July 3, 2008
Posted: 06:32 AM ET

From
McCain is currently in Colombia.
McCain is currently in Colombia.

(CNN) – John McCain says he never acted inappropriately toward a one time associate of Nicaraguan President Daniel Ortega, contradicting a recent claim made by one of the Arizona senator's Republican colleagues.

Mississippi Sen. Thad Cochran told his hometown newspaper earlier this week that during a 1987 trip to Central America, he personally witnessed McCain grab an Ortega associate by his shirt collar to lift him out of a chair.

"McCain was down at the end of the table and we were talking to the head of the guerrilla group here at this end of the table and I don't know what attracted my attention," Cochran told The Sun Herald of Biloxi, Mississippi. "But I saw some kind of quick movement at the bottom of the table and I looked down there and John had reached over and grabbed this guy by the shirt collar and had snatched him up like he was throwing him up out of the chair to tell him what he thought about him or whatever."

"I don't know what he was telling him, but I thought, 'Good grief, everybody around here has got guns and we were there on a diplomatic mission.' I don't know what had happened to provoke John, but he obviously got mad at the guy," Cochran added.

Speaking to reporters in Colombia Wednesday, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee flatly denied the report, calling it "simply not true."

"I had many, many meetings with the Sandinistas," McCain said. "I must say, I did not admire the Sandinistas much. But there was never anything of that nature. It just didn't happen."

McCain has long faced criticism for his at-times hot temper, and he has especially clashed with Cochran over a variety of spending projects. The Mississippi Republican endorsed Mitt Romney's presidential bid last year and told the Boston Globe that "The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine."

"He is erratic. He is hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me," Cochran told the paper in January.

Filed under: John McCain


not important   July 2nd, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Was Phil Gramm with him or Charlie Black? John McAngry LOL

Anita from Arizona   July 2nd, 2008 5:22 pm ET

Interesting, but irrelevent.

Bayou Joe   July 2nd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I would be prouder of him if he did grab the Sandanista by his neck and thrashed him. These scum bags are part of the problem in Central and South America. Maybe Obama can talk to them and they will stop kidnapping and killing innocent civilians.

Obama/Clinton '08   July 2nd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

What a loser McCain is- a senator from his own party from Mississippi doesn't even think he should be President.

Tim in Syracuse   July 2nd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

As much as the spotlight on Obama's Religion has been a blast, I think its time to take a hard look at McCain's temper and issues he's had with people over the years because of it. Seriously.

The last thing I want to do is wake up some morning, pick up my paper and see that we are at war because my President lost his cool and punched another World Leader.

Big difference between "Go ahead Gorby, make my day" and slapping the taste out of his mouth……big difference.

Joan, MD   July 2nd, 2008 5:23 pm ET

CNN:

We need information:

Did McCain and Bush orchestrate John flying to Columbia, the very day 3 American contractors and the Columbian candidate were released? It sounds pretty suspicious to me.

susie   July 2nd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Where is the article about Obama getting a favorable mortgage loan?

Toni   July 2nd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Wonderful, let's have this idiot "negotiate" for us … that would just about put the final nail in the Ameircan coffin that Bush has been building. Whether you like how he said it, Clark was right: being shot out of an airplane and surviving torture does not a president make.

Damian Salter   July 2nd, 2008 5:24 pm ET

ouch! slammed from his own side. :o)

mayahh   July 2nd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Here goes the' I don't recall. ' I wonder how many republican uses it?

Lee   July 2nd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

"The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine." Amen brother!!!! This from the people who know him best.

Mike   July 2nd, 2008 5:25 pm ET

The grabbing I can live with. It is the never ending war that scares me.

Unempressed   July 2nd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I've listened to how he speaks to citizens - it's like he's "better" than them. He acts like he's a hot shot and we all owe him something.

I don't want someone with a temper negotiating for the USA or with their finger on the button!

Kevin - IN   July 2nd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Well, McCain can say he has no recollection of the event. I doubt he can recall much though.

DJ, LA, CA   July 2nd, 2008 5:26 pm ET

He does have a temper. Probably he should start by cutting back on all those Starbucks and switching to de-caf. All that caffeine doesn't help.

sPoNgEbOb sQuArEpAnTs   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

somebody is lying here,
I suspect it is the GRUMPY OLD MAN (McShame)

He is known to lose is temper very quickly.

But, who cares !!
Get us a better story, CNN….
This does not bring down the price of GAS

Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

He is proud of his country. And if we have big mouths and punks saying things inapproriate or are not true about his country than I would give him a jab too. Whoever put Obama on the ticket is a traitor.

DOH!   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Keep that guy away from the White House!!!!!

Evan   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

This situation does not surprise me. McCain has a horrible temper that I am afraid to see if he becomes president. It could even, hopefully not, spark warfare with countries who already don't like us.

McSame = McWar   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

If ya'll make McSame the Prez, get ready for more McWar. We will be at War with Iran before his first year is done. After his four years in office, we will be ridden with war.

The Surly Scholar   July 2nd, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Great. Just what we need: a president who'll get all indignant and start manhandling foreign dignitaries.

Whether this is true or not, the real problem is that McCain's infamously short fuse lends credibility to the possibility that it MIGHT be true. And the potential for anger management issues bodes ill for any candidate.

Michael in NC   July 2nd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

Yikes! Keep McCarnage out of the White House! This country needs a diplomatic leader, not a crotchety, old bully.

Abby   July 2nd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

McCain should not be making life and death decisions that affect us all. His anger gets the best of him often, We need a calm and even tempered individual to make those decisions and we have that in Obama.

You Would Be Too   July 2nd, 2008 5:28 pm ET

He was held captive for 5 years, what do you expect. Anything could trigger him.

vick   July 2nd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

mccain your a fraud!!!!!

Loretta from California   July 2nd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

I HAVE ONE QUESTION: Why didn't the Columbian Government attempt a rescue before Senator McCains arrival.

FARC HAS HAD THESES HOSTAGES FOR YEARS….and the Columbian Government decides to act now. When Senator McCain just so happens to be there.

THIS LOOKS SO STAGED!!!

Enlightened Voter   July 2nd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Yeah, just what we need in the white house a hot tempered president who will have us at war within a year of taking office. He scares me and he also is unstable.

