May 28, 2008
Posted: 08:45 AM ET

From
CNN

Watch Obama discuss his Pennsylvania primary loss on CNN Radio Wednesday.

(CNN) — The Republican National Committee accused Barack Obama Tuesday of a lack of judgment after the Illinois senator mistakenly said that his uncle helped liberate the Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz while serving in the American military during World War II.

In fact, that concentration camp was liberated by Soviet soldiers in 1945.

Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton released a statement later Tuesday clarifying the remarks, saying the Illinois senator meant to refer to the Buchenwald camp, which American soldiers did liberate. Obama was also apparently referring to his great uncle, Charles Payne.

“Senator Obama’s family is proud of the service of his grandfather and uncles in World War II – especially the fact that his great uncle was a part of liberating one of the concentration camps at Buchenwald. Yesterday he mistakenly referred to Auschwitz instead of Buchenwald in telling of his personal experience of a soldier in his family who served heroically,” Burton said.

In a statement released earlier Tuesday, Republican National Committee spokesman Alex Conant said Obama's comments "raise questions about his judgment and his readiness to lead as commander in chief."

Obama's comments came Monday during a question and answer session after a Las Cruces, New Mexico speech marking Memorial Day. The Illinois senator was calling for better care for veterans who experience post-traumatic stress syndrome when he made the reference.

"I had a uncle who was one of the, who was part of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps and the story in our family was is that when he came home, he just went up into the attic and he didn’t leave the house for six months," Obama said. "Now obviously something had really affected him deeply but at that time there just weren’t the kinds of facilities to help somebody work through that kind of pain."

Payne, a brother of Obama's grandmother, served in the 89th Infantry Division that liberated one of the subcamps of Buchenwald, according to the Obama campaign.

(Updates with Obama response)

Filed under: Barack Obama


MI voter   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Oh, come on. Obama tells a story that's basically true about something that happened BEFORE he was born and McCain calls him out on it when McCain cannot even get the Sunni and Shia straight while he's spouting his rhetoric IN Iraq?

It is so laughable, except it is so sad – especially since there are obviously so many Hillary sheep out there bleating how they'll vote for this maniac if Clinton doesn't win the Democratic nomination!!

McCain is a bitter, cranky old man who presumes to know what is best for us all but is surely STLL fighting the Vietnam war in his mind – the whole "we'll never surrender" and "we won't leave without victory and honor" sounds like he's trying to make up for how we "cut and run" there.

Has someone checked this guy for PTSD? Or Alzheimer's?

Jennifer from Atlanta   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

According to CNN Obama made a mistake; it was his great uncle and he cited the wrong camp but the story is true. After months of campaigning its understandable… much more believable than an outright lie about landing under and ducking Bosnian sniper fire.

Michael Ray Thompson   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Whoa! Be careful, RNC. The media will label you as an outright racist if you criticize Obama. He may be an idiot, but everything negative you say about him will be viewed as a racial slur Good luck, John McCain .

Chuck R   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Well Obama was under sniper fire at the time.

Ann T   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

CNN is reporting that Obama was referring to a "GREAT" uncle and that he got the name of the camp wrong. I forgot the name of the camp but it was in Germany. I'm sure Obama himself will comment.

I love the straw grasping though on the NEOS part. ha ha

R.T.   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Easy answer. His uncle must have been a communist in the Soviet Army since they liberated that camp. Would certainly explain his nephew Barack's political leanings.

And you guys poke fun at Hillary for "misspeaking"? This guy can't even get his family history right.

Georgia   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

It demeans John McCain, a solid American, to allow his campaign to engage in this nonsense. Take on Obama like a man..if you win, hats off…if you lose, at least you ran the race the right way. It is so obvious that the establishment is scared of Obama, they are reaching. As for lack of experience, Bush's multiple business failures and C average in college seemed to prepare him well enough for the job.

Jon   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Obama is a LIAR. Why can't you see that he stands for nothing. LIES, LIES, LIES. I am a Veteran of the Iraqi War and how dare he use lies to get personal gain. What a scum bag. Go ahead and vote for him, remember brainless wonder, you get what you ask for and he surley is Change for the bad.

Jordan   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Rachael, why do you find the comment so offensive ? If you are so easily offensive maybe you should avoid all public discourse. At the least, stay off this blog. That way you will avoid your sensibilities being aroused.

Daniel M, El Paso, TX   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

He probably helped liberate one… He probably just named the wrong one lol

John   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Obama seems like such a confused freshman.

Come on , debate Hillary chicken.! LOL He's been hiding from that ever since she spanked him at a forum in which the moderators weren't cushioning him.

She can not be his running mate…she's just too superior.

HSNP   May 27th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Obama the liar!!!

eddie   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Obama is an joke. Hillary is the real one.

The Independent Navy Corpsman   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Who cares! The republicans are responsible for the Iraq and Afghanistan Occupation and the crappy economy mostly do to increased oil prices! This is bullcrap we need a democrat in the White House. After the final states vote in June we need to unify the party.

Awful   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

HA HA
When McCain messes up Shiite and Sunni, Obama nuts say he's too old….
Clinton talks about coming under sniper fire and Obama nuts call her crazy….
How could either of these people be president….Right????

Obama talks about his non-existent Uncle going to where NO US troops went….and Obama Nuts say????????
"o he just mispoke or why is this a big deal"
Good job guys

obamacrat   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Wow RNC you really got him now! Just the smoking gun you were looking for. I wouldn't be surprised if Obama drops out of the race tonight. NOT!

amber   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

He never said that his grandfather did anything.
He said it was his UNCLE, he does not have an uncle.

I saw the video and that is what he said..UNCLE liberated Auschwitz, and UH wrong because the Soviets did.

So he LIED

Nikole   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

He said "one of the first of American troops to liberate concetration camps" And so he should concede that he should have left out the reference to Auschwitz.
Moving right along.

Jim   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Obama continually lies but people don't seem to really mind. I guess that is what this country has come to expect. Sad, sad, sad!

A J in Fla   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

I'm sure that Mr.Obama also helped Mr. Gore to invente the Internet…..!!!!!!!

Way to go Democrats…!!!!!!

Jake   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

OK liberals, let's pull our troops out and just sit back and wait for another terrorists attack on American soil. Then after that we will send troops back and start all over again. Sounds like a plan to me.

Obama   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

How stupid, get over it.

Nic   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

How is it even in the same ballpark as her sniper fire comments? She was THERE and described it nothing like it actually happened! Get a grip.

Steve IA   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Soviets win WWII…. Americans 2nd liberatiors

Mike   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

My Dad was also one of the Americans who marched into and witnessed Auschwitz (after the Russian troops). So he did not get there first or it was another concentration camp. Big Deal. This is less than a non issue. Someone will end up checking the facts and find that Obama,s Uncle was a WW2 Hero who did in fact liberate a concentration camp. Why do I know this? Because unlike Hil Liar ry.
Obama is a man of truth.

Wendy in NC   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Oh my, Obama made a verbal slip about a TRUE story. Did anyone notice that McCain couldn't even pronounce Ahmadinejad's name correctly in his speech today? Get a grip, republicans!

paul   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

"was part of the FIRST AMERICAN TROOPS to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps"

READ BEFORE YOU WRITE IDIOTS!!!!

And McCain.. dont make false claims!! We have enough of that from bush!!

Terry in Fl   May 27th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

What's new? Everything thast comes out of his mouth is BS!

john   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

He said "…the story in our family was…" You Repugnants and Clintanistas are so desperate you can't even Understand or READ ENGLISH anymore,my .my. you are a sorry bunch out there. Barach Obama requires a bit more of that thinking stuff. You aren't used to that yet.

Bastian   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Hi,

Im from Germany and I agree with Obama.

It might be the case that it was the Russians who actually liberated the above-mentioned concentration camps – but what Obama meant was were it not for the Americans the Allied Forces and the Russians would not have been in the position to perform this liberation.

Chino ROmero   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

In Obama´s story it´s irrelevent where the uncle fought, he´s talking about how harsh is any veteran homecoming.

"Obama’s frequent exaggerations and outright distortions raise questions about his judgment and his readiness to lead as commander in chief,"

On the other hand we had Bush on a U.S. vessel with a banner that read "Mission Accomplished", Hillary with the infamous "sniper fire stroy" and J. McCain with his hundred years statement…
how about that for exaggeration ?

Kevin from WA State   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

If you read and listen to what Obama actually said you will notice that Obama was stating that his uncle was ONE OF THE FIRST AMERICANS to go into Auschwitz AND one of the troops that liberated the concentration camps (it would make absolutely no sense to say "Auschwitz AND concentration CAMPS unless that was what he meant).

