July 17, 2008
Posted: July 17th, 2008 07:12 AM ET

From
McCain said Hagel has made an 'informed decision' about Iraq.
McCain said Hagel has made an 'informed decision' about Iraq.

OMAHA, Nebraska (CNN) – John McCain said he's pleased Chuck Hagel is accompanying Barack Obama to the Middle East because the Nebraska senator - although "wrong" on Iraq - has military experience and has made "an informed decision" about the war.

McCain was peppered with questions about Hagel while campaigning in Nebraska Wednesday evening.

Speaking to reporters after meeting workers a trucking company, McCain again called it "remarkable" that Obama would give a major policy speech on Iraq and Afghanistan without first traveling to those countries or consulting with Gen. David Petraeus.

The presumptive nominee said he is "pleased" that Obama will be accompanied by Hagel, "who has military experience, who has knowledge of these issues."

"Senator Hagel is wrong," McCain said. But, he added: "Senator Hagel has visited Iraq. Senator Hagel has made an informed decision. Senator Hagel, although I disagree with some of his conclusions, the fact is that Senator Obama has never examined the issue carefully, at least from the standpoint of sitting down and discussing the situation with the commanding officer on the ground."

McCain also responded to speculation that Hagel could be tapped as Obama's running mate.

"Look," he said, "I don't know anything about that, except to say Chuck Hagel is a distinguished veteran and a very dear and close friend of mine, who I cherish his friendship for many, many years."

Filed under: Barack Obama • Chuck Hagel • John McCain


Connie   July 17th, 2008 11:20 am ET

I find John McBush funny and that is no joke. Senator Obama is not qualified to judge the war because he has not cost the tax payers thousands of dollars by traveling to the Middle East and is not a veteran. Now Chuck Hagel has the same qualification as John McBush, but he is not right about the war either. Sounds just like the Bush administration no one is qualified or right unless McBush says they are. I do not know where Hagel is going to be in an Obama administration but I am sure he will play an important part along with Senator Clinton. You go Obama !

Connie from Indiana

Chuck   July 17th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Everyone has a different perspective on what winning in Iraq involves. Leaving Iraq at the request of the Iraqi government is not a loss, but a win. They have developed the leadership and strength to self govern which is a win. They have the ability to rebuild with out our help using their own money and resources, that is a win. They have the ability to police their own country with a growing military and national police force that is becoming more and more effective in combating terrorism within their own borders, that is also a win. If we are looking for the Al Queida and the insurgents in Iraq to raise a white flag and surrender that will never happen. The whole middle east region is plagued with radical terrorists, and insurgents they are in Egypt, Syria, Isreal, Saudi Arabia,...ect. That is not a win you will get.
It is time to get back to the original war which can be won and that is to reduce the Taliban to a fragment and insignificant force thus giving the people of Afiganistan a chance to develope a structured government that can self rule with out the radical aspects of the Taliban.

Bob Stephens   July 17th, 2008 11:17 am ET

Hey Weather Vane McCain, at least Obama doesn't have to have Joe Leiberman standing next to him, and tapping him on the shoulder trying to explain who is fighting who in Iraq ....

Perezl   July 17th, 2008 11:17 am ET

No MCcain ever he is just too old!

G   July 17th, 2008 11:15 am ET

It seems to me that the only topic McCain is comfortable talking about is Iraq which shouldn't be the sole thread of conversation. The country is going through hard economic times, globally America is not respected, and we have one of the worst primary education system. McCain needs to stop fearmongering and condescending. Iraq is important because we need to figure out a way to make it a sustainable country SOON not in the next 100 years. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE stop using political tactics. think of the people you serve in THIS country and then move on to the rest of the world.

Serge Lutz, FL   July 17th, 2008 11:15 am ET

McCain on TV, "I know how to win wars!" What he really meant was he knows how to start wars. Tell us senator McCain, which wars have you won? Last I checked, I knew how to win wars to. Last night during family night I won my battleship game. hooray for me. I believe this makes me qualified to run for President of the United States too don't you think? There's a reason why you wasn't your parties nominee for President in 2000/2004, you sir are a moron.

Oh yeah last war you were in as a navy pilot, you got shot down and captured. Not a very good pilot we're you buddy. I won't be surprised if you leaked all our secrets to "Charlie" during your captivity and that's why they let you go. As far as I am concerned, your experience or lack thereof means nothing because neither you or senator Obama have ever been the Commander in Chief of this great nation, and for our sakes I hope you never will.

Natasha   July 17th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Let me tell you something McCain.

I have watched your every move. Even other country feel that Obama will make a better President than you. You have been blasting him on the foreign policy and using his ideas at the same time. Now you want to talk with Iran.......Please, truth be told they don't like you.

Iran and other country are setting up for the President of 2009. They feel he will win. SO, IT'S THE ECONOMY STUPID!!!!

LT in Cali   July 17th, 2008 11:14 am ET

I watched McCain in a post interview last night on his bus. What I noticed about him outside of changing what he said earlier in the day is that when he is caught in one of his "misspeaks" is that he cannot look his interviewer in the eye. He was looking all over the place except in the face of the interviewer and seemed to be annoyed with the person.

This man either blatantly lies daily or his memory really is fading. Either way, he is not the candidate we can believe in.

Tim   July 17th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Actually, McCain is factually incorrect regarding Obama.

Obama's position regarding a strategy in Iraq AND Afghanistan hasn't changed since he started running for President. He's spoken with General Petraeus frequently and recently regarding the situation in Iraq.

What's missing here is that Obama's strategy of engagement with Iran is quietly being adopted by the Bush administration. Obama's strategy dealing with Afghanistan has been adopted by McCain, a total reversal of position. Where's the MSM coverage of THAT?!

Theresa - Minneapolis   July 17th, 2008 11:13 am ET

Does John McCain believe that no one is able to make an informed decision without actually GOING TO Iraq? Is he saying that the American people are unable to have an informed opinion unless we go over there and see for ourselves, or just Senator Obama?

Michelle   July 17th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Why is Obama scrubbing his Web site regarding his comments about the surge?

Why can't Obama just be truthful?

Michelle   July 17th, 2008 11:10 am ET

Obama did NOT vote against the war in Iraq.

Obama was not a US Senator at the time and was not part of the vote.

When asked how he WOULD have voted, Obama responded that he
"DID NOT KNOW."

This info is all backed up with newsclips and Obama's own words.

BruthaMANMD   July 17th, 2008 11:09 am ET

With all of McCain's "knowledge of these things" he fails to state that it does him no good. Iraq was a big mess before Bush invaded it remains a BIGGER mess today and Obama is correct, it has totally destracted America from the real "terrorist" threat.

Barb   July 17th, 2008 11:09 am ET

I have never traveled to Iraq or talked to any Generals – I guess that means that my position on the Iraq war is uninformed as well...

SIMP   July 17th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Who in the world cares what this old bag of bones thinks. We already know he an extension of bush, and we have had enough. He has his nerve to say he's glad Hagal is going with Barack because he knows more about the war than Obama. Well old geeser, just because you keep reminding us of you POW experience, that does not make you an expert either.

I can't wait until Nov so we can shut this old dinosaur up.

Obama all the way

Neil   July 17th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Oh boo hoo, McCain, stop whining.

