likes of FDR, Truman and Kennedy would have never sat with our enemies, the democratic party of today is no the party that defended America through WW 1 & 2.

Obama no sit down with our enemies – vote for Hillary and if not Hillary for a true American McCain!

Anonymous   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

bush is crap and so is Mcain-madcain

Larrry   May 15th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

A vote for McCain is a vote for BUSH III....THINK ABOUT IT. Let's not talk...let's go to war. Then we will rebuild your nation and sink billions of dollars...there has to be a better way.

Shalauddin Ahmed   May 15th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

President Bush and Senator J. McCain, both have to answer to the American people and to the World - why they haven't bring peace given 8 years in the White House if you believe in peace through strength.

Tammy, NC   May 15th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

John Mccain is pathetic!!!

One minute he is separating himself the next he is defending Bush....which is it?

Doug   May 15th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Yeah, uh...Peace through strength hasn't seemed to be working in the past 8 years or so...

Go ahead Johnny boy and defend your mentor. You are just showing everyone that you really will be Bush's 3rd term.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   May 15th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

McCain keeps making abundantly clear that as President (heaven help us!) he would continue the decline of America by maintaining Bush's tragically failed policies. Al Qaida does not need Bin Laden with either of these men in the White House.

Robert - TN   May 15th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

McCain believes in peace through strength in combat instead of diplomacy. For you, McCain, to make the statement about what Obama will talk with them about tells me that you are not fit to be commander in chief. Given Hamas' position on terror and other terrorist groups, why are you afraid to set pre-conditions for them to meet in order to begin talking? Does your position to avoid talks show strength or cowardness?

Wayne   May 15th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Condi Rice, Robert Gates...members of the Bush Administration have urged talks with Iran. Can you explain the contradiction? When members of Bush Admin urge talks with Iran its right..when Obama urges talks its wrong?

I dont understand such stark contradiction.

Sharon Kitchen   May 15th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Mr. McCain,
If you believe in "peace thru strength", that would explain why you wrote a bill that removed forceably the elders of the Navajo Nation to a toxic radio-active dump. I guess those folks who were part of saving the WWII forces lives(the code talkers),must be the enemy. Why else would a presidental canidate/senator write such a destructive bill and have it signed into law by Pres. Clinton in 1997 ? Aren't you happy at the deaths/illnesses/deformaties that you caused on American soil?Just so the media knows-this went to the U.N. in 2000–video form also and you and Pres. Clinton found guilty of committing genocide on a group of people....weren't you told?? Maybe you just don't care.Also, my family is also full of vets, WW I,WWII,Korean, Vitenam,Gulf, and Iraq. So exactly who is the enemy????? Oh, those of us that are alive are voting!!!!!!!!!!..... and NOT for you. Did you watch the N.C. returns??? Yep, alot of Native Americans voted.........We are voting in all the states. Are you ready for Nov.??? We are. If you talk with bush.....
oh never mind...his u-haul is at the back door.........

Dr. J   May 15th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Democrats Unite. Do we want more of the same Bush politics.

KD   May 15th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

A Unity, it's a wonderful thing isn't it?

Bodine, Flushing, NY   May 15th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

I am a Democrat and a supporter of Sen. Clinton. I am 100% agreeing with Sen. McCain's view about not having any room for negotiation with a terrorist. leader. Period.

Petra, Independendent from PA   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Nancy for first woman president. McCain, you are surely going to lose if you don't stop pandering to the far right...

Lexington Green   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Candidate McCain needs to do one of two things:

Figure out how to get out of Iraq, or

Get out of the campaign.

Grace Needed   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Well, I don't know what Senator McCain's alternative to Senator Obama's beginning of some diplomacy is! We can't use a military solution to every aggressive government leader. Our military is already overstretched and on the brink of disaster. It is NOT appeasement to suggest some diplomacy in trying to determine what is behind such aggressiveness. The APPEASEMENT in WWII was after the government leaders FAILED to make accurate judgements about who and what they were dealing with. Chamberlain failed to discern what he needed to through diplomacy. Churchill judged well.
Now, if we were to utilize the same kind of test on our candidates for the Presidency, I believe Senator Obama would accurately judge who and what he was dealing with and attempt to discern what possible diplomatic solutions and international measures might keep us from depending ONLY on military solutions. We must learn how to deter our enemies short of their use of military or ours. We need someone with the strength of character not to be bullied into actions against our national interests OR catapulted into another unnecessary war! Obviously, we will stand by Israel and desire what is best for them, but not at the expense of a Palestinian nation, hopefully minus the terrorist organizations because they will see no need for them if treated fairly and justly by the international community.

John   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Haha Funny. McCain you're a 2 faced individual just as our politicians are. IRAN and Saudi Arabia are on the same page as far as extinguishing Isreal, but we still seat on the same table with Saudi. Hypocrisy of the highest order!

OH, my   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

inexperience, lack of judgement.

jimmy   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

It's true....
I do not support Bush at ALL but I will say that Obama is mystery and ignorant. He is not ready or competent nor does he have the American at heart.

Don't trust him either (like Bush)....
Hillary supporters – vote McCain '08 for Clinton '12
The MOVEMENT is on........

Chuck, Democrats United We Stand   May 15th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Yes we already Know how McCains feels about Iran....you know his song, "bomb, bomb, bomb Iran". Now I ask is that the level of maturity that we need leading our country? War and military confrontation should always be the last option. Why? When fighting a war, you are obviously fighting against the leadership and the military of that country, but the people (men women and children) are the ones that suffer. There is enough suffering in this world, we need to learn to talk first, ask questions, develope understanding and dialogue and if that as well as all other options fail then and only then should the threat or use of our military force be put into play.

faye, NV   May 15th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Mccain/Bush how dumb can you be, surely anyone in his right mind would want to prevent war. If talking and making attempt to reach peace is offensive, than what do you call starting a war for nothing.

Lexington Green   May 15th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

It really is time for President Bush and Vice President Cheney to simply shut up about Terrorism, US security, and Iraq. They've had no credibility for years on these subjects. Their policies have alienated allies, emboldened terrorists, and resulted in outrageous casualties of innocents.

The President should go back to his ranch in TX and take a long vacation until about the middle of January.

Republican for Obama from Idaho   May 15th, 2008 1:48 pm ET

McSame!!! Shut up!! You are nothing but a Bush want to be. Has everyone forgotten who was our president during one of the worst terror attacks in history? We are less safe because of Bush and his policies. The republican party is really stooping low this year. They are trying to scare people into keeping them in office, and its not going to work. Na na na na, na na na na, hey hey hey, goodbye Bush and republicans. We need change and if I have to vote democrat to get it than I will.

