July 10, 2008
Posted: 01:50 PM ET

From
Gramm told CNN he did not mean to suggest Americans are 'whiners.'
Gramm told CNN he did not mean to suggest Americans are 'whiners.'

(CNN) — Top McCain adviser Phil Gramm tells CNN that his most controversial comment about the economy in a recent interview has been misinterpreted.

The former Texas senator, who advises presumptive Republican nominee John McCain on economic matters, also said he had not been speaking for the campaign when he spoke to a Washington Times reporter. “I didn’t claim to be representing anyone except myself,” he said. Gramm called CNN from his cell phone before boarding a flight Thursday, to clarify his remarks.

Gramm said he that he was trying to say the nation’s leaders, not its people, were “whiners.”

“The whiners are the leaders, hell, the American people are victims, but it didn’t quite come out that way in the story,” Gramm said. These national and congressional leaders “blame speculators and oil companies for our problems, instead of presenting concrete programs for using energy more efficiently, or leaders who don’t think we can compete with Mexico.

“What we need is more leadership and less whining,” he added.

But he stood by his assessment that the country was in a “mental recession.”

“I said we are in a mental recession. We keep getting the steady drum beat of bad news…it’s become a mental recession,” said Gramm. “We don’t have measured negative growth. That’s a fact, that’s not a commentary.”

Asked whether he understood beforehand the kind of political impact his statements might have, he said this outraged reactions his remarks had drawn were just part of the “game” — anytime anyone says something, said Gramm, it can be “taken out of context.”

Filed under: John McCain • Phil Gramm


Not fooled by distractions   July 10th, 2008 4:15 pm ET

What we need…is for Phil Gramm to take a hike. Hey, how about UBS and the mortgage meltdown…how 'bout your role in that Mr. Gramm. On second thought, let's run old Phil through the wringer - there's enough dirt on him to float the media for at least a few days. Human trash, mccain and gramm both.

Tired of W, OH   July 10th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Hold on a second….Gramm said “Thank God the economy is not as bad as you read in the newspaper every day." But I just saw a McCain commercial that says "The economy is in shambles." Which is it, McSame? You can't have it both ways! Why is the media not jumping at this?!?

john williams san diego, ca.   July 10th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

with these 2 presumptive presidential candidates, all of America should be scared and we will be whining for years to come.

Peter E   July 10th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

McCain, McCain, McCain… and exactly what is Obama's plan? Other than whine, whine, whine? He never talks about his plans… oh wait, he doesn't have any!

Jeremy   July 10th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Thank you Gramm. This is all we needed to dispel Obama's elitist title. Now the McCain campaign is going to be seen as a mere group of republicans: only concerned about the corporate CEOs who escaped this crisis with golden parachutes. Sen McCain, I can tell you that we Americans won't be whining that much longer because there will soon be a democrat in office.

Rob   July 10th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

This guy is absolutly right. hurts but it is the truth !!!

Rob from NC

Quote of the Century…

" My friends, we live in the greatest nation in the history of the world. I hope you will join with me as we try to change it."

Barak Hussein Obama.

sonny c.   July 10th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

If I had made only a fraction of the money Phil Graham & his wife & his kids mad on the ENRON scam I'd think the economy was just dandy too !

Skott   July 10th, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Gramm lives on the Congressional Retirement plan of full salary (with raises) and an excellent health care plan FOR THE REST OF HIS LIFE. Not only that but he is making the big bucks as a lobbyist. McCain marrys a multi millionaire and is set for life. These guys just keep getting richer.

Let them spend one year, hell . . . one month trying to make ends meet on a $30,000 income without health insurance and see if they don't become whiners.

They are both McJERKS!

Franky   July 10th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Sorry Gramm but let's just say you already said it…

Nicole in NE   July 10th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

Another thing - why is that everytime ANYONE that is a surrogate of Obama (Wesley Clark for example) says ANYTHING - it is DIRECTLY realated to Obama, but not the same when it someone in McCain's camp?

Mitt Romney's statement about global warming and disarming nukes as a LIBERAL issue - should be noticed as well if he is in the running for VP!

And McCain's top advisor especially! give me a break!

Peter E   July 10th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

And precisely what else does Obama do except whine? You know why CNN always harps about McCain's economic plan but not Obama's? Because Obama doesn't have a plan! He just whines!

Chloe   July 10th, 2008 4:03 pm ET

It would be nice it the media would stay on these outrageous comments made by McCain and the rest of his cohorts. Obama's remarks are clearly taken out of context and repeated ad nauseum but when these Republican hacks speak about how they really feel, the stories get buried. I wish CNN and the rest of these corporate cesspools would get back to reporting the news and quit worrying about their rich COE's and shareholders. We deserve truth, not partisan propaganda.

Mark   July 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Well Gramm let me tell you my account with this mental recession. I know things go up and sometimes never come down. The court has given me the normal visitaion rights to my son which are every other weekend and some holidays. I have struggled every other weekend to meet his mother half way for me to pick him, what used to cast me $60 to $70 to fill my tank now cost me $102 to fill up and thats twice a month I dont think thats mental every time I have to fill up. So do you think you mental capacity has dropped for you to think this way

It's true   July 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

We are a bunch of cry babies

Waaa I don't have enough money to put gas in my 40K SUV Waaa
I can't afford the mortgage in my 500K house Waaa

Sorry it the truth hurts

Marc from San Diego   July 10th, 2008 4:02 pm ET

It's time for a change from this old thinking. Blaming the media and the public is disgusting. I wish the economic problems were just in my head but my bank account says otherwise. Mr. McCain already admits that the economy is not his strength - well neither is picking his advisors. When did Republicans dump the American people for money and power? This party is not only not the one Lincoln belonged to - one has to wonder if Reagan would recognize it. Let's get some leadership back in the White House and start making this country work for everyone.

An American   July 10th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

We are mad as hell and we aren't going to take it anymore!

Omama '08

Rob VanWinkle   July 10th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

What a crazy world we live in-

A bunch of millionaires calling working people elitists and whiners

And Mister War Hero Tough Guy MCCain whined about General Clark, and now he's whining about whiners

John? You need to "cut the guy loose"

Enlightened Voter   July 10th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Over 400,000 jobs lost since January, the world hates us, gas is at 4.10 and rising, over 4,200 soldiers dead in a senseless war, food is too expensive, over 1.5 million homes in foreclosure, our country is bankrupt yet we are still funding a billion dollar a month war. Your right mr. gramm, why should Americans whine????????????????????