Shame on the RNC for trying to exploit the un-exploitable.

There is nothing in error or inconsistent with his statement because it stands to reason that his uncle could have been one of the first AMERICANS in Auschwitz AND ALSO that he may have been involved with the liberation of Dora-Mittelbrau, Mauthausen, Dachau, or Flossenburg, all of which American troops liberated.

I think Obama's BIGGER more IMPORTANT point in his story about his uncle concerned the horrors experienced by those in the overall war effort. Unless the RNC wants to give ALL the credit to the Soviets for liberating the Jews in Nazi controlled Europe, and on Memorial Day no less. The RNC is shameful here.

KCB

RW   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

CNN REPORT SOME REAL NEWS

Rob   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

cnn how bout checking your facts before spinning repugnikan crud

MCcain Support   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Get over this please. I will not vote for MCcain if they go around calling names.
MCcain is too old after hearing his medical history I will not vote for him.

Sylvia Johnsen   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Enhancing those boring campaign-speaches can be difficult, just ask Hillary Clinton about snipers in Bosnia. She went there in 1992, right after the fighting. The area had sniper activities, which was why the helicopter she was in flew sick-sac before landing and secret service made other preparation. However, the tension Hillary may have felt do not reflect what she said; making it sound like they had to duck and run due to sniper fire. TV-footage made her embellishments seem like lies, but are they really?
I am sure that when Obama embellish the story of the uncle he doesn't know, it is not considered lying. The point of the story is that Obama support our troops, even though he never served himself.
And the point of the sniper story is that in 1992 Hillary Clinton was in Bosnia, she participated in the peace talks in Northern Irland and spoke of women rights in China. Where was Obama in 1992?
That my friends, is what experience looks like.

Jeremy   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

By the time the republicans start taking on this guy, he will be apathetic little kid. I am still amazed how an empty vessel like Obama got nominated by democrats as their candidate. Tis the tragedy of liberalism in America.

RB TX   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Obama was on one of his drug binges when he made those comments. Obama is getting Kenya mixed up with Austria….
ooopppsss

Obama needs to be quiet when it comes to Military issues, because while McCain was defending his country Obama was using drugs in High School and college trying to "Find Himself".

Go, Hillay if not Hillary Go McCain.

Cindy   May 27th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

I heard in another forum, that there were Americans soldiers with the Russians. They were allies then, after all.

Regardless if the uncle remembered the wrong concentration camp, or if he was one of those American soldiers who were liberating the camp with the Russian soldiers… the fact remains… there were no facilities to help our returning soldiers back then. I also have an great-uncle who went to war, and when he came back he never talked about it. President Clinton recently gave him a Medal of Honor. We never knew he was so brave, he never talked about it. The gist of Obama's story is true, and all the Republicans can do is nitty-pick it to death, just like Hillary did to Martin Luther King.

marylee wagerman atlanta,ga   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

In fact, campaign spokesman Bill Burton says, his great uncle was a member of the 89th Infantry Division that liberated the Ohrduf camp, part of Buchenwald and, according to the Holocaust Museum, the first concentration camp liberated by U.S. troops.

The soldier in question, Burton said, is Obama's grandmother's brother, who's still alive.

UPDATE: "Senator Obama’s family is proud of the service of his grandfather and uncles in World War II – especially the fact that his great uncle was a part of liberating one of the concentration camps at Buchenwald. Yesterday he mistakenly referred to Auschwitz instead of Buchenwald in telling of his personal experience of a soldier in his family who served heroically," Burton says

Jack   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

So Barack Obama makes a comment like this and people claim that critics are grasping at straws – However when Hillary makes a comment about sniper fire in Bosnia this message board lights up with people saying that she's a liar and a cheater and a who knows what else. John McCain is regularly attacked on here when he doesn't make mistakes – I'd hate to see what would happen if he said something like this.

The distorted viewpoints of CNN's primary consumers is highly disturbing.

Dr. Kool-Aid   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

No one cares

dwc   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Amazing how Obama supporters jumped all over Hillary for exaggerating Bosnia, but when Obama exaggerates in his speeches, his supporters think its no big deal. Again with the double standards, which is just another reason Clinton's supporters are so upset about the treatment she has received during this campaign.

ny   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Obama will say anything to win the nomination…I can't believe this. This guy can really talk and can really make stories up. I am surprised he is not talking about things he heard Pastor Wright speak for 20 years :)
I am surprised the so called future first lady "Michele" doesn't speak to the media. Are they hiding her to hide her hatred for America and Americans???

Uncle Sam   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

It is well documented that Republicans eat their own young.

RB   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Who cares! What's that got to do with Iraq or paying for Iraq Veterans' college education?? OR home foreclosures, or gas prices, or food prices, or anything else wrong with our economy??

McCain's a chucklehead! And his advisors are great at picking fights over nothing. Let's talk about lobbying for dictators/murders/tyrants, Johnny?

Atlanta   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Is this the best the RNC can come up with? To say they are weak and grasping is an understatement. It is really sad. Maybe if McCain were a candidated that excited people, they wouldn't have to reach for such non-stories. Thank goodness every time the leader of the Repubs, George Bush, speaks….it makes sense, right? Now, back to $4.00 a gallon gas, a war, a bad economy….at least Bush's oil friends are living well.

Matt Simpson   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Furthermore, he said his father went into Auschwitz, which is likely, and that he liberated camps, which is likely, but he never said that he liberated Auschwitz. And anyone who talks about Auschwitz as being liberated is wrong in the first place.

LB   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Who cares. So his elders told him a story and he repeated it. Who hasn't been told war stories by Uncle ___ or Grandpa. At least he didn't say they were shooting at him like Hillary did.

Rob   May 27th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

well well well … the facts are in folks it was his great-uncle that was in the 89th infantry and liberated the Ohrduf camp part of Buchenwald.

If not Hillary....then McCain   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

AMAZING HOW AN ARTICLE ABOUT OBAMA'S EXAGGERATION STILL GETS TURNED INTO AN ANIT-HILLARY BLOG. GET A LIFE PEOPLE!

BJ   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

A Rainbow of information and relations! If one were to go further back into Barack's history, what else might one find?

He's the ultimate 6 DEGRESS OF SEPARATION!!!

Peter   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Obama campaign have answered. Obama mixed Auscwitz with Buchenwald. Buchenwald was freed by american troops. Making a deal of this misspeaking is pathetic.

.....repeat   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

……and Hillary was scrutinized for Bosnia misspeaking ( which was more innocent than this….), so what media is going to do about this "misspeaking"?

Marc in CC Texas   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Was that his uncle from the 57th state?

Cyrus Martin, Euless Texas   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

When Obama answers this one I think there are a lot of people that are going to owe his uncle an apology.

Patton, New York   May 27th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Republicans are trying to use every thing they can possibly get because they know their facing an upwards battle. Too bad it will do them no good.

Obama '08

Ellie in Aurora, CO   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Oh, please! He said American troops – do we believe that American troops didn't go into Auschwitz? The RNC is starting the swiftboating – hang onto your horses!!

Susan   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Let the games begin. We are going to have to decide as a country if we are going to fall for the GOP's tricks this time. And the media is going to have to decide if it is going to be their willing pawns.

Ade   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Erm…. it's actually true.

Go to politico.com

CNN please update the ticker to reflect this…

sozzi   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Why criticize Obama, let's wait and see what are his explanation for this timeline arror. It's not worst then "Sniperfire", and it's not offensive. Maybe his uncle had a timeline error when the american soldiers into Auschwitz.

Dylan   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

hahaha is THIS the best they can come up with??

The Repukes truly are desperate!

Blake, San Diego   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

So maybe it wasn't Auschwitz, maybe it was other concentration camps blah blah blah. I hate politics. The RNC has people doing nothing but digging up whatever little dirt they can find on their opponents. What's outrageous is wanting to keep our soldiers in Iraq after 4,000+ have already died. That is outrageous. That is McCain.

Anthony - Los Angeles, CA   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

funny how Obama supporters ignore his lies but pounce all over Clinton's sniper fire exaggerations. They are all politicians people…including YOUR candidate.

If not Hillary....then McCain   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Interesting how if Obama says it…it is "no big deal" or "the speech writers fault". If this were Hillary, the venom from the Obama camp would be palpitable. Amazing how he gets away with everything! People better wake up and realize we a voting for the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, not a motivational speaker, or philospher.

paul   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

"was part of the FIRST AMERICAN TROOPS to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps"

READ BEFORE YOU WRITE IDIOTS!!!!!