Ian M   July 2nd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

LOL, grumpy old McCain is just exacerbating the problem! Saying "nonono it didnt happen wahh" like an old man shooing the kids off his yard… lol

charles   July 2nd, 2008 5:29 pm ET

he worries me a lot too. he never seems to remember what he has done or said. thats more worrying l would say.

Bill   July 2nd, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Well, the best that can be said is that he's not able to do that anymore. Maybe he'll just push little red buttons when he gets mad.

Listen Up...   July 2nd, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Keep it up Cochran. McCain is going to lose what remains of his cool and smack the mess out of you! LOL, that would be some great youtube action. Just imagine if McCain pops off at a diplomatic event? Maybe put the Iranian PM in a headlock?

All jokes aside I have almost no faith in McCain, just waiting around to see his VP, b/c that's who's really gonna be Prez if the Repubs manage to "find" dirty pictures of Obama or convince the blue collar vote that he is tooooooo scary.

LT for Obama   July 2nd, 2008 5:31 pm ET

I personally don't believe he did that. If he did, we would have heard about it a long time ago.

Linda   July 2nd, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Poor Cindy. What has she really been going through?

Gary of El Centro, Ca   July 2nd, 2008 5:32 pm ET

There they go again, those lying left wing liberals are slamming McCain and making up stories about his hot temper…….oh wait a minute……this is a conservative Republican saying these things? Hmmmm……..I wonder if there's anything to it?

Cynthia - Arkansas   July 2nd, 2008 5:32 pm ET

I figure it's just a matter of time until it's caught on tape somewhere. That's all we need is a hothead with his finger on the button. When the Republicans have to speak out against one of their own, that speaks volumes.

Ardnuas   July 2nd, 2008 5:33 pm ET

THANK YOU for WARNING us about McCain…. Smart voters know McCain is FULL OF ANGER and LACKS JUDGEMENT… If he is elected, he WILL start a war in Iran in 2009.

Republican for Obama   July 2nd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

"He is erratic. He is hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me," Cochran told the paper in January.

McCain has a REAL problem:
with his own party.
with his own campaign
with his patriotism (pretty much comitted treason as a POW)
with his infadelity (cheated on his wife and dumped her)
with his support of 95% of Bush policies
with being in touch with the people
with speaking in public
with being consistent with following his own advice

It's ok to get old. It's ok not to be the man you once were. And it's ok for us as a nation to realize it when you do. I do realize it, this man is out of touch and not fit to be President. At one time he may have been, not for me based on his POW actions (being a POW is rough I am sure, but it's no excuse to abandon your oaths as a serviceman/woman).

It's time for change, and he is not change.

Obama '08

Rebecca   July 2nd, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I wouldn't be surprised if it were true. McCain always seems angry, you can tell whenever he's asked a question he does not like he grits his teeth and you can see him trying to control his anger. If you really watch someone their body language says a lot. I do know that when I see him I see someone who holds on to their anger, and when I look at Obama his facial expressions are much calmer.

Caryn, WDC   July 2nd, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Well if McCain flatly denied the incident then…it probably happened just the way Cochran described it.
I guess Cindy's money hasn't done much for his manners.

zina   July 2nd, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Our country does NOT need this man's hand on the RED BUTTON.

ANA G. LOS ANGELES. CA   July 2nd, 2008 5:35 pm ET

he kind of looks like it.

Nobody Asked Larry But...   July 2nd, 2008 5:36 pm ET

With all of McCain's denials about wrong doing over the years, disturbingly, a certain percentage of them are probably true. Where there's smoke, there's fire.

CITIZENS FOR AMERICA FIRST   July 2nd, 2008 5:36 pm ET

SENILITY BRINGS ON FORGETFULNESS & ERRATIC

BEHAVIOR. BCBUSH HAS DISPLAYED BOTH MANY, MANY

TIMES IN THE PAST 4 YEARS & IT'S GETTING INCREASINGLY

WORSE WITH TIME, AS IT ALMOST ALWAYS DOES. HE HAS ALSO

ALWAYS HAD A SHORT TEMPER, MAKING HIS PRESENT AND

FUTURE BOUTS WITH IT MORE SEVERE, MAKING HIM A DANGER

NOT ONLY TO HIMSELF, BUT THE NATION AS WELL.

Yasriel   July 2nd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

MSM needs to verify this cliam and counter claim…if true, McShameless will not only be a hothead but also a proven liar.

Good night!

Bill, Streamwood, IL   July 2nd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

The fact that a fellow Republican released this story is somewhat disturbing, to say the least … almost as disturbing as the story itself.

Obama Supporter from FL   July 2nd, 2008 5:37 pm ET

That is scary. And notice that this is a *Republican* saying this about McCain!!!

Nava-Canada   July 2nd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

How can you trust a man who is hotheaded,loses his temper, to lead this great country. Spur of the moment he could pull the trigger in the
operation room and next moment there could be holocaust. Why not the Americans think for a moment before they vote for a man who has the ability to lead them

Mark   July 2nd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

McCain is out of step and touch with America, the real America. He has changed his stance on so many critical issues since running for President. It would be a mistake for McCain to take office. The war, tax cuts, the surge, making the bush tax cuts permanent, you name it. He has "flip flopped" on all the major issues. I consider him a traitor to this nation. He may have defended this nation at one time, but then again, so did Benedict Arnold!
We need more than two party's, we need someone else to write the election rules so we can get a "True American" in the office. High crimes and misdemeanors are occuring daily.

Kevin   July 2nd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

How Low will they go to try to dig up something slimmy on McCain.
When your article said he grabbed a foreign offical, I thought he grabbed a female in an inappropriate manner.
The incident Cochran mentioned supposedly occured over 20 years ago. McCain denies it.

People have said that McCain has a temper but his speeches and responses on the campaign trail are very calm, soft spoken and almost to the point of boring.

I would LIKE TO SEE MCCAIN PUT SOME FIRE IN HIS VOICE AND SPEECHES.

Hillary-ious   July 2nd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Makes you wonder what he'd do to General Clark if he could get his sweaty little hands on him…

Judgement over experience   July 2nd, 2008 5:38 pm ET

And this is from a republican. This is scary, real scary. His own party member said that "The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine," should frighten everyone, it sure as hell does me. Try and spin that repuglicans…you can't and you know it. Your guy is dangerous and not fit to be president.

al   July 2nd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

********************************************

BOMB…..BOMB…..BOMB…….NUKE EM.

MR TOUGH GUY.