Matt   May 15th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

It never hurts to talk. It sure beats the alternative

Rose   May 15th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Nancy Pelosi would do well to keep her opinions to herself. Pelosi and her Dems have a rating worse than Bush. You and your Dems were supposed to accomplish so much and what have you done?
ZIP!!!! As for Harry Reid, he is a real dud, I don't think he has the ability to be the majority leader of the Senate, what has he led???

karela   May 15th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Well, John McCain has said what he believes. What I believe is that Bush and Bush-Like McCain have fostered policies that have created legions of more people who hate America and therefore are more susceptible to recruitment by Al Quaeda. Yes, we negotiate from a position of strength, but we don't always have to use killing people as our first option. It seems to me that Bush/McCain are afraid to hear what Iran might have to say. It's so much easier to just bury their head in the sand and say we're all right and they're all wrong. If you just keep screaming that into the bag you keep over your head, you never have to worry about anything. You just kill people and bankrupt our country with war and everything is nice and neat. I think that Bush/McCain are scared out of their little tiny minds that they might learn something that would impact their thoughts or that they aren't smart enough to have a conversation and win if they ever tried talking to the enemy. They could take a lesson from some of the world's finest ever light cavalry–the Native Americans–and smoke a peace pipe while talking to our enemies. If the only tool you choose to own is a hammer, everything looks like a nail. BM (Bush/McCain pun intended) are much easier in their mind when they send our kids to get their legs blown off then they would be if they had to sit down like grown ups and talk to our enemies. Cowards!

Terry, Lakeland, FL   May 15th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Well this is normal Dem comments. Everyone knows they think we can talk people who hate us into liking us. They think that just because someone says and thinks we should be destroyed doens't make them bad...just misunderstood. You Left Wing Dems need to join us all back in the real world.

Bob   May 15th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Keep digging your heels in McCain...The more you agree w/Bush the more chance you have of losing the white house...Go Obama!

Joe Sith   May 15th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

"But the presumptive Republican nominee himself defended the remarks, said he intended to make Barack Obama’s willingness to consider dialogue with Iran an issue in the fall campaign, calling on the Illinois senator to 'explain [that decision] to the American people.'”

Go ahead McCain, put nails in your own coffin.

Michael   May 15th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

Less extreme and more level-headed, pragmatic, and just plain less ideoligically extreme folks in the Bush administration such as Rice and Gates have both suggested dialogue. Even during the cold war, we never stopped engaging the Soviets....both Democrats and Republicans....and that turned out pretty darn good in the end. This is another area where McBush would be well-advised to break with Bush lite.

Sam Seikaly   May 15th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

McCain sways with the political wind that benefits him and his campain. He also predicts that the Iraqi war (Invasion) will be won by the year 2013. I would like to inform him that "occupations are not won...they are ended". Bush's war and the invasion of Iraq created terrorism, are we ever going to learn from our past mistakes?

Bukky   May 15th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

"I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past"

Does this make sense to Anyone...? by strenght he means violence. I just dont see how you can have peace without talking. All you get is a lot of postering until someone blows something up....

C.J. North Carolina   May 15th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

MCCAINOCRATS.....PAY ATTENTION.

THIS IS WHY WE DEMOCRATS MUST COME TOGETHER AND UNITE BEHIND OUR NOMINEE–WHOMEVER HE MAY BE.

This is just typical Bush BS.

And right there with him is JOHN W. MCSAME.

The fear mongering has begun. They are not going to pull this crap with the American people anymore. WE ARE WISE TO THEIR GAME.

DEMOCRATS UNITE 2008**********************************************

Matthew from Houston   May 15th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Typical politics. The elephants can keep walking in a line right of the cliff. Keep going McCain, three words for you though, "North East Misssissippi". Bear that in mind when you open your mouth again.

isaiah harris, milford, nj   May 15th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

anyone who doesnt believe a vote for mccain is a vote for bush needs to re-evaluate that conclusion

T Collins   May 15th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Check this out those Hillary supporters who say they will vote for McCain over Obama. I love Hillary, but I will always stand Democrat. McCain is another Bush, and you will be losing your votes and damaging America in the process.

Onward to Democratic Victory!

Angel   May 15th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Thanks, America–Let us replace one idiot with another!!!

Ben   May 15th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Just a couple of Obama's "accomplishments" -

Political science degree from Columbia University. First black pres. of Harvard Law Review and magna cum laude graduate. Gave international business advice, civil rights lawyer, helped organize voter registration drives, taught at U of Chicago law school. Defeated republican Alan Keyes 70% to 27% (largest margin in Illinois history) for state senate. There he expanded health care and early childhood education, created ethics legislation and $100 mil in income tax credits, and required videotaping of certain interrogations. In the national senate he worked with republicans to destroy WMD in Russia and eastern Europe and create a website to track federal spending. He worked to curb lobbyist influence, improve veteran's benefits, and encourage alternative energy development. Member of health, education, labor, and pensions committee; foreign relations committee; veteran's affairs committee; and environment and public works committee. Spoke out against the war in Iraq before it started and predicted the outcome that we're in today. Worked with churches to improve living conditions in poor neighborhoods in Chicago. Wrote three books. Fathered two children. Gave hundreds of inspirational speeches. . . . . . . . . .

brian   May 15th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Bring it on McBush! You and your party have brought this mess to a head. Iran has gotten STRONGER on YOUR watch. IRAQ is YOUR mess. We will not be intimidated anymore. The game is up.

By the way why don't you ask Bush about his grandpa Prescott?

Bram   May 15th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Mr. McCain....do the USA have more enemies now or before Bush took over???????

Mr. McCain...did more buildings fall before or after Bush took over?????

Mr. McCain...are you more or less naive than Bush???...

at least this was in a tie!

Proud West Virginian   May 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

I don't believe that McCain wants to continue the war in Iraq any longer than the rest of us do but he's got enough experience and GOOD COMMON SENSE to know that Terrorists are uncivilized individuals that can't be dealt with by talk.

We should have never invaded Iraq...and now we think that we can just say ok, we've had enough and just walk away safely from this country? We cannot solve all the problems of other countries....we have enough of our own here. WE HAD NO BUSINESS GOING INTO IRAQ! Nothing good has come out of it....just loss of many lives and a more struggling economy now....money that could have been better spent here helping our country.

Kiah   May 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Lack of judgment, naivete? McCain doesn't want to have a discussion about lack of judgment in this current atmosphere.

This guy is just opening up his own can of worms and the Dems are ready for THIS conversation. Mr. 100 years!

Matt   May 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

Lets see...what could we talk about with Iran....The possiblity of peace in the middle east, prevention of nuclear war, fighting extremists...oil prices...the list goes on. You are a moron.

Frequent Flyer NY   May 15th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

“…I will make this an issue with Senator Obama throughout this campaign, I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.”

This guy doesnt get it we arent in the past this is the future and we need a new angle...We are way too civilized a people to be killing and bombing countries because we dont agree with them or they dont agree with us....this is not the revolutionary war or WWII Mr. McSame....the time has come to act accordingly and that is peace through dialogue

KM   May 15th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

To McCain & Bush:

We are not the bullies of the neighborhood and can't go around beating up on countries that don't think like us. The only wars that we can win is when the enemy can be easily identified. See the Iraq war if you need proof. We're one butt kicking away from losing everything this country stands for.