Obama 08

Phil Newton, Murphy, OREGON   July 17th, 2008 11:07 am ET

Hagel, a Viet Nam vet, was RIGHT on Iraq and he still is.

Hagel, unlike McCain, was a ground-pounder. He knows a quagmire when he sees one.

OBAMA 08

Mike from Westchester   July 17th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Can we consider the Bush Administrations recent shifts moving troops out of Iraq to increase presence in Afghanistan, negotiating with North Korea, and beginning negotiations with Iran an endorsement of Obama's foreign policy positions?

If Obama is way better on energy, environmental, and economic policy and now is being proven to have been ahead of the curve on foreign policy all along, is there any argument left for picking McCain over Obama?

Yes we can! Obama '08

Foreign observer   July 17th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Hagel strongly disagrees with McCain when it is on Irak !!! Since recently McCain praises all people who disagree with him. So do we !

Texas Democrat for Life   July 17th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Vig,
He doesn't have to. We all know that he was right on the war... Its ok to say it: Obama was right...

Obama '08

Terry, Lakeland Florida   July 17th, 2008 11:05 am ET

-Secondly today the US formally announce plans for direct talks with Iran-

Wrong. These are not direct talks. This will be a listen to what they have to say and leave event. No decisions will be made, we don't ahve anything to say to them but we decided to be nice and let them open their mouth and insert their foot.

How about you Dems tell the truth for once...please I know it's asking a lot but just try it once.

NCLaw441   July 17th, 2008 10:59 am ET

Doris– IF Obama were to win, he wouldn't be in DC until January 20, 2009, not January 1. Funny how when we nit pick we often mess up ourselves...

Neil K, Lake Forest CA   July 17th, 2008 10:56 am ET

So, let's see if we have this straight: Sen. Obama says the war was a mistake, and Sen. McCain says he can't say that because he hasn't been there. Yet, Sen. Hagel has been there, and says the war was a mistake, and McCain calls that an informed decision.

If Obama can reach the same conclusion as Hagel, how is his decision not informed? Also, since neither Bush nor McCain traveled to Iraq prior to the war resolution in 2002, doesn't that mean their decision was also uninformed?

Loretta from California   July 17th, 2008 10:53 am ET

Yes, Senator Hagel has done all of the above........and he still does not agree with you.

DEMOCRATS UNITE!!!!

Sylvia   July 17th, 2008 10:51 am ET

If Obama becomes president, he will win again in 2012. By then HRC will be too old like McCain.

Jonze   July 17th, 2008 10:50 am ET

McCain panders to whatever audience he is in front of. Obama's biggest mistake was not agreeing to more debates where the national coverage would expose McCain to the pandering liar he is when he isn't catering to the target audience in the room, but the millions of diverse Americans watching across the country.

Cyk   July 17th, 2008 10:50 am ET

I think Senator McCain and his cohorts have forgotten that the surge is not what is the issue . The iSsue here is what the war id doing. The so called surge was to fix a broken war. McCain and Bush want us to forget the war. If there was no war in the first place, there would be no surge

Frank from Peterborough   July 17th, 2008 10:48 am ET

McCain voted to invade Iraq with full knowledge it was wrong and nothing could be gained. What is a victory in Iraq McCain?

Why would anyone have to go to Iraq to know the war is wrong and just a big hole for tax payer dollars to be consumed?

Are Americans smart enough to figure out the lies used by the McCain campaign?

Willow, from Iowa   July 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

McCain would admonish Obama for anything he could. He's grasping at straws, determined to make Obama look bad. Really, all he's doing is looking desperate.

Why is it that all the things Obama said he would do, Bush and his cronies are now doing? McCain said Obama was naive because he was willing to talk to Iran. Bush just sent a diplomat to talk to Iran. Obama said we need to get out of Iraq and finish up the business in Afghanistan. Hm. Bush AND McCAin are now saying we need to take troops out of Iraq and send them to Afghanistan. It seems to me that Bush and McCAin are just a little bit behind the times.

Sylvia   July 17th, 2008 10:47 am ET

Mr. McWar is full of it. Instead of laying out his policy plans, he spends his time criticizing Obama's plans and then when he is asked, he agrees with Obama at the end. Do you call consistent and unwavering, i don't think so, anna.

Doug, New Jersey   July 17th, 2008 10:46 am ET

It is sad that my fellow Americans want us to fail in Iraq and Afganistan. Their loyalty is liberalism over their country. All Americans need to see the hate and lies being spewed by liberal Democrats all over the net. I have to believe that most Americans have a shread of decency and integrity in their bodies so voting Democrat goes against who they are and what they believe in.

Democrats Choose One Voice   July 17th, 2008 10:45 am ET

How can we be sure that McCain is really talking about Iraq here? His average for getting his foreign relation's facts straight have been reeeaaaalllllly bad lately.

Maggie Muggins From Selwyn   July 17th, 2008 10:44 am ET

America is light years behind all of today's modern societies. Imagine the wealth of the U.S. but all spent on either killing or ways to kill. Why is it no one seems to care about the millions who suffer and die because of a lack of health care insurance yet they get so charged up when a lot fewer people are die as a result of an attack?

This won't get printed because the media is controlled by the corporate elite but the fact still remains all the leading nations in the world today look after their citizens with universal health care programs although they only have a small percentage of the wealth of the U.S.

AMIGO   July 17th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Hey Lisa,
McCain / Cindy – wanted back in the NURSING HOME !

AMGC   July 17th, 2008 10:41 am ET

I like an Obama/Hagel ticket.

DEBBY, NJ   July 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

McShame:
We need a real change that we can believe in,Obama !!!
BARACK THE VOTE !!

Steve   July 17th, 2008 10:40 am ET

As a person know for being Bi-partisan I have no McCain himself would vote for Obama in the general election if he could, cause he recognize Obama talent, skills and abilities no matter how hard he tries to blunt them all on the campaign trail daily.

David   July 17th, 2008 10:39 am ET

McCliar you did not go to Iraq before you decided to attack so you have no solid ground to stand on. You did have all ot the itelligence that was needed to make a good decision and you still got it wrong. You lied. Your idea that you fought in a war 40 years ago while that is good it does not qualify you to be President. You not are trustworthy you ignore the facts and you think that you know how to win a war ,when in fact the war you fought in you lost. You are a liar and a warmonger. Just what the Rebublicans ordered.

Fakers   July 17th, 2008 10:38 am ET

how many of these comments are left by real people and not by some 3rd party of obama or mccain?

RJ, CA   July 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Tell the truth July 17th, 2008 12:25 am ET

Lisa July 16th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!

. . . What has Obama did to you and your other hateful friends? . . .
----------
LOL - the Obama nitwits: "What has Obama "DID" to you . . . Take a course in English 101!

Bill, Streamwood, IL   July 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Chuck Hagel would be a great VP candidate for Obama.

katiec   July 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

McCain has the audacity to state Hagel has come to wrong
conclusions? He and Bush have been wrong with every
step they have made. First one was going to war with
Iraq Oh, prior to that lying to the American people.
Innocent Iraqis are dying daily. And now fighting in
Afghanistan has escalated. Hmm. Thought McCain
said things are going fine there and we don't need
additional troops in Afghanistan. Also is totally against
sending our abused troops home.
This is a man with impeccable leadership in foreign
policy?
Voters, our country needs a chance to survive.
Barack Obama is our only hope.