And McCain.. dont make false claims!! We have enough of that from bush!!

Aida   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Sweetie, get your facts straight.

Had this been Hillary…oh, never mind.

NObama 2008

Ken   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Another one of Barack Hussein Obama's pandering to try and win the nominee. Lies being told! He needs to get his facts correct!

And Barack Hussein Obama was to be a different kind of candidate, truthful, honest. I DON'T THINK SO!

WAKE UP AMERICA! You cannot compare this statement with any of Hillary's misstatements for it was Barack Hussein Obama that said he was a different kind of candidate! The truth be known!

Hillary Clinton is the people's choice! Even with her misstatements, she is the only one that can beat McCain in November.

larry   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

shut up repubs, who are we to rain on a family story, try getting my gas prices lowered.

McCain is Traumatized   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Whenever it comes up that John McCain was a POW for 5 years, it's always in a positive light – as though it somehow gives him better qualifications.

The fact of the matter that someone who was tortured and held captive for 5 years is most likely extremely traumatized and unstable.

His famous 'temper' comes out every now and again, although the stories have been kept under the radar pretty well.

It sucks that he became a POW while serving our country, but the bottom line is that that type of mental and physical trauma messes someone up for life. I would not want him responsible for our military actions. He's unstable and highly reactionary.

Puzzled   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

And I am sure the historians know everything the US Military was involved in back in the 1940's and during WWII. Yeah right, we don't know everything they are involved with now so how can they be so sure???

Not Obama   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

American's weren't even there!!!!!!!!!! LOLOLOLOLOLOLOL!

Dmitriy   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Obama is a liar. He IS just another lying and divisive politician. He doesn't care about all 50 states (well, actually 57). And his message of hope is just that – a message.

While he and his campaign publicly were trying to appease Clinton's RFK comments, his campaign sent out an email to reporters with links to Keith Olbermann's rebuke of Sen. Clinton.

More and more I see the need to vote for John or Hillary.

Nobama '08

Doug   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Who cares ?– The subject matter is trite but the implication that he will distort the truth to benefit his position is really the valid point they are making.

I currently support Obama, but that is a valid attack.

Isaac   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

If I'm reading it correctly, Obama didn't say his grandfather liberated Auschwitz, only that he was among the first American soldiers to enter Auschwitz, and that he helped liberate other concentration camps. Or are the Republicans saying that Americans NEVER set foot in Auschwitz?

Sounds like more Republican spin at work to me.

Matt Simpson   May 27th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Auschwitz was never actually liberated, so it's kind of a moot point. Auschwitz was abandoned and then turned into a field hospital shortly before the fall of the Reich.

Kathy Corey   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Telling a lie about your family's military service on Memorial Day is beyond the pale. Stay home and shut up if you have nothing positive to say.

Add this to his tale about being conceived on the road to Selma…even though he was born 4 years earlier.

PA for Obama   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

So his uncle may not have liberated Auschwitz – American troops did, in fact, liberate other concentration camps and director George Stevens shot some of the first color film ever of WWII soldiers and the grim discoveries they made. Only a bunch of desperate Republicans would make a mountain out of this molehill. And leave it to CNN to aid and abet them.

Cynthia   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Maybe this was something that his folks told him. Me, I've heard stories of things that happened back in the day and you know sometimes people stretch the truth.

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

And no doubt Obama himself is frequently under sniper fire as he gets off airplanes.

Politically Incorrect   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Obama made a gross mistake in saying something like this… Did he even read the speech before he gave it??

With that said, I have no idea why republicans say that has anything to do with judgment or his ability to lead!!..

I personally don't give a crap what his uncle did.. I care about the economy and certain individuals actually try and justify this ridiculous war along with foreign diplomacy or lack thereof…

If anybody misspoke it was McCain in saying he's gonna make America safe and wants us to go head to toe and bomb Iran.. But yet wants to reduce nuclear firepower??… Now that doesn't exactly make me feel safe…

HUGE OXYMORON!!!!

dem 4 life   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

It is that hard to comprehend that US elements and Soviet forces worked together as part of the Allied forces to Liberate Auschwitz? Forces do share areas of responsibility and missions though the objectives may differ at times..It was more than the US fighting against the Nazis

The Guy   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

This is just like the sniper fire thing. Mistaking the name of the concentration camp your uncle visited 60 years ago is the same as claiming you were under fire 10 years ago, when you weren't

exactly the same.

Right?

He likely meant Dachau

Debbie   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

HOW MANY DOWN RIGHT LIES HAS THE CLINTON CAMPAIGN UTTERED????

HOW MANY LIES DOES SHE & HER SUPPORTERS CONTINUE TO UTTER???

"COUNT ALL VOTE" – except those who didn't vote for me!!!

McSame – you are welcome to those Clinton supporters – we don't need or want them.

Chuck   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Give us a break.

Obama's Uncle who served in WWII probably did see the results of concentration camps as he helped to liberate Europe. Whether the camps he saw were Auschwitz or some other camps what difference does it make. The fact is the man was most deeply disturbed and effected by what he saw and was exposed too. That was the point of Obama's comments. At least Obama did not say that he himself experienced being under sniper fire at a particular Airport and later found to have been received with hugs and flowers .

Jack the Dog   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

The RNC is senile, just like their candidate.

DT From CT   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Rachael, this is why people like you need to read before you write or open your mouth. The man said and i quote "I had a uncle who was one of the, who was part of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps "
Break down: it means one of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz .
I am tired of all this spins, lets deal with the issues here …

Shannon   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Lol, look at all the Obama supporters making excuses for his lies. I'm sure he had another uncle who walked on the moon too!

The Guy   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

This is just like the sniper fire thing. Mistaking the name of the concentration camp your uncle visited 60 years ago is the same as claiming you were under fire 10 years ago, when you weren't

exactly the same.

Right?

AJ, IL   May 27th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Who cares? He said "uncle" vs "grandpa". RNC needs to focus on the issues or they will lose big in November. Obama needs to re-focus on the economy and so forth. Obama just needs a surrogate to restate his family member's story. Playing around with Republican Karl Rove tactics in an election where real issues matter is dangerous for a Democrat.

Nobama   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Liar, Liar, Liar, true colors are coming out people. Wait for further details about why this man shall not be our president. He is no better than anytoher poilitican. Take notice all you Obamanots are'nt floading this site with your hateful comments about Hillary; Because your man is a liar!

Adam from NY   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Umm…he didn't say that his grandfather liberated Auschwitz.

He said: "I had a uncle who was one of the, who was part of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps…"

This quote, from the above story, say that his uncle was one of the first to liberate the "camps." His uncle was one of the first Americans to go IN to Auschwitz; not one of the first to liberate it.

nina   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

……and with tis "accurate" historical knowledge he wants to convince us that he is good in international politics? I do not think so. Sorry.

nice- made-up story. Offending a lot of people – again….

greenhx   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Had a uncle who was one of the, who was part of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps and the story in our family was is that when he came home.

1. american troops did go into auschwitz, may not have been the first to get there but, americans did go into auschwitz.

2. and liberate the concentration {camps}; means more than one.

another reason why the RNC is out of touch.

NC 4 Obama   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Actually this is very forgivable since he was NOT the main subject of the story and heard it from secondary sources.

dennis from texas   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

o bama the inspirer great leadership cool words with no real meaning do not be fooled by rhectoric

Trent   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

CNN, Wolf and RNC, you are going so low to even bring up this. Shame on both of you.

A Mighty Wind   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

My eyes are ceramic. Caught a bazooka round at Little Big Horn. Or was it Okinawa? The one without the Indians. -Admiral Benson in Hot Shots!

Just wondering . .   May 27th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Rachael . . . . . thats a joke right?

charles   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

In fact, campaign spokesman Bill Burton says, his great uncle was a member of the 89th Infantry Division that liberated the Ohrduf camp, part of Buchenwald and according to the Holocaust Museum, the first concentration camp liberated by U.S. troops.

The soldier in question, Burton said, is Obama's grandmother's brother, who's still alive.

peter   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

How ironic the RNC now trying to give the rest of us history lessons when all they do is distort history themselves to suit their agenda. give me a break if thats all they got for an argument i love it.

Unknown   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

What next?

Jerry Wright   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Oh nice!

Lets see how fast the Main Stream Media tries to brush yet another Obama distortion and bamboozlapandering episode under the rug.

I say 1 day.

KE   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Obama, Rev. Wright, and some Liberal democrats should study history. There are more information available now. And they should study it from all prospect before saturating the world with thire propaganda.