John in WA   May 15th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Wrong, wrong, wrong Mrs. Pelosi...again you are wrong. It is on the record of what the Hamas leaders have stated about the existance of Isreal and their promise to exterminate the Isreali state. I believe the US should stand by the Isrealis and if ANY candidate suggests sitting down and talking with a terrorist group over any issue, then that individual will NOT get my vote.

Way to go, Mr. McCain! You keep reminding the liberals that history WILL repeat itself if we negotiate before Hamas retracts their previous stand on Isreal. Get a life, Mrs. Pelosi! you are dead wrong on this issue.

Darrel   May 15th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Of course you need to talk with people you do not get along with. This is not grade school. This is foreign affairs with great problems if there is not a dialogue. We spoke with the USSR for all those years. Bush and McCain make zero sense.

Marilyn, Kansas   May 15th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

LOL! John McCain keeps putting his foot deeper and deeper into his mouth. This should get very interesting. And poor Georgie Porgie is all the way over in Israel and has no idea the can of worms he has opened up–once again LOL!!! Great job West Virginia!

Jose'   May 15th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Impeach Obama '08!!

montag   May 15th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Perhaps someone should remind John McSame that governments don't negotiate with their friends – they negotiate with their enemies. It's called diplomacy and it's what you use to prevent wars and implement peace treaties and accords.

But, of course, diplomacy and statesmanship is something Republicans wouldn't know anything about.

Eleanor   May 15th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Vote DEMOCRATIC this fall
Get these war mongers out!!!!!
Give Nancy the votes to bring these senseless war policies to an
END once and for all!!!!!
Dems in november!!!

Beny   May 15th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

I don't even know how Bush he calls him self a true christian while the bible said love your enemy.

Jonathan Gaines   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

JOHN " BUSH OLDMAN" McSAME,

IT IS YOU THAT WILL HAVE TO EXPLAIN TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE THE B.S. COMING OUT OF YOUR MOUTH.

JOHN THE FOOL, FOLLOWING BUSH THE BIGGER FOOL.

Randy   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

John McCain. We can't do this for another four years. It's easy for McCain to see what it'll look like in four years if he were President. It's just a continuation of today, just higher number of war deaths, higher gas prices, more poverty.

We'll all probably need to drink more beer just to cope, which of course will help his wife's finances.

Frequent Flyer NY   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

If the president of Iran could come and talk nonsense at COlumbia University how come President Obama cannot talk to him and possible talk sense into him??? How is that bad...I hope this is one of the main points they bring up in the general election and I hope Obama strategically makes this guy McShame look like the olld fool that he is

Mannewell Darby   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

"...I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.” -Just like a schoolhouse bully. Is this the sort of ethical leadeship John McCain proposes? America will not be the leader of the future by going around beating up or threatening to beat up all who do not bend to our will. If this is to be or policy, eventually we will suffer the fall of every schoolhouse bully. I'm all for strength. I'm for wisdom more.

Maksym   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

McCain defines dilusional.

I mean, who in their right mind would say, "peace through strength"?

Politics of fear in its ugliest form.

Silvain   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Of course we'll have to be out of Iraq by 2013; where else are we going to get soldiers from to invade and wage war against Iran?

I mean, if McCain is president, it doesn't look like we're going to actually negotiate with them.

SLKWLY   May 15th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Please bring this argument on, Sen, McCain....As a veteran i honor your service, but that does not give you an unchallengeable position. Other, more highly decorated military men have been wrong about war before and history has shown the terrible prices paid for their incorrect decisions.

This is an argument we welcome, and due to your 'recent' change of positions on a lot of things (aka flip-flops), I look forward to the American people seeing just how far you will go to pander to people who really don't like you as their nominee anyway.

JoeMamma   May 15th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Maybe "Both" political parties should stop trying to prove to Israel that "they" are the one more likely to fight Israel's next war- and put America's priorities first.

Farren Ballanst   May 15th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Tired old man=Tired old ideas.

Time to step into the 21st century.

OBAMA '08

Defeat Obama   May 15th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Nancy is a poor excuse for a leader, what about her trip to the Middle East last year, trying to undermine the administration's Foreign Policy? Bush should single him out, Obama is wrong on this issue, just as many others, we have stated earlier at http://defeatobama.org?refer=cnn0515_01 that his view of taking options off the table and talking as the President without precondition is flawed. McCain was right to ask this question and remember HRC herself called Obama "naive" on this issue.

Judy   May 15th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

McCain you are so weak that you are scared to even talk on the phone with them. Why are you scared? Remember people want to know why we are at war and how we can avoid them. If you think about how we got into the Iraq war you would not want another war, for fear will not have enough serrvice members to fight for us. The old and middle age servicemen are not in shape to fight another long unnecessary war like Iraq, so yes we do need to build bridges that everyone can walk across without looking over their shoulders in fear.

Duckula   May 15th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Hey McCrypt, all brown people != terrorists. Sticking your fingers in your ears and going "na-ne-na-n-na na" hasn't solved any problems for the last 8 years. People who disagree with you or dislike your friends aren't automatically terrorists. But you just keep proving to us that you're a RepubliCANT.

Nia - AZ by way of MN   May 15th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

aahhh McNot the puppet never fails. On another note...I think a Pelosi would be good for VP on the Obama ticket. She might be a little to liberal for the conservative Dems. But atleast the feminist, and stounch Hillary backers won't have thier panties all in a bunch when Hillary doesn't get it the nod for VP. Edwards would be decent, he would be able to help with those blue collar white voters everyone seems to be smitten over. But the draw back is he is a man...so the panties will be bunched...feminsit will march in the streets burning bras...kidding...

noMcBush, cambridge, MA   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

What did McCain mean as "succeeded in the past"? Vienam? Korea? Iraq? The more McCain aligns with Bush, the better for Dems in the fall, and the better for a new America.

VALENTINE NGEERA ROSWELL GA   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

MACCAIN IS A VERY TIRED 71 YEAR OLD MAN WHO IS LIVING IN THE 15TH CENTURY WHEN WE ARE LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY,IE THE DOT.COM GENERATION TO KEEP IT REAL.HE NEEDS TO BE HOME LOOKING FOR CATTLE AND NOT WANTING TO RUN THIS COUNTRY AT HIS AGE.TOOOOOOOOOLD FOR WHITEHOUSE

Little Miss Sunshine   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Oh children, children, children ... grow up already.

Madelyn   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

McCain is so obviously out of touch with the majority of Americans who are fed up with the politics of fear. Herein lies the problem with McCain who seems intent to hang on to the "old" politics of his "old" age. Americans live in a different world than the archaic one he desperately clings to, and we cannot continue to do the same thing, lest we get the same result. Besides, what is the problem with "talking" to people? Isn't that how "diplomacy" works? McCain is the only war veteran I ever heard of who loves war so much!

shane   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Mccain asks why does Barack Obama want to sit down with a "state sponsor of terrorism". I guess it never occured to his aging mind that IRAN is part of the U.N. They have a seat at the U.N. The whole WORLD is sitting down with them! WHy do we feel like sitting down with America is some sort of priviledge? And what has NOT talking to them achieved? Lets just isolate them and let them build a nuclear bomb like North Korea. Great plan. Kick the neo-cons out!