Let talk about the truth!!   July 17th, 2008 10:37 am ET

I hope he continue to praise Senator Obama more as Senator Obama praises Senator McCain for his military service.

I truly believe Senator Obama will make agreat President..

OBlahBlahBlahBama   July 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

From "Tell the Truth" to

Lisa July 16th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!

Please states some facts. What has Obama did to you and your other hateful friends? The answer is nothing. Please take time to review facts and have an open mind. Obama review facts and so no to Irag. Do not hate the man for being right.

"Tell the Truth"

Dude....what the heck??? What a feeble attempt at making a point. BTW, had a look at any of the Obama posters on here. Apparently not and I agree.....

Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   July 17th, 2008 10:36 am ET

McCain is talking out of both sides of his mouth again! He praises Hagel on one hand for making informed decisions and knocks down Barack for his decision making. He conveniently leaves out the fact that Hagel and Obama both came to the same conclusion that the war in Iraq should have never been fought. Unlike bush, Obama actually seeks out and listens to informed advisors, on both sides of the decision, and is able to make informed decisions by having all of the facts laid before him! The mark of a great leader!!!

Hispanic For McCain   July 17th, 2008 10:35 am ET

I can't wait util Nov 08 when all of you Morons will see the biggest shock wave that McCain will win!!!. The rumor are starting to go that in the South the GOP have collected 3 million NEW register GOP Votors to counter the AA turnout in the south!!!! again that the rumor 3 million all of the South along. Then the Latinos turnout will be BIG for McCain that means he will win in NV, NM, AZ, then he will win the Big Ten States of PA, MI, WI, OH and he will win in FLA and of the Blues states McCain will win in NJ, NH, and maybe CA. Wow that is a big blowout.

Liberals morons thinks the GOP are that stupid, they are going to have a big turnout for them. Latinos are not stupid they will go to a true patriot in John McCain. What has OBAMA done for the Latinos People guess what NOTHING, NADA, will someone proof me wrong!! Don't think so why because he is a Junior Senator with 143 days!!! NO EXPERIENCE what so ever!! And Yes remember 3.00AM in the Morning!!!! That ring a bell!!! Hillary Clinto said that McCain will bring in Experience to the White House Hillary will bring experience to the white House and OBAMA will only bring a SPEECH!!!

Hispanic for McCain

Saad from NJ   July 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

I respect Senator McCain but it is disgusting when he talks about "Informed Decision". If one is informed and then makes a wrong decision, isn't it worse than one not being informed and making the right decision?

Dee1   July 17th, 2008 10:34 am ET

QUESTION:

Did Bush & McCain visit Iraq before starting the war they cannot finish? Did they visit to verify the WMDs? What experience are they talking about if McCain cannot distinguish between Shiites and Sunni ?

Somebody please answer !

MLH   July 17th, 2008 10:32 am ET

Does this mean you can't give a major policy speech on space without going to the moon first? Maybe before Senator McCain discusses Czechoslovakia again he should visit it – oh, right, it doesn't exist anymore. And maybe, just maybe, visiting a place doesn't make one an expert on that place. And its people. And different religious factions. Like Sunnis and Shia.

Dave, Illinois   July 17th, 2008 10:32 am ET

Obama announces his plan before having all the facts. I guess all the facts he needs comes from daily polling. How pathetic! Whats even more pathetic are the sheep that follow this bozo.

tina   July 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

You know the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan changes daily. So there is bound to be some rethinking on issues. Barack has not changed his stance on Iraq. He consistently states "We will pull out Iraq cautiously. That has NEVER changed! Whereas McShame wants us there for another 100 years...or so. Is that so his rich buddies can keep going? Who cares what McSame says anyway?

al   July 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

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

ALL MCCAIN IS GOOD AT ARE PREPARED ATTACKS, STATEMENTS.

BUT A PRESIDENT SHOULD BE ABLE TO HANDLE IMPROMPTU MOMENTS, ABLE TO MAKE SOUND JUGDEMENT WHEN NEEDED.

I DON'T THINK HIS MAVERICK, HOT TEMPERED DEMEANOR IS WELL SUITED FOR THE PRESIDENCY.

STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   July 17th, 2008 10:31 am ET

YEAH......YEAH..........McCain wants to keep the focus on Iraq AND ON FUTURE WARS, because the NUMBER ONE ISSUE: ECONOMY, is not his strength!

YES, MCCAIN, YOU CAN GO AHEAD AND PUT OBAMA DOWN OVER AND OVER, HOWEVER HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING HOW YOU REPUBLICANS ACRUED A NATIONAL DEBT OF $10 TRILLION?????

HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE WHO ARE LOSING THEIR JOBS AND HOMES, HOW IT IS COSTING US ......$1.38 BILLION A DAY TO HAVE A WAR IN IRAQ??????????????????

HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING TO US, WHY THE WAR IN IRAQ HAS COST OUR HARD WORKING AMERICAN PEOPLE: $650 BILLION A YEAR!????????????????????????????????????????

HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING WHY WE ARE WORSE OFF THAN WE WERE 8 YEARS AGO?????????????????

HOW ABOUT EXPLAINING WHY WE MUST, BOMB.........BOMB....... BOMB IRAN?

WHAT THE...CONFUSED   July 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

Wait a minute if Obama made the same conclusion as Hagel without visiting Iraq, DOESNT THAT MEAN HE IS EITHER REALLY SMART, OR REALLY REALLY SMART. what in the world is Mccains argument. Obama didnt visit Iraq yet he and Hagel came to the same conclusion...if you ask me thats saving gas.

Peter   July 17th, 2008 10:30 am ET

This proves our two party bickering...Hagel and Obama hate the war and yet only Obama gets yelled at...Shame on you McCain

Jo Ann   July 17th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Why does Obama need McCain's endorsement on who he take on this trip? Obama is his own man makes his own decision and don't any any help for Bush or McCain. Any wonder why Bush is doing everything that Obama said the man can't think for himself. Maybe he
thinks this will help McCain.

jp/michigan   July 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

Obama against the surge in Iraq, but for one in Afghanistan. Pull the troops out of Iraq, then sent them to Afghanistan. Chair a committee on NATO in Afghanistan, but never have any meetings. Maybe he should have one finally after going there in a few weeks. Had avovice against the war in Iraq at a anti-war rally, but voted to fund the Iraqi war.

Jim   July 17th, 2008 10:28 am ET

Obama has been talking about focusing on Afgahn way before things got so much worse and only now McCain and Bush are thinking about it, the idiots! America please don't vote another idiot into the white house! Let McCain retire on his wife's 100 million...

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   July 17th, 2008 10:27 am ET

Hmmmm. Wonder if McCain STILL plans on building those permanent military bases in Iraq.

It is a joke when McCain claims that since we have bases in S. Korea, Germany and Japan, that it would be a piece of pie to also have one in the mideast.

Newsflash McCain--Japan, Germany and South Korea aren't full of radical bomb toting terrorists.

Real Change   July 17th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Lisa! You're back!

Where were you yesterday for the viagra vs. birth control blog?