Monica B   July 10th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

You know what is worse? We are in this "mental recession" and we do not even have Universal Healthcare to cure the illness. Let's face it this universal mental state we are in needs and equal potion of UNIVERSAL HEALTHCARE.

The Republicans are for universal health care, aren't they? My bad…they are not. Oh well! We are on our own just as we were for the past 7 years.

TONY   July 10th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

YES WE DO!

Somone should tell that to the Republicans.

Like McCain, Graham is a loud-mouthed old man with old ideas. Both should retire and get the hell out of public life. That goes for most Republicans.

Shawna   July 10th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Theis is not McCain's family, this is not McCain's pastor, this man is apart of McCain's policy team…Americans should be wondering what does McCain really stand for, and how does he plan to save our economy in the future of Iran, China, and India gaining power in the west.

Ben   July 10th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Brenda - People are doing their jobs. They are just not being paid a living wage for them. By the way, you and Phil are both whining about people who whine. Irony?

G,Pa McWar   July 10th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

And do we ever have a bunch of crooks,liars,thiefs you name it on and on in the Big White House .
Wake up America what in —-do you see in these crooks letting them tear the country apart has been going on for almost 8 years this round not counting the previous Bush years and you keep voting for this ?
Russ,Hannity ,Beck ,Rove just to name a few of these crooks go under the bus or better yet in the Grabage truck to join Bush /Cheney that are in the the Grabage can .
The Garbage pick-up service is on its way

Self-actualization and manifest destiny   July 10th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

if Obama had said it, most of you would pump your fist and say, "he's just keepin' it real!"

Bill in San Jose   July 10th, 2008 3:54 pm ET

What you need is to retire, shut up and disappear there Phil. Your rhetoric, your politics and your presence in general are all worn out and should be disposed of like harvest gold or avacado colored appliances..

Rick FL   July 10th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

The comments were clear the first time. Will the media hold this spin from McCain's top economic advisor to the same level of accountability as they do for the other campaign? If past allowances are any indication, I won't hold my breath unfortunately.

Vanessa   July 10th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Is the reason why comments like this from the Republican camp aren't branded elitist because they are said in a plain sometimes southern accent? Mental recession? Oh, so job loss and decrease in wages is just a figment of our imagination. Working folks everywhere need to pay attention here. THIS bootstraps, we're all okay stance is the Republican philosophy. A philosophy that measures progress not by families or the least of us but by corporations and the richest of us. These are the people that don't care if America becomes the next Mexico. They have millionaires there too ya know.

CPJ   July 10th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Isn't this guy Gramm and his wife responsible for the ENRON LOOPHOLE - the regulation that got us our current gas price crisis?????!!!!

'Nuff Said   July 10th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I would venture to guess that most folks posting on this thread have no clue that this guy was the Gramm (not Graham) of the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act.

;)

Obama / Clinton 2008   July 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Dr. Phil is right. Whining about silly stuff like losing your job, your home, your son (in an unjust war), gas prices, inflation, and other problems makes no sense.

Instead, vote for the GOP and let them promise you NOTHING for the sake of reducing government and lowering taxes on the rich. That's your best bet.

McYoda 08!

Geneva   July 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

This is the same Phil Gramm who thinks the only reason Americans don't have health insurance is because they are "deadbeats." At least, that's how he was quoted on the front page of the Houston Chronicle a few years ago. He still doesn't have a clue.

Eric   July 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

I would love to see one of these guys live on 50k a year with a mortgage and a car payment and insurance and commute 50 miles a day and electric bill and heating bills. They wouldn't survive a week.

Maxine   July 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

We all need to call the Broadcasting stations and protest that the American people need to know what Mccain top economy advisior said that we the American people is "A Nation Of Whiners" and high gas prices and high food prices are in our minds We the American people are not stupid!!!! tell that to the hurting families that can'nt feed thier kids!!! This is a SLAM on the American people who are trying to keep in thier homes and keep food on thier tables because ot the bad Bush Administration. We and millions are going to put a stop to this!!!

'Nuff Said   July 10th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

I would venture to guess that most folks posting on this thread have no clue that this guy was the Gramm (not Graham) of the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act.

vINCe   July 10th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

**anytime anyone says something, said Gramm, it can be “taken out of context.”**

You mean like the GOP does to everything Obama says? Like that you mean??? I see…..

Lorna, NY   July 10th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Phil Gramm is a liar, just like his pals McCain, Gulianni and the one from Connecticut who looks like the joker in the batman movies!

Adam from NC   July 10th, 2008 3:45 pm ET

This should be front page at the worst!!! The fact that it's not is troubling to be polite!

Bob, San Diego, CA.   July 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

I bet Senator Gramm doesn't even have to pump his own gas. He tosses the keys to an office boy who brings them to a lot porter who fills his big SUV with taxpayer dollars. It's called trickle down economics you dummies!

Get a Grip   July 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Good for you! Stop whining! Start solving your own problems!

Kevin - IN   July 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

What we need is more leadership … I'll agree with that.

Obama 08.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   July 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Gramm may be correct that we need more leadership. It is nice to know that the Republicans see that now. It is too bad that they didn't see that earlier. This administration failed to lead in most ways I can think of. I think that the led in being one of the most secretive administrations in US history! How did we fail? We let a man claim to be a uniter fail to do that and function as a tyrant and dictator.

Norma   July 10th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

Two grumpy old men. Do us a favor a both of you retire.

base   July 10th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

please lou dobbs ,can you report that on your show, about graham being out of touch with the american people.stop attacking barak mr.dobbs.

Esther   July 10th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

The most trusted name in news! You baffle me! I trusted you! Can you imagine your cover story is about McSame battling for blue-collar votes with Obama when he's so out of touch with the americans that his top economic adviser said we are whiners! Why are you becoming so BIASED? Why oh Why?! If it was Obama that his adviser did the same thing, the whole world will hear about it! This is a very grave cover story issue and yet the same elitist McShame is battling for blue-collar votes?! Well, I dont blame you. Americans really are very stupid and the street-smart Bushes and MsSames and Dr. Phils will continue to take them for a ride. How can any reasonable american in their right senses vote for this haggard old elitist McSame? Dr Phil is right and he maintains that point: americans are in a mental recession for them to be voting for McShame! Definitely! But not this american - ME.

David M. Buddingh in Naperville, IL   July 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

So, if we all just hold hands and imagine happy things the economy will get better?

My God he sounds like a Democrat! C'mon Republicans back the Candidate who at least acknowledges our economic issues.

