June 27, 2008
Posted: June 27th, 2008 09:33 PM ET

From
McCain delivered a tough assessment of Carter.
McCain delivered a tough assessment of Carter.

(CNN) - John McCain directed his trademark straight talk toward a former president, flatly calling Jimmy Carter a "lousy" commander in chief.

The Arizona senator has long attempted to portray Barack Obama's policies as in the mold of Carter's, though the Republican has previously held back criticizing Carter so directly.

But in an interview with the Las Vegas Sun published Friday, McCain was decidedly more blunt than he has been in the past. McCain, who is a proponent of nuclear reprocessing, was asked why he thought Carter was against the process when he was president.

"Yes, because Carter was a lousy president," McCain quipped. "This is the same guy who kissed Brezhnev."

McCain's comments are in reference to the now famous moment when Carter and then Soviet Union leader Leonid Brezhnev kissed after signing the SALT II treaty in 1979. Both the agreement and the kiss were widely panned by Republicans.

Carter himself largely stayed on the sidelines during the prolonged Democratic primary race, refusing to publicly back a candidate. Though he had long dropped several hints that he was a supporter of Barack Obama and he formally endorsed the Illinois senator shortly after he tied up the nomination.

Watch: Jimmy Carter sounds off

Filed under: John McCain


FactCheck   June 27th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

McCain is a blithering idiot. While the country did suffer economically under Carter (thanks OPEC), he was responsible for bringing together Israel and Egypt. This was the first time an Arab country recognize Israel's right to exist. Contrast anything Carter did with the policies of current Moron and Chief and you can see what McFlip Flip has to offer as a President (FOUR MORE YEARS).

The Surly Scholar   June 27th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Apparently Carter was a lousy president because he refused to ride an atomic bomb all the way to Moscow, a la Slim Pickins.

A REAL leader would have started a nuclear war.

Bdiddy from Chicago   June 27th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Yeah let's talk about lousy Presidents, let's talk about inheriting a balanced budget with a surplus, no debt, then see that turn into over a trillion dollar deficit. Let's talk about $4 a gallon gas and by fall maybe at $5. Let's talk about record foreclosures across the nation, Let's talk about the nation, let's talk about the worst stock performance since the depression. Let's talk about food prices soaring nationally, the weakend dollar globally, fewer jobs, higher education costs, pending lapse of social security, health care costs and no one being able to afford health bills, lets talk about $150 Billion a year on one war and we're fighting 2.

Yes Senator McCain great idea to go back 28 years and 4 presidents to pick on Carter, you just lost my vote...at least be honest with yourself. G.W. Bush Will go down as the worst President in this Nations History.

Michael   June 27th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

SIMP (this must be an abbreviation of simpleton). McCain went through misery he only endured because he would not leave his men.–misery you and I cannot imagine. For you to refer to him as "a bag of crap" says a lot more about you than is does Senator McCain.

disgusted   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I cannot believe that he actually said that!!!. This is someone who supposedly loves this country, and yet finds no issue will slamming someone who has already served his time in office. You have a lot of nerve and absolutely no tact Mr. McCain!!!. At least Jimmy Carter was an honest man who did his best, loved his wife and family and stuck by them, and firmly believed in what he thought was right.

John McCain doesn't have the slighest clue as to how to be honest, how to stick by his family and can't stick by what he thinks is right because he changes his mind every five minutes.

Give it a rest and go back to your barbeque....I understand you could have a future on the trail as a cook......

TheNumantine   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

err...John, Jimmy isn't on the ballot against you. Do you know what year we're in? What century?

steve   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Carter did what every President hasn't had the genitalia to do–tell the American people the truth about how they are wasting energy, and need to conserve. Been on a binge since, with policies disguising the reality that oil is not a sustainable primary source.
Despite being publicly for campaign finance reform, been writing letters to agencies for lobbyists and their firms–don't have to ask for anything specific, letter is enough that this interest is "with me". His staff are big lobbyists waiting for their payday after the election, make their pile of $$$ for their clients (think BIG OIL!).

John   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I was pretty young when Carter was president but I can certainly remember all the jokes about him and the gaffes he did. If Obama gets in – history will be repeating itself.

Democrat in LA   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I heard this was Jimmy Carter's response:

"John McCain was a lousy airman."

D Mills Garland, Tx   June 27th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

God I hope we're not stuck with McCain for 4 years!

Obama/Clinton 08

A.   June 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

I'm so sick of people calling this pathetic man a war hero.

1. He was drafted.
2. He sucked.
3. He has no character.

More like war monger.

Phil, FL   June 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Vote all the republican rascals out in November.

Let's get this country back on the right track – American jobs – American products – American Constitution – American laws.

Just vote no to republican incumbents !!!!!

Stephen H   June 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Wow, if McCain thinks that Carter was a lousy president, then how does he feel about that disgrace serving as our current president? What purpose does it serve to denigrate Carter in this way? I dont recall Carter lying to the American public to enter into a war for political reasons. Nor was Carter in the pockets of the big oil companies. Jimmy Carter was unlucky, not incompetent. Carter was a victum of bad timing in our nation's history. A Republican president in 1976 would have yielded the same results.

When you just consider competencey, I'll take Jimmy Carter over your boy Dub-ya any day of the week!

McCain supporter   June 27th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

McCain Can you respest yourself please. why are you call somebody that did not say anything about you. You are going negative . If you go negative I will not vote for you.
Jimmy Carter' did not leave his wife on the sickbed.
Jimmy Carter is a nice one so better becareful on what you said about somebody.

ov   June 27th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

So name-calling is now also part of the "trademark straight talk." Was it also "straight talk" when he chuckled after a supporter called Senator Clinton the b-word? The media needs to do a better job of reporting rather than parroting Senator McCain's brand strategy. We deserve better.

Kevin   June 27th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

John McCain please stop insulting this man of honor.

John   June 27th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Mcbush is a loser, Bush wannabe, thank god he has no chance in winning. He lost his mind in nom and will never be president here, ever. Go back to Arizona loser. The GOP dosen't even like him. This is going to be the greatest landslide victory in American history . Obama/Clinton 08/12

Dave of Oregon   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Just what you would expect of McCain! Try to make Obama into a Carter, this will not fly! President Carter had very endearing presidential policies. And by making Carter less than desirable, this is supposed to shake McCain from Bush, which will also not fly! McCain is unmistakably attached to Bush, who is a deplorable president, while Obama cannot be attached to Carter who is not a deplorable president. The right will always want to show that Carter was bad while forgetting about Bush who is bad! Now, that is a problem indeed!

