June 20, 2008
Posted: 06:05 AM ET

From ,
Sens. Obama and McCain talked during a Capitol Hill press conference in this 2006 file photo.
Sens. Obama and McCain talked during a Capitol Hill press conference in this 2006 file photo.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – John McCain’s campaign is denying an account by staffers on Barack Obama’s team that the rival campaigns had been involved in discussions over whether or not they would accept public funds.

Obama counsel Bob Bauer said Thursday he had met with Trevor Potter, his counterpart on the McCain team, on June 6 to discuss a possible joint townhall appearance later in the month, and that the two discussed the public funding issue for 45 minutes.

“I asked him to address a [series] of issues of concern to the Obama campaign–the McCain campaign's active raising and spending of private money since February for a general election campaign, including for media, while we were still in the middle of a primary contest,” said Bauer in a statement. “He gave me his perspectives–the best arguments he could offer for an agreement on both sides to accept public financing–and it was clear to me that these offered no basis for any further exchange.”

McCain spokeswoman Jill Hazelbaker flatly said Thursday that Bauer “never negotiated with Potter about public financing.”

Others in the McCain camp said that Obama’s staffers are “libeling” their attorney, and lying about the discussion – that the two counsels were meeting on a separate topic entirely, and that there were no negotiations on public finance.

(UPDATED with response from the McCain campaign, after the jump)

UPDATE: Trevor Potter disputed the Obama campaign's account, telling CNN Thursday that he had met with Bauer on a completely unrelated subject, and that campaign financing had only been discussed in an abstract way.

"We then spoke in general terms about the public financing system, with Bob outlining reasons it could be considered 'broken' or irrelevant in 2008, and I explaining why Sen. McCain remained committed to it and thought it was good for the country," said Potter.

"Other than this informal discussion, there have been no contacts between the two campaigns on the subject, and this discussion contained no negotiations or even offer to hold negotiations. I cannot begin to explain how the Obama campaign could twist my reiteration of Sen. McCain’s support of the system, and hope the two candidates would participate in it, into what they said today," he added

"…An attempt to imply otherwise by any representative of the Obama campaign (and an attempt to turn an informal conversation between Bob Bauer and me into a discussion of negotiations between the campaigns) is a complete misrepresentation of the facts”

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Popular Posts


Xena   June 19th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

NOBAMA has a reputation as a LIAR. No doubt his team is spinning lies, they are very very desparate.
HAHAHAHAHA
PUMA

MD FOR OBAMA   June 19th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

What about the issues of the American people? Lets get back to the basics.

Joe   June 19th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

John McCain is a good man, but he is not the man for the country right now. We are moving in a different direction and he can't be our leader.

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   June 19th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

To every one posting hear.

Both sides lie. In politics every body lies to say they don't is just stupid.

every one saying that dems don't lie. Bill Clinton

every onesaying that repubs don't lie. Bush

peakarach,des moines,IA   June 19th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

JUSTSAYNODEAL.COM
JUSTSAYNODEAL.COM
JUSTSAYNODEAL.COM
JUSTSAYNODEAL.COM

Michael   June 19th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

McCain the idiot that he is not wanting to surpress the 527's just handed Obama an early Christmas present.

demwit   June 19th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

CHANGE!? WHAT CHANGE!!??

Independent-woman-4-Obama   June 19th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

HERE COMES THE LIES FROM THE REPUBLICANS. DISGUSTING! WHEN WILL WE, THE PEOPLE, SAY ENOUGH?!

Amanda   June 19th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Obama people are so vindictive and such haters! Precisely why I will vote McCain in November!

Hillary 2012!

GDC   June 19th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Obama is a lie. A fake. A PUPPET…….

Janet Wilcox   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

McSame as Bush! You are the liar and cheater.

Media darling   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Obama doesn't lie….

HE just does complete turnabouts : Rev Wright, talking with our enemies without preconditions etc- and the media just goes right along with it.

The media just encourages his flip flopping by praising/presenting his shifting positions for political posturing as integrity.

Marc in DeKalb, IL   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

If you feel it is libel, SUE.

If you aren't taking actions against libelous remarks made in such a public manner, you can't expect us to believe that the remarks aren't true.

Charlene, 67, white, retired, Republican   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Obama has my vote…I just wish he were pro-life.

Alex   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I am sure this issue will get resolved within few hours…. Obama campaign hasn't responded yet!!!

Joe M   June 19th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

You can bet that if the McCain campaign had the ability to out raise Obama two or 3 to 1 then they'd opt out as well. What about that suit regarding McCain's opting in and then out of the primary funding?

Joe Idaho   June 19th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

In a statement Thursday, a McCain spokeswoman said that the Democrat "revealed himself to be just another typical politician who will do and say whatever is most expedient" and accused Obama of undermining the public financing system.

"The true test of a candidate for president is whether he will stand on principle and keep his word to the American people," said Jill Hazelbaker, McCain's communications director

3 Words: George Walker bush:

Post Script: No-one died when Clinton lied….

Angus   June 19th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

"Speechless" sure talks a lot about Obama. As for the litany of frail jabs that the McCain team is throwing at Obama's Campaign, I would like to once again introduce the teacup to the storm. Such a non-issue.

DC Insider   June 19th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Washington insiders in the know on this one say McCain is correct. The Obama story is fiction and meant to leverage Obama om campaign finance. So, the Democratic dirty tricks begin, and it appears that Obama is no rookie at this dirty game.

Grace   June 19th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Silly!

Alice in Florida   June 19th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Obama lying? What a SHOCKER that would be – NOT!

After all, he's the guy who denied all knowledge of what his preacher, honorary uncle and spiritual mentor of 20 years was screeching at the top of his lungs….oh, but then he did kinda remember……

PUMA! PUMA! PUMA!

Dylan   June 19th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

I'm sorry… but John McCain looks like he's about 102 years old in this picture.

Beverly, NYC   June 19th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

oops meant 2000

Joe PA   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Come on like we supposed to believe anything that comes out of the McCain camp.

Perfect judgement   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Don't attack the Great Obama.

He can lie, cheat, play dirty politics…. but his worshippers will never see it and will never allow any criticism.

Obama is the perfect man with the perfect message and the perfect judgement.

No criticism allowed.

His sheep and the adoring media will never allow scrutiny of him.

Peter E   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

"Ooo, I'm so clever! I can put 'Mc' in front of insulting words and think I'm making an argument! I'm such a genius! I'm in noooo way being totally immature and I am soooo demonstrating my candidate's 'positive' message of 'hope' and 'change' with my personal attacks on Mc(insert insulting word here)."