Joe, Chicago   July 17th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Chuck Hagel has not been afraid to blast the Bush Administration for all their crimes and errors in Iraq.

Hagel would be a great running mate to Obama. Bi-partisanship and sound thinking (not influenced by special interests and corporations) on foreign policy will bring us forward.

cedintexas   July 17th, 2008 10:19 am ET

to: terrydo

why do people use the word "THUG" ,now is it to replace other words you want to say ?, be true to yourself call it like it is!

Obama08

James in NYC   July 17th, 2008 10:18 am ET

When is the world going to realize that McCain is a born warmonger who comes from generations of family embedded in the military. I'm tired of hearing that military experience automatically equals a great president. I think that Common Sense and a cool head are more important qualities in a president than someone who will attack anybody anywhere at the drop of dime.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   July 17th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Why is it that McCain thinks he is the only one who can make an "informed" decision about Iraq? Does he really think that Obama has been in an "informational void" for six years?

Even we non-governmental folks can made an informed decision based on all the media coverage.

Specifically, the war in Afgahnistan was a correct decision, while the war in Iraq is/was nothing more than W's revenge for his father's failure to depose Saddam back in the 1990's. Not to mention the oil thingee.

rumpusgoopus   July 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

If all McCain has is that Obama hasn't been to Iraq yet, he's in even more trouble than I expected.

Scott Austin, TX   July 17th, 2008 10:12 am ET

Does McCain really believe anyone is listens to him? I wouldn't believe anything McCain said, even if he told me that day is light and night is dark.

Cyrus - NY   July 17th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Yes Sen. McCain...we, the public, have reviewed the facts and figures and turns out that:

- The war-budget that you voted for was wrong
- The war that you supported was wrong and genocidal
- The surge that you supported only reduced violence in the occupied cities while Najaf and Sadr city are still under militia control
- Al Qaeda and other fringe militias still have a stronghold in small towns and cities in Iraq (See BBC and AP reports)
- The only way we can "win" this war is if we "out live" insurgents in Iraq and stay there for as long as we want to
- The war that you proudly support also incited hostile relationship with countries like Iran
- Your support for the dictatorial regime of Parvez Musharaf was wrong

So, yes...we do like the judgment of Hagel and Obama because war-mongering idiots like yourselves have achieved nothing.

How can you go on record and say that you know how to "win a war"? Which war have you won? Need I remind you that you were a POW and did not "win" a war and U.S. bailed out of Vietnam? Need I remind you that it was Clinton who pacified the Balkan conflict with sheer military force and intense diplomacy?

Which one of these wars did you win?! Instead, until recently, you supported working with czar Putin when he was still killing people in Chechnya and establishing his autocratic power across the region.

Sen. McCain, we the public do respect you for your long service to our country and as a public official, but your record of supporting dictators and global war machines makes us wonder about your judgment and intentions.

Sen. Obama may not be a veteran like yourself, but he is smart enough and conscientous enough not to tout his "patriotism" and support a war that is deceitful, unnecessary, hegemonious, murderous, and a total waste.

not important   July 17th, 2008 10:10 am ET

And what does Bush yes man say about the war in Iraq? First of all who is the enemy in Iraq McCain? Bush said enemy was Saddam Hussein and what is the definition of victory in Iraq? And why does McCain think that military victory in Iraq is even possible?

Sam   July 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

McCain hasnt visited Iran but he expresses his opinion about Iran, doesnt he? He's full of opinions about North korea without having visited the place, right?

The nonsense of this man know no end. Though Hagel appears to have met the McSame standard of visiting Iraq, McSame still disagrees with him.

Look, McCain had access to some of the highest levels of intelligence reports before the Iraqi war and he enthusistically voted for the war. Turns out he was wrong on all counts! Hagel had access to the same reports and enthusistically railed against the war. Turns out he was right.

McCain should just acknowledge his bad judgment and stop with these cosmetic criteria for judgment ability!

Obama 08: 60 year old white female   July 17th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Anna:Since when does sticking to a position make it right?? Now McCain is stating that the "surge" in Iraq has been a good training ground for what needs to be done in Afghanistan. Tell that to the Afghanis and Nato and American soldiers who have died and sacrificed there. This man is a warmonger with absolutely NO empathy or ynderstanding of the world we are living in NOW.

Mike   July 17th, 2008 10:08 am ET

McCain has clearly been more inconsistant on more issues than Obama has been. Obama doesn't know much about war, which I personally think is lucky. Why does everybody think that the president will be making all of his decisions by himself. Do you think he sits in a room by himself and makes every decision. Obama will have a military adviser, just like we hope McCain will have an economic adviser. These arguments about who is right and who is wrong are stupid. Think about it...

William J.   July 17th, 2008 10:07 am ET

So now we need military experience to make an "informed" judgment on Iraq? Everyone who has an opinion on the war but who hasn't served in the military is just plain wrong? Take a hike, my friend. We don't need your condescending, talk-down attitude.

Talk about elitist. John McCain is the most arrogant, self-centered, ill-informed man to run for national office in decades. The comparisons to George W. Bush are more than justified.

doc stone   July 17th, 2008 10:05 am ET

the mainstream voter wants middle of the road leadership short of that i am going to vote a Demo congress and a repub pres. that is if mc cain picks a moderate repub. not romney he's a corp raider had enough of that type how about colin powell ;-)

RJ, CA   July 17th, 2008 10:03 am ET

Good job, President Bush! We know the upcoming Iran "negotiations" have been in the works way before Obama started babbling about it. We know these things don't happen "overnight" - except for Obama's babbling, of course - there's a new set of that every day.

IQ   July 17th, 2008 9:59 am ET

THE AMERICAN PUBLIC IS FOOLED TO THINK MCCAIN HAS ALL THE IDEAS ABOUT TACTICS AND STRATAGY FOR ANY WAR. LIKE THE SURGE THIS ISNT A NOVEL IDEA BY MCCAIN. THE FIRST GENERAL ASKED BEFORE THE WAR STARTED SAID IT WOULD TAKE 400,000 TROOPS BUT RUMSFELD SHOT IT DOWN......

Trill   July 17th, 2008 9:56 am ET

McShame is going to look like a fool once Obama picks Hagel as his VP (which I have been predicting all along). McLame just gave praise to the next VP of the US, the same one he's running against. How lame is McShame?

Reality Check Richmond Virginia   July 17th, 2008 9:53 am ET

so.......Hagel has visited Iraq, Hagel has military experiance, and Hagel is "wrong". so I guess none of these qualifications help? Everytime McCain speaks he makes himself look like the inexperianced one.

Leroy   July 17th, 2008 9:52 am ET

Barack Hussein Obama is a terroist sympathizer...meeting with Palestine...and a coward for talking big on Iraq but being to scurd to go in the last 3 years, although The Surge has made it safer.

McCain 2008 and 2012

Von Bismark Vienna   July 17th, 2008 9:51 am ET

This guy is becoming a blood thirsty monster.Vote him into the WH and the next war(s) will follow.This is certain!

Filipina   July 17th, 2008 9:49 am ET

McWar don't know what he is talking about...He said he know how to win war, Vietnam was a lose, just retire old man and let the young Obama heal the country and get some respect around the world. Wake up America is been hated around the world because of GWB

whiner   July 17th, 2008 9:49 am ET

now,if mccain would make an informed position on iraq,or anything for that matter.apparently,his war experience hasn't taught him anything about birth control and health care needs for women as well as children.