Jeb   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Songbird McCain – Please Google it.

Also, I believe the current Idiot-in-Chief will be recorded as the Worst President in History.

Justice League   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Wow! Actually Bush makes Carter look like Eisenhouer. Too bad Carter couldn't fly a plane. If he had, Delta Force would have gotten the hostages out of Iran. I guess crashing the plane was Carter's fault.

McCain is REALLY reaching. He just dropped a clip in, and now is going to spray everybody. By November, he is gonna smell like a dirty litter box

Michael   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

TO JA Cook,

You sound like a reasonable person. However, although being a pilot and a prisoner of war for five years who could have gone home in the first year does not qualify one to be president, I would match it against an undistinguished term in the Illinois legislature.

Bridget   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

McCain is right!!!

Go McCain!

Al - NYC   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

It's not just Carter... Pres – Reagan, 2 Bush & Clinton

did nothing to prepare for America's future energy needs

??   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

Can anyone tell me why Teflon John McBush is even remotely close in the polls? He's turning out to be a bigger idiot than Bush....

marie   June 27th, 2008 4:24 pm ET

People just can't except the "TRUTH".

AWH   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

great post Brain from SC...I couldnt agree more...at least Carter didnt start two illegal wars on lies and profit all the way to the bank like "Dumbya" and his croonies have

Not to mention the complete destruction of our civil liberties and way of life under Bush...No when its all said and done history will not look favorable to Bush or Congress during the last 8 years

POW/MIA Daughter   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Wow!

At least Carter didn't attack the POW/MIA family members like John "Songbird" McCain did.

POW/MIA Family members ask how can John McCain be trusted to keep his promise as President of the U.S. to bring our troops home with honor from Iraq when he left his fellow Americans in chains and wrote them off for dead (against the weight of clear and convincing evidence to the contrary)? The answer they insist is that John McCain can not be trusted to do the honorable thing if elected because he has already dishonored his fellow servicemen some of whom still languish behind in captivity and despair.

McCain was well aware of thousands of live-sighting reports of POWs, aerial photographs and satellite imagery of pilot distress signals from the ground in Laos and Vietnam and heard testimony from witnesses telling of POWs in captivity but McCain chose to disbelieve it all. The benefit of the doubt went not to his fellow American POWs. Either McCain was deaf, dumb and blind, or he turned a blind eye to the truth POW/Family members conclude

Sen. John McCain did not in good faith pursue all leads in the search for the missing and unaccounted for POWs after the Vietnam War when he had an opportunity to do so. Moreover, POW/MIA family members point out that McCain used every tactic and ploy he could to bury the issue and close the book on POW/MIAs forever. He acted as judge, jury and executioner.

I can go on and on about this fine man but I won't as I am sure this is all going to come out as the election process continues.

Joe Reg   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

I thought Carter was enjoying his retirement.

What about the last 8 years of Repubs administration?

Deficits, wars, economics mismanagement.

No more repubs, not this time not this year.

Liam 1982   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

McCain should stick to lawn bowling and yelling at the neighbourhood scamps who look through his window while he peruses his Wilfred Brimley superhero comic books...OBAMA please 08

KenB, Michigan   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

Is anyone else reminded of the dancing chipmunk in CaddyShack

Ken from Utah   June 27th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

I'm a Obama supporter, but come one! Like the dems haven't ripped Bush a new one?

OBAMA '08

RP   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Carter was a disaster as a president. It was his poor handling of the Iran hostage crisis that gave rise to the modern terrorism. He makes Bush look like Abraham Lincoln. No one can seriously say Jimmy Carter was a good president......even Democrats can't be that dumb

Dave of Oregon   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Just what you would expect of McCain! Try to make Obama into a Carter, this will not fly! President Carter had very endearing presidential policies. And by making Carter less than desirable, this is supposed to shake McCain from Bush, which will also not fly! McCain is unmistakably attached to Bush, who is a deplorable president, while Obama cannot be attached to Carter who is not a deplorable president. The right will always want to show that Carter was bad while forgetting about Bush who is bad! Now, that is a problem indeed!

pam Eugene OR   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

That was very rude Senator McCain. You have no tact or diplomacy at all. I would never want you to represent our great nation. You need to go back to bed and hopefully crawl back out on the other side.
Shame on you!

Democrat in LA   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Hey, better to be a lousy president than a lousy senator– and from a third-world, fly-over state to boot!

Rating McCain's presidency won't be an option for any of us, thank goodness. Anybody else hate having to wait four more months for the inevitable? Give me that remote with the real-world fast forward button.

Eric   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Look at the pictures up top. Carter looks younger!!!!! LMAO!

Obama 08!

Michael   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

McCain is absolutely. This hayseed populist was a disaster. His ineptitude is why Reagan resonates and will resonate forever.

Nick - Arlington, VA   June 27th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

Patrick Henry, Ft. Myers June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

One thing I can agree on for sure.

Carter was absolutely the worst President in our nations history. He was stupid, did not listen to advisors, insisted on the wrong courses–at the objection of cabinet officers.

He was, and remains, and idealist and an idiot. And with te exception of some of his charitable endeavors–was an absolutely ridiculous choice for President.

He is a very nice man…and I know he is well intended…but he is stupid and ignorant of the appropriate way to deal with the "evil doer's "in the world, terrorists, and megalomaniac dictators of the world.
-----------------------------------
Are you sure that you're describing Carter and not George W. Bush? lol

Joe Bloggs, Haiku, HI   June 27th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

So McSame, are you saying that Bush was less lousy than Carter? IF lousyness is your criterion, then I must agree you are a good candidate to continue the trend of the last 8 years.

Mk   June 27th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

If Carter was such an awful president what does that make Bush?

Bill from Missouri   June 27th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

McCain is not fit to criticize President Carter. Carter was a visionary and foresaw the seriousness of the energy crisis thirty years ago and tried to set this country on the right course toward energy independence. Then McCain's hero cowboy Reagan came in ripped the solar panels off the white house and undid most of carter's effort to get us on the road toward renewables. McCain has lived his entire life on the strength of his imprisonment in Vietnam. Because of that he has been above criticism for his shabby treatment of his first wife, for his dishonesty in the Keating Five scandal, and his numerous flip flops on key issues. Most journalists from the Vietnam generation ducked the war themselves and out of guilt seem to give him a free ride, but the public won't in November. He's toast!