A Dem in November   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Obamas uncle was in one of the first troops to go into Auschwitz, do your homework. So we're going to fight over the use of the word liberate now?

EC   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

What a bunch of RNC sissies, ha! ha! Is this their claim? Wow….. they are going to be TOAST come November!!

Let's talk about Sen. McCain's recent speech statement where he said

"I WILL NEVER SURRENDER"…… last time I checked HE was not in uniform over in Iraq, HE is not dying in a war that he voted YES on, HE is not fighting a war for 100+ years!!

What's with this "I" business? The WAR is NOT about YOU Sen. McCain, it's about our young men and women fighting a war they NEVER should have started. YOU sir voted YES on this war in support of your buddy George Bush!!

I don't recall Americans asking for your permission to bring our military men and women home. We DON'T need YOU to bring them home!!!

GO HILL!   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

John Smith, Frank Smith. Hmmmmmmmmmmm :) Did you forget your name today?

Anna   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Liar Liar pants on fire, ….again…Sen. Obama

Conservative Buyer- CA   May 27th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

Way to go GOP! YEAH!

I always to love to hear just how American troops insignificantly had nothing to do in helping liberate Europe from Nazi Germany. So they're also saying medals mean nothing .

I guess the GOP claim is there are no Jewish Europeans. This smear has the stench of GWBush all over.

Matt   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

He doesnt lie at all. He says that his granfather was one of the FIRST AMERICANS to enter Aushwitcz . Not a lie. He also said he liberated conecntration camps…which is true. He does not tell one lie in that sentence anyone that thinks so is illiterate.

fernando   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

i'm just waiting for the obama camp to apologize for their serious error. they made such a big deal of hillary's mistake in bosnia. let's see if obama and his camp will rectify that quickly. it's very obvious he just made it up.

at least hillary was actually in bosnia and admitted her mistake quickly.

any reason why the obama camp is so quiet about this.

Bukky   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

And this is not a "sniper fire" ike statement unless he claimed that HE himself Liberated the camp. Mountain out of a molehill people…

Jenny   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Relax, It's not like he was under sniper fire while he said it.

If his uncle is anything like the veterans my grandpa played cards with tall tales are expected and nobody questions them. Veterans did their duty, and if they want to exaggerate, then by golly they can.

If you want to get upset about this, then fine. But I dare you to question all the stories your loved ones told you. Feel better?

Alex   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Frank, we got your message the 1st time when you posted it as John. This is shameful.

MD   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Shut up. Find issues to discuss, you morons.

JJ   May 27th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Does this equate to the "sniper fire" comment? I saw people blasting Hillary for that comment. I hope Obama can explain what he said and not just say he "misspoke". They will kill him in the press.

robert   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

of course, Obama maniacs will defend him to the end…..unfortunate for democrats – they will not win the WH…….this is on Dem that will definately not vote Obismal….I meant Obama!

Belle   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Just another lie to try to fit in with whatever group he happens to be with at the time. I hope the media picks this apart as much as they did Hillary's Bosnia claim.

Heidi   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

IS THIS ALL YOU HAVE ON OBAMA? GIVE ME A BREAK.

Obama 08″

fafa   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

The RNC. OMG. What about McCain's 100 years claim. I believe John McCain is still pissed off that he has been outmaneuvered by " that young man with inexperienced, zero understanding GI matters". The colour of your hair doesn't make you claim the right to speak about an issue. This GI bill is going to hurt the experienced senator from Arizona.
OMG I hope so. Probably he will show some respect for his fellow colleague and rival. Obama uncle in the Red Army. Give me a break.
The spinning. It wont just work this time. Not this year. Not this time.

Beckie Sue in Montana   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

WE LOVE YOU OBAMA!!!!

OBAMA '08 & '12

Liz   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Of course if Senator Clinton had made this comment it would be all over the news with everyone DEMANDING an explanation. This is similiar to the tale of how his parents met. He should check the facts before he makes comments if he is going to stand up to that fine reputation of his. You know, the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.
Maybe that scrutiny only applies to the other candidates.

Paul FL   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

The rebuplicans are in no Position to criticize Obama on Veterans!!!

When they believe in giving veterans the right to a College Education like Obama does.. well then, and ONLY then, can they criticize him!!

McCain says NO to GI bill!! Being a veteran he should know better!

Obama, DESPITE not being a veteran himself.. believes in the GI bill!

RL   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Another example of Obama playing fast and loose with the truth. He is just a typical politician. I feel sorry for all those buying the snake oil that he is selling.

Joe G. Glenwood, NJ   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Just a Typical politician twisting the truth to match the mood of the speach. Seems very Clintonesque, pre-youtube. If he can't state history or count the number of States in the US, he belongs back in Congress where he can't do any more damage than the rest of our Elected Representatives.

MV   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Obama's Mother was a single child. His father was not part of his life Where did he Uncle come from?

Debby   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I guess Obama didn't watch Schindlers List.

Ken   May 27th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

This such a ridiculous, non-story,he was giving an anectdotal testimony about the truama of war. Should I have my father, uncle, or grandfather provide citations when they tell me stories. No. The RNC should be ashamed for diverting attention from the point that troops returning from war need more support.

The O   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Ok you got this one, but if this is all that you guys got your in big trouble
but his Grandfather did serve in pattons army and it took a group effort to win that war. so nit pick if you want to.

BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!

Tony   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I hope he can clear the air with a good explanation. Sounds like a Hilary moment right now. It is only fair he gives us a explanation. Sounds like the RNC is watching all of your words be careful, they will try and tie you in with the Russians if they could.

The RNC fails to know ethics when it sees it.   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Only two possibilities: he got details wrong (maybe uncle stepped into Auschwitz and was horrified, maybe it was a story his father made up to tell him of the horrors of the Holocaust), or he just plain old made it up.

A tall tale told to generate MORE sympathy for our troops and unsupported veterans? Of all the campaign lies ever told, I'll laugh if this one gets much air time. Comparing this to how the present administration has been proven to digital alter photos of the president's speeches and so forth…who cares.

And for all of these pundits to pretend they knew the soviets liberated the camp before they looked it up on Wikipedia…shame shame.

chicago chris   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

cue all the Barack haters spewing their trash like their candidate is perfect

Sky- kissimmee, FL   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

The truth will come out one way or another. Barack is not known to tell tall tales and just make stuff up for the heck of it. We shall see.

OBAMA 08′/12′

Bukky   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

This is clearly not Obama's claim but HIS UNCLES… He didnt question his uncle about his actions just like we dont question McCain on choosing to stay a POW "for his men".

Darth Vadik, CA   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

I am sick of Hillary supporters saying they will vote for insane McCain if Hillary is not the nominee. Those threat are not going to work, so take your ball and go already. Otherwise, don't bother the rest of us who are sane.

gmb6707   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

WELL? Its not the first LIE NOBAMA has told!! And we all know it wont be the LAST!!! He wouldnt know what the truth was if it slapped him in his mouth? he said he was raised by a single mother? but then his grandma did everything for him including raised him? Oh- and his mom was not single!! HELLO!!!

VM   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Obviously this genius never heard of the Allied army

Steve   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

How many more gaffes will this Obama candidate going to make…"as I look over the crowd I see those folks we honor" How dead folks standing up at his event?Does he even know what the Memorial Day represents? He is so terribly inept it is frightening to even be considering him over Hillary. Of course the MSM cover up most of his gaffes.

martin   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

whatever rnc !you are history.old news.

Silence Dogood   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

So will Obama get away with another "misspeak"? You have to ask yourself why he gets away with this kind of thing over and over while Hillary gets demonized for it?

He has had more serious lies of course like lying about how much certain fat cat donors have given him, etc. etc., but somehow it is all OK when Obama lies.

So I get to vote in Nov for the body-bag McCain or the empty suit Obama. Thanks a lot!

SlimSista   May 27th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

SO MCCAIN DOESN'T KNOW WHO IS FIGHTING WHO IN IRAQ..LIEBERMAN HAD TO BE THE CLEAN UP MAN FOR HIM…

Sue   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Here we go again – Republicans have nothing on Obama and would grasp for any straw they find.

SHAME on you – the party of no ideas. See how you have destroyed our economy and image abroad. No country even respects us anymore, not even the Saudis when we beg on our knees for more oil!

Sylvia Johnsen   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

That's the problem with not having a record of any sort; Obama has to talk about all the relatives he hardly knows.

michelle   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

AND SO IT BEGINS…..