Belle2   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Clearly Obama supporters have missed the point. Public financing is a good thing; it guards against back-door financing. How do you know who really makes all those donations to Obama's campaign? He doesn't take from oil companies—just their employees and families. This money is not our tax money; it is donations with a slight twist—the candidate doesn't know who gave and cannot be influenced by those donations. This would also limit other donations—thereby, limiting the amount a candidate could spend. Do you really need to see all those insidious ads?

Weepy   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

This story is a non-issue for the general public. Who cares?

Since I have nothing good to say about Obama or his un-enlightened
"ardent supporters", I guess this won't be printed either.

What idiot is running this TICKER spot anyway??? Has to be one of those en-enlightend, socialist, "ardent supporters". What a scary
mess this country is heading into!!!

jackson from Iowa   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

What makes the differance?Mccain do what you want to do ,Obama do what you want to do. Or is Mccain MAD because he doesnt have as much money? JUST LIKE THE TOWN HALL MEETINGS HE WANTS FREE AIR TIME ,SO HE DOEST HAVE TO PAY FOR IT EITHER!

jazz   June 19th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Why would obama nedd to use our money for his camp. when he has iran backing him.in my op.if he excepts money frome indv.isnt that our money.duh

Will in Richmond, VA   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Yet another incidence of the more "experienced" politician being deftly out-maneuvered by the inexperienced newbie Obama.

McCains' campaign just got PUNKED!

Here comes President Obama   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Flip Flop Fossil!! I have to stop the aliteration there or else it would get obscene.

Jerry Montana   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

This is just another time that Obama has been caught lying even before he becomes president. His team makes the Clintons look like amateurs when it comes to manipulating the American public. I suggest that the Senate begin preparing for impeachment now so that they are ready in January.

Chris   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I would not believe that the Obama camp would make up this kind of a story. It does not seem like the kind of thing a politician would lie about…

benji   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

mccain needs tax payers to fund his campaign because only the wealthy who benefit from the current tax cuts for the wealthy will finance his campaign

NIck Ca.   June 19th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

What weak candidates. People wake up if Obama represents hope then it is shallowly framed by his ever changing promises. Hope is slippery like a snake. The politics are the same for both donkeys and elephants. I'm glad that most people are energized but the commentary and understanding of the issues are lame.

ProundToBeADemocrat   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Old man you are the one who is lying, Mccain was trying to cheat, but the obama compaygne are much smarter that him to be decived, the only reason he is crying is because he can not raise money like obama he is a loser. Obama our 44th President May God bless his soul.

Peter E   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Forget about it. You can't convince these knee-jerk Obama supporters to open their eyes and look at the facts. Obama isn't bringing anything new to politics other than taking the old corrupt system to the extreme. He's trying to buy this election now, since his original message of Hillary-hating doesn't seem to stick to McCain. "Yes, we can outspend everyone else."
Public financing isn't his first broken promise/lie and it won't be his last.

Donna   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

@1926…wow you are dumb…and you let the world see that…now that is truly amazing…how do you KNOW he won't be President? sometimes it is best to just shut up…

I wonder if the McCain team stays up at night and dream about Obama? They are surely obsessed with him it seems instead of focusing on the issues that folks really care about…

Richard   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Anything to do with Barack HUSSAIN Obama is a lie. They are just Snakes.

Signed:

A Hillary supporter and never An Obama supporter!

Bishop   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

WE DON'T BELIEVE YOU, JILL HAZELBAKER!!!! YOU ARE A REPUBLICAN….

FactCheck   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

More from McFlip-flop:
1. Was co-author of the McCain-Feingold Campaign Finance Reforms Act of 2002 but choses to abandon it in his campaign.
2. Was against the Bush tax cuts until he decided that he was for it.
3. Voted against closing the Enron Loophole in 2003 but voted against closing it in 2007.
4. Was against holding detainees at Gitmo but is now for it.
5. Didn't want Roe v Wade overturned in 2006 but is now for overturning it.
6. Was opposed to torturing war criminals but is now for it.
7. Agreed to accept only public financing but is now taking money from anyone who'll give it to him.

Chuck   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Bob Bauer will be under the bus in a day or two. And Obama will say
I did not know Bob was lying. um, ah, um, ah, I didnt know. LOL This is fun. So many people under the Obama bus.

Bella from Florida   June 19th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

He has broken is word to the American people.

Gerry   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

The McCain campaign is hilarious. There were public releases about the meetings or has McCain flip-flopped again.

Sean   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

The McCain campaign will say and do anything when they know they don't have a shot in hell.

Yup, McCain sure is a "maverick politician" alright. (rolleyes, LOLZ!)

Just words   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

This man is hollow. No qualifications, no merits, never has done anything for his country.

He continually speaks out of both sides of his mouth.

He pretends to stand for one thing and then goes out and does the opposite… yet people cling to his words as if they are gospel.

Never has a candidate gotten so far politically on a message that his own campaign fails to be true to.

Hope? Change, new politics? Unity?

Obama has gone against each of his own campaign themes with what he ACTUALLY does. Cheated at caucus, disenfranchised Mi and Fl voters, stole the nomination from the better qualified candidate by playing the divisive race card. Removes Muslim supporters from sight, denigrates blue collar white voters…..

Yet people continue to believe his constantly changing words rather than evaluate how his actions go counter to his own words.

Helena Fee   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

This accusation reminds me of accusations made by Hillary when she knew she was losing. Could it be that the Mccain camp is getting desperate?

WH   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Did I see on a sign that the new Obam slogan is

Change that works for you?

Joseph   June 19th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

wow my post actually go threw here, not on the anti obama fox news, that place is against obama 100 percent people fill it with lies, half truth and perceptions, factless post poisoned with hate

MDB   June 19th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Hey CNN where is the story printed in the NY Times and the Washington Post about Barack Obama's MUSLIM background and the interview with Barack's Muslim half brother Malik Obama. I guess that whole dog and pony show about Iv'e never been a Muslim was just another lie from Barack Obama. Secondly it's pretty sad that I (a nobody) has to actually point this out to you. Or was that just expedient reporting on your part?

kelly WI   June 19th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Use your G. Soros 527s Ob. You lie about everything else you might as well lie about this. That baby Alex ad is so funny. Can't believe that cost $500,000 to produce. Talk about a waste of money.
Going to cost us more than money when Ob invades Pakistan to try to capture Bin Laden. Who's going to do it, the NYPD so he can go to court?
Dim wit.
Thank heavens for Bush.
McCain 08

58 old white ladies for OBAMA   June 19th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

MCBUSH HAS THE INTEGRITY OF A SEWER RAT.