Lisa   June 27th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

The smartest man I know, my father once told me
rewards on this earth are short lived, wonder who will have rewards for eternity, McCain or Carter
Jimmy Carter loved his Lord first and that is something more should think about .... The reason he may or may not have been a "lousy" president is not the question we should ask ourselves. Was he a good man ... Yes he was and is and I am very proud to say i voted for him and would again.

Soph   June 27th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

At least Carter WAS President.
Pretty darn sure McCain will never be able to make that claim.

Easy to throw stones having never had the job, eh John?

nitro   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

If sending us into a war for no reason , costing us billions of dollars in spending, having inocent soldiers killed, plus many civillians dont make you the worst president ever then truely we deserve everything we got. On the other hand what happened to the respect factor between presidents, oops that idiot McCain is not a president so say what ever you want to we all know who the worst ever is GWB. But then there was the idiot that caused the airline strike and then threaten to have them fired if they didn't return and then they named an airport after him. Oh and he couldn't remember authorizing the sale of arms to a country that we were at odds with. Alzhiemer is a mutha . John McCain think again or do you have that sickness to.

CB   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

I think most agree BUSH is the "lousiEST" president in U.S. history.

McCain is living in the cold-war era – every comment he makes about Russia has been negative.

Crush Rush   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

From WAR HERO to COWARD in 8 years.He didnt have the guts to stand up to Bush in 2000,and now wants to take it out on anyone he can.

AWH   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Unfortunately for McCain, he will have a lot in common with Jimmy Carter come November

when he proceeds to get smoked in a landslide victory for the DEMS. I dont know if it will be 489 to 49 ala the 1980 election but I venture to say it will be close to that margin of victory for Obama

Mike, Iowa   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Carter has nothing to do with the 2008 race just more republican BS to scaptegoat there own mistakes. All they do is smile and shake there heads and blame everything on someone else

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 27th, 2008 4:20 pm ET

As president, Carter created two new cabinet-level departments: the Department of Energy and the Department of Education. He established a national energy policy[2] and removed price controls from domestic petroleum production

Carter pursued the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal Treaties and the second round of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT). Carter sought to put a stronger emphasis on human rights; he negotiated a peace between Israel and Egypt in 1979.

You call THIS record lousy???????????????????????????

David, Tampa, Fl   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Was Carter a "lousy" president? Yes. But he isn't in the same league as the piece of work in the Whitehouse now. Life in these United States as we know it will be undergoing a drastic change in the next decade or so. Personally, I do not think Obama, McCain or Barr, is capable of making the bold sweeping changes needed to get us out of Bush's legacy- total economic meltdown.

Reality Check Richmond Virginia   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

of course McCain seems to be adopting the policies of not only a lousy president, but the worst president ever.

Patriot   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Sorry McBush,

Most voters under 40 don't even remember Jimmy Carter being President, so I don't know why you're bringing Carter up all the time.

A second Carter term would have been better than Reagan, who brought us Bush Sr, who brought us you-know-who.

Gearge, TX   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

McCain is too OLD to be president. McCain is out of NEW ideas and he will continue to engage in name calling.

faye, NV   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

McCainbush really need to get a grip. He is so out of touch and trying to do what ever, I don't know what ever to think of him.

He is too funny

John from Orlando   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

OK, Carter was no peach (no pun intended). He missed the boat in many areas. But for McCain to denigrate Mr. Carter, especially during an election year, is pretty stupid. McCain has been noted for unfortunate comments–a very blunt manner that has hurt others more than once in the past. His campaign staff needs to tell the man to tone it down. Obama appears to be a clear winner, and McCain cannot afford any mistakes. Unfortunately I dislike both candidates, but I'm leaning more toward Obama than before simply because McCain has so many rough edges. At least Carter was a gentleman.

Nia - Phoenix, AZ   June 27th, 2008 4:19 pm ET

I guess McCain had to pick on someone his own age

Bill   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Let's not forget, this is the same John McCain who refers to Asians as a certain derogatory 4-letter-word beginning with 'G'.

People trash Obama for what his pastor said, yet those same people aren't holding McCain accountable for his disgusting, racist behavior that HE HIMSELF said?

I don't care what the Vietnamese did to him in his days as a POW, that does NOT justify the demeaning of an entire continent and culture.

puff   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

He is going to make such a great president!! He tells it like it is!! You go John, we are with you!
Hillary Democrats 08

Brian H   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Lousy president, perhaps, but compared to George W Bush he is outstanding.

Shawna   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Regardless of how McCain feels about Carter, he is trying to be commander and chief...His comments are disrespectful and unbecoming of someone trying to be the leader of the US. He should issue an immediate appology, because these kinds of slip ups are the reason that the US is looked upon negatively. Once again McCain fails to separate himself from the titled "three more years of Bush", domestic and foreign policy mind set.

James   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Next John McCain will be attacking Woodrow Wilson, the first Democratic President he remembers.

Dandelion.   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

What a douche.

Texan   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Jimmy Carter and Obama are VERY similar. Except Obama is more liberal and has less experience.

Both believe in a policy of appeasment. Which failed time and time again in Iran, N Korea, and Gaza/Israel. LOOK IT UP!
Both will meet with our enemies at a drop of a dime, but getting them to visit our soldiers is like pulling teeth.

If you study Carter, you'll see that he promised "Change" he considered himself a "Peacemaker" but he delivered nothing.

What did Carter realy do? He created an Islamofascist state in Iran.
He gave N Korea nuclear technology, and the N Koreans turned around and made weapons with it.

What really upsets me is that you people don't know jack about history, yet you're so sure of your opinions.

Hopity hope hope, change change change.

MLG   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

McCain is right on!!!

Ridgeway   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Excellent. Dead on and if it's possible he's an even worse ex-President. He and Jane Fonda wear sickle and hammer underwear. Carter is a senile old fool constantly working toward the undermining of America. He's a stooge for Liberals and Hamas no doubt.

David in Chicago   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

To: Republican who loves OBAMA

Me too! lol This is the first time. Man, Obama better not let us down right?

Sabrina   June 27th, 2008 4:18 pm ET

McCain is out of touch with reality. President Carter is a man of honour and respect. Look at the mess we have now. In my opinion it is not Pres. Carter who was the worst but without a doubt, it is Bush by mile. Idiot!!!!

Will, NYC   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

True or not, a Navy man doesn't attack a fellow Navy man. That's not only unpresidential, it's disloyal to the honor of those who served like Carter did in WWII.

I am really disappointed in him for this.

Nathan   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Unbelievable. I have always admired McCain, although I have often disagreed with him. But the more I see, the less I like. This is just mean, and very un-Presidential. We need a leader who is the leader of the whole country, everyone. The big problems we face require us to work together. This will require some restraint, some manners, and some good will.