Humm..   July 2nd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

There is no way this guy is going to be president. I wish this election was over, and McCain was out of the picture for good.

McCain definately gives me a bad vibe and is a very eerie person.

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz   July 2nd, 2008 5:41 pm ET

BCBUSH HAS NO COMMUNICATION SKILLS, WHATS SO EVER.

HE IS JUST AN ANGRY MENTALLY UNSTABLE INDIVIDUAL.

Kevin   July 2nd, 2008 5:42 pm ET

How Low will they go to try to dig up something slimmy on McCain.
When your article said he grabbed a foreign offical, I thought he grabbed a female in an inappropriate manner.
The incident Cochran mentioned supposedly occured over 20 years ago. McCain denies it.

People have said that McCain has a temper but his speeches and responses on the campaign trail are very calm, soft spoken and almost to the point of boring.

I would LIKE TO SEE MCCAIN PUT SOME " FIRE " IN HIS VOICE AND SPEECHES.

IF HE HAS MORE EMOTION INSIDE HIM AND HE IS HOLDING BACK , HE SOULD LET IT LOOSE!

This event Cochran is mentioning is NO BIG DEAL.

Travis(in the real world)   July 2nd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

WILL THE REAL JOHN MCSAME PLEASE STAND UP

Now the truth comes out…..and we want this guy controlling what our country does?
Or even having him to make critical decisions?

Let me see…"I don't like that country, let's bomb."

Let me guess McWar's response…."Since this grabbing incident isn't on tape it didn't happen my Friend.

Gene   July 2nd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Yep… I agree Cochran… the thought of McCain being the president sends a cold chill down my spine too.

rick   July 2nd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

oh well, mcain is more man than that chick obama. i think you convinced me to vote mccain this year.

kdog   July 2nd, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Everyone knows that McCain is a hothead. Why bother exploit it. Cnn…please give me more issues. I don't want to know about their wives, their preachers, their favorite choice of ice cream. I'm not interested in their personal lives….whether they have had personal affairs or not. Slick Willy proved that he could be a womanizer and a heck of a president at the same time .

Issues Issues Issues and Issues only is what you should be bringing up. This is the most important election ever in my opinion, and without saying whom I am going to vote for, it is clear that getting my informatino from the media is not helping anything.

You have a responsibility, as do the other networks to focus on the things that really matter, and to make sure that we are not hearing the spin.

Natalie   July 2nd, 2008 5:45 pm ET

I knew it would all come out sooner or later! McCain is not fit to be president! If even his Republican colleagues are saying he is this hot-tempered, then it must be true. He probably just forgot it happened just like everything else. This is the reason why the world wants Barack Obama & not McSame!!!

Obama/Clinton '08

independent Voter   July 2nd, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Please. Now, this is truly silly,

JOYCE   July 2nd, 2008 5:45 pm ET

MCSAIN IS A HOTHEADED WAR MONGREL AND WILL ALWAYS BE

Reality Check   July 2nd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

McSame is unfit for the presidency. Period.

David Goldman   July 2nd, 2008 5:46 pm ET

BCBUSH IS SO MENTALLY UNSTABLE THAT IF HE

WERE AN OFFICER IN ANY ONE OF OUR MILITARY

BRANCHES, HE WOULD BE GIVEN A CHOICE

TO RESIGN & RETIRE OR BE GIVEN AN

IMMEDIATE MEDICAL DISCHARGE. THAT FOLKS IS A FACT.

Saad from NJ   July 2nd, 2008 5:47 pm ET

GOOD NEWS: McCain is not afraid! When he is mad, he does not care if people around him have guns. Hope not but if he ends being the President, hopefully he will get mad at Musharraf and throw him out of the presidency of Pakistan even with gunmen standing by Musharraf.

BAD NEWS: He's shrunk in size and strength since this incident 21 years ago. Lucky Musharraf!!!!!

Linda31   July 2nd, 2008 5:47 pm ET

Hehe, his own people talking about him. Why don't we ask Ortega?

kw   July 2nd, 2008 5:48 pm ET

What's the likelyhood this guy has undiagnosed post tramatic stress syndrome? After all there wasn't much research on this at the time of his capture and release.

Dem in CA   July 2nd, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Shouldn't you be confirming stories like this with more eye-witness confirmation before repeating them? CNN, you need to get back on track and do real news and reporting, not this hearsay tabloid journalism junk.

Please?

Pam   July 2nd, 2008 5:50 pm ET

Why would this guy make this up? From what I've heard about McCain's temper, this seems feasible.

Loretta from California   July 2nd, 2008 5:50 pm ET

This coming from one of his fellow Republicans. Enough said.

DEMOCRATS UNITE!!!!

stephy   July 2nd, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Is this really the person we want controlling our future. McCain….step away from the button slowly!

PG in Las Vegas   July 2nd, 2008 5:51 pm ET

AMERICA BE AFRAID, BE REALLY AFRAID OF THIS MAN!

DM, Arlington TX for Barack Obama 08   July 2nd, 2008 5:51 pm ET

Oh my! can we ever believe what John McCain say again? Hell, we all know John McCain Lies.. He acts like he speaks the Gospel according to Saint Senator John McCain, who never said anything bad about anyone….

Johnny   July 2nd, 2008 5:52 pm ET

And this guy will become our President…wow!

Wake up America before its too late!

dew5050   July 2nd, 2008 5:52 pm ET

I have always known him as very erratic and not fit to be president.

Maxine   July 2nd, 2008 5:54 pm ET

Poor John, he can't remember what he did.

gas   July 2nd, 2008 5:54 pm ET

He gets points from me if he DID do it.

shaik   July 2nd, 2008 5:54 pm ET

Not to worry, someone will come up with a picture or video of this incident…

Mark Anthony   July 2nd, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Do we really want a hot head in the white house? We already have a dead head.

T GUY   July 2nd, 2008 5:55 pm ET

SO THE LITTLE GUY HAS A TEMPER. I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW MANY BEAT DOWN DID HE RECIEVE. AND DID HE RUN TO DADDY WHEN HE LOST OR TOOK IT LIKE A MAN.

Michael   July 2nd, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Shocker, McCain denied this claim…hmmmm…..

Doesn't matter to me, there's no way on God's green earth I'd vote for McCain!!!