LIER, THIEF,WARMONGER, HATE MONGER, BIGOT.

WHOSE PILLS IS CINDY STEALING NOW?

GOOGLE THEM.

voter   June 19th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I find it laughable that some of the bloggers on this site are complaining about Obama flip flopping and yet refuse to acknowledge the lies and decit from the McCain camp. Projection anyone. The mere definition of public financing is having the people pay for the campaign. Obama is doing that. It does not matter if he receives it via the internet or tax payers money. same thing, public financing is public financing. lets discuss McCain's flip flop: I am aganist the tax cuts, but now I am for it. I am aganist off shore drilling. Oops, I am now for it. laughable.

john   June 19th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

obama is a bigger flip-flopper than john kerry. i bet he loses the election by more than jon kerry. What a doofus this guy is.

Ralph   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

That's their story and their sticking to it. Lies, lies, lies. So Republican. So yesterday.

Agnes   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McSame wife lied when she said she didn't mean anything by attacking Michelle.

Give us a break McBush.

obama can and will   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

please give obama's 85 mill. to victims of american torture.we should be ashamed of ourselves for allowing bush and mccain to get away with this.

jack phoenix,az   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Just say NO to that angry OLD man, MCCain.

Lana, California   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

With all the legitimate issues going on in this country, the only thing McBush & Co. can come up with is "Liar, Liar, Pants On Fire"? Sheesh!

Better get your supporters to pony up there Johnny. Oh, that's right – you don't have that many to draw from, do ya?

Bukky   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Obama's camp said the "dicussed" it… McCains camp said they did'nt "negotiate"… The can both be right we will never know. But I dont think that Obama's campaign would tell such an out and out lie while McCain on the other hand can't remember what he said or voted for three week ago

Tony   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

"In February 2007, I proposed a novel way to preserve the strength of the public financing system in the 2008 election," Obama wrote. "My plan requires both major party candidates to agree on a fundraising truce, return excess money from donors, and stay within the public financing system for the general election. My proposal followed announcements by some presidential candidates that they would forgo public financing so they could raise unlimited funds in the general election. The Federal Election Commission ruled the proposal legal, and Senator John McCain (R-AZ) has already pledged to accept this fundraising pledge.

If I am the Democratic nominee, I will aggressively pursue an agreement with the Republican nominee to preserve a publicly financed general election."

- Sen. Barack Obama's own written words to the Midwest Democracy Network.

Dude is a fraud and a lying snake.

Phil Newton, Murphy OR   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

"I smoke '527 Swiftboat Brand' PAC Crack! It's great — but it does seem to be affecting my memory…"

– John McCain

Veterans For Obama   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McCain is toast. you can't turn your backs on Veterans, the Economy, and the environment and expect to win.

McCain is yesterday's news.

Bye bye Fossil!

words words words   June 19th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Never has a candidate travelled so far on a message that his own campaign failed to be true to.

Hope? Change, new politics? Unity?

Obama has gone against each of his own campaign themes with what he ACTUALLY does. Cheated at caucus, disenfranchised Mi and Fl voters, stole the nomination from the better qualified candidate by playing the divisive race card. Removes Muslim supporters from sight, denigrates blue collar white voters…..

Yet people continue to believe his constantly changing words rather than evaluate how his actions go counter to his own words.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   June 19th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

McCain is a liar and theif and it's just beyond me how he attempts to portray himself as Mr. Goodie Two Shoes. There are people in Arizona who lost their investments and will never forget McCain and the Keating 5, yes this was after he came home as a Vietnam hero. There is a lot wrong with this picture.

Gary Chandler in Canada   June 19th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

and it's so WRONG to call McCain a flip flopper. He sponsored a Bill to call it flop flipping.

no mccain   June 19th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

That is just a another dirty tactic from the gop manipulation machine, we just tired of their lies after lies…

Suziku   June 19th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

I am already tired of mcbush/mcsame! It's the same old right wing negative, lying politics as usual. He has flip flopped so many times that it's difficult to keep track. He has misspoken, misconstrued, lied, fumbled and on and on. I wish this was over and PRESIDENT OBAMA was in office so that mc/bush could crawl back under his nasty rock.

Patrick Henry, Fort Myers   June 19th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

This is the kind of he says…she says baloney most Americans are tired of.

Let's get some real straight talk–and logical, rational, no BS answers.

Bob Barr 2008
The Libertarians–come see what all the fuss is about!!

Got Liberty? Can you see areas where you don't? What's your take of freedom and the pursuit of happiness? Or are you lining up behind Obama to sacrifice and suffer for the greater good of a vast and growing federal government?

Don't settle for the best of the worst this November. Cast your vote in a manner that will allow you to retain your personal dignity when you look in the mirror.

rice, bryan   June 19th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

public meaning on the tax payer dime without consent. if you donate you are doing it willingly.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   June 19th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

What has Potter said? What has Bauer said? Is there any independant verifcation of this? Where did this happen and when? Didn't Obama say that he would talk to McCain about this on Meet the Press at one point? Is there really a need for Obama to do this? He is getting lots of finacail help from the public in the way of contributions.

Let me know when the two councils say who was when and where talking about this subject.

independet OBAMA supporter   June 19th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Cindy why did you take somebody's husband. You are very wicked person. You are PROUD of your country then took somebody' husband.
You are not better a fool. If I were you I will not open my mouth and say anything because your cup will be full.
John MCCain is not a good man by leaving his sick wife. Dump his wife because of Cindy's parent money.

Cindy please go take your pills again . You are too old for that rushbui!!!!
You know you are going to Hell for what you did to the First wife of MCCain.
Your husband is too old so take him home to rest.
Michelle Obama is better than you. Michelle Obama did not take anybody's husband but you did.

Joseph   June 19th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

what a person can't change his mind? the only reason McCain wants public financing is so that he can try to hide his ties with the very republicans that people have become annoyed with. And he knows Obama can out fund raise him I'd be scared to if I under estimated mt opponent.

Dr. King   June 19th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

We ,as a people, will get to the promised land…

Jamaal Kansas   June 19th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Mcshame we don't believe you prepare for war because this year we are Fighting FIre With Fire every Negative add your 527s place we will place a counter add Go Obama you Made a Wise decision I am sending a 100.00 to support you good Decison! Blue Collar Democrat for Obama

DM, Arlington TX   June 19th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Now during the Primary McCain said that he was not going to use Public Financing becuase he went overthe limits in the Primary.

So, since he fail to get all the lobbyist nad PAC money train he wa hoping for…

Watch the money, watch where the money come from 527, PAC and other lobbyist….