Nick   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

This clear evidence Obama is setting the tone in this election. Obama's main attack message is that McCain will make a similar President to Bush Jr, and Bush Jr was a lousy president. Now Obama is trying to draw a less effective comparison to Carter. It is less effective first off for practical reasons. Carter was president under extremely different circumstances. We were battling communism, rather then terrorism and the Oil crisis then was supply based, while this is a demand based problem. It is also less effective politically because Obama's support among young voters will not be hurt because they simply don't remember Carter's presidency. It won't hurt it among AA (but nothing will). Also Carter is no longer relavent. Americans are not seeing the effects of Carter policies today, but Bush is the current president and we feel the effects all the time. Plus McCain keeps siding with Bush day after day strengthening Obama's analogy.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Better than your little pal, Dumbya who, in addition to being THE WORST PRESIDENT IN US HISTORY, is also a lousy individual whose hubris has almost succeeded in destroying a one proud nation! Enjoy your pet albatross, loser!

Shelly in IL   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

NO, I can gaurantee Bush was the lousiest ever.

Nia - Phoenix, AZ   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

And McCasin is one lousy Senater to AZ. Our boarders are non exsistant, the infrastructure is out dated and enificiante, The enviroment keeps getting worse and worse, people are losing there houses....just go to the local mdia pages and see for yourself how "well" of a job he doing and if you don't feel like doing that look at the way his campiagn has been managed. He bankrupted early on, still has issues raising cash....is that realy what we want for our eceonomy?

Travis   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

And Bush smooched McCain.

I wouldn't ding someone else on awkward necking, Johnny Bomb-Iran.

IndependentGA   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Well that maybe the case. But that was more than a quarter of a century ago. Most people dn't remember who Carter was. But we know all to well,who G. W. Bush is. And if you asked most people. Bush will go down as the worst president of our life time and maybe in history.
Its funny how the GOP are bringing people in the election that haven't been around in decades. They do this because they know that they lose on the issues. The problem with the GOP is that they have no vision. Their policies are outdated and have proven to be a detriment to our society and to the world. They can't suggest with a straight face that we should embrace their policies, so they resort to the tactics of fear and smear.
The GOP needs to regroup and come up with a vison that works for the American people. I challange any republican to tell me why
I should support their agenda. Not why I shouldnt vote for Obama or Barr. But why should the American people and myself have faith in thier causes. Given the last 7 1/2 years....
(sounds of crickets)
You can't.... so do all of us a favor and keep ya mouth shut. We've heard enough of your lies and had enough of scaring us into votring for you..... GOP IS BAD FOR AMERCIA AND BAD FOR THE WORLD,,,,,,,
OBAMA OR BARR IN 08....GOP.....KICK ROCKS! SCRAM! BEAT IT!

saga for Obama   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

McCains campaign is like his comb over...gone

JR, Plymouth   June 27th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Whatever one's opinion (and I would disagree with McCain), any past holder of this office deserves more respect than this sort of cheap shot. McCain proves once again his "straight talk" is just a manifestation of his basic mean and angry temperament; just the type of "maverick" to have access to that tempting button....

Ron   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

The Supreme McJudge has spoken. Let everyone listen, and form his own opinion.

Tired of W, OH   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Patrick Henry from Ft. Myers said: Carter was absolutely the worst President in our nations history. He was stupid, did not listen to advisors, insisted on the wrong courses–at the objection of cabinet officers.

Patrick, if you think that Carter was the worst President in our nations history, answer one question: WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN FOR THE PAST 7.5 YEARS?!? Every word you typed could be true if you just replaced "Carter" with "Dubya".

No, Carter was not a great President, but he did not perposely and methodically erode our Constitution. He did not ignore the Geneva Convention. He did not use false intelligence to start an illegal war. And Carter sure as H ell won't be tried for war crimes like Dubya will.

obama will win georgia   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

this is incredibly disrespectful coming from a candidate for president. it is one thing to criticize a former president for his decisions and policies. bush is deserves far more criticism than carter ever could. at the same time, i can't see obama calling bush a "lousy president"

straight talk sounds a lot like playground taunting and name-calling. not very presidential. it's a good thing mccain won't win the election. 30 years from now, someone running for president would call him a senile old fool

TexasLady   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Jimmy Carter is the first president I remember – I was 6. But I remember the gas lines, the inflation, my friend's families loosing jobs due to the economy.

Now, he's off making friends with terrorists.

Oh, yea, democrats at work

David in Chicago   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Actually, Carter was a pretty decent president. He did help the energy crisis. From the day he walked into the White House until the day he walked out, their were 8 million more new jobs. He created the Department of Education which is still fully in service today. He did a lot of stuff but actually... if you read up on him.. it actually seems like his life's biggest achievements came after he was president. I never knew much about Carter until this article.. so I went and looked him up in the wiki. Interesting guy. I don't think he was phenomenal.. but I don't think he made as many mistakes as George Bush.

I don't think calling someone's job "lousy" is very professional. Afterall, being president is a job. A very honorable job. Calling someone lousy is not honorable.

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   June 27th, 2008 4:16 pm ET

McCain is a lousy human being who sold his soul for this final chance at the White house.

Robin   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Name one excellent thing Mr. Carter did while in office ?

joseph   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

obama is lousy

Liberals R Out Of Touch   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Liberals have absolutely no clue about Jimmy Carter. He was one of the worst presidents in the history of the USA.

Many of the people here railing against McCain weren't even born yet when Carter was president. These same people now have unrealistic views about what the president is and isn't responsible for.

If Obama is elected, I hope he is held to the same bizarre standards as these fools hold Bush. Bad weather via hurricane/floods/etc? Obama's fault. Terrorist attack? Obama's fault. People hating us across the world? Obama's fault.

I'll get my "Obama: Not my president" bumper sticker and act like a fool just like the democrats have the past 8 years just to let them know how stupid they look to the rest of us. I'll make sure to blog every negative story imaginable is Obama's fault just like how those rabid fools blame Bush for everything.

Ex-mod-GOP for Obama   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Seems like a play for the conservative vote to me.

Brandon Hillary Democrat for Mc Cain   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Duh ! Well obama would be the next Carter if elected. Carter ran on a similiar message in 1976 But actually had experience as a governor.
Obama would be a 2nd Carter Term.

freddie   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Just like Peepaw makes out with GW every chance he gets!! Well...it's the weekend so he needs to go home and rest I guess.