PG   July 17th, 2008 9:46 am ET

McSame you were WRONG from the beginning!

BarryO   July 17th, 2008 3:28 am ET

The people working for CNN are getting annoying they need to stop removing inoffensive posts that do not suit their tastes. I wrote two legitimate posts with no offensive remarks but critical of Obama and in a heartbeat they were gone. How is this supposed to make CNN a worthy place to debate thoughts when they only accept posts that do not remotely offend anyone who is black in any way? Even if the information posted is factual or contains a link to other commentaries. Is this post offensive? CNN moderator please explain why you removed my posts about Bernie Mac referring to MichelleO as "a hoe" (his words not mine) and a link to racist statements by Obama. So CNN do you only keep pro Obama posts and maybe one or two truthful ones and only when people complain?

Jimmy   July 17th, 2008 3:17 am ET

Obama opposed the war. Rather easy to oppose it when he didn't have a vote to begin with or access to intel. Yeah, in hindsight the intel was bad but people had to make a decision based on what they knew at the time. Don't forget that he wasn't a U.S. senator at the time.

Obama is being pig headed like Bush with his stance and some of his comments are stupid. "Order the generals is to end the war." What the hell do you think they've been trying to do without creating a bigger mess. They may be military men but they're not war mongers and want to see more young soldiers die. Forget about the bad decision to go to war and live with the present circumstances to make things better. It's ironic about his comments about fighting yesterday's war. The decision to go war was yesterday.

John Ret. Air Force   July 17th, 2008 3:11 am ET

Hillary supporters – put ypur money where your mouth is and pay of her debt. If 18million of you gave her a buck she'd be almost even. Guess you all don't really support her , after all.

Elin   July 17th, 2008 3:08 am ET

America now has it's first 3 dollar bill, John McCain.

jroy   July 17th, 2008 3:01 am ET

McCain's foreign policy credential is a BIG ZERO.

IRAQ POLICY:
* OCCUPY 100 MORE YEARS
> 4000 AMERICAN DEAD
> 50,000 AMERICAN INJURED & DISABLED
> 1 TRILLION DOLLAR WASTED
> 100,000 AMERICAN SUFFERING FROM POST TRAUMATIC DISORDER
> 600,000 IRAQIS DEAD (MOSTLY CIVILIANS, WOMEN & CHILDRENS)
> 2 MILLION IRAQIS UPROOTED FROM THEIR HOME & REFUGEE IN OTHER COUNTRIES.
> 1 MILLION IRAQIS DISPLACED IN THEIR OWN COUNTRY
* NOW IRAQ IS DIVIDED IN TO 3 REGION, SHIA, SUNNI & KURD
* NO WMD
* IRAQ IS HANDED OVER TO SHIAS CLOSE TO IRAN

IRAN POLICY: BOMB, BOMB & BOMB

G8 POLICY: McCain will drive russia out & will not include China in G8 (two nuclear power)
BY THE WAY Price of Gas: >$5 Gallon

Can you imagine if McCain get the presidency?

R.I.F.   July 17th, 2008 2:58 am ET

Let's see:

1. Obama – "We need to engage our enemies and not just our friends." – Worked for North Korea. Now the US is beginning to uderstand that it may work for Iran.

2. Obama – "We need a timetable in Iraq" – Iraq has said that it will not sign a security agreement that doesn't include a timetable for troop withdrawal.

3. Obama – "We need more troops in Afghanastan and they can only be acheived by getting some of the tropps out of Iraq quicker". Obama's been saying that Iraq has distracted us from Afganastan for the past two years.

SOUNDS TO ME LIKE OBAMA IS MAKING THE RIGHT DECISIONS. YOU DON'T HAVE TO GO WALK AROUND THE "MARKET" IN bAGHDAD WITH 100 TROOPS PROTECTING YOU IN AN ALREADY "SAFE" ZONE TO KNOW THAT ITS TIME TO LEAVE IRAQ CAREFULLY AND START FOCUSING ON AFGHANASTAN. THE REPUBLICANS ARE BASHING OBAMA FOR POLICIES THAT BEHIND THE SCENES THEY ARE STATRING TO EMPLOY.

Simpson   July 17th, 2008 2:57 am ET

McCain was in Albuquerque this week. The word Albuquerque is from the Arabic (Moorish) "Abu al-Qurq". It is the only state capital with an Arabic name. Do you wonder why McCain's picks this city? If you look deeper you find out McCain has spent a lot of time in Albuquerque. In case you miss the signficance, he was there on Memorial Day! He has also spent a lot of time in the Middle East.

Do you think he spent so much time in a town with an Arabic name and in the Middle East without aborbing part of the culture? Why is McCain denying his Muslim background? What does he have against Muslims?

Go Barak and Michelle Obama!   July 17th, 2008 2:57 am ET

Bush has got us all thinking that it is the COMMANDERS on the ground that lead the missions in Iraq..but in reality, (as Obama has stated,) it is the COMMANDER IN CHIEF that is in charge! HE sets the missions(like Obama has said)..and the General is now Bush's pasty/scapegoat..Obama has stated ALLLLLLLLL along that he would listen to ground command in considering the BEST method of getting out...but that his mission is STILL getting out!! where have all these people been that believe he has changed positions? or is that just easier for you to believe to appease your consciences?

mike in fla.   July 17th, 2008 2:49 am ET

For the second time in two days, John McCain has referred to current events in “Czechoslovakia” – a country that officially ceased to exist in January of 1993.
OMG. how can anybody want to vote for this guy we are already in trouble CNN please post this how can he talk about SEN.Obama and he don't even know that Czechoslovakia does not exist anymore. This is scary people.

Kyle   July 17th, 2008 2:40 am ET

I would love Hagel as VP for Obama. He is one of the last true Republicans before they betrayed their own ideals. Republicans don't tax and spend, they just spend and destroy our economy in the process by selling our economic security to China.
Oh, and having served in Iraq. Neither McCain, when he was in Iraq, or Obama when he visits, will see anything of use to them. VIPs like Senators are guarded by whole Battalions who lock down the sectors to make sure nothing happens to them. I know because I've been on those missions. They get presented the Disneyland version of Iraq where all Iraqis are happy that America is there.

Tim, Seattle   July 17th, 2008 2:27 am ET

Correction..Korea, not Iran....sorry..my bad.
Although.... give it time, I hear Bush wants to talk to Iran now that Obama made it clear he was willing to do so....(before he was even in the senate, incidentally)

Tim, Seattle   July 17th, 2008 2:19 am ET

@ Mike in NY "Talks with Korea were happening long before Obama opened his mouth about it; in fact starting before he entered the Senate."
---
So 3 years of 'talks' ,no results, and Iran has a stronger hand? Wow, then they are really inept as diplomats. Thats messed up.
And thats your argument?

Thomas, Illinois   July 17th, 2008 2:15 am ET

Oh, I forgot to add..Factcheck.org will back that up..

Max   July 17th, 2008 2:15 am ET

McCain hasn't a clue about Iraq. He has some nerve trying to suggest anyone who disagrees with him is wrong.