Lady for Presidency that evokes change   July 2nd, 2008 5:55 pm ET

PUMA….. and all those others with nonsensical anti-Obama rhetoric, lets please hear you spin this one. We need a level headed president and not a hot-headed ill tempered one. This is the polar opposite of Senator Obama. Is that so hard for some folks to discern.
We need leaders who use logic, and utilize the SMEs they have in the administration..not ….. go figure…

Jeff Long   July 2nd, 2008 5:55 pm ET

WOW!! McCain has a lot of experience! Was Obama ever in a meeting like that. I dont think Obama was ever in a meeting like that. At least McCain has been in negotiations before while Obama was still in school.

JM   July 2nd, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Would McCain even remember if it happened. I think may of his denials in clear contrast of empirical and first hand evidence and misstatements may be signs of a pathology.

Cynthia   July 2nd, 2008 5:56 pm ET

I tell you what if by some stroke of luck he gets the Presidency someone had better make sure he get anger management before he goes into office. We've heard too many people say this about him and all those people can't be telling untruths.

Jeff Long   July 2nd, 2008 5:56 pm ET

This is funny! Obama wasn't even in Law School when McCain was in negotiations with foreign countries.

Mike SK   July 2nd, 2008 5:56 pm ET

McCain cannot hide anymore after the DEM bruising battle covered up all his mistakes. Why hasn't the media focused on McCain saying that staying in the middle east miltarily is all about the dependance on foreign oil. He is toast in November!

Jeff Long   July 2nd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

There are a lot of lies flying around about McCain right now. The democrats are the ones that seem to be grasping for straws.

Beto   July 2nd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Good for M cCain….he has always had guts.

jimmy velman   July 2nd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

IF PREZ BUSH HAD LITENED TO THEN SECRETARY OF STATE
COLIN POWELL INSTEAD OF CHENEY AND RUMSFELD WHO UNDERMINED SEC. POWELL, WE WOULD NOT BE INTHE MESS WE ARE IN IRAQ AND ELSEWHERE. BUSH LISTENED TO CHENEY AND RUMSFELD–THE ARMCHAIR GENERALS WHO NEVER SERVED IN THE ARMED FORCES. AND OF COURSE SEN. McCAIN
WOULD NOT HAVE INHERITED THIS MESS.
McCAIN NEEDS TO PERSUADE GENERAL POWELL TO BE HIS VP.
COLIN POWELL CARRIES ENORMOUS PRESTIGE AND POWER
WITH THE ELECTORATE AS A WORLD STATEMAN AND LEADER.

Alisha(Independent voter) MN   July 2nd, 2008 5:58 pm ET

McCain hot-tempered…STOP IT!

Women In California For Obama   July 2nd, 2008 5:59 pm ET

"The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine."

"He is erratic. He is hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me," Cochran told the paper in January.

I don't like the idea either. Mr. Ortega must have asked him about how he met his Barbi doll wife.

Steve   July 2nd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

Anyone who has ever observed the severe limitations in mobility Sen McCain suffers from would know this is impossible. The man cannot raise his arms to shoulder level.

Frank, Atlanta, GA   July 2nd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

Another good reason not to vote for McBush !! This time from a cneo-conservative Republican !!

Vote for Barack Obamma…because It's the right thing to do !!!!!!!!

john   July 2nd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

McSame is dangerous!!!!!

Run if you see him coming!!!!

Watch out Mr. Burton

Obama '08

Ian   July 2nd, 2008 6:00 pm ET

"This is completely untrue. I didn't punch him with my right hand…..I punched him with my left hand."

Post Tramatic Stress Disorder '08

Adam   July 2nd, 2008 6:02 pm ET

Hey, but at least he wears a flag pin.

From Montreal Canada   July 2nd, 2008 6:03 pm ET

McWar a true warrior, elect Obama president and he will nominate him general or something…I dont thing he would be good doing anything else. Obama=peace in the world
Obama 08, 12

Dan   July 2nd, 2008 6:03 pm ET

"He is erratic. He is hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me," Cochran told the paper in January.

Not to mention he doesn't know the difference between sunnis and shiites, admits to never having used a computer, and admits that he "doesn't really know that much about economics".

Nice candidate you've got yourselves repubs….good luck!

jimmy velman   July 2nd, 2008 6:03 pm ET

TYPO ERRORS: " LISTENED"
ADDENDUM: GENERAL COLIN POWELL HAD DISAGREED WITH THE NUMBE AND SIZE OF THE FORCES NEEDED FOR THE IRAQ INVASION. RUMSFELD INSISTED THAT THE FORCES HE PUT FORTH TO BUSH WERE ENOUGH. RESULT: FIASCO.

mike   July 2nd, 2008 6:03 pm ET

erratic and hotheaded…exactly the sort of leadership we need.

Robert, Houston TX   July 2nd, 2008 6:04 pm ET

Gee I wonder how much the Obama camp payed this guy to have him recall this some 21 years later. If it wasen't a problem then, why the hell is it one now. News flash, the Sandinistas were the enemy of Nicaragua at the time. If Reagan was there he would have done it himself. If we are gonna bring up 21 years ago, whats in Obama's closet? Maybe we need to take a look, 21 years ago Obama wasen't even in politics. Drug use, sure, but politics,……..time to break out the microscope and examine Mr. Fistbump a little closer.

Travis (in the real world)   July 2nd, 2008 6:04 pm ET

WILL THE REAL JOHN MCSAME PLEASE STAND UP

He's mentally unstable….imagine him making a decision about people or countries he doesn't like?

The truth about this "nutbar" is finally coming out. I'm sure his reply to this is going to be:

"Since there was no video of the incident…I'll tell a little fib, It didn't happen."

Rob   July 2nd, 2008 6:05 pm ET

Do we really want this guy to have his finger on the button of a nuclear arsenal when he flips out and has a flashback to the Hanoi Hilton?

James Carville   July 2nd, 2008 6:06 pm ET

So an enemy of John McCain tells an unflattering story about him. This is news? Only when McCain denies it, under the MSM Rules of Rumor Mongering.

andrew s   July 2nd, 2008 6:06 pm ET

bomb bomb bomb say no to bomb and say yes to change obama o8. this guy is just nut and we do not need a president like that in the white house

Mrs.L   July 2nd, 2008 6:07 pm ET

This is what happens when you suffer from PTSD

Patty, Big Bear, CA   July 2nd, 2008 6:07 pm ET

It's a well known fact that McCain is a hothead and a bully….my question is what interests does he have in Central America?? Someone needs to dig up that story….because there must be one.