J in Houston   June 27th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

McCain is spot on with what most Americans think. I love all the little kiddies coming in talking about President Carter being a good President. You can tell they obviously weren't alive at that time.

Ray from CA   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

I can't belive this
I hope Mr. Carter and everyone else come after McCain for what he said I am so sick of what he said
You are a filithy person McCain and you will never be president

Crush Rush   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

McCain will lose in a landslide and he knows it,hes just making talking points for 2012.Big Oil runs the world now and will screw who ever is not playing ball.

JONNA   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Just like a bully, pick on people who can't defend themselves. Shame on you McSame

OBAMA MAMA   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

He is attacking Carter so he'll have an excuse to attack Obama. This is such a weak attempt.

McCain doesn't even deserve to stand in Obama's shadow. These republican attacks are sickening and only makes them all look bad!

Obama will win on November!

John   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Ah, Mr. McCain...and how many U.S. servicemen died in combat during Jimmy Carter's term?

Apparently, Bush or McCain don't believe the Commander-in-Chief is doing his job unless U.S. soldiers are dying in a war nobody cares about!

ProundToBeDemocrat   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Mccain the Old man he can not find anything wrong with obama, now he trying to get Carter involved it ain't going to happen Mcbush, pesident Carter is too smart for that all he going to do is ignore you.

California Voter   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

To put it another way, Carter has done more good since he left office . . . . . . . however, I would question how wonderful some of the recent Republican presidents have been as well.

Ray n Jax   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Once again McCain's dementia is exposing itself.. The worst President currently lives in the White House. So Mr McCain since your in the fall of your life and your dementia is progressing to unthinkable levels, why don't you just give it up.. You can save America from yourself!

Well Informed Voter   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

McCain should stop the name calling, and concentrate on issues at hand. He knows better.

Mohan   June 27th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

This is the problem with Conservatives and Republicans. They despise and humiliate dignified personlaities the rest of the world respect. So long as McCains, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Bill O'Reilly, Carl Rowe and the like form the core of Republican party, an Obama victory is ensured.

John McCain-McFlip-Flop-McBush is no "maverick"   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

And you, sir (although you don't deserve the polite title), have no room to talk because you've hugged George Bush ( the lousiest president in our history in case you haven't noticed his 23% approval rating – the lowest EVER – with the AMERICAN people) and embraced 95% of his policies. So you differ by 5% friggin' percent?! Whoop-dee-flippin"-doo!!!

John McCain is a lousy Non-President   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Way to go John McLousy

EDW   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

My dad is 72 years old and has learned a lot of grace over the years. Mr. McCain has not.

Democrat in 08!   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Are you serious? Not the fact that he called Jimmy Carter lousy but the fact that his remarks can be directed at Bush. What a hypocrite!!!!!!! And a lying one at best!!!!!!! This just goes to show how out of touch Mccain really is and this guy is running for president? He can't even talk about a president that is relevant today. What the hell Jimmy Carter who cares! Why doesn't he talk about how lousy Bush is as a president since he is the one affecting everybody badly in America today! Even though I would use a stronger word to describe Bush!

Ghani   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Wow! a 71 years old, bold headed candidate calling another 70 and above years old former president "lousy"! What could the voter expect from such a candidate other than lousiness.

CS in PA   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Gee, McBush, I am wondering what you really think about the current disaster we refer to as president? True to the Republican form this week – the religous nuts and now the senile fools slinging slum and mud!

Jerry   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

McCain is a warhead that all he talking about is war I need help with my bills that what American is looking for a president who cares about us in American with this bad economy I dont trust McCain how he going to call Carter lousy president look at his friend Bush

Observer in Observing, MI   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

And Carter inherited his problems from who?

Tell me.

No Sir, I reject your judgement of Carter. The man was as far ahead of

his time as you are behind yours.

How's the view from 1976 McCane?

No Thanks!

Obama '08

Brad   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

McCain is an idiot. Listen, you grumpy old coot, at least Carter made an attempt at the concept of peace. All McCane ever wants to do is solve things by throwing the bodies of our youth at it and hoping a few get impaled. Shut up McCain, you're lousy. Go away already, you senile prick.

ANGIE   June 27th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

thats funny says carter was lousy but praises bush and his policies hes a real funny man that mccain

David Peter   June 27th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

George Bush is the worst president.

David Goldman for OBAMA   June 27th, 2008 4:12 pm ET

CARTER HAS CONTRIBUTED MORE TO THIS NATION

THAN MCBUSH AND ALL HIS CORRUPT LOBBYISTS

SLEAZOS THAT HE SHARES WITH BUSH & CHANEY.

CARTER DOESN'T WRAP HIMSELF IN THE AMERICAN

FLAG WHILE LOOTING OUR POCKETS, AS SLEAZO DOES,

HE PUTS HAMMER IN HAND & GOES TO WORK. AND

HE HAS THE IQ OF SLEAZO & PILL POPPER COMBINES.

Mohammad, LA CA   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Is this how you run a 'respectful' campaign? By insulting a former president that many, many people respect?

vw   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Yes, you are right. He did nothing for USA but to meet with Hamas and Iran,,,

Gary of El Centro, Ca   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Carter may not have been our most successful President, in fact I've never forgiven him for letting our hostages sit in Iran for more than a year before any serious attempt to free them was undertaken. But if McCain had an issue with Carter kissing the Russian after an historic agreement, I'm waiting for his comments about the time Bush looked into Putin's eyes and said he had seen his soul and he could be trusted........

Anonymous   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Very funny as well as risky choice...

saga for Obama   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

is this your "honor for our country" mr. Mccaint? things were bad...yes but Mr. Carter is a great guy. how is it you can fix your lips to criticizes Mr. Carter and run to the WORST president in the US history, your friend and mentor George W.. you have insulted our nation this time. you are the typical repub, rich white guy the repubs idolize.....now i am heated!!!
your war hero days are over today is a new day mr mccain, you flip flop on every major issue, private meeting yet call yourself "transparent", we see right through you to the ENRON advisers, PACs and special interest groups you represent.those very same people who are getting richer by the destruction of our country, yes those status quot supporters who backed Bush and now his protegee McCain!!!
you know what i have go now and donate another $25 to mr. Obama. i urge every free thinking American to do the same...

Mccain= more WAR (13 US soldiers died this week in Iraq)
Mccain= more fat cats getting richer while Americans get poorer
Mccain= a sad sad sad day in America

R-C from NC   June 27th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Respect for Carter-LOL-he is a traitor to the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND IT'S ALLIES!!!! I won't vote for Obama,but I respect him more than Carter any day!!!