Obama '08

Mike   July 10th, 2008 3:40 pm ET

Ooops Freudian slip time again. The truth will out. Not only does McBush not understand the economy. He does not care. He and his multi Millionaire Buddies think that people who cannot afford gas to drive to work, Are Whinners! Can't wait for Cindy to be overheard laughing and saying 'let them eat cake'.

Anonymous   July 10th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

phil gramm - "anytime anyone says something, said Gramm, it can be “taken out of context"

Except, of course, when Obama,or his wife, say it then it's taken at absolute face value. I wonder if ths will make the Fox News headlines today…..?

John, Brooklyn, New York   July 10th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Typical Republican. Once again they are out of touch with average Americans. If things weren't going well for EXXON, you'd BET Phil Gramm would be johnny-on-the-spot to throw them more tax breaks or free public lands to drill for profit.

saga4obama   July 10th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Gramm says something like this but i keep hearing about Jackson? interesting…this is the man (Gramm) running the McCain campaign if that's what i call fear tactics.
CNN where is my other post?

Steve (Independent)   July 10th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

I'll give him the benefit of the doubt, he believes the comments were taken out of context…

Unfortunately, what he was thinking wasn't being articulated and people aren't telepathic. Therefore, people had no way of putting what he was thinking into any context beyond what he actually stated.

So, is that really being taken out of context? Only in his own mind…

Sarah, SD   July 10th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Yes, I agree more leadership. That's why I'm voting for Barack Obama.

I'll stop whining when George Bush is OUT of my White House.

Obama 08

Terry, Lakeland Florida   July 10th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

DM, Let talk about the truth!! July 10th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Wow, so what actually happening to the Auto Worker, Airline Pilot, School Teacher my god!! loosing jobs is all mental!!!!

Oh my God!!! Help us John McCain and Phil Gramm When you have so much money and a private jet I guess the cost of fuel really don't bother them….

———————————–
And that proves nothing. Yes people lost jobs people always do. OPena book and read what recession means.

John   July 10th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

Gramm has had his snout in the public trough all of his life. He's a hypocrite of the worst kind.

carol62   July 10th, 2008 3:35 pm ET

For all you hard-working Americans who can't seem to vote for Obama because you think he is an elitist, you folks need to reconsider your position. If Gramm's comments aren't proof of what he and McCain really think of your problems, then your heads are permanently stuck in the sand.

Gramm has supported the programs and policies that are cause of you losing your homes, jobs, pensions and way of life. You think you're suffering now, put these chicken-neck old men in the White House and you won't have a pot to piss in or a back door to throw it out of.

just an observation   July 10th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

There sure is a lot of whining on this board.

Tanvir   July 10th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

The McCain campaign tried so hard to link Wesley Clark's comments to Obama using the "surrogate" reasoning, meanwhile Gramm is a legitimate member of McCain's team and is using the claim that he was just speaking for himself when making his now infamous "whining" remarks. Hypocrisy is always apropos in Washington.

Terry, Lakeland Florida   July 10th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

David from Ohio July 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I'm sure it's not a "mental" recession to someone who's lost their job or their house. Just another example of why you can't trust the Republicans and why they need to go back to what they're good at–minority party status.

—————————–
Because it's not a true recession, we only think it is…that's why it's a mental recession

A SONGBIRD SANG IN VIETNAM   July 10th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

CNN is too busy talking about Jessee Jackson wanting to cut Barack's "body parts" off , so there's no time to report such financial expertise as this on TV.

When will they get some journalists and get rid of the talking heads that do re-runs 24/7 ?

Terry, Lakeland Florida   July 10th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Well his comment was correct. We are not in a true recession, Calling it a mental recession is the more correct term. For those of you who think we are in a true recession, you do not understand the full meaning of the word. However the media has been doing nothing but telling us we're in a recession for so long that everyone thinks we are..that's what makes it a mental recession.

As for the 'whiners ' part…I think he is right on both counts. We are a nation of whiners both a the top and the buttom. Our leaders do nothing but whine, what have they done to fix it? Also we do nothing but Whine. What have we done to fix it. We are the people, it's our job to ensure we select the correct people to get the job done. A few years ago we made the wrong decision and elected too many deme to office. They done NOTHING to stop us from reaching a recession…we are getting close and still they do nothing but Whine. It's time to kick them all out and start over. You want change…well change it all.

Jeff Brown   July 10th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

This man is like a bad penny, he turns up when you least want or need him!

John   July 10th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Obama says Americans are making $1000 per year less now than they did before Bush took office?

Wow. $2.74 per day less!

This must be re-defined as a depression not a recession!

Perhaps all you whiners should skip that Starbucks or that pack of cigs and you'd have that money back.

Pitiful whiners.

GOP/McSame backers where are you?   July 10th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Where are the MCSame backers on this blog today? Its just Jan Boc and we all know who he is. McSame backers, I really want to know what you have to say about this???

Isaac   July 10th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

How does John McCain surround himself with people that share nothing common with his views? Remember when his friend said that another attack on America would be good for McCain …. The response was that this is not the McCain view, now this & again not the McCain view.

Well who in the campaign shares the same views as John McCain when his entire advisers do not have a single thing to say that he supports?

Setting a trend there McSame

TEXAS FOR OBAMA   July 10th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Gramm and McCain need to take a course in Economic's 101.

Rob   July 10th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

how about that the old man has an even older adviser–thats out of touch with reality..Take away his pension and fire him.you'll see he changes his tune very fast..time for this geezer to retire–FAST

Watch Out!   July 10th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Hmm, I wonder how McCain's temper is going to take this blow to his campaign. Let's see those words fly John.

captain   July 10th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Out of context?

At first I was outraged that the chief economic adviser to John McCain could be this profoundly out of touch with ordinary Americans.

Then I decided it was all in my head.

GOP/McSame backers where are you?   July 10th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Where are the elitist GOP backers on this blog today? Why are you all so cowardly like the stupid leaders you support? Its just Jan from Boca on here. Pls, dont dissapoint me McSame backers. I really want to know what you have to say to this???

Jeronimo!   July 10th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

For all their experience, they lack the most basic qualification to lead during a crisis…. Understanding! These guys should be selling motorized wheelchairs at the scooter store, not playing games with the the future and fortune of our children.

Linda, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 10th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Another rich elitist GOP hack who lives the cushy life thanks to we "whiners." These people are so out of touch it is scary.

Pick me!! Pick me!!   July 10th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

"we are in a mental recession."

You might be but, I'm not. That is why I am NOT going to vote Republican this time around. However, I am a very bitter person.