I GUESS ALL THOSE YEARS LIVING OVERSEAS AS A YOUNG BOY DIDN'T GIVE BO THE EXPERIENCE HE NEEDS TO DEAL WITH INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS THE WAY BO CLAIMED.

BUT THEN YOU ELITIST MEDIA/POLITICIANS/LIBERALS WILL FIND A WAY TO SPIN THIS TO PROTECT MR. BEEFCAKES (AND NO BEEF)

GO HILLARY!

Mar   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

TO PROUD ARMY: Obviously he is making up a story here. Don't you care about that??? If you think Bush is bad, what do you think Obama will be like?? He is making up stories!!!

Second Half   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Obama will loose his peace after being demonized all primary. Second half is with John Mccain. Give it CNN!

obama - supporter - arkansas   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

obama owes the mcsain no explnation.
mcsain is a lieing old fart that supports another bush term. he should be ezplaining himself

steve   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It could be he meant to say another name of a camp, it isn't like what McCain said about Iran.
Actually who cares about the slip up, McCain was hosting spit ball contests at Cindi's ranch with I shot a BB gun once Milton Boardwalk Romney to see if they could chug some saspirilla. Also on the guest list was I shot A Wabbit no A ducckkk Huckabee and other loony toon Republicans.
So what if Obama misspoke .McCain and his wife were giving out I will never be kicked around speech's from Nixon's missing tapes.

Enlightened Voter   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

He said part of the Americans troops, and there were American troops who helped liberate Auschwitz. Repubs, check your history you blundering fools.

Jerzy Adam Mazur   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

I do like Obama, but I think that he proved in his speech that sometimes he tries to being so charismatic that he turns into an idiot. What a stupid thing to say… Does that mean that his entire family story is just a lie????

David in Arizona   May 27th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Who cares?

HJ   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

It would be great if the RNC gave Hillary the VP spot…That woud unite the parties to some extent…

Chris from NY   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

That's not true. I watched the PBS pre memorial day show and the story of this then army man now turned Hollywood morgul. The story was that he was one of the people to go into one of the concentration camps to help rescue some of the prisoners. More so, I understand that Obama's uncle may be alive. Why don't we ask him about the story before you jump into conlusion. After all none of us was present at the time.

robert   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Obama has some explaining to do….but wait, just as in the past, Obama will come out with a statement, which will begin with "what I meant to say"………this has been his MO from day one………….by the way, if he said this on Monday, why was CNN still giving Hillary grief over the RFK comments? Why wait 24 hours to report this?

Voice of Reason   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

What a goofball error… And such an unnecessary one at that…

mt   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

……and Hillary was scrutinized for Bosnia misspeaking ( which was more innocent than this….), so what media is going to do about this "misspeaking"?

lisa kensington   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

HE'S A MESS…….

steven   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Be Careful RNC!

Rave   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

His comments were nothing compared to running into battlefields by Hillary, I will make American people die in Iraq for 100 years by McCain and There are nuclear weapons in Iraq by George Bush.
Get a Life ….
OBAMA / AL GORE 2008

WOW - Cedar Hill, TX   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

WOW!!!! do you have anything else……..RNC

Shane   May 27th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

This guy is a moron, how doesn't he know about this, world history 101, hello? This was just a fake story made up to show he can help veterans among McCain. Guess he or his people working for him didn't do the work correctly.. ouch!

W.H. Thomas   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

U idiot Conant….Learn to read a statement. Barack Obama clearly said his grandfather was one of the first AMERICAN troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate it. I don't think think he said his grandfather's unit liberated the camp. Try again………

Boye   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

LOL, he made a mistake in his history (which wasn't really the point of his statement) but McCain mixed up Sunni and Shia twice, which is present. Plus, he admitted he knows nothing about economics. Well, I guess McCain isn't ready to lead this country either?

A Proud Republican   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

This is just one of many bogus statements/exagerations Obama has made. The RNC must make sure that all voting Americans are aware of these statements. Obama's followers are either uneducated or first time voters and do not recognize these untrue statements. When I say uneducated I mean that they do not know world history events or current events for that matter. They have decided to vote for Obama for one reason and we all know what that is!

Vote McCain '08

HJ   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Way to go RNC….He must be like HRC under sniper fire..

typical white person   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Just another of the many lies from OBAMAMAN

Mike   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

They are trying to raise Mccain and doom Obama. Watch out this journalist!

Jenny Ohara   May 27th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA HA—-Uhhhhh…this just makes me LAUGH! There's more where this came from, I'm sure of it. Way to go, Democrats. Choose a nominee whose background has not EVEN BEGUN to be checked out OR scrutinized! HA HA HA! Clinton has been in the public eye for so long they've pulled out every one of her flaws. But this guy??? HA HAH AHA The Republicans and political strategists have only just begun. What a riot! Yeah — his uncle…whatever…..

Anon   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Haha, this is the best thing the RNC can come up with? Better start measuring those White House drapes Senator.

YoungPHX   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

The RNC is just finding straws to hang on to. They are finished!

Listen, I dont care which concentration camp Obama's uncle liberated. At least he liberated someone or something.

These RNC guys should just GO AWAY. They should just crawl under a rock like the slim that they are.

Sorry, I just paid $4.00 a galon for gas this afternoon and I am irritated with the whold bush administration/RNC.

George   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I am surprised that the Soviets are being given credit for anything during WWII. How convenient – the average American has no knowledge of the Soviet involvement in WWII, thanks to our inaccurate ethnocentric history books.

eagle1   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

When are you kool alde drinking Obamanites going to listen? Nobody knows anything about this guy. He listens to hate speech for 20 years, we insults middle America, his wife has never been proud of America until he runs for Presidency, she says America is mean, he lies about just about everything and gets away with it because he is the media favor of the season and now this. Next thing you know his other uncle dropped the bombs over Japan to end WWII. What a joke. Wake up America, this guy is dangerous.

buckeye in GA   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Uh oh, he made a mistake. I'm just waiting for folks to pounce on this one!

Perhaps his uncle was actually part of the U.S.-led Buchenwald liberation? That happened just a few months after the Auschwitz liberation. U.S. troops also liberated Dora-Mittelbau, Flossenbürg, Dachau, and Mauthausen.

Mr. Obama, please apologize for your mistake, before you get dragged through the mud for it. I support you, but this statement seems to be historically inaccurate.

By the way, most Obama supporters do understand that he is "human", and therefore flawed (as we all are). Those who want to hold him up as some kind of savior are obviously not aware of human nature. Politicians are not to be worshipped blindly, people, even if they're good ones.

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

The RNC needs to research the THREE (3) camps – read the following about the 3rd one -

By late-1944, the Red Army had come closer to the place. The SS personnel managing the camps blew up the gas chambers of Birkenau to hide their crimes of killing. On 17th January 1945, Nazi personnel started to vacate the camps. They forced the prisoners held there to march towards west. They left behind only those who could not march. On 27th January 1945, the troops of the 322nd Infantry of the Red Army reached the place. They found and freed about 7,500 prisoners.

Many more, mr CNN were recovered by US.

GO HILL!   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Can someone PLEASE do something to elect Hillary for our nominee!!!!!! NOW!!!!!!! We do NOT need an inexperienced "President-in-training" running the country!!!!!! How many "lies" does this now add up to for his claims about himself and his family???????

SLO Bear   May 27th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

We must be approaching the general election: The RNC is starting to sound like HRC–hopefully, the Republicans won't stoop as low as she and President Clinton have.

Garry   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Another lie oh mighty one?? Did your aunt hold the gun while your uncle help liberate the jews?
Just another example of the so called wonder boy making up stories to bring you guys in.
Sorry..you don't have my vote and you won't have my vote ever.

Harry   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Fear Bomb!
"Obama is a liar and deceive people"

Give it up Clinton News Network and stop insulting our intelligence any further. Hillary's dream must be slipping away!
By the way, Why is CNN Express is in Ohio while no Primary there?
Oooh, we must remind superdelegates that Obama can not win Ohio and the only state that matters is Ohio.
Keep on dreaming with your crones Clintons. After this, this network must go to hell with with the clintons!

Cesar Chavez - si se puede   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

He should comment. …however, this is nothing like Bosnia sniper fire or 100 more years in Iraq. All of our candidates have had their guffaws. Let's see how much press this one gets in comparison and on scale to the others.

Don for Obama   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Everyone knows McSame is the ultimate flip-flopper of this campaign season, the RNC should give us a break,

Remember when McSame said the army commander was walking in Iraq without armor protection, it turned McSame was lying. Talk about hypocrisy!!!!