Chyrel Wallace-Jackson   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

This was uncalled for and how in God's name can McSame as George Bush insult anyone? If he should be name calling I think lousy is more befitting the current commander in chief. This is really a lot of nerve coming from someone so closely linked to without question the worst President of the United States of America George W. Bush and his destructive political policies. Shame on you McSame, Shame on You!

Erik   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Carter negotiated the peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. It was a landmark agreement and still remains in effect today. Peace treaties with subsequent nations have remained elusive.

A lot of people seem to forget that.

Mike D   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

This is coming from a big GWB supporter?

Billy   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

McCain sure has sacrificed his principals for this chance at the presidency.

I used to love John McCain (back in 2000) but the man has traded in his beliefs for a republican nomination for president.

No way can I vote for this guy.

Upon Further Review,Texas   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Carters only failure was he didnt NATIONALIZE THE OIL COMPANIES.They screwed him and made a deal with the Iranians to hold the hostages till Dumbo got in office.

kyle   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

you tell them mccain!

McCain 08

Proud Voter Eddie V.   June 27th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

George W Bush is a "lousy" President.

Let's keep current ,old man!!

Duop Chak, Colorado Springs, Colorado   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

I hope it was mistakenly said-this kind of comment might backfire.

Phil, FL   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

McShame is an anal cavity, my friends.

Go Obama

mcdonald   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

carter is a moron and obama will be one

Thor   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Jimmy Carter tried to help people and for that the republicans trashed him. George Bush helped military corporations over humans and the republicans admire him. George Bush stopped looking for Osama who was behind 9/11 and started an endless war against a nation that did not commit any aggression towards the United States.

Let all those who say Carter was the worst line up Bush's 8 years and lets see who really will be remembered as the worst.

Eric   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

I guess George H. Bush was. Lol. He needs to shut up, because he wont be President so he has no grounds to call A "President" lousy. He's never been a president and he never will.

nic, bellingham wa   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Yeah, he was a lousy President. He didn't start any wars in the middle east or push the boundaries of executive privilege. He didn't turn a deaf ear to natural disaster victims, or leave a legacy of environmental destruction to last generations.

Hell, he didn't even torture anyone – what a joke!

Mike - Texas   June 27th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

McCain is absolutely correct.

If you think that Bush is the worst president ever then you would be wrong. Our terrorist loving ex president Jimmy Carter's approval rating was 5 points lower that President Bush's is right now.

Under Carter, we had 18% interest rates and run away inflation. Under Carter, we had gas shortages and gas lines.

Under Carter, we had stores running out of food because of the gas shortage.

Carter led to one of our alies ,the Shaw of Iran, to be over thrown to give us the mess that we have in Iran today.

Carter did more to mess up the country in 4 years than Bush has done in 8.

NC for Obama   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

How dare you have the audacity to call anyone a "lousy" anything. You ought to start with your family issues. You were a lousy husband and father. And you think because you were a POW you have what it takes to be a president? How about all the unlousy pilots with the skill to not get shot down? McShame you disgust me.

Jim ,Atlanta   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

McCain knows lousy Presidents....he's been the lap dog for the worst ever!

That picture of Bush kissing McCain's forehead still sickens me......after what Bush did to McCain in the 2000 primaries in South Carolina.

Can't wait for the map to turn blue in November.

B. Gorman   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

What a pathetic comment from Senator McCain. I know Jimmy Carter was not popular at the end of his term, but I really respect the man. President Carter had to work through a series of difficult crises, but even to this day he tries to make the world a better place. So to say that Carter was a lousy president is an insult.
I'm not ashamed of the Carter years, but I'm certainly ashamed that you believe you should be president.

shhhh   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Thankfully, we'll never find out how lousy a president McCan't would be.

Matt   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

You ain't seen nothin' yet.

Uhhh...bama will take the throne as the new 'Worst Ever' from ol' Jimmy.

Clinton will have to settle for third place.

All is Fair   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

If Democrats want to connect Bush and McCain, then I see no problem with connecting Obama and Carter.

Fair is fair

Kenneth M   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

I liked McCain better when he was vetoing bear.

Neutral   June 27th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

It cannot be disputed, Carter was indeed a lousy President. Carter would give this country to terrorists if given a chance. His botched up rescue of hostages in Iran have killed few of our good men in uniform. Not only Carter was a lousy President, he is also as stupid as they come; him and Bush are on a race who's more stupid Jimmy Carter or Bush?

McCain 08!

Didine - Maryland   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

I just can not believe John McCain, calling a former president name. He is so unpresidential. I am very disappointed by him and he will never get my vote. What a childish attitude!

MCM   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

G W BUSH is the worst president EVER!!! Carter wasn't great, but he was FAR better than the chump in office at present!

Phil, FL   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

GW Bush was absolutely the worst President in our nations history. He was stupid, did not listen to advisors, insisted on the wrong courses–at the objection of cabinet.

He started a needless war and Mcwarmonger has set him up as his idol. 95% agreement –

No to McShame

Xavier, Saint Louis, MO   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Please! Bush gets that award, hands down!

Obamanation '08

YES WE CAN!

Milly - Arizona   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Old man McCain is off his bearings again! He's just flip-flopping on everything – I remember he once praised Carter, but now he says he was lousy as he McSame is right now.

I guess McSame prefers to bacalled McBush

58 old white ladies for OBAMA   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

CARTER WAS A BETTER PRESIDENT THAN BUSH, &

MCSLEAZO COULD EVER BE. HE WAS SANE.

AND TO BOOT HE HAS BEEN A BETTER HUMAN

BEING & PATRIOT THAN MCSLEAZO & ALL HIS SLEAZY

COMRADES IN ARMS.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   June 27th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

McCain is a lousy pilot.

Lucy   June 27th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

And this is the reason Obama is kicking his b*tt all over the polls!....oooohhhh...Am scrared................UGH!

Frantz (Atlanta)   June 27th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Call me crazy, but should the focus be on Obama, not on Carter?

Maybe he thinks we still in 1978 not 2008.

adam   June 27th, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Maybe Carter backed off N-power b/c of its dangers of production and its undiposable waste.

anyway, to bash Carter and embrace Bush shows that McCain is a True Republican and not the Maveric he'd like us to believe.

HOUSTON TEXAS   June 27th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

AND BUSH IS.........

Mike   June 27th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Not very presidential sounding – calling a former president "lousy"...

I wonder what one word McCain would use to sum up Bush's presidency?