David   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

What would Americans think if say France or England wanted to meet with Al-qaeda without preconditions? In Obama's foreign policy you're talking about leaders who have outwardly expressed intent to annihilate Israel. These aren't just sovereign world leaders. I think its important first to see what Israelis think of George Bush's comments. GW is no authority on foreign policy himself, but this spat between him and Obama makes them both look like idiots in my view.

Rhonda   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

ARE YOU LISTENING AMERICA??? Do we really want another 4 years of this MCBUSH "strength"? Where is the success in this war and define "strength":DICTATORSHIP

Tangie   May 15th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

MCCAIN DOES NOT KNOW WHAT THE HELL HE WANTS TO DO...HE HAS BEEN FLIP FLOPPING FOR THE PAST WEEK AND HAS GOTTEN AWAY WITH IT. THE MEDIA NEED TO START CALLING MCCAIN ON THE CARPET W/ HIS FLIP FLOPPING. BUSH CONTINUED TERM'

OBAMA 2008

D Alan   May 15th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Let me see.. Bush has an approval rating around 20 percent, question: who is out of touch with mainstream America?

FedUpinJax   May 15th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Why not give diplomacy a chance for once? How far has 5 years of war and no diplomacy gotten us in Iraq? Absolutely NOWHERE!

God Bless America   May 15th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

WHY WILL YOU MAKE IT A CAMPAIGN ISSUE WITH SENATOR OBAMA? DIDN'T YOU CALL HILLARY ON HER WV WIN!!!!!!

ISN'T "SHE" THE ONE THAT YOU ARE RUNNING AGAINST!!!!!!!!!

100 YEARS , 4 YEARS, APPLES, ORGANGES, BIN LADEN, HAMAS
PEACE THROUGH WAR, WITH BUSH, NOT BUSH

SOUNDS LIKE SENILITY!!!!

Susan MO   May 15th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Appears McSame and Bush are in-sync and campaigning together.

Tell me how naive it is tho that Bush's people are suggesting and actually having low level talks with Iran as we speak.

Same old old old politics.

Alonzo Demetrius - FL   May 15th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Yeah, yeah, Pelosi. I really shouldn't do this but I will anyway. Isn't that what she said here? Is it any wonder the whole world sees the US as crazy???

catty   May 15th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

McCain is right. What will they talk about? Does Obama have the arrogance to believe that he can somehow make Hamas NOT hate Israel? That by his mere presence, Hamas will let go of all their anger, forget their "injustice" and just walk away? Stupid liberals live in a fantasy. Welcome to Realtiy! Israel is our ally, NOT hamas!

But them I'm sure pelosi thinks all it would take to bring peace to the middle east is some group therapy and singing kumbaya!

Greg Pa   May 15th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Pelosi is worse than bush. Even if you disagree with going to Iraq i bet you don't agree with cutting troops supply's short. makeing them wait for ammo , food ,water ect. She held up all those things to push he own agenda. Even after bush told her he would not sign a bill that had deadlines

sam   May 15th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

Talk?

Why talk,

McCain just wants to BOMB, BOMB, BOMB, BOMB, BOMB, IRAN!

Much easier!

McCain 08

JJ   May 15th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

McCain, McCain, McCain, you too. We know Bush has no idea of what is going on unless the press informs him, what's your excuse. Let's not use fear tactic's in the campaign, what can you do for your country that will bring it out of the current downward fall. you have a lot to choice from: Gas prices, Housing, Jobs, Tax breaks for the rich.

ed fl   May 15th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

HEY JOHN your mouth is open again and this time Lieberman is not around to whisper in your ear. You ought to keep quiet before all americans see how dumb you seem to be

Rev TJ Conwell   May 15th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Has Nancy Pelosi ever said anything that made any sense? First she said that it is not protocol to denounce the President when he is away, but ... Nancy, listen to your own rhetoric!! You quoted the policy (good job getting that right), but that does not mean you get to run your mouth afterwards and say what you want.

It is like saying, "I don't want to gossip, but ...." Come on lady, just stop.

I do ask the same question as Senator McCain ... Why would Mr Obama want to chat with a man who says that a nation like Israel should be wiped off the face of the Earth? Does anyone really think the leadership in Iran is going to listen to an "American", regardless of his ethnic make-up? Come on people ....

An Agnostic Democrat   May 15th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Grampy McSame already appears to be having problems with diarrhea at both ends of his alimentary canal. We can correct the one end with Depends, the other end, as is evident, has much more dire consequences.

And he wants four years in office to do what?! Carry the Bush torch to the Apocalyptic Olympics in the Middle East? Geez! What a doddering, misguided, short-sighted, old dolt!

Rich   May 15th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

"Peace through strength?" Yeah that's been working out just great, John. Notice how we've pissed off all our allies? Oh, and do you honestly think that having troops in Iraq for 100 years would be peaceful and welcomed like having troops in Germany after WWII? What was that word you used before – naiveté?

What idiots. You may be able to pander to uneducated people who don't follow the news, but the Jewish people I know are way too smart to fall such juvenile tactics.

Mike from CA   May 15th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

JOHN MCCAIN'S FLIP-FLOPS
1) he was for abortion and now he is against it
2) He was pro-gay marriage and now he is against it
3) he said it's irresponsible to set a timetable in Iraq but he said we would have most troops out by 2013
4) Was pro-ethanol and now is against it
5) Was against torture but is for waterboarding
6) Was against Bush's tax cuts and now he wants to make them permanent.
7) Says he is against lobbyists but has 51 on his staff

This guy is a walking contradiction and doesn't deserve to be President of the united states.

Bob Texas   May 15th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Yes Mr. McCain we just bomb every country that does not do what we tell them. That is really great deplomacy!

Linda in Va   May 15th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

McCain is the loser that Bush is. Bush should be more than blasted, I'd say behead the arse. I can not believe that this president represents the good people of the USA, what a shame.

Ticked off Democrat   May 15th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Okay, I'm a Democrat and I don't think what Bush said was bad. Is this goign to be a no-pick on Obama campaign. Give me a break. I agree with Bush. If Obama wants to play peacekeeper with terrorists who if given the chance would stop at NOTHING to eliminate Israel and the U.S. He is being naive if he thinks they want to have a heart to heart with him. Pulease! Obama loses my support more and more each day. Obama has some explaining to do.

HillarySkank on myspace   May 15th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

John McCain, you've used up any goodwill I felt towards you for your hero status during Viet Nam. You are going to lose this election and you need to explain to the American People why you are so opposed to ending this war NOW instead of at the end of the the next President's term of office.

To follow Sen Biden's lead, Bush's comments are BS and so are yours!