Mike, Syracuse, NY   June 19th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Usually politicians wait until they are elected before they break their promises. Obama has already done so about accepting public financing. I guess that's the change he's been talking about.

David Newport, OR   June 19th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Who to trust? A man who received $112,000 by 1987 from Keating and Keating's relatives and employees to his Senate campaign, more than any of the other Keating Senators? Or a man willing to say the truth, that the system is broken and understand that the 527 Swift Boat groups are lining up after him? The answer seems clear to me.

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   June 19th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

My friends on the right have been outmanuevered by a shrewd politician on the left and now Senator McCain and his staff are mad about it. I owuld be too, especially if all I could get would be $84 million and my opponent is looking at potentially $200 million.

On the other hand, McCain could've made his argument to the Bush people who got the President $250+ million in the 2004 election cycle.

Oh, he did? Well, what happened? They didn't give (commit to him) the money. Well, that's not Obama's fault. That's the fault of the messenger (mcCain) and his msg.

always has lied   June 19th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Obama lies about everything.

It is just that he is great at manipulating the media and the people into forgetting what he originally said.

He is the worst kind of unscrupulous, duplicitous liar.

The people are too adoring to care.

Locutus of 'Bama   June 19th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Lies, Lies Lies YEAH!

GERALD STROTHER   June 19th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

This will be over soon The Republicans are funded by big businesses.
GO OBAMA 008!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Gary Chandler in Canada   June 19th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I'm not a lawyer, but have seen how the good ones hide the truth with 'other' truths, until their 'version' of the truth sticks.
Two questions, directly to Potter, not Hazelbaker or others in the McCain camp, would clear this up!
Potter, did you negotiate with Bauer on public funding?
Potter, did you discuss public funding with Bauer?

Your article claims Bauer discussed the topic. Potter's 'spokespersons' say he did not negotiate.
If there was 'dicussions' and Potter thought they were 'under 4 eyes', perhaps Bauer breached a code of conduct by airing the discussions publicly!?

OLD MAN WHINES   June 19th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

On Iraq, the economy, guns, and God, McCain is to the right. On immigration, campaign finance reform, and global warming, McCain is to the left. McCain went after Barack Obama yesterday for proposing a windfall tax on the oil companies. A month ago McCain said he was willing to consider a windfall tax on the oil companies. What about offshore drilling? During his run for president in 2000, McCain was against it. Now he's for it, saying the state should decide if they want to drill for oil off their coastlines. Then there are the Bush tax cuts, McCain was against them – twice – now he's for them. McCain has also called for the U.S. detention center at Guantanamo Bay to be closed down, and torture banned. But last week he criticized the Supreme Court's ruling that detainees there should have access to U.S. courts, calling the Supreme Court decision one of the worst decisions in the history of this country. So here's the question. WHO IS THE LIAR?

SAM2008   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I believe that Obama lied about NAFTA so why i should believe him on this.
I think he is playing with the American public and their minds

Disgusted   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

They ALL are liars and cheats. Obama bin Laden, John McFlip-Flop, and everyone else in the beltway. In my opinion, they ALL need to be impeached or fired or voted out of office and we should start over. They are all lying bastards who care only for their OWN pocketbooks. To say ANY politician isn't a liar is like saying a prostitute is still a virgin (and the two jobs are very similar at that).

Mike D   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

McCain is looking weak.

Enlightened Voter -   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Let's see – a man who flip flops daily, can't remember what he said yesterday (mcwar) against a man who will tell you the truth no matter how painful it may be (Obama). Guess you know who my pick is…

Tony   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Obama's camp is full of two faced, lying weasels who whine like spoiled third graders. More I hear and see from them, the less credible the are.

If you thought the Clinton years were sleazy, the next 8 under Borack is going to be a real peach. Oh wait. Lots of the same characters will be involved in both administrations.

Bella from Florida   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

He is not a man of his word. He can not be trusted. When you agree to something you do not change the rules in the middle of the game. Does't that remind you of something?

Media for Obama   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

The Obama's are never held to what they originally say.

for instance- all the things Michelle has said get spun into a positive thing.

We all know what Michelle was saying.

Really…. the word really does not make any difference… though the pro-Obama media keeps trying to spin it that way.

Michelle is only proud if her hubby is the nominee and the president.

She also stated- very clearly- that she would not vote for HRC were Hillary the nominee. So what is there to misunderstand?

Everyone is calling the HRC supporters nasty names if they do not back Obama now. Yet no one said anything when Michelle said in an interview that she would not back HRC, if Hillary won the nomination.
So why all these double standards? Why does Michelle get to say anything without any criticism?

The HRC supporters are now asked to back Obama, but Michelle herself said that she would not back the other democratic nominee.

Beverly, NYC   June 19th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Did Mr. Potter forget the meeting or just the content? 45 minutes is a long time to meet and discuss nothing. Face it, you made your arguments to Obama's team as to why they should accept public financing knowing full well you would pull out the Rove playbook and bury him a smear and defend campaign, which worked so well against you in 2008 right? And they had the nerve not to fall for it. You got out coached on this one, maverick.

disgusted   June 19th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Obama the liar has decided to remain such.

He had agreed to public financing earlier on and once again has proven to be nothing but the worst kind of politician – another liar like the rest.

Change we can believe in – my a__!

Hillary Clinton supporters UNITE against the thugs – vote for another true American – McCain for Clinton '12.

JIM...TX   June 19th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

MoveOn..get a grip! McSame an the Bushies have just as many HIDDEN agendas. Such as continuing the war, shipping jobs overseas, helping their oil buddies get richer….an the list goes on and on.

Bayou Joe   June 19th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Public financing? What public financing? Do you mean we have to pay for our own destruction? This country is going down the tubes faster than a sperm going to it's destination.

Obama doesn't lie, he just fails to tell the truth.

Theresa   June 19th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Politic = Money. Both candidates lie and received money from big corporations. What's the different. They can't be a presidential candidate with little money. Doesn't matter who wins, at the end middle and poor Americans still suffer.

Sam   June 19th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

McCain calling someone a liar. Now THAT is funny! Yet another Republican comedian running for office.

Marvin, PA   June 19th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

There's always the Bank of Ciny McCain. Go to her John, you don't even have to pay interest.

Obama 08

Because we LIKE our candidate!   June 19th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Don't be upset McCain that Obama's rolling in donations from his supporters towards his campaign!

We know we have a job to do and a country to fix!

OBAMA!