RickytheGriff   June 27th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Jimmy Carter spent his retirement building house for Habitat for Humanity. I wonder what George W. will be doing in his elder years?

A Latte Lover, Seattle, WA   June 27th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Say what you want old McNasty, but Jimmy Carter at least was a President (I remember him fondly) something you will never be!

Women for Obama/???, 08

Kim, Charlotte, NC   June 27th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

And John McCain you are the clone of G.Bush...just older.

Scott   June 27th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

And this is how the GOP is going to try and win.

They aren't going to talk up how great McCain is, they are going to talk down Obama.

McCain is on the wrong side of almost every single policy debate and can't win on his policies. So he is going to tell us Obama is another Carter, Obama is weak, partisan, untruthful.

Like it did with Clinton, these attacks are going to blow up in McCain's face.

This is Obama's election. He is going to win in a landslide.

McCain has no shot at all.

People are tired of the GOP politics, and what is great is that Obama has geared people up to be expecting these attacks, so people see them for what they are. Pure BS.

Obama 2008

ls   June 27th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

No McCriticize, YOUR BUDDY BUSH is a 'LOUSY PRESIDENT'

Obama-Junkie, IL   June 27th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

McCain will lose this election in a landslide if he keeps this type of campaigning going on. When McCain speaks of good presidents and bad presidents, he chooses Ronald Reagan as good and Jimmy Carter as bad. When was those last two presidencies?

Carter was president in 1976 and Reagan became president in 1980!

McCain is making himself into an old backward thinking Republican candidate by focusing on the 1970s and 1980s.

Many people 60 and younger see the bad past president as George W. Bush and the good past president as Bill Clinton.

Robert in Toronto,ON   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Where's the article on McCain joking about beating his wife in that same interview in Las Vegas! CNN – THAT would be a bigger headline grabber.

You don't seem to have a problem diggin up Obama dirt, so let's see some balance.

Catty   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

The carter administration was a dark moment in US history. 1 term was all it took!

Bill in Virginia   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

McCain is a LOUSY Senator who would make a terrible president.

Go Obama!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Can't fault him on that one......

E. Bunny   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

But George Bush is a winner???!????!
Obviously, McCain can't distinguih between someone who disagrees with his ideas and "lousy government." Lousy government ignores the plight of the majority of it's citiizens. Blame the local gvernment when a Federal Agency that was created to take care of local communities hit with disaster fails to do it's job. (Why DO we have FEMA if we are supposed to dig ourselves out of sewage water when our local infrasture is compromised by natural disaster? FEMA seemed to take care of FLA when it was hit by Andrew under Bush I).

McCain sounds senile.

MK   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

If McCain really was a straight talker, he would also call Bush a lousy president, you know he believes it to be true.

Eric   June 27th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Temper, temper John McCain...

Stay home, McSame   June 27th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

BUt he will support George Bush? George W. Bush will go down as the worst President in at any time in the last 100 years.

Enlightened Voter   June 27th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Yeah, well atleast he's not a criminal and had the worse approval rating of any president in history like your man gwb.

Steve   June 27th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

McCain knows what he's talking about. He's got an excellent yardstick for lousy presidents. The yardstick is now serving as president. Carter had his issues, and though his heart was in the right place, he really wasn't a very good president, BUT, as many problems as he had, he didn't even come close to the problems Bush has created. When the history books are written, Carter will be treated much better than Bush.

Chanda Cincinnati Ohio   June 27th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Since when did trying to work through issues with peaceful, thought provoking, dialoague become a four letter word in this country. America's "if you don't agree with us then we will blow you up" attitude is why this country is viewed around the world as an axis of evil. John McCain would rather drop a bomb then talk, because he is an idiot, and would not have anything of substance to contribute to a conversation wtih world leaders. Go ahead and elect this clown, and we will never regain our status as a leader in the global arena. But oh...I forgot...this country does not need anyone else.. Right!!??!!

P.S. News flash McCain...your baby brother Bush will go down in history as the worst thing that ever happened to this country!!

Casey in CA.   June 27th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Oh, give me a break. What about Bush's love affair with Putin?

"I looked the man in the eye. I was able to get a sense of his soul," Bush has repeatedly referred to Putin as his "good friend." Even after Putin opposed the U.S. invasion of Iraq, he declared "I love him, believe it or not."

McCain is a moron. I'd rather have Carter than McCain any day as president any day. At least I know A) I could trust him and B) he's not likely to start yet another WAR.

McCain = Bush's third term.

Glenn   June 27th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Pooooooooor McBush! he is so frustrated and angry. He absolutely doesn't know what to do. He campaign staff appear rather stupid and thus sio does he. McShame isn't even in the same league as President Carter. Look at Bush's popularity... the lowest ever. His policies and actions and his stupidity got us to the mess we are in now. McSame voted 95% with Bush. McDumb calling President Carter as lousy needs to refelct on his and Bush's eight year failure.
This election is shaping up to be another 1964 Goldwater disaster for the GOP Senators, Representatives and Presidency.

MD FOR OBAMA   June 27th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Carter looks better than McCain in this picture and Carter has already been President.

Obama Supporter from FL   June 27th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

I can't believe we are going to have to hear this crap from McCain through November.

There's going to be a run on earplugs...

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   June 27th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

If Jimmy Carter was a lousy president, then what does that make Bush?

He's fighting two wars, one based on lies, and the other, he can't win.

He's wasted over a trillion dollars on two open-ended wars, and the gas is 4 times higher than when Jimmy Carter was in office.

Boy, do I miss that $1.00 a gallon gas!

And Carter's stupidity had 8 men killed, trying to rescue the hostages.

Bush's stupidity got 4,000 men killed.

And who is McCain following?

Republican who loves OBAMA   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Typical Republican playbook, acting like little children and calling people names. McCain talk about the issues that matter to us. That is why I am a Republican who is voting for OBAMA!!!
OBAMA '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Connie, Tennessee   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Since McCain is trying to potray himself as SO PATRIOTIC, everyone not old enough to remember when he was a prisioner of war should visit he web site of VIETNAM VETERANS AGAINST JOHN MCCAIN. It is very enlightening. Apparently the Navy didn't think he was smart enough for a leadership position.

Tim   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Of course he was a lousy president. Any "good" republican president would have started a war with the Soviet Union.....

YEEEE-HAAAAWWWWWWW!

SGJ, Chicago, IL   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

I smell desperation!

Senator McCain is a flawed candidate. He is at his best when he is himslef which will turn off the Hard core (far right wing) Republicans. So he flip-flopped on enough to get them back on his side, but now enough indpendents are wary of him being too much like Bush. Now if he tries to calm those fears the right will flee again.