JAY REED   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

BIG DEAL!

I'VE HAD STORIES TOLD BY MY ANCESTORS THAT WERE SLIGHTLY INCORRECT. THE POINT IS HIS GRANDFATHER SERVED.

Doom.   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

He likely meant Dachau or Buchenwald, slightly smaller and less notorious camps, but… whatever. this is proof that Obama is an EVIL LIAR, obviously right?

He's lucky he is not put in jail for mixing up the name of a nazi death camp!!!!

Hillary Forever! SNIPERS BEWARE.

ber6964   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Auschwitz was not the only concentration camp and if I remember my history, American troops did liberate some of the concentration camps. I read his statement as stating that his uncle was part of those troops. Please CNN, have you got nothing else on Sen. Obama???

european   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Mr. Obama, please, learn history before you speech. You keep offending a lot of people on different issues. This 2nd world war is extremely sensitive issue to many people.

Amy   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

I thought he said once that Cheney was the uncle in the attic.

Jon   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Obama should have picked a better way to phrase it, but i think the RNC is over reacting. Obama did not say that his uncle liberated Auschwitz. He stated his uncle was one of the first Americans to go into Auschwitz, and liberate the concentration camps (not specificly Auschwitz).

Berat, Park Ridge, IL   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Out of curiosity, why is the RNC hitting Obama on, of all things, veteran's affairs? Hasn't VoteVets.org been pretty successful as portraying a good portion of Republicans as anti-veteran? And isn't that the truth, too, excepting, of course, some good people like Chuck Hagel (not that I'd ever want to be in a position to vote for him, but Hagel is a lot more conservative and pragmatic than his Senate brethren).

pamom40ish   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

So you are saying NO American troops were sent into Auschwitz to help? Funny, I wonder why i thought I have seen pictures of our troops there helping, google image search is helpful if you want to see pictures of what American troops did in Auschwitz.

Realistic   May 27th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Another blatant lie on the part of Obama. The Republicans are correct in questioning his judgment. This man is unqualified to lead our great country. Most know this – the blue collars workers; women; the Jewish , Catholic and Latino population; seniors; large states – and yet the superdelegates and Democratic leaders insist on having him as their nominee. Another loss for the Dems in November!

Fed up Dem   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

What the F#$%$

cpf   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

was his uncle under sniper fire too?

mcd   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

"go into Auschwitz" and then he said liberated concentration "camps" this does not mean his grandfather actually liberated Auschtiz.

Nice try though RNC

lol   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

obama is just pandering for the jewish vote. he is "friendly" with rashid khalidi, the anti semitic prof. from columbia univ. khalidi said and I quote" he is the only candidate who has expressed sympathy for the palestinian cause." the jewish community is wary of obama, and are concerned for the state of israel, should he be the nominee. he is friendly, with rev. wright, bill ayers, rashid khalidi, and thinks louis farrahkan is an ok guy. all of the above are radical extremist, and the list keeps growing.

Rich   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Hillary was never under sniper fire in Bosnia. There is a big difference between making a mistake about a family member and lying on yourself. If Obama made a mistake about a story of a family member, to me, that isn't that bad. I know I've probably made mistakes telling stories about my family members. But how can you make a mistake about your own experience as Hillary did with the Bosnia Sniper fire incident. For all of you who don't know, Hillary claimed that she was under sniper fire in Bosnia, but we have evidence that she lied about that. How could get something that tramatic so mixed up?

James, SC   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

O.K Senator Obama,

Let's see if you checked you grandfather's story before you repeated it? If you made an error, how soon will you correct it?

Tim   May 27th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Is that all they have??

Obama 08/12

AVEMBE The sun   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

OBAMA ….is …a …LIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!
Hillary ….is….a LLLIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRR
Mc CAIN is a LIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRR
G.W. BUSH is a …president!!!sorry guyz!!!

Andrew, IL   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

I just read an article that said an Auschwitz survivor met American soldiers so this statement really isn't a lie.

PS   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

This is just a start. More you analyzed his say during primary campaign more you will find the more false claim. We have already seen "because of JFK, my dad able to study in USA"

Citizen of USA should think ahead of time before it is too late that whom to elect as president of USA

Anthony   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Wow the RNC really wants Hillary to win.

Shawn   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Clinton Supporter:

"See? There you go. Obama the liar! Obama the nobama.

Obama should step down because he cannot beat McCain (never mind that Hillary can't even beat Obama).

I will be voting for McCain because Obama is black, he has no experience, and because Obama supporters are meeeeeeeaaaaan!"

(end sarcasm).

Nia   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

It that all they got….Stay on relevent topic RNC…Figure out how McNot got out menuvered today in regards to the GI Bill. Obama isn't even in the office yet and he's making changes…hummmm

dg   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

When McCain speaks, I think to myself, if he is the best the republicans have to offer, they're in big trouble. He seems so programmed or uncomfortable and not very convincing when giving a speech. When I think of a leader, McCain isn't close to what I imagine a leader should be. Especially during these troubled times of today.

qualquan   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Sort of clutching at straws isn't it? Is that the worst the Repubs can find on Obama?

Darth Vadik, CA   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

At least he did not support Hitler like Prescott Bush.

Sigh   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Thats a streach on both sides.

Democrat   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Common republicans, you know its over, its time for the man to take his presidency. What are you really trying to prove by this, I would like to hear a bit more about Mcaain and his little scandal with the women in his past. I thought he was married?

Philip A.   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Must have been his white uncle

Blue Dog Dem   May 27th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Just another example of Obama's inability to lead the country. He is not ready for prime time.

The Republicians will barbeque him, and he will provide the sauce.

HILLARY '08

Tim, AL   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

That'll win the American Jews over.

HILLARY '08

Illinois   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

There is nothing to say about Obama than a big liar!

dan in FL-FORMER DEMOCRATIC VOTER.   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

GO MCCAIN..2008.
NEVER OBAMA .
I VOTED IN FL BUT MY VOTE DOES NOT COUNT.SO I WILL VOTE FOR SOMEONE THAT CARES.

Emy   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

"Obama’s frequent exaggerations and outright distortions raise questions about his judgment and his readiness to lead as commander in chief," Conant also said.

I have never heard any other distortions and exagarations. Looks like Karl Rove at work! Please keep track of all those statements and then tell us what problems we are going to solve in this country.

I would like to revisit the speech or whatever it was since it is hard to believe our media anymore. I want to see it myself and make my own conclusions and would urge majority who are reading this article to do so and get all the information before we judge Obama. We had been in this road before, CNN!

SH   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

What an idiot. I just don't believe a single word coming out this guy. More lies will be detected soon.

Ms. GA   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

The LIARS aka RNC wants to call someone on over exaggerating. That’s kind of funny. They've been lying to the entire world for the past 8 years!

DeeJam   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Ask yourself this: DID YOU VOTE FOR GEORGE W BUSH? If so, don't make another mistake. Obama is best for our country. It won't be easy. Our country is in need of serious work. No one person can do it by themselves. I like and respect Obama because he can pull smart people together and make something happen out of nothing. That's what we need in a leader. We don't need someone with a bunch of political agendas that don't help Americans bring our country together. We need change. We need to believe that we can help make that change. We need hope. We will elect Obama in Nov 08.

Hmmm...   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Ok, even reading the quote, he didn't say his grandfather liberated Auschwitz. It says his grandfather was among the first Americans to "go into Aushwitz" and "liberate the concentration camps." Maybe it was a slight misstatement, but geez…. quite the overreaction by the RNC. I'm sure the Obama camp is researching exactly where his grandfather was during WWII and will release a statement to clear everything up. Relax, people. That is hardly an offensive statement.

Will in Richmond, VA   May 27th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

OOPS! Well, I guess no ones perfect. Guess this is his own "sniper fire" snafu. 'Cept he wasn't actually there, like she was, but whatever. This will get two days maybe. Family anecdotes don't always work their way into history books.

And frankly, there's way too much exaggerated outrage over every single little misstep that's made by one party or other. It's tiresome and distracting. More meat, less A-1 please.

kz   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

hmmmm how does the RNC totally reject Obama's story right off the bat without even looking into first? no one denied hillarys sniper story until we had video footage. so lets not deny this story until they can trace obama's grandfather's military history…why r repubs always jumping the gun?

VM   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Wait – someone accused him of lying just based on a supposition and without knowing who or what Obama was talking about?

martha Deem   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Wake up America and be very careful who you choose to support….this person has told more than one untruth and is always on the defensive. America be sure of the change you are supporting it may be more than you, or any of us, are prepared to endure.