SGS   May 15th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

FLASHBACK #1

Alex NYC   May 15th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Yes, Senator McCain... in the PAST. Senator Obama doesn't want to use the privilege to talk to our leaders as a bargaining chip anymore. That's the kind of FUTURE thinking we need in this time.

alvaro acosta   May 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

I just do not understand how the people of the USA elected and reelected Bush to be in the White House. I just do not comprehend that, at all!!!!

alsipu...

Kevin   May 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

yeah, peace through strength has gotten us real far in Iraq, you idiot.

SGS   May 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Hey McCain-Who's your REAL friend. Now we know. Stay tied to the president with the lowest approval ratings in recorded history. Says plenty about you and your campaign staff. WOW....

mel   May 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Mccain, he should not be standing behind Bush,it is he who
have gotten this in ti trouble with terrorist and the economy
swituation here at home. I believe it will get even worst with
Mccain as president. How can we fight anything two parties
are going at each other here at home. Wake-up think of the
american peoples who you all in office to serve us,not foriegn
policies. Obama and the dems. party will bring change I truly
it.

Obama Supporter   May 15th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Hate McCain!

Hate Hillary!

Love Jerimiah Wright!

Obama '08

Al   May 15th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Peace through strength is getting to be pretty expensive and is leaving us nothing to show for it. Making every effort through diplomatic means, with the option of flexing our muscle doesn't hurt and is pretty cost effective. $500 billion is peace through strength. A couple million might be diplomacy. You do the math.

LT for Obama   May 15th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

This just goes to show that all his protests that he is not a 3rd Bush administration confirms that he really is. This is why no matter who he runs against, the republicans will not win with McCain in November.

Amy Jacobson   May 15th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

That's not the only thing that shows Obama's naiveté. His choice of pastor and spiritual mentor whom he later threw under the bus when Wright exposed him as a typical politician says a lot about his judgment.

Obama, no you WON'T!

barackobama4prez   May 15th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

What a joke? Bush has cabinet members that agree with Obama. Explain THAT to the American people.

Rachel   May 15th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

shut your pie hole pelosi you and congress cant get anything done and keep funding a war that you say you want to end. I am done with the democratic party.

Patrick Anthony Drake/Atlanta, GA   May 15th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

GO NAVY!!!!!!!

John from Illinois   May 15th, 2008 12:38 pm ET

This is EXACTLY why this country needs new leadership. I've been a Republican for 37 years. Not anymore. I'm ashamed of the complete contempt this Adminstration has for its citizens, our troops abroad, and for the future of America. John MCain equals more of the same.
I'm voting for Barack Obama in the Fall!

Mike O.   May 15th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

On another major issue - John Sidney McCain III = George W. Bush

How many times has Bush misled the American people? How many times does Bush need to be wrong about major issues and policies before the vast majority of Americans turn away from him? I hope that McCain keeps defending GWB. This will lead to an Obama victory (with a governing majority) in November.

On January 20, 2009, we will finally return to serious and effective leadership in the White House. To have a shot at governing well, those that govern must believe that government has a valuable role to play and that government can be continuously improved (just like a business).

Independent in Florida   May 15th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

Our foreign policy and diplomacy is hard to swallow.

McCain and Hillary have already declared the war on Iran, China and Russia. They accuse Obama of crimes he has not committed. And, President Bush is just adding more fuel to the fire.

Kevin   May 15th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Since Bush has such abysmal record in foreign policy, he has zero credibility as to any foreign policy statement. He also must have forgot his administration's talks with Qaddafi. January 20, 2009 cannot come soon enough.

Gordon Vaughan   May 15th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

I would rather have a candidate say they are willing to talk to our adviseries, instead of one that says "bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran'. Does McCain realize that our military is already over taxed?

cree   May 15th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Talk like this won't win over independants McCain.
It's laughable to see him try to have it both ways.
He is placating the republicans now.The extreemist.
Just this morning he was placating to the independants.
What a puppet he is for Bush.This just proves it.
He's just an old worn out puppet.

Brian   May 15th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

this is comparing apples to oranges. I can not see the future, and as far as I can tell, Iran is not Germany, and Ahmadinejad is not Hitler.

Thw two are similar, but just because they are similar does not mean negotiation should be thrown out the window. By the time the US was ready to enter WWII, negotiations with Hitler had already been tried by other countries. We knew that Hitler would not honor negotiations.

Has Iran invaded and conquered other countries like Germany did before our involvement in WWII? No, they have not. I am not defending them, I am merely pointing out that up until that point, that they become aggressive and invade other countries, we should attempt negotiation. If negotiation fails, THEN you use force, not before.

Reality Check   May 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

John Mccain: your too old. Your alzheimers is kicking in. You are becoming an old fart who has nothing real to say except carry on with Bush's policies. We know you will take us into war for 100 years and only care about winning peace through strength/war. Thank you for outlining what your presidency will be like. I am glad to have known you but come november you will be nothing but a memory. You might want to start writing your will as you are too old to be anyones president. John Mccain=Bush=Warmonger=Racists=Anti-MLK=old man=loser in november. Democrats and Independents: I for one am guilty of wanting only Obama in the White House. Now I see that we will need Hillary Clinton more then ever. Not only will she tear a hole in Mccain but she will make him look like the loser he is. She needs to be on the ticket so that we can destroy the republicans in november.

pam Eugene OR   May 15th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Yes, this is an issue to talk about.
Why would we not want to talk to people how are trying to kill us. Rushing in with bombs and ground forces sure has not gained much! I am sure we can negotiate something but we never even tried.
Obama 08

mb   May 15th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

That Preident Bush would use the bully pulpit of a foreign government to make a political point about our election here in the US is beyond reprehensible. This is our country and our decision as to what we do and don't do. He has abused the dignity of the office of president and John McCain is following in his footsteps. no other foreign leader has travel to our country and belittle their countries politiians and leaders in such a blatant way. I am ashamed that he thinks so little of us to do this.

WE NEED THE TRUTH   May 15th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

And not only did he critized the Dems (we know he ment Obama), but he tried to link him to the most hated person in jewish history, by saying the name of Hilter during his critizism.

And John McCain is not going to condem Bush's remarks. Oh Boy,,people you better wake up. We don't want this type of attitude back in the white house.

Usually I say vote Obama....NOW I"M SAYING VOTE DEMOCRATIC!

Jeanne from Michigan   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

A "disendorsement" from Bush/McCain. Obama thanks you both!

Arthur H.   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Way to go Nancy Pelosi!!!!! I loved her standing up to that Hollywood blowhard Weinstein. She is showing strength, courage and we are going to the White House!!!

Now that John Edwards is on board, this show is rolling. It will turn out that George Bush will be the most effective speaker for McCain with his "Proven" Bush diplomacy. Keep on talking Bush, you are doing great.

Now we just need to come together and stifle the scariest power of all, the Clinton ego.