YEA RIGHT!!   July 10th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Bob Stephens…….. Phil Gramm is McSames chief economic adviser and the one that pushed the Enron loophole though congress. He is a big reason why you are paying over $4 a gallon. What a jerk……..
THANK YOU !!!!
Gramm told CNN he did not mean to suggest Americans are 'whiners.
YEA Righ!!……You and McSame go to the POND and pitch pennies

THUPS   July 10th, 2008 3:22 pm ET

this just proves what McCain has said earlier that HE DOES NOT KNOW MUCH ABOUT THE ECONOMY…..well i guess paying $4.67 per gallon compared to $1.50 in 2001 is whinning for him…..paying $16 for a sack of flour instead of $6 last year is just a whinner for his advisor…….paying $20 instead of $9 last year just a whinner issue…

Tom   July 10th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

All you people who lost your homes due to forclosure, stop whining.
All you people who lost your jobs due to outsourcing, stop whining.
All you people who have to decide whether to feed your family or fill up the gas tank, stop whining.

To the poster above yes stop whining! People lost there homes because THEY bought houses they can not afford…

They lost jobs because we cost the most to hire in the world, and people buy items from overseas not only made in the USA..

America has been driving HUGE cars for years and have had really cheap gas…

SO YES STOP WHINING and do something about it, if you think Obama is going to fix any of this vote for him… If you think McCain can fix this vote for him its quite simple…

Nader 08′

PUMA for Graham   July 10th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Right on, Graham. I see the light now.

My candidate Hillary told me we are hurting ecomonically. But now that she lost, I am on your bandwagon now because I am no longer listening to what she wants me to do. I am ready and willing to sell-out my principles because its more important for people to pay attention to me.

Stephen H   July 10th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

To: Scotty July 10th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

What the heck does your comment about Obama have to do with this topic? It never fails that with each blog topic idiots somehow go out of their way to take a cheap shot at Obama. How about speaking to the topic at hand? Or does that pea size brain of yours allow you to involve yourself in rational critical thought? Save the Obama bashing for a topic that is at least somewhat related to Obama.

Obama '08

Jimmy P - Chicago   July 10th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

To Obama-Junkie…

Nice name, I'm sure you are probably a real junkie! You can't afford gas, sell you prius and take a bus with the rest of the Chicago trash.

Elly   July 10th, 2008 3:17 pm ET

must be nice to have money like the do nothing congress and MCSame who dont have to worry about paying a morgage
unfortuantely the average american would like the american dream dream too you two old fogies
Especially MCSame who is bordering on dementia
Come down to earth where the real people live and struggle you morons!!!!!

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   July 10th, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Yeah! No greater whiner and dumb-tail than Gramm's precious George W. Bush!!!! He needs his "nu-nu"!!

Early Man   July 10th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Pain at the pump? Stop your whining and pay up! How else are Gramm's energy speculators going to create some 'real weath' in the economy?

Jimmy P - Chicago   July 10th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

He's absolutely correct, this is also enhanced by the leftist media (CNN, NBC, etc.). Public perception goes a long way. Whine, whine, whine = more socialist agenda handouts to deadbeats who cannot compete in today's market. You lost your home, tough stuff. You probably couldn't afford it in the first place. News flash for all you progressive fools, we are not all equal in socio-economic terms, and never will be. We are all born equal, then it's up to you!

John Wilderness   July 10th, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Based on the replies, this country is in a mental recession! Truth is, with all our problems we are STILL luckier than most of the world, yet we still complain! Go out into the big wide world, see how they live and then come back and tell me how bad it is here. Also, how come illegals who can't speak english can come up here find work and supprt their family? Answer: they'll sacrfice, not whine and they don't need high paying jobs because they don't try to live beyond their means which is what most of you do, which is why one hiccup in the economy hurts you sooo much!

Tennessee Mike   July 10th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Phil Gramm: Another good reason why to not vote for John McCain!

Barr / Root '08

Bulldog   July 10th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Didn't John McCain just recently say Obama should get rid of General Clark whose not even an official campaignee? And now Gramm, the paid official economic advisor for McCON, is speaking for himself according to McCain. So is Gramm fired like you said Clark should be or are you a hypocrite McCON?

Esther   July 10th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

CNN! You baffle me! I trusted you! Can you imagine your cover story is about McSame battling for blue-collar votes with Obama when he's so out of touch with the americans that his top economic adviser said we are whiners! Why are you becoming so BIASED? Why oh Why?! If it was Obama that his adviser did the same thing, the whole world will hear about it! This is a very grave cover story issue and yet the same elitist McShame is battling for blue-collar votes?! Well, I dont blame you CNN. Americans really are very stupid and the street-smart Bushes and MsSames and Dr. Phils will continue to take them for a ride. How can any reasonable american in their right senses vote for this haggard old elitist McSame? Dr Phil is right and he maintains that point: americans are in a mental recession for them to be voting for McShame! Definitely! But not this american - ME.

Alkar   July 10th, 2008 3:12 pm ET

You liberals are a bunch of whiners! You expect somebody (the federal government / the tax payer) to hold your hands from craddle to grave. I love $4 gallon gas. I love it so much! One of my retirement portfolios is invested heavily in oil stocks and petro related industries. If you are a liberal democrat and are suffering from $4 gas then you deserve it. I have no sympathy for you. This is what you wanted. You wanted no domestic drilling. You wanted high gas prices so the evil Americans in their evil SUVs would suffer. The great thing is, if there is a new trend in Americans buying smaller cars in order to get better gas milage, then that means demand will go down. When demand goes down then the price of gas will go down. And that means I can STILL drive my evil SUV and buy cheap gas.

Bulldog   July 10th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

This is the same Phil Gramm that pushed hard for the Enron Loophole as he was being paid by Enron lobbysists and his wife was on the board of Enron and made almost $1million dollars for a part time job. McCain put him in as his top economic advisor and now McCON wants to claim Gramm speaks only for himself. So what is the definition of advisor? Gramm is your advisor McCON, he gives you advise. Are you paying him just to talk to himself or this another one of those senile moments?

ANGIE   July 10th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

love the link to mccain veterens voting that man ought to be ashamed of himself pow prior military he dont even support them or want to help them what makes you think he wants to help us i swear mccain is THE DEVIL!!!!!!

Ilona,PA   July 10th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

When was the last time you paid your medical bills out of your own pocket senator Gramm? YOU have secure pension and benefits for life and you dare to call us people who are losing jobs, pensions and benefits whiners?!!! You are a true elitist arrogant politician and your brain is in recession, no wait depression is the better word.