Ellie in Aurora, CO   July 2nd, 2008 6:07 pm ET

Hmmm… This is right in line with other stories about McCain's temper. Plus it is hard to imagine another Republican making up a story like this. McCain doesn't have much choice but to deny. Bet we haven't heard the last of this! Or other temper tantrums, for that matter.

independent   July 2nd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

everybody knows that he is a loose cannon waiting to start the next big blunder !!!!! IRAN

Obama or Bust   July 2nd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Whether this is true or not, it's a bad sign to have fellow Republicans calling you out on something that many Americans are concerned about - your temper. Having a hotheaded President in office when we need a diplomat is scary. Just another reason to vote for Obama. Or don't vote at all - just don't vote for McCain.

Walt   July 2nd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Somebody is misremembering, lol.

J. Dean Juno Beach, FL   July 2nd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

IN ADDITION TO WHAT SEN. THAD CACHRAN SAYS, SENIOR CITIZEN JOHN McCAIN IS A VERY OLD MAN. INDEED VERY VERY OLD MAN.

Franky   July 2nd, 2008 6:08 pm ET

I would like to see him get angry in a debate with obama, that would be funny.

California Gold   July 2nd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

This is a reoccurring problem with Senator McCain. Manhandling foreign officials is never appropriate. Senator McCain's campaign issues are of secondary importance to me when he has a demonstrated track record of being a hothead, bad temper, yelling in public meetings, and inability to control his verbalizations. There are too many witnesses to his utterly intolerable bad and bizarre behavior to ignore.

ANGRY OLD MAN   July 2nd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

McCain has an anger problem.

Frank   July 2nd, 2008 6:09 pm ET

So very typical. Just what our country needs, a hothead, non thinking ahead blowhard with his finger on the button. Sheeesh! How many more wars of choice will McSame get us into?

really   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

sry my bad …if clinton would of done this we would of NOT had 9/11

deroy   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

another media fable.

Ray in Philly   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Oooooh! Now it gets juicy. Cochran, a Republican, says McCain did it. McCain says he didn't.

Somebody is lying and given John "Flip-Flop" McSame's revolving door record, I'm guessing it's McSame.

boered1   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Well I believe that, I also know he had a gay affair while in the Navy why isn't CNN reporting on this? Someone ought ot explain to the Clinton News Newtwork that no matter how much they slight Obama and cover up for McCains foibles the PEOPLE SPOKE and the liar hillary will NEVER become president so they can stop with their anti obama agenda any day now.

Marie   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

He did it. I don't believe a word this media manufactured phoney has to say.

Phil, FL   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

And we want to give this guy access to that red phone and the "button"?

It's like watching a shaken bottle of beer - when - WHEN - will the cork finally pop !!!!

Keep him away from sharp knives, guns, any foreign dignitaries, and PLEASE keep him away from the CIC position. He's a nut case.

caliguy55   July 2nd, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Now, this sounds like the good ole John McSame we've all come to know and dislike. This guy is a loose cannon liable to start WWIII, if he is put in the White House. From what his Republican colleague says, McSame apparently has no sense of judgment at all.

COL.{retd]A.M.Khajawall   July 2nd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Dear American Voters, reporters, media. professionals, political parties, and our hon. Presidential Nominees,

Subject: Presidential Temperament

Please talk about and "Compare And Contrast" the " Presidential Temperament" of our Presidential presumptive nominees. I will also request and plead to the nominees themselves [ Hon. Senator McCain and Obama ].
Our nation has been applying this yard and stick tor the appointments and confirmation process of our Supreme Court Justices nominees.
Our Greatgrand Nation Foundations are as under:
Family, friends, fellows, faith, funds, fun, with fairness & freedom And without fear, favor, and failure.
It will be disgrace and shameful if the nominees and media will not look into this critical and crucial aspect under current challenging times and circumstances within our country and all around the Globe.

America wake up and the discuss the " Presidential Temperament" of our presumptive presidential nominee's [ Hon. Senator McCain and Obama].

Yours sincerely,
COL. A.M.Khajawall [Ret].
Disabled American Veteran
Forensic psychiatrist, Las Vegas, Nevada

RickytheGriff   July 2nd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Remember the old saying John….

"There are the lies we tell, and the lies we tell ourselves…"

FL Dem   July 2nd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

And when the red phone rings at 3AM, I don't want him answering.

Strict Script   July 2nd, 2008 6:11 pm ET

This guy is utterly unpredictable. He will get us all killed. He lies, beats up people, flip flops, and now wants to lead us into another 4 years of Bush. People would be nuts to vote for this flopper.

BARACK OBAMA 08′

Frank, Dayton, Ohio   July 2nd, 2008 6:12 pm ET

It seems very significant that this information comes from a Republican Senate colleague. This seems to be de-emphasized by the article.

Fred up north   July 2nd, 2008 6:12 pm ET

The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine."

dEMOBRAT   July 2nd, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Oh this is like the smear about Obama being a Muslim. "don't trust that John McCain, he's a real pistol.'

Smear, smear, smear

Kimber Grace   July 2nd, 2008 6:13 pm ET

Gimme a break. What else can CNN do to try to make Sen. McCain look bad? AND, as someone who has family in Mississippi, I know what they think about Cochran…and I wouldn't believe a word that he says. McCain will be an awesome President. Signed-a liberal young educated woman who has never voted for a Republican presidential candidate but will this time!

Tyler   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I hope someone comes out with hard proof of this becuase then it will show Mccain is a lier. I hope some reports on how he ditched his first wife because she didn't look good anymore and then hooked up with Cindy while still married.

Kevin   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

One M, Frank… one M.

Doug   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

It's only a matter of time before McCain loses it on the campaign trail. The public will, in my mind, be able to judge for themselves whether his temperament is suitable for the presidency.

gary   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

OBAMA IS A JOKE.

Hummiezee   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I think he is mean-spirited and that is not we need in these harsh times.

John in Mlps.   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

That's what I like about McCain: he doesn't take crap from anyone. Better to know their personality up front than wonder what's behind that cloud of a Democrat.

McCain 08

txgal44   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

That is hilarious!! John McCain has a temper! He'd better watch it! Who's going to put up with that besides his wife Cindy?

GOBAMA!   July 2nd, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Quite the opposite of Barack, and who is gracious and understanding to the core.