ET   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

“It is a serious error on the part of Senator Obama that shows naiveté and inexperience and lack of judgment – to say that he wants to sit down across the table from an individual who leads a country who says that Israel is a stinking corpse, that is dedicated to the extinction of Israel,” said McCain Thursday.

I agreed with McCain. If anyone had read Thomas Friedman's opinion piece in NY Times, I paraphrase, when our country has little leverage in the Mid East, you could sit down and have all the talks you want, you are not going to change the other side's behavior when their hatred towards one another has existed since their entire history.

Walt   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

In the last seven plus years we have experienced two wars, the threat of one or two more wars, and a constant fear of terrorist acts. Yet, our leaders claim that only they have the experience and expertise to save us.

If their way worked would there be any discussion regarding how to address terrorism?

Time to think outside the box.

Bush please take McCain back to the ranch with you.

fred   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Pelosi...I am a Dem and believe Bush is correct about Obama...you are going to lose your majority house seat in November...People are going to realize what an idiot Obama really is!!!

OBAMA '08   May 15th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Talk about eletiam....

Bridgette   May 15th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

I think if you didn't know McCain was an idiot you found out this morning after that speech. Are you kidding me. He laid out no plans for how he was going to do this and most of this has been said already by Obama. They are getting ready to use the change slogan

Unshrub   May 15th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

So, I forget, is today the day McCain acts like he likes Bush or is it the day he claims he doesn't like Bush. It get's confusing. But it's hard to tell if McCain is senile or is he just preaching more republican rhetoric.

shelly in IL   May 15th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Next McCain will say "I didn't say that" and denounce the comments. This guy is ridiculous and if you vote for him, you deserve what's coming to you!

Rena   May 15th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

So what, do we think the only way we can get things done is by blowing up people or going to war? Have the Republicians ever heard of the word reconciliation? I mean sometimes it good to talk to people to see what they are thinking and how you can come into some type of peace agreement. Republicians are no better than Iraq and Al Queda, they are a bunch of selfish hogs looking out for their own interest and will murder innocent people and our US soldiers for their selfish greed.

We as America need to learn to set down and try to meet half with these other nations without killing each other to do so. Stop trying to go in and bull dozer our way into other countries and force our policies on them. Obviously, we can't even run our own country let alone another country. America need to take a good look at itself before trying to judge another country for their actions. We are only a inch from forming a Hitler reign ourselves; kill ing everyone or booming everyone who don't comply to the American way. Please America is the one that need to wake up!

Democrat   May 15th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Republicans have blundered foreign policy. They have murdered American troops, and decieved the American public.

They have no right to govern.

Brian Thompson   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

"Some seem to believe we should negotiate with terrorists and radicals, as if some ingenious argument will persuade them they have been wrong all along," Bush said at Israel's 60th anniversary celebration in Jerusalem.

This coming from a man who three years after we had invaded Iraq, sat in the Pentagon offices and asked, "Why aren't the Shia more thankful since we got rid of Saddam Hussein?" Anyone who read a book, any book, on Middle Eastern cultures knows the answer, because for thousands of years Shia and Sunni have hated each other. Duh! Now he acts like he understands the situation, pleeeezzze.

Dan   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

You go, Johnny! What Bush said re: the Dumbocrats wanting appeasement was 100% on the money. And of course, wimps like Nancy Pelosi and Howard Dean immediately go ballistic. But hey, the truth hurts.

It's very simple for McCain to win in the Fall. All he and the Republicans have to do is keep repeating the following over & over & over again:

"The Democratic Party cannot be trusted with the security of our country. They're wimps and appeasers. They've been trying to run from Iraq for the last four years and they don't have the stomach for a fight."

In what remains a very dangerous world, the contrast between a bona-fide, all-American war hero and an elitist, latte-sipping pacifist couldn't possibly be any clearer.

Bob   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

I don't know who told Bush to say it, but, he finally got something right.

Obama's willingness to negotiate with radical governments is one major reason I'll never vote for him.

Pelosi and her failed democratic congress will cost quite a few seats to be lost come November.

Nathan Krawkowsky   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

The Jewish people and the Israelis are smart enough not to buy into this fear mongering.The solution to political issues is not necessarily bombing everybody into submission. Bush is more concerned about protecting the interests of the military lobby .Unfortunately, over the last few decades, the welfare of the American economy has depended on the USA being at war with somebody. THAT HAS TO CHANGE.

ogle jibs   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

sen, mcbush, how do you achieve peace, by threats and covert operations or by peaceful negotiations, i truely believe mcain has lost his bearing

Ed, Santa Fe NM   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

McCain is an idiot... now he's able to predict the end of the Bush Wars in Iraq in 2013?

Gee.... and what will the death toll be by then? And he even predicts bin Laden's capture or death (from old age?).... I repeat: what an idiot.

enoch needles   May 15th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Bush is finished. McCain promises an end to Iraq in 2013 – what a coincidence, we'll have to elect and re-elect him to see that. What a fool.

BTW, how are the sale of Suds in the Sudan, Cindy?

KD   May 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

You're right... Obama is so stupid for wanting to talk before he starts killing people. If talks fail, and there is still an issue, maybe then force should be used. Keyword: maybe. At some point we need a president that doesn't want to rule the world and just wants our country to be safe and strong. Bush is boob. It would be wise for McCain not to follow in his footsteps.

I'm not a fan of Clinton, but at least she would attempt to correct Bush's mistakes rather than solidify them.

Yasriel   May 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Bring it on McSame and you'll find out that we've moved past the politics of fear. We want HOPE and you, my friend, can NEVER be the messenger of HOPE.
Obama all the way

Stacy Clarks   May 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

MCCAIN IS AN IDIOT, AND I WILL SERIOUSLY FEAR IF HE IS ELECTED!!!!

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

Dave   May 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

The means peace through war. It is really time to turn the page on conquering the world. Lets lead the world to a better place or at least try. The world looks like crap. Hell, people are dying now, even in our on neighborhood (carribean) over basic food and water. McCain equals war..a vote for him is a vote to send our young into another dumb war.

WE NEED THE TRUTH   May 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

The President of the United States of American critized a candidate for the Presidency on foreign soil. What a SH%THEAD.

Bush cannot leave office soon enough.

Steve   May 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

McCain

You can make this an issue all you want, but the American people are tired of the hate this current administration has exercised. It is time for dialog in this NEW WORLD ORDER rather extinguish all who resist the Bush dynasty.

The Department of Peace must be seated at the table if the world is to be in ORDER.

Warmongering is a thing of the past and that is why the RP is through.

Mike - Texas   May 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

The thing is, that the President's remarks are right on the money!! If you look at the history of the past 4 years, the Democrats have belittled our troops, belittled our country and have been looking for ways to blame the President for everything while they look to appease and strengthen the enemy by giving them hope by demanding that our troops be pulled out immediately. If that is not appeasement, I don't know what is!!

Voter from CT   May 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

It's fear tactics, and we are above it John Mccain, so let it go! It's what got Bush his 2 terms in office and as they say, fool me once shame on you, fool me twice....