Tracy, Chicago, IL   July 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Let me get this straight; Obama’s “bitter” comment gets blown up in the news 24/7, every conservative is outraged & he’s labeled an elitist & publicly apologized. Dick Cheney jokes about inbreeding in WV-no outrage from the conservatives or public apology from Cheney. This republican Gramm calls people who have lost their jobs & homes whiners—no outrage from the conservatives. I’m waiting for Glen Beck, Hannity, & O’Reilly to cover his elitist comments daily just like I did with the inbreeding comments made by Cheney; the results will be the same I’m sure and they will barely mention it.

Timothy   July 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Mccain's top ecomomy Adiviors SLAM THE AMERICAN PEOPLE while the american people are going through a tough time because of the way the Bush administration lead this country. and for John Mccain's adviser to say that we the american people are "A Nation Of Whiners" is shameful and this tell us how and what John Mccain thinks about the American people. SLAM ON THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

adm   July 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Jan From Boca Raton, Fl

You need some help. This article has nothing to do with Obama, but she still find it necessary to bash him. Grow up and talk about real issues, like this article and about the economy.

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 10th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

The race is over!

Let's vote the Republicans out today!

The equation is:

Phil Gramm+McCain+Bush= STUPID

Mb   July 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I'M NOT A WHINER I'M BITTER ! ! !

bill from pa   July 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

So much for blue collar workers voting McCain. Calling them whiners is worse than Obama calling them bitter.

Reality Check Richmond Virginia   July 10th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Gramm ia a complete loon, but I don't think he was talking about the American people…………..but then again, I don't see our leaders(Bush Admin) whinning about the mess they helped this country get into.

Mike, FL   July 10th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

When things go wrong because of the Rep incompetency, they'll always blame us the people. Very sad!!

Ken   July 10th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Sounds like Phil is whining a bit himself: "whaaaa!…. the big bad media is too negative and has brain washed people into thinking that they are paying $4 a gallon for gasoline, and that the equity markets are slumping badly, and that the dollar is in the trash, and that home prices are way down, and that the foreclosure rate is way up….. Bad, bad media for reporting such negative stories without basis."

Thank you Phil. When I go to the gas station today and hand over $4 per gallon I'll remember that I'm really paying say $2 a gallon. And when I look at my 401K statement, I'll ignore the false bottom line and tell my wife that we really have 30% more in there. And I'll start whining like you: "if only the media would sign up to my fairytale view of the world, life would be grand".

And by the way Phil, and all you neo-nuggets that drink his kool-aid, when I go to the polls in Nov., I'll continue to live in your fantasy world of up is down, stupid is smart, bad is good, high prices are low prices….and when I vote for OBAMA, I'll just tell myself I really voted for MCCAIN.

The truth hurts!   July 10th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Love how 99% of these comments are all one-sided, clearly very "balanced" people. Obama and the Democrats have been screaming the economy is tanking all year! The Congressional "Do Nothing about Anything" Democrats chirp constantly that everything is Bush's fault (so why is their approval rating at 9%?). Get over it people! The credit crisis was caused by banks lending to people they had no business lending to and the gas "crisis" is caused by 20+ years of the environmental lobbies blocking every kind of affordable solutions to our energy usage. If the Republican Congress had been true to their principles and effective legislators we wouldn't be in this mess of having complete incompetents running the government! The American people got fed up and threw the baby out with the dirty bath water and now all we have left are the bath toys! We need real leaders not mealy-mouthed whiners!

pb   July 10th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

Who is the ELITIST now? On several occasions, McCain and his surrogates have called Obama an eliitist. (I never could understand how Obama of all people could be branded an elitist). Yet when Senator McCain's economic advisor calls Americans a Nation of Whiners, who is the real elitist? McCain and his Real Deal thugs have no idea the many millions of Americans who sit at the kitchen table every night trying to prioritize gas, food, mortgage payment, etc. How out of touch are they? As the old adage says, " just because your stomach is full, doesn't mean everybody else's stomach is full." I am not surprised that Grahamm stated this. My surprise and unbelief would be how could Americans still consider McCain for president. What would McCain have to do to reveal the true McCain, sell his soul to the devil?

TexMex   July 10th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Americans are a bunch of wimps and cry babies. Willing to jump on any bandwagon even though it may take them to the ends of Hell.

How can you idiots support this neophyte politician from Chicago.
Has no proven track record. The connections are questionable to say the least and his loyalty to America is also in doubt.

If Obama wins he will destroy the America of my father's. Already we are almost a Socialists country and do not value individual rights.
this trend will accelerate if Obama becomes President.

American Patriotsllllll STOP THE OBAMA TRAIN.

ron, NY,NY   July 10th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

When Michelle Obama had a slip of the tongue and said something about being proud of America, the media and the right wing hate mongers pounced on her and are still talking about that comment to this day. John McCain had said that he never loved America until he became a POW. Neither the so called "mainstream" media nor the right wing nut jobs are saying anything about it. McCain had earlier said that we just have to feel good about the economy and things will be fine. Today comes Phil Gramm, McCain's senior adviser. Yes, we Americans are just whining and the economic woes are just a symptom of our mental instability. I don't think anyone else would get away with such a comment except for the rich and powerful of the republican party who have a stranglehold on the media and the corporations that fund it. When I pay $4.50 for a gallon of gas, the pain is real, not just imagined or mental. The republican party continuously shows disdain and disrespect for the American people, and get their media buddies to convince these same .Americans that the republicans stand for their values and are more patriotic. Somehow, the electorate buys this crap over and over again. This is truly sad.

51% is actually the Majority   July 10th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

In his original quote he said "nation of whiners" nation… that is synonymous for "leaders" right? Oh! And all of you on the ticker with "Obama said this, Obama said that" This article says nothing about Obama… so what are you talking about?! We're talking about a man who is the top economic adviser for possibly the next President saying WE ARE IN A MENTAL RECESSION". Then has the gonads to sit there and tell us what he said was misinterpreted? What the hell? I feel like I'm living in a bad zombie movie with these people! Get a grip.

PUMA/Hillary or McCain people, we're not going to be held hostage by you. Either move on or move out of our way

Common Sense 08.

JIM...TX   July 10th, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Gramm and his sidekick Kay Bailey were/are out of touch with us Texans too. Amazing we little people always don't understand what these slime politicians are saying…..

Karen - Missouri   July 10th, 2008 3:00 pm ET

This guy is as out of touch with reality as McCain is. Good grief…we need younger more intelligence in Washington FOR SURE!

And if McCain even THINKS of getting rid of social security…he's OUT!

I can't believe people would even THINK of voting for any Republican again!!!!

I paid in plenty of money to Social Security. If they'd quit "borrowing" from the fund, there would actually be a SURPLUS in Social Security. So take McCain's Social Security money away from he…he can survive on Cindy's money.