Thomas, Illinois   July 17th, 2008 2:13 am ET

Your right (Anna) McCain HAS been consistent...Consistently WRONG...

Jeanette   July 17th, 2008 2:10 am ET

Just curious–Did McBombs-a-Lot visit Iraq during any relevant time frame before he shat out a judgment-based opinion and subsequent senate vote resulting in a "two thumbs up" approval of the invasion of a sovereign country that posed no CLEAR and PRESENT danger to the United States and it's allies?

I know, facts are inconvenient.......especially when McBombs-a-Lot doesn't make a habit of dealing in them and the media is agressively adverse to calling for them.

Dejavu Bush 2000-2008? McSame as it ever was and the days keep on rolling by........

Tara   July 17th, 2008 2:08 am ET

Does anybody really believe that Obama would have voted against the war .??
The more he gets exposed as a " finger in the wind guy " , one can conclude that he might have opted for a " PRESENT " vote .
His voting record ( voted 133 times present ) shows you that he has no core values and does anything for political expedience..,

Mtui   July 17th, 2008 2:01 am ET

I could wonder if Bush went to Iraq before declaring war! I am also surprised as Bush and McCain have visited Iraq several times but are not ready to leave Iraq even when Iraq leaders("allies") say it is high time for american troops to start withdrawing! I can imagine how Obama will change his mind if commanders on the ground change their possition from the one shown in the reports! Obama decision is very well informed unless McCain tells us that all sources of information including the Generals' reports are wrong! Dont tell us, McCain that when you go to Iraq the Generals tell you something different from their reports!

Deanna   July 17th, 2008 1:54 am ET

Daniel ,
You are ill informed .
It is actually the EU who had plans to meet with Iran to talk about nuclear weapons , and they have invited an american representative to sit in on the discussion.
I might also add that European leaders are united and are pushing for more sanctions against Iran.
Therefore don't give Obama any credit where it's not due.
His ego is so over inflated as is.!!

BarryO   July 17th, 2008 1:49 am ET

Did CNN report on Bernie Mac referring to Michelle Obama and his sister/sister in law as 'Hoes'? You seem hellbent on reporting this useless Czech stuff but not something more significant. Obama response was I am just messing with you?! Somebody show where CNN reported on that story. What do Hillary's gals have to say about that? This goes right on par with iron my shirt-gate and other insults.

Robert   July 17th, 2008 1:44 am ET

We remember McClown in Baghdad, telling everyone how safe it was while he was protected by numerous foot soldiers, three Blackhawk helicopters, two Apache gunships and a bulletproof vest.

jeff   July 17th, 2008 1:36 am ET

McCain is the one who supported the war, what kind of judgement is he talking about. is he going to bomb Iran?

Daniel   July 17th, 2008 1:34 am ET

Obama doesn't need an armed escort of a market place to know what is happening in Iraq. And he doesnt need to look at an atlas to know what countries exist and don't exist.

McWar!!!!   July 17th, 2008 1:33 am ET

McWar!!!! July 17th, 2008 1:11 am ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.
CNN) – John McCain said he's pleased Chuck Hagel is accompanying Barack Obama to the Middle East because the Nebraska senator — although "wrong" on Iraq — has military experience and has made "an informed decision" about the war.
MCWAR It does not matter how you try to sugar coat the unjust war ……. experience can not replace the lost ……I'm sure you were pleased Mr lieberman was there with you to help you out with your memory
Have you forgotten about Afghanistan….the best way to respond to wrong is to do what is right…..Mr Obama opposed the WAR and you were one of the biggest SUPPORTERS….EXPERIENCE has cost .us dearly .Economy, Two wars, US Dollar is down world wide and because of the Republican's corruption. We need a change real change that we can believe in, which is the Obama Ticket.

Norma   July 17th, 2008 1:31 am ET

Why is McSame always so concern about what Obama is saying. He pays more attention to Obamas compaign then hes own.

Whenever Obama has a speech on an issue McSame has to change hes speech and follows suit.

Fay Tx   July 17th, 2008 1:31 am ET

Lisa..........Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!,----You should spend more time thinking positive .......listening may be the most enjoyable thing you do today!!!

President OBAMA 08/2012

Deanna   July 17th, 2008 1:31 am ET

As for Obama planning his trip to Europe and the war zones , he sees it as an opportunity to create another media circus to feed his already over inflated ego.
Obama is an arrogant shyster and has fooled a lot of people , lets hope he wil be exposed as the fake and empty suit he is , before it is too late.

Vig   July 17th, 2008 1:25 am ET

Gee, we haven't heard Obama repeat a million times that he voted against the war since he supposedly came out ahead of Hillary. How come?

Anna   July 17th, 2008 1:19 am ET

Trollmaster, if Obama is so confident about his original position on Iraq, he should change his Website back the way it wuz...

And although I disagree with McCain, he has been consistent about his position on Iraq, and unwavering.
MoveOn.org will back that up.

Tired   July 17th, 2008 1:18 am ET

If Clinton supporters sabotage Obama at the DNC and/or on NOV. 4th, I am not voting for Hillary in 2012 and that's a fact.

fojohnson   July 17th, 2008 1:17 am ET

I cannot understand why MCcain like to degrade Obama he talks about him like a child. Obama is a family man. If Mccain is taking advantage of Obama because he thinks he is being in senate longer or in the army I think that does not qualify him to look down on Obama. He behaves has if Obama is child. I'm sure he cannot speak to his children like that. Does he think that as bad as the economy is his experience will put him in the white house? Let him think to Hillary.

Allan   July 17th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Hagel is one of the very few Republicans – only Republican? – I would remotely consider voting for. If that turns out to be Sen. Obama's choice for VP, I think it would be absolutely terrific, for him and for the country.

Tired   July 17th, 2008 1:16 am ET

Hey Obama Supporters.

This does not relate to the article but all the appropriate blogs are closed.

I am so tired of the blackmail tactics from the Clinton Supporters saying, "if Obama does not pick Clinton as VP we are voting for McCain". Why don't the Obama Supporters let them know that if they try to sabotage Obama at the DNC and /or on Nov. 4 that we will come in droves to not vote for her in 2012. We need to let them know loud in clear that these 18 millions voters for Obama can play the same game. So lets post our messages all throughout the blogs so maybe they will stop saying it. It may not stop them from doing what they are going to do but maybe we can silence them. I am so tired of reading the same things everyday single day.

McWar!!!!   July 17th, 2008 1:11 am ET

CNN) – John McCain said he's pleased Chuck Hagel is accompanying Barack Obama to the Middle East because the Nebraska senator — although "wrong" on Iraq — has military experience and has made "an informed decision" about the war.
MCWAR It does not matter how you try to sugar coat the unjust war ....... experience can not replace the lost ......I'm sure you were pleased Mr lieberman was there with you to help you out with your memory
Have you forgotten about Afghanistan....the best way to respond to wrong is to do what is right.....Mr Obama opposed the WAR and you were one of the biggest SUPPORTERS....EXPERIENCE has cost .us dearly .Economy, Two wars, US Dollar is down world wide and because of the Republican's corruption. We need a change real change that we can believe in, which is the Obama Ticket.