Voter   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Obama 08

Griff   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

He does not have any relative in the USA past… He never had! Adoption is not Genetic…. He is a Kenyan…. East African, Arab, decendant…. He can pull the wool over your eye's, but not a guy who was stationed in Kenya…. His Name, say's it all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jena, Kentucky   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

So all the GOP do everyday is review Obama's speaches for any mistake? A wonderful job indeed considering the fact that McCain consistently misrepresents facts and has even started flip-flopping.

Shall we start with the Sunnis or Shias?

JG   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

He's clueless. Hillary's a liar. McCain is a spineless flip-flopper. How DID this country narrow the presidential candidates down to these three? Is America screwed or what?

voter   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

the rnc should learn their history when they state that the u.s. does not speak to dictators or rogue leaders. Funny that Regan spoke to USSR, Nixon with China etc. Maybe McCain's judgement should be called to question since he is not telling the truth about american foreign policy throughout history.

Fact Check - Politico.com   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Earlier, the Republican National Committee pounced on Obama's improbable statement that an uncle had served in the unit that liberated Auschwitz.

In fact, campaign spokesman Bill Burton says, his great uncle was a member of the 89th Infantry Division that liberated the Ohrduf camp, part of Buchenwald and according to the Holocaust Museum, the first concentration camp liberated by U.S. troops.

The soldier in question, Burton said, is Obama's grandmother's brother, who's still alive.

Shannon Bowling Green, KY   May 27th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Once again, Obama is caught lying! How many more lies is it going to take before his blind supporters wake up and see what he really is?

Monica   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I don't believe one word the RNC says. They are so dirty and under handed. Next they will go after there own guy – McCain.

Will - OKC   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Glad to see CNN plans to continue to perpetuate partisan smears and exaggerate misstatements rather than report on the policy plans of the candidates in the race.

Good job, CNN!

/end sarcasm.

Someone please let me know when CNN stops perpetuating every stupid smear against Obama and the other Presidential candidates.

Ah - and now....   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

The RNC can say what alot of us Dems have been thinking – so now that Obama will be getting called on the carpet for his misleading and exagerated comments – let the games begin.

No one believed Clinton – maybe the US will wake up now and listen!

No Senator Obama…." I Wrote A Tough Nuclear Bill" – your bill was rejected by your own party for its pandering and lack of all regulation – mainly because of your Nuclear Donor, Exelon, from which David Axelrod came from.

This is just the beginning – and Senator Obama keeps insisting on his misleading comments. Of course, lets keep in mind who is keeping him in the race..Exelon, Kennedy, Kerry and some other turncoats. I say vote McCain and the House and Senate Democratic. Then all is fair in love and war!

Jeremy   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I am very disappointed with Barack Obama's descent into dishonesty. I voted for him in the primaries in MI, but have since taken a second look at this very dubious character.

George   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Obama was clearly speaking about the effects of war, not taking personal credit for anything, therefore if the historical data is a little off that is a non issue. War takes a physical and emotional toll on our soldiers and that is what the warmongers in the RNC need to consider before they sacrifice the lives or our brave men in these unnecessary wars fought just to further their political agenda.

Mark   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Republicans reaching for straws with this one………

Noah   May 27th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Okay Obama supporters…whats his excuse..he mis-spoke…or did he lie?? If this was Hillary, you would be all over this…..

The man is not prepared to be President.. He thinks we have 57 states and now he doesn't even know the history of this country.

Otto   May 27th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Owned.

Brian   May 27th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

He misspoke on the name of the camp. The essential truth of the story stands. RNC owes Barack an apology!

Tony Z- MD   May 27th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Are they serious? This is a family story. Maybe his uncle exaggerated or possibly other information is incorrect. I would just say folks have too much time on their hands. The RNC should be worrying about the mess they got us into.

amber   May 27th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Wonder how he will "CHANGE" this story so that he can accuse the RNC and anyone who doubts him as racist?

If can lie about this…then what else will he lie about.

NOBAMA 08

ClockWorkOrange   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Move over Hillary, and take your sniper fire in Bosnia with you! This comment easily tops that one!

Rob   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

WOOOW you guys could this be serious? because i mean it looks like what Obama said is something that even History itself denies …… That American troops did not liberate that particular concentration camp, and that Soviet soldiers were the ones that did it in 1945.

O boy i just hope he has a reasonable explanation you guys! this worries me!

mike allen   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

wow that Harvard education paid off – how will the MSM spin this away- what a joke

Nick - Arlington, VA   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Ha….RNC tries to make Obama into a liar and a communist? lol….

OLD MAN YELLS AT CLOUD!

Obama '08

therealist   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Just another liberal lying about(misquoting) their families military service. A Hillary moment…, if you will.

Priceless!!

Shannon   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

oh my god, is this man honest about anything! First he lies about how his father came to America, making up some big story about how the Kennedys helped, and now his Uncle liberated a concentration camp. What a phony liar he is, come on Obama supporters, just attacking, it's what you do best. This is just LOL funny, people actually think this man is going to change the way things are done, what a phony!

Dr. Truth, Boston   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Seriously? Wow – that's what they have,eh? I think the point is that like many of our generation he didn't serve in the military but that he can appreciate the sacrifice and has a personal connection to it.

Better than Bush whose family fortunes helped put people IN concentration camps or McCain who couldn't wait to return home from his otherwise brave and honorable military service so he could cheat on his disabled wife. Woohoo go war hero/adulterer style!

Again, I think his service was very admirable and shows a toughness that should be sought after as a leader but I think the truth is he was just following in his father's military footsteps and never really had any military leadership role.

AZM   May 27th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Why does this surprise anyone? He's been so inconsistant with his statements its sick. Typical white people who cling to guns and religion…. "ohhh… didn't mean what I said"… My life long mentor and father figure… "Ohhh… didn't mean what I said (throw under bus – never liked Wright)… My Grandma who is a typical white person "Ohhh… didn't mean what I said… (throw under bus)… Hey Sweetie… Ohhh.. didn't mean that either)…

The guys a joke… and come November when the DNC blows this election there will be nobody to blame but the blind Obamanation!

But I'm sure he will have a wonderful explination why he was wrong here… must be racism related cause I'm perfect! Unity and Change… Unity and Change… Unity and Change…. Yes we Can…. Lie, Lie, Lie!

Ryan   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

If nitpicking is the best Republicans have, they are in for a very crushing defeat this fall.

Obama's grandfather fought, thats more than we can say about Bush, Cheney or Rove…and thats enough.

Chuck in Alabama   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Obama is the chosen succesor of MLK. How can he be wrong? Obviously the history books are wrong. You are just trying to crush the hopes and dreams of young and black America with your lies.

This makes me so bitter.

Awful   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Ha Ha Ha Ha….. Good job Obama Good job…. I also read on other sites… you do not even have an Uncle????
Whats up with that????
You will say anything to get elected…
Hopefully now people will start to see through your empty speeches

Rob K.   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Well it's better than McCain's senility when it comes to the Iraq war? If you are mixing up Shias and Al Qaeda you fail the fitness test to become our nation's leader.

Deb   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Obama’s frequent exaggerations and outright distortions raise questions about his judgment and his readiness to lead as commander in chief

Amen!

Obama is not a viable candidate!

I don't know how many times he's been caught in BIG Lies like this, but it is a lot.

Hillary 08

kathy in ohio   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

wow can we say "story teller pinocchio
selma being concieved?
JFK brought his father here
I never heard rev. wright sermons that were offensive
hummmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Rich   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Hillary was never under sniper fire in Bosnia.

Rich   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

RNC is really jumping at straws huh? They must be scared.

Joseph Adewole   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

It could be ideal to say that The America Military toppled Sadam in Iraq but every sensible and knowledgable person must realise that it was not done by The America Military alone; they were supported by The Italians, Australian and The British. and Canadian Forces.
Auschwitz was liberated in 1945 by a combines forces of America, British and the rest of the world but led by The Red Army; The GOP need to do their home work very well .

joe   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Ben, I knew they wait till Obama make mispoke to jump on it. Anyway,atleast his Grandi served the country in the military anyway!

John   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

He obviously says his uncle was one of the FIRST American TROOPs to liberate,, meaning that his uncle was one of the first AMERICANS to liberate, if americans were going there it was to help with liberating. Pretty weak attemp to twist words!

NoHillary   May 27th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Whatever. This is clearly a fishing strategy to try and get Obama voters to somehow magically change their minds to start looking at another candidate. Newsflash: Not going to happen. We are committed, intelligent voters who are determined to take this nation back and place the power into the hands of the people.