Crane   July 10th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Unbelievable. What's even worse is that I had to search for this story after reading it elsewhere. If one of Obama's advisors had said this, it would be all over every newspaper and media outlet in the entire country.

But because one of McCain's lackeys uttered such BS, it will get little attention.

Tell you what, if this country votes for four more years of the same, I swear I'm moving to CANADA!!!

John   July 10th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

More leadership, less whining - Amen to that. Finally someone with the ________ to say it! Get the Do Nothing Congress to start making things happen. Everyone is all to happy to sit around and point fingers meanwhile citizens are falling under.

Eric   July 10th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

The whining comments prove this point. America is full of whiners and people who refusse to take responsibility and blame others. This includes politicians. It will be our downfall.

Tejano   July 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The truth hurts. This contrived recession by the liberal media will not succeed. We the business people and loyal Americans know better.
This is not news to me and my business partners. Business is good, but the media wants it otherwise.

LA   July 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

The nation is just whining? OK, now you've really gone and stepped in it! Maybe Cindy can help the good citizens out here with cash, meds—or maybe government cheese! We need something to go with this wine! You Republican creeps!

What if?   July 10th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

REMEMBER ALL YOU WHINERS AT THE VOTING BOOTH…..T-H-I-S-and I repeat…..T-h-i-s is the same guy that McCain stated that he would rely on for economic advise since he (McCain) said he doesn't know very much about the economy.

Right on point hojo………………

Tired of W, OH   July 10th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Sure, it's all in my head that I'm paying $4 per gallon for gas. I'm just imagining that my grocery bill has gone up about 50%.

Now, remember voters. The republicans have absolutely no sympathy for the American people. Everything's our fault, OK? Corporate greed and $50 billion per month in Iraq have nothing to do with it, OK? Maybe McCain's economic strategy will be to provide psychiatric help to all Americans, because it's all in our heads, right?

Cheryl (Vets for Obama)   July 10th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

WOW! I am surprised that Americans cannot see through McCain and his cronies, they do not care about the cost of milk, the price of gas, the elderly, the poor, the needy in general, they only care about padding their bank accounts. STOP being so stupid America, if we allow McCain to win this election, Americans will be doomed. WAKE UP!

charles   July 10th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Phil Gramm said Americans facing tough economic are ‘whiners,’” lt doesn't mention leaders if these are his words they are clearly saying Americans are whiners. too late old man its out already.

William,from Cali!   July 10th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

"Mental recession", now that's an understatement, if I ever heard one. This whole "political process"; from both sides, has been a "mental recession", from where I'm sitting. Some of the "comments" that are posted on here are on the verge of total mental recession. And all of the "Media reporting", is a "soap-opera side-show", mental recession sound-bite. Now, that's my take; on all this non-sense, we call politics.

Rudy NYC   July 10th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Did his "correction" slam the GOP, who have held the White House since 2001?

Kate   July 10th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

"— anytime anyone says something, said Gramm, it can be “taken out of context”."

If only we could all remember that….

Luke   July 10th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Yeah, tell working families that can barely afford food, gas, mortgages etc. to "stop whining". That's the way to win an election.

Obama 08

Jason   July 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Gramm's retraction sounds promising, it's too bad he didn't say it before the gaffe…

we DO need leadership, along with a spirit to lift the nation out of dreary discontent and into rigorous domestic energy, ambitious trade, and strong security.

McCain 08

Tori, Oregon   July 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Right so next time I fill up the gas tank I will mentally make it $1.99 or next time a factory worker loses a job they will mentally create another one right down the street….What an idiot

Independent Fred   July 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Millionaires telling americans to stop crying never goes over well especially these days.

I think all Politicians (even Obama) are a bit out of touch with reality.

A SONGBIRD SANG IN VIETNAM   July 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

CNN is too busy talking about Jessee Jackson wanting to cut Barack's "body parts" off - there's no time to report such nonsense as this on TV.

When will they get some journalists and get rid of the talking heads that do re-runs 24/7 ?

Tasha Houston, TX   July 10th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Well, the "psychological" comment came out of McCain's mouth. Wonder where he got it from?

A Real American Votes Issues   July 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Right, Right, we're not in a recession, there's nothing to see behind the curtain here! I mean the fact that we're losing tens of thousands of jobs a month, the cost of living has gone up dramatically, the dollar has fallen in value, foreclosures will be in the millions by the end of the year… its all in our heads. Just because we don't have a technical "recession" going on, it doesn't mean that there isn't a problem! Every time I think about that man getting into office part of me feels ill. But why is it when McCain says that "he doesn't represent me or the campaign" we take his word but when Clark said it the McCain camp said "its a pattern"? So when Lieberman and Black said things about terrorist attacks, and your top economic adviser says that we are not in a real recession… its just a coincidence, right? BTW I hope you "PUMA/Hillary or McCain" people are paying attention because THESE are the people you're putting in office, the ones that call you whiners, and tell you that your economic problems are a mental issue. Good luck with that.

Common Sense Will Win in 2008.

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   July 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Gee Jan, I'm sure many of the residents of Boca Raton are doing just fine. The rest of us living in the real world, however, are struggling with deflated value of the dollar, the rocketing energy costs, and implications from the mortgage crisis.

You just continue to sit in your little bubble, sippin on your martini, with a fat smile on your face. The rest of will change this country for the better.

It is time for a revolution.

Obama '08

Chris   July 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

This is worse than Obama's "bitter" comment (which I agree with)

Alston   July 10th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

What he meant was Democrats are whiners …

Vote for McBush American friends…. esp the religious vote bank. Yes you..those who's vision is narrowed and vote Republican blindly.

insanity   July 10th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

lol.. I think McCain's campaign things we're living inside the Matrix.
Gramm is like Agent Smith, and McCain is the architect.

Which makes Obama, Neo. I wounder who Morpheus is ? Axelrod ?

Seriously.. what a moron !!

Unempressed   July 10th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

This is worse than Obama's "bitter" comment (which I agree with)

- Mortgage crises - people losing their homes daily
- gas/food prices
- predatory lending
- can't qualify let alone afford healthcare
- jobs being shipped overseas
- trickle down "economics" - yet the rich put their $ in offshore accounts
- removal of VA hospital benefits
- social security and unbalanced buget (borrow from China??)

David M. Buddingh in Naperville, IL   July 10th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

A nation of whiners? How can he say that about this country? This angst by the people is a product of Gramm's parties failed policies of the last seven and a half years. This anger by the people is a product of ruling by 51% rather than building a democratic consensus.