Marge Hibbing Mn   June 19th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Course. If he took public financing he wouldn't be able to get the laundered campaign money that must be pouring into his campaign. If Auchi and Rezko financed his two campaigns for the senate, wonder where he is getting all his money. It would be interesting if CREW would ask for an investigation into that. But of course they won't. Every body and every organization is afraid to say anything negative about this guy.

@everyamericans   June 19th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

The McShames are SHOCKED that they getting beaten in their own game?!

just wait for the GE….it's gonna be a landslide victory for Obama!

old mcBush can't raise a dime, yet he wants to compete…tew bad!

OBAMA '08!!!!

Bruce   June 19th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

The thing is, Obama first declares his position to stop taking money from Lobyists and now this. Incredible!!! Why do you think people with millions of dollars are donating to Obama – just because he makes pretty speeches??? Come on! NO ONE GIVES MILLIONS WITH NO EXPECTATIONS!!! PLEASE!!!! Wake up people!!!

Lisa   June 19th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Sen. Obama do what you feel is good- we support your decisions. You have the right to change your mind. I'm going to give something every month and I encourage every Dem to do the same. We must make this happen for our country. I encourage every college student to give something.

Roger   June 19th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Well, I have to say Obama is beginning to get a reputation for lying.

Now that Hillary is out, he's softening up on NAFTA.

John   June 19th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

McSame is even being taken to court over campaign public finances, and still he wont commit to this way of raising funds, Obama clearly said that he would accept public Finance if the GOP candidate would… clearly McSame will not even though he may be forced by the election commission quorum after the hearing of the case brought by the DNC..

Not fooled by distractions.   June 19th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

I'm finding it harder to believe anything that comes out of the McCain camp. He's flip flopped on virtually every issue, has made comments and then denied them (even when presented with video) – I have to side with the Obama folks here. I don't see mccain as a man that can be trusted – he's sacraficed all the convictions that branded him the "maverick" – now he's just a flip floppin' panderer.

The only argument here   June 19th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

The only argument here is that Obama has a lot more spendable cash that McCain and if McCain had that same "bank" this wouldn't be an issue.

becky   June 19th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

mccain, flip flop, lie, flip flop, lie, adultery, lie, flip flop. come on people.

how can 3 politician step down this winter for adultery and one somehow run to be president??? it this not against who we are and what we believe in?

JZ   June 19th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

All the McCain camp does is whine. I guess because they are LOSING. Well, cry me a river–he's beating McCain in campaign funds, popular appeal, the youth vote, the African-American vote. The only vote he doesn't have is the hatemongering vote. Oh well, we'll concede that to John.

Note to John: Go get some money from Cindy, you know you do that anyway. She's got an open purse, just waiting to buy the election. What's the problem, stop whining. Oh, you might tell her that it's a risky investment, since Barack is going to win.

Debra Austin, Texas   June 19th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Guess Obama will have to take tape recordings in when talking with the McCain folks. VERY SAD John boy.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   June 19th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Why don't you and your little buddy Dumbya hold hands and jump into the La Brea Tar Pits together? After all you both want to sell the rest of the country to Big Oil…Being surrounded by other fossils in a big pit of petroleum products would be a great place to take the big sleep…

Becky   June 19th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Please post

I agree with the first comment on here. Repubs used careful wording by saying they didn't "negotiate" but that doesn't mean they didn't "discuss".

You know, it's sad that the party of the Republicans isn't about the fundamentals anymore of smaller government and less taxes. When I think of Republican politicians nowadays I'm thinking about how their morals have become so corrupted. The current Republican party should be renamed something else like "Two Faced" where they all chuckle after they think they've fooled us, and have the Republican party created again from scratch. I saw the rich should be taxed again and stop giving large corporations such huge tax breaks, and give the middle class (the BACKBONE of this country) a break.

Democrats aren't perfect either. But I do see characteristics between the two parties as almost being night-and-day…

cecil   June 19th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

Who cares, the McCain camp is just mad because Barack is 2 steps in front of them. I gree. John MCslowMo

a   June 19th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

obama is the worst man for the job

Jon   June 19th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Obama will probably just claim that the negotiations were "broken," just like the public financing system is apparently broken. But when pressed about how it is broken, he'll reply, "Uhhhh…… did I mention change yet?"

He should stick to his word about public financing.

dennis from chicago   June 19th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

barry fair play what can you say no re vote in mich and florida paid for entirely by an outside source o bama says no look into how o bama stole his way into the senate seat…….ask donald young trinity church votes 138 times present in the senate true leadership all for one one for alll

Clinton supporter for Obama   June 19th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

BLAH BLAH BLAH !! — Republicans are kicking and crying now. Wow, McCain is having a really bad day. How are Republicans going to get mad because someone changed their mind about their methods of funding. I can see if someone flip-flopped on policy issues such as McCain himself. This is so funny. lol

GET IT TOGETHER PEOPLE   June 19th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

You know what i'm not gonna waste my time reading this board or posting a comment. It's obvious most individuals on this board don't believe in the equality of all individuals and still do what they can to demonize anything that doesn't look like them.

white isn't always right! as a matter of fact people have been calling obama a thief….well white people are the masters of it. You were so darn lazy that you had to bribe and then beat the hell out of africans just to get them to clean your crap and breast feed your babies. you stole babies from their parents, husbands from their wives and you have the nerve to call someone a thief! you're sick individuals and you need to be shipped back to wherever you came from

Mark   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

McFlipFlop

David, Silver Spring, MD   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Why would the Obama people fabricate a story without being backed into a corner? Why would they voluntarily put themselves in a position of having to defend something that wasn't true, when they could just as easily say nothing?

There may be a difference of opinion on what transpired (discussion or negotiation?), but I seriously doubt the Obama people are lying about what they say happened. There'd be no point in it.

The McCain camp has a history of over-the-top accusations throughout this campaign. Looks to me like this is yet another example.

Kyle   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Let's see, Obama originally said no one from his camp met with a Canadian official about NAFTA and that he really wasn't going to do anything. Then he finally admitted to the meeting but not the discussion. Now he is softening his stance on NAFTA just a few months later. Why should we believe has camp when they say they had a meeting with McCain's camp regarding public financing? It's just an excuse so he doesn't have to take public financing, just like when he said that the system was "broken", yet that wasn't a problem for him at the beginning of his campaign, and I don't think anything has changed with the system since then.

BROOKLYN   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

What ever you do… Don't call his highness (Obama) a liar…

Lisa   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

I dont trust or believe anything Mccain or his people speak- because where ever the wind blow you are surly to see Mccain.

obamacan!   June 19th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

obama's campaign doesn't lie ,you morons.there is no need .they are doing what's best for the nation, and the money woes,that republicans caused.that is truth!i wonder how many of the mortgage lenders ,being arrested ,recently,are republicans?my bet,is that most,if not all vote for gop bush.