CHANGE   May 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Bush is a flunky. McBush is TOAST.

The GOP still doesn't get that their "lying as usual" isn't working in 2008. Their stupidity and deception has hurt this country immeasurably, and the American people know it.

Lying about Obama and Democrats is just going to dig the GOP grave faster and deeper.

NOT THIS TIME!

Ken   May 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Bush's attack on Senator Obama is absolutely incredulous.This from a President whose only contribution to the ultimate sacrifice of 4000 brave American men and women was to give up golf!!

An American   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

What is wrong with talking to other countries? Oh yeah I forget John McCain wants to bomb, bomb, bomb Iran. I hope Americans don't fall for another war.

Uncle Sam   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

I find it ironic that, after Sen. McCain was widely criticized for pointing out that the terrorist organization Hamas had endorsed the Obama candidacy, it was revealed that an Obama advisor had been meeting with Hamas.

Americans for McCain '08

CW in DC   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

What would you like to do eh McCain? Bomb bomb bomb Iran?

Suziku   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

As far as I'm concerned anything our idiot president says should be taken with a grain of salt and should just reinforce our belief that Obama is the best person to run this country!!!

Ann   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

YESTERDAY Iran made more comments about wiping Israel off the face of the earth and will never recognise it as a country.....So, how can anybody want to sit down and have a 'chat' with this nasty individual. he will just laugh in the face of any person who thinks they are getting anywhere by talking to them. they hate the way the whole of the western world live, not just the US, and will always be planning ways to bring us all down.

Times like these call for a President who is going to be tough on people like this. Everybody needs to realise that you need America to remain a super-power. China and India are catching up fast, and Russia is building a very strong army again. Stop being so liberal and realise how the world is today....

Proud American   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Republicans have a lot of nerve making this type of comment. Cause we can all see how well their tactics are working around the world...NOT!!! Absolutely laughable.

Nancy of Minnesota   May 15th, 2008 12:28 pm ET

And the "peace" has certainly come with the strength...I'm not sure what planet McCain is on, but it isn't earth. Where is the peace? Did I miss it?

JJ   May 15th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

This is the exact same foriegn policy that we have come to know from Bush and Mcain. This is the exact same foriegn policy that got us into the situation we are in today. My question to Mcain would be: What do we have to show for this type of stance on foriegn policy? A safer America? A country the world looks up too? Respect around the world? What do we have to show for it?.....

The GOP are TOAST!   May 15th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Obama/Edwards '08

Deb   May 15th, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Nancy, Nancy, Nancy!

Take a chill pill and then pray to God for guidence!

We are adults in the REAL World and have had about enough of your Left Wing TALK! TALK! TALK!

Actually do something!

PS your Left Wing Nut will never be elected so I would be careful about insulting our next President McCain!

McCain 08

karen from philly   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

YES I do want Obama to sit down with Iran's president and set him straight on respecting Israel. I noticed that the Middle east does not want to talk to a white president. I think sitting down and talking to Iran's president is a good idea so we can discipline him. I really do think our country will be safer against muslim fundamentalists by having Barack as our president. We will be able to catch Osama too because we need the current Pakistanian government to help us find him and Barack can do that because he does not come off as rude and insulting and stupid like Hillary, McCain and Bush.

Christian, Tampa FL   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

The problem for McCain is that the vast majority of the American people want to see negotiations with Iran instead of war. We should always talk to our enemies. It's what strong leaders do. This does not show Obama's "inexperience," it only shows that Bush and McCain are out of touch with 21st century reality. We need open dialog with the leaders of Iran, Syria, North Korea, Sudan, and any other state we have issues with. We just have to be foreceful about it and press them to produce change.

TexOkie   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

The Democrats, Pelosi and Obama are afraid Americans will find that this glove fits pretty well. This is why they are defensive to this acqusation.

RHFJ (Resting Homes For John)   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Dear John McBush,

We relish the opportunity to see you in the fall election, remember that its in November not July. You will be president one day but not of United States, We concede you will the President of Can't Remember **** Retirement Home. Their will be no Barack Obama walking with you maybe Cindy will have her walker next to yours.

RHFJ (Resting Homes For John)

Jb   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

MCCain u are a disgrace!!!!

Hillary or McCain   May 15th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

At least McCain and Clinton give answers and have plans and solutions. Obama makes feel-good speeches. McCain will cream Obama in the debates unless Jack Cafferty or Candy Crowley moderate. Those two would protect their hero and probably provide him with the answers beforehand. Or maybe Obama will just hide from debates like he did with Hillary. Or run away on vacation.

Obama will never get my vote. He is way too liberal and too much of a phoney and a liar. After all his baloney, he's wearing a flag pin now. What a panderer!!!!!!!!!!

Worst of all, he's inexperienced and can't answer a question unless someone has provided him with the answer beforehand. I don't think that his calling the reporter "sweetie" was as bad as not answering her question, though it did show disrespect for a professional woman, and exposed a lot of his dismissive elitist character.

And I hate his anti-American wife. I just can't picture a woman who was never proud of her country and wrote a hate-filled anti-American thesis after getting into the Ivy League due to Affirmative Action (even she said her grades weren't up to par) as First Lady.

wwf   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

A couple of years ago I would have voted for McCain. Today, you could not pay me to vote for him. I guess he would rather have more wars than a peaceful solution to some of our problem. I guess he just misses the action. Now he says 4 more years and we will win. Hum. Seems to me we heard mission accomplished a few years back. The only way we get Bin Laden with McCain in office is if Bin Laden dies of natural causes. The war on terror will go on as long as we are in Iraq. Gas went up another ten cents. Yup, the war was supposed to make gas cheaper. That arguement ranks right up there with a holiday from the gas tax. The jokes can go on and on. If this is what you want to vote for, go for it.

Nunya   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

If the President is leveling criticism at political opponents back home while he is abroad, then he is a legitimate target of return criticism regardless of his being abroad.

Roger   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Let's all unify behind Obama and smoke some crack!

Obama '08

kenn   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

The comments of G W Bush and Mccain agreeing to it, actually indicates that Mccain is running for a Bush third term.

Lori   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I never thought I'd see the day, but I actually agree with GW on something.

Obama IS naive about negotiating with terrorists–and many other things. Fancy talk doesn't solve problems, and the lack of depth in BO's thinking–on the war, the economy, and every other important issue–is apparent.

He is conning his into the White House, and we're letting him.

Obama/Edwards '08   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

This is going to be such an easy election season. The GOP are TOAST!

Scott ATL   May 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I'm going to take all the excuses from Hillary supporters as to why Hillary should win and Obama should loose, on these blogs, and put it together with anything that Bush says and stir in a little Limbaugh trash and publish it...

I'll call it "The Biggest Book or Krap Ever Written..." lol

It's be a best seller...

Darth Vadik, CA   May 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Let me guess, George W. Bush, the grandson of a Nazi supporter, Prescott Bush, is calling Obama a nazi.

Here is a clue to Republicans, all of them, they project psychologicaly, they accuse others of what they do because they think just because they are crooked everybody is crooked.