Just more proof we need leaders who are worthy of the American people's greatness.

Maxine   July 10th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

John Mccain can'nt relate to the American people and what we are going through with high gas prices and losing our homes and high food prices becasue his wife is a multimillionaire John Mccain is a Multimillionaire and if Mccain is elected President you think we have a mess with this country economy now. We the country will be sorry just like we are sorry that Bush was elected as President.

CNN = Jerry Springer of news   July 10th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Gramm and Fiorina have managed to turn off both women voters and blue collar workers in one day. What an accomplishment!!

Sam   July 10th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I am so proud that they can run an article about John McCain and not mention something that has to do with age.

I switched from FoxNews to CNN during the primary season because CNN provided better coverage, but if they keep up this thing about McCain's age, then I guess I will need to switch back. Be even-handed in your coverage… if you talk about McCain's age, talk about Obama's lack of experience.

FRED, LAS VEGAS   July 10th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Mental reccession, when gas prices are increasing astromonically? We are really headed there if we aren't already in the middle of it. Let's get real on this one.

CNN = Jerry Springer of news   July 10th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

McCain's campaign needs a serious readjustment. Again, people from his camp are off message from the candidate. If I were McCain, I would fire Phil Gramm and Carly Fiorina. Two statements that contradict what John McCain says he actually believes in one day are too much. These are not remarks 'taken out of context' or remarks that hurt someone's feelings, they are much more serious as a display of disorganization/lack of communication of the campaign in general. However, as an Obama supporter, I am perfectly fine if McCain makes the decision to keep them as part of his team.

Tjaye in LA   July 10th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

So is he calling the bitter people WHINERS?

Louis   July 10th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

NO YOU MORON–WE ARE IN AN ACTUAL RECESSION. Record gas prices, freefall in real estate, rising costs, plunging stock market, increasing unemployment. With idiotic leaders like you, no wonder our country is in its current state.

Jason   July 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Tim did you you really read the article and that what was you got out of it? Another reason to dislike many Obama supporters they fall into that catagory of reading retention problems our schools have been facing. These are the people who read little red riding hood and think the wolf was the victim. you have it all backwards just like your blind following of Obama.

Sacto Joe   July 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Typical Republican clap-trap. Get a clue, dude!

jamaal kansas   July 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Cnn is bias they post comments that are bias against mr Obama as well as there cable new any thing Mcshame say wrong or his people they don't call it on him but if somone on Obama squad mispeak or say anything it all on the news

Jeff   July 10th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Graham is know for making ignorant remarks. Why would we expect anything different? Graham was one fo the most hateful, bigoted lawmakers on capitol hill, along with Helms and Thurmond.

Clinton Fringer   July 10th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

He called people whiners…………..get over it……………..while on the other side, Jesse Jackon wants to cut Obama's nuts off. Hmmmm………and the whiners are all over Gramm. Go figure. If the shoe fits……….

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   July 10th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

I don't often agree with Gramm, but he's on the right track with this one. With one exception, Ron Paul, none of this year's batch of presidential candidates want what's best for the country as a whole. The neo-cons, including McCain, seem to want to force us all back to 1956-style manners, morals, and religion, and the Democrats seem to want to force us all into an unrealistic, idealistic, FDR-style socialism. Neither outlook is any kind of leadership, and neither deals with the country as it exists today–the neo-con outlook is an Ozzie and Harriet fiction of an era that exist only in peoples' imaginations and the Democrat outlook presupposes that we can afford all their do-gooding.

I want solutions, not day-dreams, and no one aside from Ron Paul is offering solutions. Unfortunately, most of the country is content with either the neo-con or Democrat day-dreams and isn't interested in solutions that might, on the one hand, deprive them of their chest-thumping, America uber alles, testosterone high or, on the other hand, all those nice "free" things the government gives away at someone else's expense.

Unfortunately, all day-dreams eventually come to an end.

JJ   July 10th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

A nation of whiners doesn't sound like he was just talking about the leaders. Just as McCain called Obama to drop Clark, McCain should immediately drop him. This comment just shows how they (the majority of the Rep) really feel and really think. Which is the exact reason why America is where we are right now…in the hole!

But wait……..this is all in my mind.

jen   July 10th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

CNN the John McCain Network!! You spend 5 days talking about General Clarks comments that only stated a truth, and you then give Gramm's explanation more coverage then his original statement. At least try not to be bias during this election. We all know CNN is big business and big business perfers the policies of John McSame.

cnn junkie   July 10th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

if this was from obamas camp it will be breaking news,the media bias is palpable

Puma=Republicans Posing as Democrat Bloggers   July 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Watch McCain drop Gramm like American jobs under NAFTA

G   July 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

When I paid $4.68 a gallon at the pump today, I tried to remind myself it was all in my mind. Then I went to the grocery store and saw the increased prices there, along my decreased bank balance after buying gas. Just in my mind, I remembered. When my hours got cut and my health insurance premium went up, I told myself it was all in my mind. I got my utility bill, another increase, and my auto insurance went up again. But it's all in my mind, I'm sure, because a Republican told me so. So much for the party of fiscal sense. What a sham.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   July 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

We understood you the first time–back peddling is not necessary.

One thing is clear however–rhetoric attempting to describe our malaise as lack of hope or mental anguish beyond the reality on the ground–won't work.

We do need our leaders to have common sense, deal with the real problems we face with realistic plans (not bigger, better, and untested programs w/ big tickets).
We do set the expectation and demand….you respect the personal sacrifice we make contributing the trillions of tax dollars that are expended by our political leaders with reckless disrgard for our efforts.

Mister Anderson   July 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN! That is his economic advisor.

John McCain will be the third term of Bush and first term of Cheney.

Democrat   July 10th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Gramm is an idiot.

Will, NJ   July 10th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Please Mr. Gramm, can I have some more? I'm not quite full of your BS yet.

Tom   July 10th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

These two clowns are so out of touch with America.

Kevin   July 10th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I thought the Bush tax cuts were supposed to benefit the economy. When is that supposed to happen?

David from Ohio   July 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I'm sure it's not a "mental" recession to someone who's lost their job or their house. Just another example of why you can't trust the Republicans and why they need to go back to what they're good at–minority party status.

not important   July 10th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Phil Gramm, UBS and ENRON?

Gerald   July 10th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Let's see…McSame himself has a horrible track record when it comes to women's issues in this country and now we have his own economic advisor saying we're a bunch of whiners because of an effed up economy that Bush is mainly responsible for. This on top of the fact that McSame in his own words said the economic crisis we're in is "psychological". ARE YOU KIDDING ME!! For all you Hillary turned McSame supporters and PUMA's out there if this all doesn't add up to a serious wake-up call I don't know what will.