Toye   July 2nd, 2008 6:15 pm ET

Wow! I heard he did have a temper!

marcella campbell   July 2nd, 2008 6:15 pm ET

If McCain did that I have more respect for him. I don"t want a yellow bellied president!

Ian   July 2nd, 2008 6:16 pm ET

I've heard of people having blackouts while in a fit of rage. Maybe that's why he doesn't remember what happened.

mitchell hussein martin   July 2nd, 2008 6:16 pm ET

he hasn't the temperament to lead.i cant wait to see him blow his stack!

richard   July 2nd, 2008 6:16 pm ET

i don't know if i believe this story, but none the less, mccain is widely known in the senate for his temper, so it would not surprise me.

Colfax   July 2nd, 2008 6:16 pm ET

McCain grabbed a guerilla by the shirt and told him what he thought of him. Thad Cochran thinks that makes him less qualified to be president (and Frank from Atlanta agrees). I see it as evidence that McCain won't bow to pressure like Obama has every step of the way this campaign.

Joe CA   July 2nd, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Hot head John McSame

KL   July 2nd, 2008 6:18 pm ET

McBush scares little children. RUN.

Jake   July 2nd, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Brian S.-

If you had half a brain, you would know that this happened a good 21 years ago, when McCain was a much younger man.

The Patriot   July 2nd, 2008 6:18 pm ET

What a loser Thad Cochran is - he supported a loser, and is now trying to save face by coming up with this cock-and-bull story.

McCain '08

WhoCares   July 2nd, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Find something else to report. Maybe "lapel" pins and etc. What a pity. CNN is an insult to the world of journalism.

Can you please focus on the about turn that Obama has done on FISA? Can we talk about hi s achievements or lack thereof? Can we talk policy instead of what his color is? Or how Hillary was throwing the kitchen sink or how McCain is hotheaded. Atleast he is NOT corrupt and unethical like Rezko? Atleast he did not buy himself a house for 300K when its original purchase price was $1M???????

CNN - Please get yourself a new JOB!! Journalism is not for you.

Double standards ROCK!!!   July 2nd, 2008 6:19 pm ET

The real story here is that McCain was meeting, apparently without preconditions, with leaders of a guerrilla faction. "I had many, many meetings with the Sandinistas," McCain said.

So its okay for McCain to meet with dangerous groups without preconditions, but not for Barack, huh? Interesting……

Griff   July 2nd, 2008 6:19 pm ET

If youèr going to bring up the Ortega "Thing"…. You have to be, respectfully more honest than this peice of script… Villain or no? Be truthful CNN…. A little mor insite of Ortega would help…

The Patriot   July 2nd, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Well said Brian.

McCain '08

chick in MT   July 2nd, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Brian S - the visit was in 1987. 21 years takes a toll on one's strength. I am so glad folks that don't approve of McCain are voting for Barr.

McBush would be impeached if he pull that kind of behavior this day and age.

Obama is going to be President anyway.

m&m   July 2nd, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Brian S. -IF you would pay attention it happened in 1987 almost 20years ago.

vote Obama

john   July 2nd, 2008 6:20 pm ET

Maybe it's time we got someone who will stand up for something instead of bowing and scraping to anyone and everyone. I don't care if he did do it. We need a real man in the White House who won't back down every time the UN or someone else gets their nose in the air!

frank O   July 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

McSame denies this just as he denies missing payments on property taxes down in So Cal. After all he owns 7 properties helo in a trust you know. So the guy is entitled to miss a few tax payments here and there.

Go Obama 08 and 12

James, Redlands, CA   July 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Okay Republicans– I just do not believe that another Republican, from the South, would just randomly make up a blatant lie like this.

Thad has commented on his temper and mental makeup in the past and this is consistent with what he has said before.

McCain is a hothead.

We do not need a loose cannon with his finger on the trigger.

Sihkov Yerbyas   July 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

This is another flaming example of the media, and CNN in particular, printing whatever unsubstantiated dirt they can find on a GOP candidate. Biased, unethical reporting.

Jim Samples   July 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

-
You guys are so funny.

Either you think this little guy named John McCain is an old (incapable) man, or you think he is some sort of John Wayne who picks people up by the collar and shakes them silly in a room where the other side is carrying guns (lots of guns).

You really cannot have it both ways, so make up your mind, OK??
-
Thank you…… :-)

Jeronimo   July 2nd, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Whoa! Maybe McCain isn't so boring after all…

This story is awesome!

I can see the headlines now "McCain Chokes Chavez".

No Thanks.

Obama for President!

scott in GA   July 2nd, 2008 6:24 pm ET

You don't mess with Big John!!!
Thad Cochran is really raking in the pork for Miss. No surprise to see him knocking McCain.

Keep It Real   July 2nd, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Brian S…you mean Johnny McCain isn't responsible for that stunning combover that so compliments Cindy's do? LOL

McMillan   July 2nd, 2008 6:24 pm ET

The account by Sen Cochran could not be a fabrication. It seems very likely McCain is being economical with the truth here, folks

Hans-Erik Iken   July 2nd, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Why would another republican lie about something like this?

Two options: Cochran is just out to sabotage McCain for reasons only known to himself and maybe a few of his cronies or he is telling the truth.

Option 1 seems unlikely because he is making his own chances smaller because the GOP will not like him very much for this story.

Option 2 seems the more likely and indeed sends chills down any rational persons spine to think a guy with this temper cuold lose his composure on a diplomatic mission, no matter what the provocation.

McCain seems less presidential material everyday…..

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 2nd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

And so continues the amazing saga of John McQueeg and the McCain Mutiny.

Jimmy P - Chicago   July 2nd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Good for him, at least someone in this country still has balls! Liberals are pathetic pieces of crap!

John   July 2nd, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Cochran has an AXE to grind. Consider the source.

Jim Samples   July 2nd, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Hey Brian,
Voting for a guy who will not win is the same as throwing the vote away. You want to make a statement? Fine, write a column. But try using your brain Brian…

Jon   July 2nd, 2008 6:27 pm ET

this is the guy you want with his hand on that red button ….god help us all

notfooledbydistractions   July 2nd, 2008 6:27 pm ET

Boy, McCain sure has a lot of memory issues. Are you sure he's fit to serve? I mean he sure can't remember a lot of things like this instance or the fact that he said he doesn't know much about the economy.