Carol, Fl   May 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Way to tell them Nancy!
If you think logically here why wouldn't you want to sit down and try to understand our differences? We want to start a term of productivity and start to redirecte the way the US in a more positive light.
They possibly see a change in us and in electing Obama so they want to rationally sit down and discuss the issues and not blow up the world just because.... we want to move to peace. We don't have to like each other but we should respect each other.

Franky   May 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

To be honest, there's nothing to look at here! My boy has been in this stance since he was running for President! Maybe in some sense that's right some people are voting for him. The problem with the Reps is that no matter how they push this, it is going to come to who is to blame for all this. I'm not lying to you but I just don't believe anybody in this war, both Dems and Reps, especially the Reps. I know there are some Reps who would probably consider twice about the war so I ask them, what else do we need to know???? Why??? Because last time I checked, Iran said "Irquia don't really want Americans on their soil." And do you know the confusing part??? He had a meeting with the Iraqui President, LOL!!!! I wonder who's right in this situation or wrong.....you see, is pretty confusing...

Navywife   May 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

A vote for McCain is a vote for another war...how much more are the American people willing to take?

D.J.   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

The Democratic leadership are stepping up to blast President Bush for his blatant scare tactics. We've heard from Howard Dean, Nancy Pelosi, Barack Obama, etc. So where's Hillary Clinton? She can't afford not to weigh in on this. Not if she's going to be our next president. LOL

Obama '08

Jack Walden   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Bush is an idiot

tblno   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

McCain just sealed his fate....Obama 08!

Kenneth M   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

GR8! This is what Obama wants, the general election has begun. Notice Slick Hillie is nowhere mentioned in this story.
Obama/Pilosi 08

soy   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

McCain is a fool. And God help this nation if he's elected the President of this nation. So we can only achieve peace by blowing them off the face of the earth? How does that make us any different from them?

I believe if they are brought to understand that the future of their children and that of the children of Israel are at stake they'll come to a resolution that won't require us to constantly be at war with them. War cost money and lives. It is sometimes necessary but should be avoided if possible. The Republicans don't seem to understand this and they continue to lead this country down the path of destruction.

Obama '08

MD Houston   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Pelosi's comments are expected. She is more of an appeasment junkie than Obama.

It is such a shame that US foreign policy has been completely hijacked by political partisanship. The dems, especially the democratic leadership, want to see Bush fail so much that they are more than willing to let US interests suffer.

Disgraceful.

richard   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

If there is one thing I have learned this primary season it is that my party the democratic party is not interested in what is best for America. You have embarrased me. Obama has shown over and over he is not qualified and yet the democratic elite and the far left radicals dont care. I will vote McCain, blog for him, and donate to his campaign. I ask other embarased dems to do the same. Shame on you.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   May 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

See? I told you that John McCain is actually Mini-Bush! ;(

NickNas   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Protocol? to hell with Protocol! I will talk about Bush I don't care WHERE he is.

McCain and Bush are joined at the hip. Obama made them BOTH look stupid with HIS response to this attack.

So Republicans tell us the TRUTH..Are you all just hell bent on world war or are you just too simple minded to get the fact that Bush and his little appendage called McCain are just stealing all of our nations wealth while pretending it is to " Protect us" ????

Jeff, North Dakota   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

President Bush is no leader.

dan   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Just go away Nancy Pelosi your no better then bush. change I dont see any and you have the majority you said there would be change. Im thinking Dems are no better then the GOP. so this year im voting none of the above.

Angus McDugan   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

She has to start barking now that Edwards is looking like the top candidate for Obama's VP.

Jan Boca Raton, Fl   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Who Cares What Pelosi says, she's not wrapped too tight.

If you have ever seen her in an interview all she does is twitch
all over the place and stutter her words.

Dan (Kirkland, WA)   May 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Peace through strength? As in, I have a gun, let there be peace?

If this is what the GOP has for us until November, it is going to be an amuzing election.

silence do good   May 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Obama's racist and antisemitic past and friends will come back to haunt him. Why couldn't the DNC have put up a solid liberal candidate with no hate background? If Obama loses it for us in Nov all DNC top folks should be kicked out for sheer arrogance and stupidity.

Jay   May 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

In all my readings about WW II and the run-up to it, I have never run across any reference to the "Senator" who made those comments in 1939. As a matter of fact, from what I remember of my history, most U.S. politicians didn't much care what went on "over there" in Europe - preferring that America remain removed from the European conflicts.

WHO WAS THIS U.S. SENATOR???

Or is this another made up story for political purposes like so many in the last 7 1/2 years?

Proud1of 26% in WV   May 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Just because Obama said that It would be good to talk with enemies the same as with friends he now is a terrorist?Oh I forgot we just blow them off the map.

Roger   May 15th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Why should he denounce it when it is what Obama has been using this his whole campaign.

Dumb Mcain and Bush   May 15th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

I Guess....Mcain and Bush agree on a lot. I guess voting for him makes it another term of Bush....Go John Mcbush...he will save the economy and lead us into a better view on how the world will look at us.

Letha, Sioux Falls, SD   May 15th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

As if Pelosi has done anything for anyone since she took the office. At this time the Repubs are right, Obama has no experience and should not "open" his arms and hug the bad guys.

HSNP   May 15th, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Hey Nancy. Tell Barack not to make any speeches that contain the phrase "Peace In Our Time" while waving a piece of paper.

Vicki Bryant   May 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

George Bush needs to shut the f-up and go sit down somewhere. Any and everything that comes out of his mouth is a lie. He has no credibility. PLUS – he stated within the past 2 days or so that his sacrifice regarding his war has been to not play GOLF!!!! Can you believe this guy?

Blake, San Diego   May 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

“…I will make this an issue with Senator Obama throughout this campaign, I believe in peace through strength, and peace through strength is the way that we have succeeded in the past.”

All great militaristic societies throughout history imploded... Scary talk from this old man. No wonder the entire world views us as bullies.

lulu   May 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Oh dear. Poor "don't ever threaten me again" Nancy Pelosi is offended by Bush's comments. In the meantime, Nancy, can you please tell me why I shouldn't be offended by Robert Malley, one of BO's campaign advisors, having talks with Hamas (who, by the way, are supporting BO, too)? Not one effin word from you on this subject matter!

Ostriches burying our heads in the sand   May 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

Well said Nancy!

How could GW do something so irresponsible?? To say something like this about a person who might very well be the next POTUS on a trip to Israel is plain dumb if nothing else!!!

A.   May 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

This is why us Democrats need to stick together!! Hillary herself said that voting for McCain would be a grave mistake. If you truly support her like you guys like claim you do, trust her fully. A Democrat NEEDS to win this time.

We need to come together. Period.

Letha, Sioux Falls, SD   May 15th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

You should just shut up stupid woman. As if Pelosi has done anything for anyone since she took the office. At this time the Repubs are right, Obama has no experience and should not "open" his arms and hug the bad guys.

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