Jeff   June 19th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

If Obama's team was flat out lying, there would be a lawsuit for libel. But do you see one happening…? Nope, because you can't sue someone for speaking the truth.

MikeH   June 19th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Hey let's talk about McCain's campaign member Phil Grahm, ties to the Enron Loophole elimination of supervisorial progams for Oil speculators, and the subsequent high price of Oil.

McCain is bringing in money from these speculators so that he, McCain, will block any legislation to eliminate the loophole.

You don't like the high price of gas, BLAME McCAIN! He's taking private money from the very people doing this to the world.

Arni, Austin   June 19th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

Obama has proved that he is either a "regular lying politician" or "naive honest politician". Since he knew that 527 exists when he promised not take money (it happened to John Kerry). So why is he breaking his promise? Lure of free money from internet?

I supported Obama and contributed to his campaign till now. Not any more! Both the candidates suck.

Disgusted at these politicians.

Obama for Change   June 19th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

I believe Obama is exactly what he says, the candidate of change. Just not so much change we can believe in.

If I am the democratic nominee, if the republican candidate agrees to public financing for the general election, I will also accept public financing.

Oh wait, I changed my mind, I want to cash in as much as I can and make this about outspending, not about the issues.

I believe in an open and honest debate on the issues, and if I am the nominee, i will welcome open debate with my opponent.

Oh wait, I changed my mind, forget the debates, speeches and propaganda work much better.

I'm the new type of politician, won't who won't rely on smear campaigns and who focuses on the issues facing America, and my campaign will be based on the high road.

However, my campaign is dedicated to paint McCain as Bush, because everyone hates Bush, and people see me as not Bush. That's the way to win! What, issues? My policies are not Bush, that is issues… isn't it?

I will not resort to under handed attacks, and will not have lobbyist have anything to do with my campaign.

But if my advisors or anyone says anything, that's not my fault, so whatever, I don't have to apologize. I will yell and cry foul everytime anyone else says anything negative about me, whether it has to do about the issues or not, and regardless of who says it, blame my opponent for slander.

I will not use smoky back rooms and false promises… but I will look for any opportunity to de-legitamize my competition so I don't have to actually care about the issues.

"Obama, Change you can believe in"?

I liked Obama when he said he was for the high road, and an open poltiics… and it's just really horrible that he's just like everyone else, just craftier and more underhanded.

What if?   June 19th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

So another McCain staffer that don't remember?

I say it again, was we not to think that McCain isn’t for the same policies of the Bush administration? Bush help to McCain on his fundraising wasn’t without strings……..Think about it…………
Wasn’t this same request made VERY recently by McCain?
Bush also renewed his demand that Congress allow drilling in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, or ANWR, clear the way for more refineries and encourage efforts to recover oil from shale in areas such as the Green River Basin of Colorado, Utah and Wyoming.

TEXAN   June 19th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Oh well…put on your boxing gloves. Here we go !! This is just the start….should be exciting !!!

Darth Vadik, CA   June 19th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Did Cindy McCain work one day in her life?

…and who is an elitist?

Yeah that's what I thought.

Pills away Cindy, pills away.

He Said It First   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Dizzying spin from the career flip-flopper-

I guess when all you ever do is lie, you assume everyone else is lying too, huh? Is that how it goes, Mr. "The Surge Is Working"?

jr   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

If you put two attornies on a street corner asking them to gaze skyward at a cloudless blue afternoon sky, I'll almost bet they couldn't agree on it's color. But it doesn't mean either is wrong. They just have different perspectives on the issue.

Jim   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Isn't Mccain in some controversy over those funds, wow is he one to talk! I can't believe the nerve of this guy!

Boomer   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

McSame doesn't believe in the Bush tax cuts. Oops! He changed his mind! McSame doesn't support off shore oil drilling. Oops! Yes he does. The list goes on and on. If Grandpappy McSame could raise even half the money Obama can, he would opt out of public funding like greased lightening! He's a goner.

David, Chicago, IL   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

McCain won't reel in his 527's. He's already broken his own campaign finance laws. Why on earth would Obama hamstring himself by agreeing to a set of rules that McCain refuses to follow?

debbi   June 19th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Hmmmm….

This coming from the party of, "Swift boating"??

funny, don't you think???

Kenneth M   June 19th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

DONT START CRYING MCCAIN LOVERS. THINK, OBAMA HAS FOUND A WAY TO SAVE THE US $85 MILLION. DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU CAN MAKE A POINT ABOUT WHY HE SHOULD TAKE FED MONEY THAT IS GOING TO MAKE PEOPLE NOT VOTE FOR HIM. THE BEST YOU CAN DO HERE IS LOOK LIKE BABIES CRYING WHY WONT HE TAKE THE MONEY.

1926   June 19th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Are you surprised? This is what you can expect from a Socialist. Obama is so excited to think he will be president, which will never happen, that he is saying and doing anything and making a mess. About what I expected. There has never been a country managed by blacks that prospered. They just dont know how to do it. Please, God, dont let it happen.

HRC3655   June 19th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Michelle Makeover, No Public Funds, Meeting with Hillary Supporters…..It won't work BO, we still back Hillary. Will never forget you and your staffers disrespect.

Whiskey   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Straight from the flip-flop express.

Independent LAWYER for Obama   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

A 45 minute discussion just doesn't sound like something you would make up. Clearly the McCain camp just wants to make sure that only Obama takes heat for not using public financing, even though McCain has been out there raising money for the general election.

Whiskey   June 19th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

If mccain says it is a lie…it must be….smarten up you Republican retarded sheep.

MD   June 19th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Obama lie? What? I can't be! You would think he was just another slick Chicago politician! What will the Obamadiots DO when they realize their "change" is McGovern?

Joe   June 19th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

Obama's campaign is the definition of public financing. The guy has been financed primarily by ordinary folks donating less than $100. If every campaign was run like this we wouldn't need a public financing system.

McCain is mad because he knows he is toast.

TESAP   June 19th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Why should we believe him (McCain).

Obama is the one who doesn't need the money……..

:)

Becky   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

This will be an on going problem for the democrats. Obama has no record while in the Senate. He's done nothing. He has nothing to run on. He has no strategy for "change." What a joke. The media and DNC Obama love-fest have done a huge disservice to loyal democrats. They have no one but themselves to blame when Obama loses to McCain this fall. Signed: Former Hillary supporter. Future McCain supporter.

Speechless   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Obama supporters unwilling to believe that their candidate is full of lies? I am shocked. Shocked I tell you.