Charles   July 2nd, 2008 6:27 pm ET

Actually, I like this story. McCain has slowly but surely turned me off from his stances (seeing as how his stances have shifted to that of the Bush crew) but I do like a little fire from my leaders. When I as a kid I always imagined Reagan doing that to jelly head over a game of chess. Still voting Obama but like that kind of fire Johnny boy.

Lorna, NY   July 2nd, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Anyone held captive for 5.5 years will have mental issues. I don't think that McCain is sane at all. He reveals this every time he speaks, I wonder if the American people are paying attention.

Peter E   July 2nd, 2008 6:28 pm ET

So… when Obama is acting tough, yelling, rolling up his sleeves he's being a 'leader' but when it is implied that McCain would do the same he's dubbed a 'bully?'
Hypocrisy alert!

Jim   July 2nd, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Of course he denies it. He can't remember what he had for breakfast today.

Alex   July 2nd, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Brian S, This was 21 years ago when McCain was 51…

carlo   July 2nd, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Does this suprise ANYONE! If McCain wins (God help us all) we WILL have WWIII. He has violence running through every fiber of his being.

Steev   July 2nd, 2008 6:30 pm ET

I think this story, if true, makes McCain look pretty good. Should the US ever have to have some tough international negotiations in the future, a la Reagan/Soviet staredowns, I like the idea of a tough-as-nails guy doing our staring.

Obama, on the other hand, is an absolutely perfect president for a civil, cooperative, and harmonious world. No one would deny this statement. But until we get to that point (and we're nowhere close) do we want a pansy in the office?

McCain seems the proper mix of both "good cop/bad cop" that we need. Bush plays only a bad cop; Obama seems only to be a "good cop."

Peter E   July 2nd, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Reality check: McCain had trouble lifting his arm since Vietnam. Even if he wanted to he couldn't rough anybody up.
Just shows you that the liberal media will print anything to mud his image.

akaDoug   July 2nd, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Since this happened 20 years ago, I believe it!

I know a lot of people believe that they know the real McCain, but as this story suggests there is a lot out there that if the media were really doing it's work would make this guy unelectable.

Joe the Troll   July 2nd, 2008 6:31 pm ET

At the time this happened, he could lift his arms just fine. However, if he really can't do so now, then I have another reason to wonder if he's healthy enough for this job.

As for his temperament, the "Bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran" statement that he claimed was a joke said it all for me.

MDR   July 2nd, 2008 6:32 pm ET

The man is a hothead can't have him running our country. Violence will be be his solution for everything.

Robert Wooller, England   July 2nd, 2008 6:32 pm ET

I am Obama all the way and this just proves Obama is the right candidate for the job. McCain has once again proved he is out of date just like George W Bush!!!

Preston   July 2nd, 2008 6:32 pm ET

He probably just doesn't remember doing it. Silly ol' McCain. :)

Tina, NC   July 2nd, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Well I do know one thing that Cochran said that rings true

"The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine."

AMEN

JJJ   July 2nd, 2008 6:33 pm ET

Wow that's kinda scary. Can you imagine this hothead as Commander In Cheif with the power to push the red button at will. He'll be blowing up folks left and right.

Toby   July 2nd, 2008 6:34 pm ET

Brian S has a good point. But it was 1987, and I don't know how bad his arms were at that point.
What we need is some news organization to find out who else was there and ask them to corroborate. But that's news gathering, and this is CNN; so I guess we can forget that.

AJ   July 2nd, 2008 6:34 pm ET

I don't think McCain's temper has been a big secret - it's merely that the media hasn't mentioned it. I know I don't want a President who's going to lose his temper so easily and so violently.

Joe Reg   July 2nd, 2008 6:35 pm ET

This is a cause for concern about McCain Temper.

His judgment will be more clouded now than ever before.

After the last 8 years America can not afford that.

Obama 08 & 12.

skunkrat The Marine   July 2nd, 2008 6:35 pm ET

McCain is damaged goods, the North Vietnamese broke him and he is a time bomb waiting to explode.

Chris   July 2nd, 2008 6:35 pm ET

How can he remember?

12 medications
old
2.3 GPA
temper (whether this article is true or not… his temper is known)

He's simply not fit for the job

David   July 2nd, 2008 6:35 pm ET

When he grabbed the guy did he call him a varmint and shout "dagnabbit!"?

That sounds about right.

Chut Pata   July 2nd, 2008 6:36 pm ET

Why am I not surprized? This guy simply does not know the "D" word. His only solution to all problems are an all out war with total disregard to consequences for him, his colleagues, or his country (or his planet). I am now sure he will not only not end the war, he will open another front with iran and put an end to American might.

Vig   July 2nd, 2008 6:36 pm ET

So what.

Danny, Independent from AZ   July 2nd, 2008 6:36 pm ET

I am an Obama supporter, but this should be irrelevant. Much like it should not matter a church Obama attended twenty years ago, it also shouldn't matter that McCain lost his temper to a terrorist guerilla group. CNN of course reports this due to the controversy behind it.

Big Dan   July 2nd, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Alais, finally a candidate who's not afraid to kick some butt! That pansy lefty Barrack would of did "lines" with this scumbag instead.

Vivienne   July 2nd, 2008 6:37 pm ET

He needs anger management courses.

Tom in CA   July 2nd, 2008 6:38 pm ET

…, and maybe he'll give the same treatment to Vladimir Putin and Mahmūd Ahmadinejād.

Jst what we and the world needs…4 more years of Good Old West (aka Cowboy) diplomacy.

Vahe   July 2nd, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Temper,Temper..Do you honestly trust this guy with the "button"

H. Thompson   July 2nd, 2008 6:39 pm ET

99% percent chance one of his 20+ medications kicked into overdrive.
The man is a walking liability.

rob   July 2nd, 2008 6:39 pm ET

I guarantee you there will be video footage of this.

Brian S, read the article, it's from 1987, 20 years ago…

And to Frank, Barack Obama is not the right thing to do, it's the same old song and dance, and he's pandering to anyone he can to get votes. His change is about as much real change as McCain's change… IT IS THE SAME OLD SONG AND DANCE,

I'm a Ron Paul republican and I'll be darned if I'm voting for either of these two leading jokers. Our country is in a sinkhole and these two want nothing more than to spend our money and get us into a bigger sinkhole (McCain with war, Obama with social programs)…

Vote for anyone but these two, because THAT'S the right thing to do!