Steve   July 17th, 2008 1:10 am ET

If Sen. McCain can't get the Sunnis and Shiites straight, what part of his decision was informed? Like so many he based his rationale on lies his president told him. How was that informed. Sen. Obama maintained we should not have been hasty to rush into a trillion dollar war that would take the lives of over 4,000 soldiers, and Sen. McCain wants to call that an uninformed decision. Please tell me America will be smarter than that kind of b.s. this time around.

John   July 17th, 2008 1:04 am ET

OBama would start more wars then End!! Obama a fake!!

AQ   July 17th, 2008 12:55 am ET

We're supposed to really care about McCain's opinion about this when he has no opinion about the fact that Viagra is covered but some birth control isn't and hasn't figured out yet that there is no more Czechoslovakia? This from a man who agrees that we are only imagining the economy is so bad? Right. I'm selling a bridge in Brooklyn too.

And is anyone else sick and tired of him using his time in Vietnam years as a reason why he knows it all? I imagine that quite a few vets who actually made it home would have a bit to say about the fact he has had all the money in the world to cover any medical conditions he had while they have had to fight every step of the way to get coverage.

No, McCain has made it quite clear – he is just as out of touch as Bush has alwasy been.

Wisconsin   July 17th, 2008 12:49 am ET

....

Didn't McWar love Obama when he was speaking to the NAACP earlier in the same day?

I thought McWar would give it 24 hours before bashing Obama after sucking up to the NAACP about Obama.

So since Obama was right about Iraq and about talks with Iran, what could McWar have to say?

Timothy   July 17th, 2008 12:48 am ET

Mccain Military Experience is out dated Obama is future and moving forward with new and fresh ideas and this is what the country need a new and current policy to bring the troops home.

TerryDo   July 17th, 2008 12:44 am ET

Obama is wrong on Iraq? What a surprise, has Obama been right on anything?

Answer: NO....................... Obviously not, he keeps changing his mind, because he know he is wrong on everything he supported.

Another wrongful happening in the Obama (Chicago style) campaign is the Obama thugs who are now sending Death Threats to leaders in the NoObama campaign such as PumaPac.

Could it be the Black Panthers are trying to devour the Pumas.

It will never work, the righteous will always prevail.

And death threats will be followed up and charges made.. There are consequences to these anonymous threats, you can be traced and prosecuted!!!!!!!

Daniel   July 17th, 2008 12:44 am ET

As we have learned that McCain is still in the Czechoslovakia era, he may not have noticed yet that three of the dominant policies in the national security debate have tilted towards Obama. First the Iraq govt would like a timetable or some sort of a timeline for the withdrawal of the US troops from Iraq. Secondly today the US formally announce plans for direct talks with Iran. And thirdly the increase in troops for Afghanstan something which Obama has also been calling for.

Well for someone who claims to be a national security guru how can McCain be on the wrong side of these developments. I think what is becoming clear is that McCain is not a strategic thinker, he may know the obvious that tactical a surge will contain violence sadly it's as far as his thinking goes.

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 17th, 2008 12:42 am ET

Lisa, you are right, Barack and Michelle will be in Chicago in 2008.
However, they will be in Washington D.C. on January 1, 2009.
Hope to see you there!

Timothy   July 17th, 2008 12:41 am ET

Obama is going to show the Amearican people that Mccain is not strong on Irag and Afghanistan or his so call military experience Mccain have with is out dated.

what?   July 17th, 2008 12:38 am ET

we should never have been in Iraq...Bush sat down with the commanding officers and "examined" the situation and Billions of dollars and thousands of lives lost where are we? more vulnerable to a terrorist attack then 9/12 , economically defunkt, our rights have been invaded and gas is $4.77.... Bin Landin could not have done a better job than Bush and Mccain if he tried.

Mark   July 17th, 2008 12:35 am ET

McCain is mad that Obama would give a Major policy speech on Iraq have not been there...

hummm funny, Mccain gives speechs on the economy, and has policy set up for them, yet admits he has no idea regarding anything to do with the economy...

So Pot... Kettle... black?..

Ben   July 17th, 2008 12:31 am ET

I've said it before and I'll say it again – I don't have to go to the North Pole to know that it's cold. I'm waiting for McCain to grab Obama's fist and start hitting him with it saying, ' why are you punching yourself?' His arguments make no sense. Shouldn't McCain stop talking about Iran until he goes there? And maybe Kennedy should have gone to the moon before talking about going to the moon. (read with sarcasm)

Chuck   July 17th, 2008 12:30 am ET

McCain needs to take a look in the mirror. Although it appears it is the sugre that worked (not the increased Iraqi forces after training), I will give McCain that much, but the war was wrong from the first place. The reason for going there, the lies, the deception, half truths, all of it, lead to the death of 4000+ American, countlesss civilians (women, children and non combatant males), colition force deaths. What about the cost for this war, including the cost to treat those injured as well as the long term costs for those that werer maimed during the war. So I will take all that away from McCain. Now lets weigh it all out. Obama said the war was wrong, that the war in Iraq took soldiers away from the real mission and war in Afganistan (BinLaden). So who is higher on the scale... you choose. For me it is Obama he has been more right on this issue and McCain has been more wrong and his misjudgements as well as others in the house and senate cost America too much in $ and lives lost

George from Westerville   July 17th, 2008 12:29 am ET

I'd like to admonish you Senator McCain. You are the guy who dumped your disabled wife and married a rich women 20 years your junior a month after the divorce, called your current wife the "C" word (captured on tape) during a public gathering, want us to be in Iraq for 100 years, sang a "bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran" song, once told a reporter "thanks for that question you jerk!", admitted you know nothing about the economy, don't know a Sunni from a Shiite, have to have Joe Lieberman whisper in your ear to correct your many gaffes. Oh yeah ... and want multimillionaires to keep their Bushy tax breaks while the average joe is suffering. Gee ... admonishing is fun.

conservative dem   July 17th, 2008 12:29 am ET

i cant believe ppl fall for this hypocritical crap that mccain spews...hagel is fine cuz he is gop but obama is an idiot cuz he has the same ideas as hagel but is dem...also, obama is elitist cuz he wants to tax just the richest while mr down to earth bush is a man of the ppl who cuts taxes for only the top 2% ppl in the country...makes perfect sense...

Obama 08!

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 17th, 2008 12:26 am ET

Lisa, you are right, Barack and Michelle will be in Chicago in 2008.
However, they will be in Washington D.C. in January 2009.
Come and join us sweetie.

Eric in Ca   July 17th, 2008 12:26 am ET

By your own logic McCain regarding Obama's decision and not visiting Iraq...neither you nor Bush traveled to Iraq before you invaded a sovereign nation that had nothing to do with 9/11.

Also McCain don't use Iraq as a distraction, what about your platform & policies: Women's Rights, health care, foreclosures, economy, environment, taxes, & your continuation of the Bush policies!? Yes you are a 3rd Bush term.

Obama 08

Dutchboy52   July 17th, 2008 12:25 am ET

The difference between Hagel and McCain is Hagel is being true to himself and McCain is not and it shows. McCain sold his soul to the company store.

Tell the truth   July 17th, 2008 12:25 am ET

Lisa July 16th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!