Marc   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Caught in another lie! Unfortunately, this will blow over like so many of Obama's other screwups. Oh well, I hear he's back talking to the Canadians about NAFTA as well.

bob in L.A.   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Come on press guys- Mc Cain – they never negotiated. Obama – he gave perspective. They said the same thing
All that happened was talk- not a negotiation.
Stop making more out of somehting than it is.

MD   June 19th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

No one in their right mind believe anything that comes out of the McCain campaign. Their Karl Rove style of campaign management will not work this time.

Bradley In Colorado   June 19th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Remember this: Obama is taking the right path on public financing. McCain, however, turned his back on the rules. Do some digging, and you'll see I'm right.

Bradley Schaubs, Greeley, CO   June 19th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Tsk, tsk, Republicans. We all know you're full of it. I know deep down the talks DID in fact occur.

Obama '08

John   June 19th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Even if he does deny funds, it is just a PR stunt. He has plenty of money. He won't miss the 80 million. So, he gives it up and gets some good PR in return. It's a win-win. Look past the hype. Empty rhetoric and ploys from an empty man.

Chuck   June 19th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Read carefully people. You see the McCain camp states that Bauer never "negotiated" with Potter regarding the public financing issue. They did not state that Bauer never "spoke" to Potter about the public financing issue on June 6. Bauer states he "spoke" to Potter. He did not state that he "negotiated" with Potter. The McCain camp is using and twisting words here, negotiated vs. spoken too, in order to call Bauer and the Obama camp liars. These people are slick. You have to read and watch each and every word used in an attack or a defense very carefully.

JML   June 19th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Since when did changing your mind mean "lying"? I could care less that he now wants to opt out of national funding…

ADAM   June 19th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Obama is blaber mouth, nothing else…

McCain 2008!!!

Joe Regis   June 19th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

The people fund Obama's campaign.

They gladly contribute to his campaign.

The Republicans are funded by big businesses.

Big donors funded them too.

The people will prevail this time.

Go Obama go!

Shawn, Takoma Park, MD   June 19th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Awwww, poor wittle flippity-flop Gramps McCain is sad now that he will get utterly swamped by Obama's dedictated donors. I guess McCain should have agreed to reign in 527s if he wanted Obama to agree to public funding. But he didn't, so now he's screwed.

I'm going to donate to Obama's campaign TODAY.

Go Obama! Play hardball and make them cry.

truth   June 19th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

We all know that Obama wasn't going to hold to public financing. He has raised too much money from private donars. Public financing could have come from lobbyists and PAC groups, and Obama is against that. McCain is running scared and knows he can't compete financially.

Too bad McCain.

RYAN   June 19th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

McSame has been a flip-flopper since 2000 primaries, and he knows that, calling someone a liar sounds dumb.

Phil Newton, Murphy OR   June 19th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Go out and earn some honest money, John.

Stop relying on your 527 PAC Crack.

Could that be so hard? My friend?

Donna   June 19th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

Luke Russert said it best, that is father said there is nothing wrong with changing your mind, especially if it produces a better system. If you want to run a country like the United States you should be able to be creative enough to fund their campaign honourably by themselves.

CTP   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

McCain is calling someone else a liar? Ha!

McCain = Bush + 4 more years…

Obama '08!!!

Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

THIS IS A CAMPAIGN OF THE CANDIDATE OF THE PEOPLE

VS

THE CANDIDATE OF WAR, RICH & SPECIAL INTERESTS.

Donna   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Luke Russert said it best, that is father said there is nothing wrong with changing your mind, especially if it produces a better system. If you want to run a country like the United States you should be able to be creative enough to fund your campaign honourably by themselves.

Yes.We.Can.   June 19th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

McFlipFlop, you have no right to talk, no ground to stand on.

A recovering Republican   June 19th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

It depends on "what the meaning of is is." Note that the article never says that the Obama team is claiming there was "negotiation." It says there was "discussion." Why don't they just flat out deny that there was any mention of financiing during that meeting? Because that means they can't muddle the waters by changing a conversation into "negotiation.

10 Years Sober

Rudy NYC   June 19th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Does this mean the two sides disagree to agree, or agree to disagree?

Who Cares   June 19th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Interesting choice of words. Obama's camp says "discussions" occurred. McCain's camp seems to very carefully saying "negotiations" are what didn't happen. Unless someone made a recording, it's "he said, she said." Still, if two campaign attorneys get together for an extended discussion at this point, if doesn't really seem credible that the issue of public financing wouldn't come up. Still, given the reported questions, it's conceivable that one side could see it as a discussion of public financing and the other not.

People make no sense   June 19th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

Wow – McFlip called someone a liar.

aware   June 19th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

So what else is new! Obama has a speaking the truth and obfuscation problem. He can't talk straight but he can lie and obfuscate – yes, he can! :(

Obama=Bush! :)

MoveOn   June 19th, 2008 1:46 pm ET

When you can't discuss anything of substance…. when your candidate lacks substance, experience, accomplishment…. then you take the opposite position on everything your opponent says because you can take any position you want, especially if your candidate has no track record.

This is the strategy of the Democratic party.

Vote for McCain. At least you know where's he's been and where he's going. There are no hidden agendas. GUARANTEED: B. Obama HAS hidden agenda's! Taxes, gun control, isolationism, cronyism… you can bank on it!

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Hmmmmm

With McCain's campaign having zero credibility (see previous denials and flip-flop that are on tape)…

i would be more inclined to believe lawyers from Obama's camp that lawyers from McCain's.

advantage: Obama!

lil   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

I for one dont believe any thing mccain or his campaign says.
He has already changed his mind on all his platform why should
I believe this.
He blow up every thing that happens and make it look larger than life
to get the news medias attention and when its looked at closer it wasnt worth the time it took to read it.

Mccain is just a big puff of wind and he makes me sick….

aware   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

So what else is new! Obama has a speaking the truth and obfuscation problem. he can't talk straight but he can lie and obfuscate! :(

Obama=Bush! :)

Derek, Riverside CA   June 19th, 2008 1:45 pm ET

Just another lie from Obama. Nothing to shocking here, he's about as typical a politician as you can find. Whatever is politically expedient, he will do. Not presidential material.

zina   June 19th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

The McCain campaign is clearly making this into more than what it is. The Obama campaign never said that there were "negotiations" taking place.

The McCain campaign is no different than that of Bush/Cheney 04…disgusting.

California Voter   June 19th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

Well, it all comes down to money and honesty. Sounds like someone is not telling the truth here.