Okay, so worst case scenario...   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Obama is another Carter, McCain is another Bush. I'd still take Obama in that case any day of the week

TEXAN   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

OH MY GOD....I can not believe he said this !!!!!!! He is not showing any respect for a former President. AND....he does not have any tact.
HE IS NOT PRESIDENTIAL MATERIAL !!!!!!!!!!!!! His lack of respect and tact will probably get the country into BIG trouble someday. Once again, this shows that Obama is BEST for our country. GO OBAMA !!!!

cmitch FW, TX   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

McCain's will be a lousy president as well. This man is clueless and frightens me. A nuclear war waiting to happen. He is not sure of himself.

Sue in MI   June 27th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Gosh, that takes balls-calling Carter lousy after what we have put up with in the current administration, and what McCain plans to continue should America be duped again! Carter kept us out of war, actually felt the pain of the poor, and is a genuine Christian. In my book, he goes to heaven, and the rest of the Washington bozos, not likely!

MN Indy   June 27th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

And yet Carter still had a higher approval rating than the current president...whom McCain has nearly identical stances with...

YO   June 27th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

That's non-befitting of a presidential candidate. Shame on you McShame.
Carter is a true statesmen, McCain is a War Monger.

jen   June 27th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Well McCain just lost the Habitat for Humanity crowd....He is the gift that just keeps giving. His theme song should be Desperato by the Eagles.

wycliffe, NJ   June 27th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

STRAIGHT TALK--MCCAIN IS OLD

azi   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Look in the mirror McCain...you're the one who is the loser and to think I was ready to vote for you in 2000!

La Raza   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

If Carter was lousy then what is George Bush? McCain has lost his bearings my friends.

Cincinnati girl   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

So what does that make President Bush?

Dewayne Kincaid   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Coming after Bush, it's hard to credit McCain with much discernment. I wonder what Bush will do in his dotage? As many good works as Carter do you think?

JA Cook   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

As much as I respect John McCain for his military service, there's no evidence that he can be a good Commander in Chief himself.

He has never commanded troops. He was a pilot who was shot down and endured agonies I can only imagine. That doesn't make him a qualified leader though, nor does his record in the Senate.

Since he first started eyeballing the Presidency in 2000, McCain's straight talk has been bobbing and weaving in whatever direction seemed to bring him closer.

I can respect changes of heart as new information becomes available, but not pandering in whichever direction the breezes blow.

David, Silver Spring, MD   June 27th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Jimmy Carter had the foresight to put a solar water heater on the White House roof when gas was around $.75 a gallon. Ronald Reagan took it down. Now gas is $4 a gallon.

John McCain idolizes Reagan and calls Carter a "lousy" president.

What does that tell us about John McCain's energy policy?

Doris,Memphis,TN   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Shame on you John McCain to say such negative words about
a great president and a good man such as Jimmy Carter.
How about that rally in Unity, New Hampshire today!
The walls are closing in!

Jacqueline   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

How unPresidential. Come on McCain- you sold your soul to fit in with all the cronies you railed against all these years, and now you are finding out (via Obama) that it's always better to remain true to yourself.

Give us break! The big sleep is over; Americans now realize more than ever the destruction your party has cost us over the past 20 years and we're going to fix it this November. Karma- it's a beautiful thing.

Becky   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

McCain would make a lousy president. Does McCain think that Bush was a stellar president?

SIMP   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

How can anybody seriously consider this old, bitter, short tempered,
hard of hearing bag of crap as president? John McCain is a joke. I'm so tired of hearing about him being a war hero, 30 years ago. You mccain supporters are just as dumb as he is, just listen to this senile old man and you willl see what I mean, unless you are on his level of mentality.

OBAMA OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
08 2012

Lisa   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

McWar, McBush, McSame, McDumb!!!

Hillary 08

George   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

If Carter was lousy, what adjective describes the current president whom policies John McCain is running to continue. McCain might well go down as the lousiest of candidates for president. He has changed his position on almost every issue that endeared him to voters.

JA Cook   June 27th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

As much as I respect John McCain for his military service, there's no evidence that he can be a good commander in Chief himself.

He has never commanded troops. He was a pilot who was shot down and endured agonies I can only imagine. That doesn't make him a qualified leader though, nor does his record in the Senate.

Since he first started eyeballing the Presidency in 2000, McCain's straight talk has been bobbing and weaving in whatever direction seemed to bring him closer.

I can respect changes of heart as new information becomes available, but pandering in whichever direction the breezes blow.

Ed from Canada   June 27th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

hey please print this..

What sounds do the Titanic and McCain have in common????

GLUG, GLUG, GLUG..

Wow is he ever sinking and sinking and sinking fast...
Why doesn't somebody throw McCain a lead life jacket and end this...???

Nick - Arlington, VA   June 27th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

** crickets **

Mod   June 27th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Ha Ha

Patrick Henry, Ft. Myers   June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

One thing I can agree on for sure.

Carter was absolutely the worst President in our nations history. He was stupid, did not listen to advisors, insisted on the wrong courses–at the objection of cabinet officers.

He was, and remains, and idealist and an idiot. And with te exception of some of his charitable endeavors–was an absolutely ridiculous choice for President.

He is a very nice man...and I know he is well intended...but he is stupid and ignorant of the appropriate way to deal with the "evil doer's "in the world, terrorists, and megalomaniac dictators of the world.

What an Idiot!   June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

So...what do you think he would say to any other political dignitary around the world. No finesses whatsoever.....what a shame.

Mike   June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

What is the point of criticizing people that aren't even in this race, and haven't said anything bad about you. Sounds like he is acting like a child.

Jeff   June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

...and John McCain is a lousy non-president.

Let's keep it that way!

christina   June 27th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

McCain is a blithering idiot! Jimmy Carter did a lot of excellent things while in office and in my opinion was a very good president.

Go write your will you old fart!

OBAMA '08!!!

Jim   June 27th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Wow, more name calling from someone who said he wouldn't stoop to such a level...pathetic...lets blame the guy from before for your failed campaign...unbelievable...

zina   June 27th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Okay McCain may disagree with Carter's policies, but he should not denegrate the man.

It seems that McCain wants to be showered with respect, but refuses to give it to anyone else. What a poor characteristic...

Tully   June 27th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

If your rebulican or democrat, you cannot refute this. McCain is dead on.

Mike   June 27th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

...and that he was!

Go McCain!!!!!!!!

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