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Can't wait for the day that Obama doesn't have to fight a war on two fronts….

Anita - AZ   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Reaching for Straws are we??? Next….

Dennis   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Our relatives make up lots of stories when they come back from war… Watch the Hillary supporters jump all over this, but just remember, it was Hillary HERSELF that made up the Serbian sniper fire story.

Yes, he's human…
Obama '08

Mike   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

It never says his uncle liberated Auschwitz. It says his uncle was one of the first Americans to go to Auschwitz, which may have been true. Then he never specifies which camps his uncle did help liberate. I hate stupid twisting of words like this on both sides. This reminds me of the 100 years of war comment McCain made and it got twisted into we will be at war for 100 more years. Regardless of the promises of a different kind of campaign on both sides it will be business as usual in the general election.

Helene   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

There were many American soldiers who entered Auschwitz when the camp was liberated. I also have an uncle (French) who witnessed it and he always mentioned Americans.

Robert in Toronto,ON   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

If this is the best you got, you're gonna have to do better RNC.

2 words: George Bush.

…and then all other arguements fall on deaf ears.

Welcome to Barack Obama, President of the United States 2008. And I will conclude my post with a "Booyah."

NoMcSame   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

If he was a kid and was told that, so what. McSame is sending people off to Iraq to die today. I ask which one has more to do with us today? Clinton told a bold face lie about the sniper fire. Obama told us what he was told. Now will he have to make a speach about this too?
NAVY Veteran for Obama

Rich   May 27th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hillary never was under sniper fire in Bosnia…

Ben   May 27th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

lol, they can not wait to jump on that one. How many mistakes has John mcaain has made or flip flopped, anyone?

Jay - MN   May 27th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Wow, it appears the RNC is really reaching for something to be critical of Obama on this one. Not looking to 5 and a half more months of this shenanigans, but it'll all be worth it when Obama becomes our next president.

Mar   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Everytime he opens his mouth he shows just what a weak candidate he really is. This guy is a clown and should just go back to Chicago where they tolerate this type of behavoir. He probably spewed this crap down in Florida last week too since he is trying to get the Jewish vote. He will say anything to get this nomination.
I will bet he will try and turn this back onto the republicans. He NEVER takes heat for anything!!
Just go away Nobama!

Ron, TX   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Oh come on, RNC. To the average American, the saying "don't sweat the details" rings true. His grandfather was in WWII fighting… maybe Auschwitz was mistaken, maybe it was a different camp, but from a party that claims to value veterans so much… to try and attack Obama, and not thank his grandfather for his service is disgusting.

Steve in DC   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

So instead of the RNC answering calls for improvement on the treatment of our veterans…they look for an opportunity to slam their political opponent? Wow…these guys are really desperate!

Hillary for President   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

SEE, this is the man who will be a President??? I doos'not the History??? Obama go back to school.

from CT   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Awsome, more smere tactics and distractions, EXACTLY how Bush got into office…lets see if it works this time….

Wonder if they EVER talk about the issues instead of looking for dirt on the candidate that has nothing to do with the issues at stake for hard working families struggling from gas to forclosure's to rising food price's, to health care….the list goes on and on….

Jack from Texas   May 27th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

It'll be fun hearing Senator Obama's supporters defend this one.

Vote Nader (dot) Org

Stacy Clarks   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

If this is the road the RNC wants to take, then McCain needs to start explaining how he does not know the difference between Sunni and Shi'aites, and he wants to be president, and claims he knows the logistics of Iraq!

I QUESTION EVERYTHING ABOUT MCCAIN!!!!

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

James   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Is this all the RNC can come up with? What about the dubious claim G. Bush made for the iraq war. Lies lies lies.

Bill   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Somebody is really reaching. Talk about outright distortions like Conant said "…was part of the first American troops to go into Auschwitz and liberate the concentration camps and the story in our family was is that when he came home…" does not say his family member liberated Auschwitz but that the individual went to Auschwitz and liberated other concentration camps. Get your language straight there Conant. Obama is speaking English and conceptual rules do apply.

Derek   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

What else would you expect from just another lying politician??

Kiah   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

And let the GAMES begin! I'm sorry but this is laughable…is that all you have RNC?

Obama '08

Joshua College Station Texas   May 27th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Yeah, Obama needs to be careful in making these statements. We were pretty harsh against Hillary for her "misspeak" on Bosnia sniper fire. I hope Obama will be more careful and make sure his memories are supported by facts.

Dennis   May 27th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Sounds like the RNC is desperate. First, Obama isn't claiming to have done these things himself. Second, the quote doesn't say his grandfather liberated Auschwitz. It said he liberated concentration camps. Furthermore, this is the first alleged "exaggeration and outright distortion" from Senator Obama I've seen that somehow impacts his ability to lead an be commander in chief. Senator McCain, on the other hand, can't keep which country sponsors terrorists right. Nor can he seem to figure out which sect of Islam is causing problems. Sure, his judgment must be soooo much better.

Diane   May 27th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Want an explanation why???? Give us a break, is this all your camp is going to campaign on. Try talking about the economy and why the American people are paying more for gas and groceries. Could it be because McFossil can not hold his own when it comes to the economy? Let's find out why American confidence is at its all time lowest – is it because of the failed administration? Give us a break>>>>>

Rachael   May 27th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

I can't believe he'd say such a thing- how offensive.

FrankSmith   May 27th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Hillary is the ONLY democratic candidate who can bring out the best in the Republicans.

Hillary is like "viagra" to the Republicans, they really need her to get excited. I think the Democrats will help the impotent Republicans (from the problems of Bush) by giving them Hillary as the Democratic VP!!! What do yo think? I await your comments— Thank you.

Nic   May 27th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

He said "one of the first AMERICAN troops" to go in, dummies.

lugina   May 27th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

AGAIN OBAMA…!!!!

BUSH—OBAMA 08

Proud1of 26% in WV   May 27th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Is anyone else besides me sick of this crap.I'm paying $4.09 for gas now.That is fact.

Il voter   May 27th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

jeez, he made SNIPER FIRE like statement.

Nil   May 27th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Uh uh! Barry misspeaks here. Much worse than Hillary's "sniper fire" thing.

Is this the same uncle he compared Reverend Wright with? Then, it actually kinda makes sense ;)

usa   May 27th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

RNC===========>

just drop it, and BRING THE TROOPS HOME.

no one in their right mind would vote Republican.

C Parks   May 27th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Just say you misspoke and let it go … so you must have remembered wrong … is it worth the trouble?

DJ, LA, CA   May 27th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obviously the speech writer needed some history lessons. Though big deal…his grandfather served in Patton's army and I'm sure liberated OTHER prisoner camps. So RNC how does that equate to Obama not being qualified?

proud army and navy mom   May 27th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

the repubs are desparately grasping at something, anything. it's patheic, WHO CARES!

I care that President Obama bring this war to an end and bring our troops home.

John Smith   May 27th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Hillary is the ONLY democratic candidate who can bring out the best in the Republicans.

Hillary is like "viagra" to the Republicans, they really need her to get excited. I think the Democrats will help the impotent Republicans (from the problems of Bush) by giving them Hillary as the Democratic VP!!! What do yo think? I await your comments— Thank you.

rumpusgoopus   May 27th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I'd say that they were grasping at straws, but I'm not sure there are even straws here.

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

Follow us on Twitter

CNN on TwitterGet Ticker updates the moment they appear online via the Web, SMS, or instant messages.
Follow politicalticker

Categories
CNN Comment Policy: CNN encourages you to add a comment to this discussion. You may not post any unlawful, threatening, defamatory, obscene, pornographic or other material that would violate the law. All comments should be relevant to the topic and remain respectful of other authors and commenters. You are solely responsible for your own comments, the consequences of posting those comments, and the consequences of any reliance by you on the comments of others. By submitting your comment, you hereby give CNN the right, but not the obligation, to post, air, edit, exhibit, telecast, cablecast, webcast, re-use, publish, reproduce, use, license, print, distribute or otherwise use your comment(s) and accompanying personal identifying and other information you provide via all forms of media now known or hereafter devised, worldwide, in perpetuity. CNN Privacy Statement.
Home  |  World  |  U.S.  |  Politics  |  Entertainment  |  Health  |  Tech  |  Travel  |  Living  |  Business  |  Sports  |  Time.com
Podcasts  |  Blogs  |  CNN Mobile  |  Preferences |  Email Alerts  |  CNN Radio  |  CNN Shop  |  Site Map
© 2008 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All Rights Reserved.
Powered by WordPress.com VIP