Obama '08

JA Cook   July 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Gramm himself is a source of the problem. Gramm is largely responsible for the financial crisis. Of course he wants to divert the attention and the blame.

CNN, where's the inclusion about Gramm's involvement in the housing and banking mess? And what about his wife's?

How come McCain keeps Gramm around? Oh, that's right, McCain's a war hero (genuinely) so his judgement is untouchable (wrongfully).

FJ from Atlanta   July 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Nice try Phil, but you and McSame can't spin this one.

Alanna   July 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Nice try but we all know what you really meant.

Go away and take McBush with you.

Cynthia   July 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I did not misinterpet what he said and if it is just part of the game why did Senator McCain move so quickly to say that Gramm does not speak for him? He has been speaking for him for months.

RickytheGriff   July 10th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Ah, CNN really knows how to bury a story….. don't they?

This guy looks the American people right in the face and calls them a bunch of whiners and STILL groups like PUMA are willing to vote for McCain!

Jesse, Burnsville, MN   July 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Why is this not a front page story?? When the economy is the number one issue in this election and the Republican nominee says our economic problems are "psychological" and his economic adviser calls us a "nation of whiners", the story needs to be told to the American people. Let them digest it however they will, but at least let them read it!

Timothy   July 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Vote Mccain this country will be in deep, deep trouble Mccain's own Economy advisior said that we the American people are whinners and that this recession and high gas prices and people losing thier homes are mental all in are minds!!! NO to Mccain NO NO!!!!

mitchell martin   July 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

we could use less of your leadership.we're "whining" because you have destroyed our economy and our children are hungry.sorry.

Desiree   July 10th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I don't think talk like this is going to get McCain a lot of votes. McCain needs more younger ungrumpier people on his team if he wants to win.

California Gold   July 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Perhaps in the academic sense of the word we are not in a "recession" but Americans paying the bills and trying to balance their household budget know the economy is in the dumper. They also know it's getting worse every day. We need leadership, not goofy politicians and their advisors playing word games with the media and calling anyone "whiners". This sort of rhetoric is offensive.

McCain and his side kick Gramm need to understand a basic concept: long after we forget what they said we will always remember how they made us feel.

Nicole in NE   July 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Another thing - why is that everytime ANYONE that is a surrogate of Obama (Wesley Clark for example) says ANYTHING - it is DIRECTLY realated to Obama, but not the same when it someone in McCain's camp?

Mitt Romney's statement about global warming and disarming nukes as a LIBERAL issue - should be noticed as well if he is in the running for VP!

And McCain's top advisor especially! geez

L   July 10th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

This man knows a thing or two about the economy. You are all hysterical. I was laughing reading all your other comments about this.

You must have been living somewhere else when we were in one of the biggest economic booms the world has seen in a long time, right after the 'downturn' when the dot.coms callapsed. the bubble burst and now we are in a downturn, but nobody wanted to hype up the fact that the economy has been GROWING, just at a much smaller rate. We are not in a recession. Unemployment is still low too.

Want lower gas prices then support drilling our own oil

Canuck   July 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

yup, the baseball stadiums are full, people are buying iphones, everyone has a benz or bmw. but things are soooo bad. we are a bunch of whiners.

don't worry the messiah will fix the economy. i cannot wait to drive my benz around and fill up on $1.59 gas, thanks to his cheap talk.

good grief.

DJ in TX   July 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I can't belive this guy has the nerve to say something like this. Many people may NOT know the true definition of a recession is two quarters with negative growth. But that does not justify the pain Americans are feeling. Business are closing daily. ExpressJet is the latest Airline to shut down.

I agree under the truest definition, we're not in a recession, but in the "spirit" of the word, yes we are.

This guy must have a "mental" view of the average everyday working American and the pain we are feeling.

And this is what the Republicans have to offer?

proud army and navy mom   July 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

talk about someone who doesn't know when they are in a hole to stop digging …

Phil only made it worse. was he and others republicans in leadership positions that would have allowed them to "present concrete programs" for energy as well as housing. It was stated that his own wife help create the loophole for Enron to steal from the American people. Gramm hands are just as bloody for helping us into this mortgage crisis.

But this idiot wants to blame the people that report the news for steady drum beat of bad news…. Here's a new flash, repugs, give them some good economic news to report.

STILL VOTING FOR HILARY!   July 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

SERIOUSLY, I AM SOOO TIRED OF OUR SENATORS AND CONGRESSMAN DOING NOTHING! THEY GET PAID WELL ENJOY LONG HOLIDAYS HAVE THE BEST OF HEALTH CARE, I WOULD STILL BE WAITING FOR A REFERAL IF I WERE TED KENNEDY WITH MY INSURANCE, I PROB WOULD HAVE DIED ALREADY. THEY NEED TO STOP THE WHINNING ALRIGHT. WE ARE SICK OF THEM. THEY SPEND THE MONEY WE WORK SO HARD TO MAKE. I AM NOT SAYING THEY DONT WORK HARD, BUT THE REWARDS ARE TOO PLENTIFUL FOR THEM FOR NO PRODUCTION. WE WOULD ALL BE FIRED WITH A PRODUCTION RECORD LIKE THEY HAVE. THE AMERICAN PEOPLE NEED TO GET MAD AND GET EVEN AT THE POLLS. VOTE ALL THESE DO NOTHING BEEN IN THE SENATE 50 YEARS DROOLING ALL OVER THEMSELVES PEOPLE OUT! AND IF NOT. PUT THEM ALL ON COMMISSION. YOU PRODUCE YOU GET PAID AND TAKE AWAY THEIR BENEFITS. GIVE THEM AN HMO AND LET THEM PAY OUT OF THEIR POCKETS FOR A CHANGE. I THINK EVERY ELECTED OFFICAL SHOULD HAVE TO LIVE ON 30K A YEAR NO PERKS. IF THEY CAN SURVIVE ON IT WITHOUT PUTTING IT ON THEIR CC I WILL SHUT UP FOREVER.

Bob Stephens   July 10th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Phil Gramm is McSames chief economic adviser and the one that pushed the Enron loophole though congress. He is a big reason why you are paying over $4 a gallon. What a jerk……..

Obama-Junkie, IL   July 10th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

What a pomptous dumbA$$!

So the lady at the gasoline pump who complains about gas and groceries being so much more expensive is not "whining", but the political leader of that community or state in which she lives is "whining" about the economy?!?!

This latest economic statement blunder by McCain's top economic adv