Independent Guy   July 2nd, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Welcome to Situation Room. This is Wolf Blitzer. And now lets take you to Mexico where President McCain is on a state visit. Its 10 a.m. on January 21, 2010 and President McCain has just walked into the hallway of the Presidential Villa with his host, President Juan Carlos of Mexico. Oh wait a minute… whats happenning? President McCain appears to have his fingers around the neck of one of the aides of Presdent Carlos. Whats going on? A crowd of people are gathering around him and his security details weho are trying to persuade President McCain to let go. We cant see what is going on now but will stay on this story. What a shameful day for the US…

Vote McBush 2008

Sean W   July 2nd, 2008 6:39 pm ET

It takes 21 years for this to come out? Rrrright!

Chris in Va.   July 2nd, 2008 6:40 pm ET

So once again everyone is lying against McCain. How can anyone expect a man who can't remember what he said yesterday to remember his actions in 1987? There seems to be a pattern developing here.

Jim in Florida   July 2nd, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Goodness, CNN is digging really deep to try to discredit McCain.

Can you please just stick to the issues vice whoring for Obama?

LV Barbie for Obama   July 2nd, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Disabled or not with the arm-lifting thing, we don't know if that is something that has gotten progressively worse over the years as McCain has AGED and AGED…it's possible that in 1987, he was very capable of picking up a guy and pulling him out of his chair. That said, even if he was disabled to the degree he is now, I believe that anger can propel anyone to any action of violence or aggression. Given that Senator McCain's reputation as a hothead seems to be a long-standing issue, I have no doubt that he did this.
OBAMA '08 & '12
YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve, Madison WI   July 2nd, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Regardless if his arms are capable of this, his finger can still push "the button". This should scare everyone given his noted temper!

Remember it is his fellow Repubs saying he has an "anger problem".

BIFF, BIFFINGTON...   July 2nd, 2008 6:42 pm ET

so…. this is a REPUBLICAN

Jim in Florida   July 2nd, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Goodness, CNN is digging really deep to try to discredit McCain.

Can you please just stick to the issues vice whoring for Obama?

From CNN's website (categories and number of stories)

Categories
Barack Obama (1884)
Hillary Clinton (1768)
John McCain (1021)

ANDROLOMA, Commerce City, Colorado   July 2nd, 2008 6:44 pm ET

19 years ago should exceed anybody's statute of limitations.

Scott, in Memphis   July 2nd, 2008 6:45 pm ET

It amazes me how anything that anyone says about McCain is not true or it didn't happen. If there was a room full of people then someone saw it and it needs to be made public! It is a matter of national security. We and the world can not afford another cowboy as commander-in-cheif. God help us all in McCain wins!

Bling bling   July 2nd, 2008 6:45 pm ET

This was 20 years ago. He hasn't always been lame.

Becky in Indiana   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

This is a Republican that has told this story so it makes me wonder. This isn't the first time I have heard of McCain's temper.

I'm voting for Obama anyway…

Joe   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

John McCain has a habit of lying! He was caught in a lie this morning when being interviewed with Robin on Good Morning America about him saying he did not know much about economicsh. This man has a habit of not telling the truth, over and over again.

joe

Michelle   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

This is nonsense, CNN, and you should know better.

How about sticking to the facts: Barack Obama has only 143 days of work experience in the US Senate, with no legislative accomplishments.

susie   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Obama needs to keep his word and debate McCain. If they debated, the public can hear each of their answers to the issues at hand.

Vern Bartlett   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

McCain isn't exactly the picture of physical power. In fact, he's a weakling cripple pile of porridge. I'm sure Cochran is right and McCain tried this kind of a stunt. But with his brand of cowardice the guy was probably twice his age or a quadriplegic. Tough Johnny only knows how to bow in front of gooks.

Jeff   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Wow. I believe this to be true. Comming from a Dem, you'd have to take this with a grain of salt. From a fellow Rep with nothing to gain, there may be something there. We've heard numerous reports about McCain's temper. You can only hear similar accusations from different sources, time and time again until you have no choice to believe theres at least some truth to it. Kinda like Michael Jackson and kids.

The scary thing is this was 20 years ago. As most people will agree you become less patient as you age as opposed to more patient or tolerant.

barak obama   July 2nd, 2008 6:46 pm ET

you people suck

Killa Bee   July 2nd, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Hey he's better than the wanna-be tough guy in office now! Let's negotiate the McCain way instead of begging and whining.

Wayne   July 2nd, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Who cares. Have we all missed the TV airing of McCain's cowardice in Vietnam, (Which I fogrive him for.) What I do not forgive him for is allowing people to call him a war hero, and now acting like he is brave by continuing the War in Iraq. If we win, what do we win?

Tim C   July 2nd, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I don't need to hear concocted stories about how much of a loose cannon some old guy is to know how I'm going to vote. After watching the Republican machine drive this country into the ground over the past decade, or so, it's pretty clear to me that Republicans are bad news, and I will never vote for one as long as I live.

Tony, McKinney, TX   July 2nd, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Someone needs to confirm the validity of this story. There were apparantly other people in the room when the attack occurred. If it really happened and someone else is willing to testify to its acuracy it could potentially ruin McCain's credibility.

PLEASE…PLEASE..PLEASE someone come forward. His temper scares me!

Joe   July 2nd, 2008 6:48 pm ET

John McCain has a habit of lying! He was caught in a lie this morning when being interviewed with Robin on Good Morning America about him saying he did not know much about economics. This man has a habit of not telling the truth, over and over again.

joe

Mary   July 2nd, 2008 6:48 pm ET

"The thought of [McCain] being president sends a cold chill down my spine."……"He is erratic. He is hotheaded. He loses his temper and he worries me,"

this plus his voting for the unwarranted Iraq war plus his remark "bomb bomb bomb Iran"

Everyone knows McCain is hot tempered. This is a FACT. Not what I want to see in the next President.

It just makes you say hmmmmmmmmm!!!

Anna Crull   July 2nd, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Thad—Grow up. You have been looking for something to grandstand over for well over 20 years. Can you tell me exactly what you were doing
20 days ago? You worry me a lot more than a candidate that truly cars about the good of the country. Anna

Paul   July 2nd, 2008 6:49 pm ET

McInsane is way too out there to be president. He probably suffers from PTSD, but the press is so soft on him they won't dare mention it.

Todd Underwood   July 2nd, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Brian must not be able to add or read, the "fight" took place in the mid 80's, He would of been in his late 40's.

kevin