Robert   June 19th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

McCain team accusing the Obama team of lying? Oh my, is this to deflect attention from McCain's confused, illegal funding issues?? McCain's team is going to have to be a little less transparant than this.

Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca   June 19th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

John should pay attention to positive ads. And trust me stick close too him wherever he goes. It is a necessity. Bill Clinton must be having a good laugh these days…hihi.

LTX   June 19th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Right on! It's about time Obama & his team are exposed as frauds.

Susan from Scotts Valley   June 19th, 2008 1:41 pm ET

"Lying" is a loaded word. It does sound like the meeting was on another topic and maybe they weren't "negotiating" but accusing the Obama camp of "lying" sounds more like libel than anything in Bauer's statement.

Susan

Ginny CA   June 19th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

I'm not surprised. Say anything, do anything to win.

Breaking News:   June 19th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Okay, we is the TAPE?

David in Illinois   June 19th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

McCain probably just can't remember the meeting. He's losing his bearings.
Who CARES about this stuff????????????????

Brian   June 19th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Let me see if I understand this. Obama doesn't want to have his campaign funded by the general public and their general contributions. He wants to use just the donations of those who support him directly. WHAT EXACTLY IS THE ISSUE? Maybe McCain and the Republicans should do try and do the same. Then take the money initially contributed through generic contributions and help the flood victims

JOYCE   June 19th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

the mcsain camp is lieing
mcsain wants the money plus raise more which is not legal
he is in hot water for borrowing part of his for private loan security. he can;t do it both ways
mccain just go away. join the year of senior citizans groop and play golf, if you can remember your way out of the house

voter   June 19th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

I do not believe anything that comes from the McCain camp. considering that he supposedly did not know that most of his advisors are lobbiest and he had to clean house, I don't trust the word of his advisor that the two camps did not discuss public financing.

Carlson, Sunnyside, S.A   June 19th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

The truth of the matter is that everyone will know wether Mcwar has any integrity. He knows that without the public funding is financially done. he has to make up stories about his opponent to let everyone know Obama flip flops. mcwar is scared of the obama's abilitty to raise funds more than him.

Character Content Examination   June 19th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

"I was the beneficiary of unusually—and at times undeservedly—positive press coverage." – Barrack Obama, The Audacity of Hope

MoveOn   June 19th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

Typical Democratic policy – lie and deny, lie and deny, lie and deny. We see it over and over. Spin, Spin and more Spin.

We've seen this with Bill Clinton, Hillary, Michelle Obama and many, many others.

B. Obama, though really hasn't used this lawyer's tool. He hasn't accomplished anything so there's nothing to lie about. (With the one exception of becoming the first black presidential candidate, which is a great achievement…. but by itself not nearly enough to be elected president.)

former gop ,now libertarian.   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

vote for bob barr!vote for liberty!no more republican wars for oil and wealth,while our freedoms are being trounced on,at home.

ATLian   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

So what does Potter say?

The Bush Twins : George and John   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Repubs are known for their lying, they have an 8 year record of it.

Hans   June 19th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

McCain is washed up, time for the next generation

JT   June 19th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Amazing, the ability of republicans to turn something so great.. a wealth of money coming into the political process by regular small donations from inspired people… they turn that into a negative issue.

Poor McCain.

S. BOATMAN WARRENSBURG MO.   June 19th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

I Bet They Did Talk!

Rose - Baltimore, MD   June 19th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Big deal!

jim   June 19th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa Old Man

Anonymous   June 19th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA Old Man

flip flop   June 19th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

There goes Obama- flip flopping over public financing.

It was fine for him…until he realized that he could do better.

No integrity to this man. Just the typical politician

Student for OBAMA 08!!!   June 19th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

This is he said, he (she) said nonsense. What is the point in the back and forth? Neither are accepting public financing, next issue.

James, SC   June 19th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I'm siding with the team that has been the most straight-forward. Team Obama is right!

Timothy   June 19th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

McCain is lying about having America's best interest at heart.

JK   June 19th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

I dont want my tax dollars wasted on ones campaign. I salute Senator Obama, and being a republican he will get my vote.

G   June 19th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Apparently, to discuss anything with the McCain campaign, you need to tape record it because they can't remember later.

obamabot   June 19th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

can obama's 85 million dollars ,that he doesn't need ,because of so much american support,please be donated to the recent flood victims in iowa,illinois and missouri?a republican would never make such an offer,they are too greedy,and would spend it all on themselves.

Anita from Arizona   June 19th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Gee, who are you gonna believe? Somone who's been consistant or someone who's flip flopped a few times. It's a no brainer to me.

Michael Lorton, Virginia   June 19th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Political spin misters……..he said,,,,,,she sad……they said……they are libel……he is libel…….she is libel…….post something of substance and grit……..CNN is scraping the barrel for pot stiring!

David   June 19th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Weak McCain – weak.

Agnostic Democrat   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Lying is something John McCain has mastered not only in the last couple of weeks but in the many years before including his involvment in the Keating Five scandal. Step back, Grampy before you are forced to poop yourself in public and lie about that , too!

EDW   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

What's that smell?
I smell fear Republicans!!!

John   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

So McCain is upset that Obama is not using taxpayer money? (85 million) Isn't that a good thing?

Belle2   June 19th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

Insidious campaigning by the Obama team again. They lie; of course, Obama will not say a word; he will let his team attack. But, he is sooooooooooooo innocent.

Molly Weasley   June 19th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Like you can believe anything the McCain camp says at this point. The Obama campaign offered a format for two town hall meetings; McCain turned it town but now claims Obama "won't" participate in town hall meetings. McCain is not even following McCain-Feingold — opting in, then out of public financing.

This doesn't even cover all of his flip-flops during the course of this campaign. It depends on which day he's talking, and what audience he's talking to.

ps   June 19th, 2008 1:25 pm ET

This is ridicules — If the Obama campaign wants to say why they are not using public financing that is fine. And the McCain camp can state their position. But for one side to say that a "negotiation" took place and the other side had not valid points is playing games.

I thought Senator Obama was against the old political games?

Don   June 19th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Is this mispeak or lying. Let me know.

LET IT GO   June 19th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Who cares, the McCain camp is just mad because Barack is 2 steps in front of them.

Franky   June 19th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

Ohhh yeah, public financing is gonna help our problems alright and joint townhall meetings………yep, those are answers alright to our problems, LOL!!!!!

Speechless   June 19th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

The Obama campaign being deceptive? I am shocked. Shocked I tell you.

obamabot   June 19th, 2008 1:22 pm ET

the republicans are known liars.who do you believe?mccain has lied about his stance on every pressing issue,why should we believe him,now?

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