Please states some facts. What has Obama did to you and your other hateful friends? The answer is nothing. Please take time to review facts and have an open mind. Obama review facts and so no to Irag. Do not hate the man for being right.

Mike, Syracuse NY   July 17th, 2008 12:25 am ET

Talks with Korea were happening long before Obama opened his mouth about it; in fact starting before he entered the Senate. Not that an agreement for them to dismantle their nuclear program happened without Bush meeting their leader. The success of the Obama opposed surge has led to more troops being available. Again, nothing for Obama to take credit for. After seeing how the surge he opposed worked, he now wants one in Afghanistan. Who is following who? I suppose if the sun comes up tomorrow Obama will take credit.

Matt   July 17th, 2008 12:21 am ET

Obama may have been right in not supporting going in but it's a totally different argument than what to do going forward. Obama was wrong on the surge, hasn't been to Iraq recently, hasn't talked to any of the generals about it and expects to have the knowledge base necessary go justify his 16month policy. He also makes the "I'm the decider" claim that everyone reviles bush for. He's just as closed minded as bush just that he's a liberal. Obama's only strategy is withdrawl at any cost, McCain's strategy is win and withdraw when the generals think we can afford to spare the troops. The American public are not military experts and thus should not be trusted with making the decision of what the strategy in Iraq is going to be. We are short sighted and need someone who's not concerned with a book tour about how he got us out of Iraq on his time table once he leaves office. Never mind the fact that he's got no policy worth a darn on any other front....NO TO O.

FEDUP   July 17th, 2008 12:15 am ET

I wish all of you bloggers would quit with the Mc-– nonesense, it is so childish..

Ilona Hussein Proud Canadian   July 17th, 2008 12:14 am ET

FOLKS I AM CHALLENGING ANY ONE OF YOU, WHO CAN GIVE ME A LOGICAL AND COHERENT REASON AS TO WHY PRES. BUSH IS NOW WILLING TO IMPLEMENT ALMOST EVERY IDEA THAT BARACK HAS VOICED ON THE WAR ON IRAQ, ON DIPLOMACY (SPEAKING WITH IRAN) WITH YOUR EMEMIES,, ON PULLING OUT OF IRAQ.

PLEASE TELL Y0UR SUPPORTERS JUST WHAT IS GOING ON . TELL THEM WHY THE BUSH/McCAIN ADVISORS HAVE ADOPTED BARACK'S STRATEGIES? THESE PEOPLE ARE VERY, VERY, DESPERATE, AND IF YOU CANNOT SEE IT, YOU ARE IN A LOT OF TROUBLE!

STUDY WAR NO MORE   July 17th, 2008 12:10 am ET

McLimp must've forgotten who he is running against ... not unusual given his age.

a southern bell for OBAMA   July 17th, 2008 12:06 am ET

OH, MCSAME, JUST GO HOME & DRINK A STRONG MARTINI

AND TAKE YOURSELF TO SLEEP. YOU ARE SLEEP WALKING.

YOU ARE SO BEHIND THE TIMES, YOU DON'T EVEN KNOW

WHO IS AND WHO ISN'T YOUR FRIEND ANYMORE. JUST REST.

Caycee   July 17th, 2008 12:05 am ET

It's wonderful that the current administration is following Obama's lead. They should've clued McCain though, so he wouldn't look as foolish as he now sounds. But if an ambush is going to work, someone has to be taken un-aware.

jimmy velman   July 16th, 2008 11:57 pm ET

I'd leave the war in iraq and afghanistan to the generals on the ground.. so we got into this war with very little and erroneous intelligence form the cia. but Americans want victory and a stable peace in iraq. it is therefore up to the soldiers and commanders in Iraq to tell the next president what is thier best strategy and they have to have the means to carry out their mission with as much support
in manpower and ordnance as they need. iraq might be over run by
iranian shiites anf their allies in iraq.

Leah DiMarco, Texas   July 16th, 2008 11:55 pm ET

Many presidents have made decisions concerning other countries (and war) without ever having been physically there. There weren't any presidents running over to Viet Nam during the war! I think that everything that comes out of McCain's mouth is RUBBISH.

Thomas, Illinois   July 16th, 2008 11:49 pm ET

Can't wait for the debates to start...Can you say, Obama landslide?

Xavier   July 16th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

I think a president having millitary experience is over rated. Only 10 of our presidents have had millitary experience. Bush Senior had millitary experience, and his presidency was horrible. You can count Carter and Nixon in that group too, and we all know what their administrations were like.

Pam   July 16th, 2008 11:47 pm ET

McCain says he knows how to win wars. Exactly which wars has McCain won?

ANGIE   July 16th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

lisa
why do you post here shouldnt you be off with you puma friends somewhere crying you are such a negetive person please go join the pumas YOU WILL MUCHED LIKED THERE OBAMA 08 OBAMA 08

stanz   July 16th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

If serving in the military and being wrong more than half the time means more than not serving and being right all the time, then we are prepared to elect George Bush to a third term.

You have my thanks for serving the country Senator McCain, and my sympathy for your suffering, but you cannot have my vote.

Obama 08

Republican Joe   July 16th, 2008 11:37 pm ET

I am a combat Marine veteran who served in Beirut, Lebanon in 1983 and I can say that John McCain who is also a veteran does not know what it is like to be on the ground engaged in combat. He flew jets and was shot down and is a former POW and I commend his service, but he does not know what the average ground pounding combat servicemen goes through. It takes a toll on you for the rest of your life. I would of rather had pain inflicted on me then to see men die or kill as we did and the kicker is that it has been over 25 years since of service in Lebanon and we are still not recognized for our honorable combat service. I will vote democratic something I never done before.

Geri   July 16th, 2008 11:36 pm ET

Quite a few people were against the war but they were in the same position as Obama. They didn't have all the facts and weren't allowed to vote on it. Everyone needs to remember that for all his talk he did not have a part in voting. I'm happy that he's going to Iraq and taking someone with him that has knowledge and experience that can explain what is going on in words that Obama can understand. Lets just hope he doesn't mis speak while he's over there.

Mike in Boston   July 16th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

McCain = American Hero

Obama = Oppportunistic fool

McCain = Decades of experience

Obama = 143 days of experience

McCain = Consistency

Obama = What day is it?

Hmmm... tough decision.

Miguel   July 16th, 2008 11:34 pm ET

John McCain has been constantly disrespectful of Barack Obama because he has no experience. Didn't your mother teach you to respect everyone regardless of status or age?

tom, mississipi   July 16th, 2008 11:30 pm ET

McShameless,

even your own hand-picked-and-propped-up puppet, maliki, can't pretend to be on your side any longer: he wants you OUT OF IRAQ ASAP.

you're a murderous coward, and will be tried and punished as such

when the time comes.

Arden   July 16th, 2008 11:29 pm ET

II use to respect John McCain as a war hero, however, he and every republican are milking it for all its worth. Its getting as old as he is.

HOPE-N-CHANGE   July 16th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

NOW I KNOW WHAT OBAMA MEANT WHEN HE PROMISED US “HOPE AND CHANGE”:

"I HOPE nobody notices how often I CHANGE my mind."

The truth appears to be that the man had not thought out foreign policy issues before he entered the race for president.

I would like to see him confront face to face and without a teleprompter a tough questioner on foreign policy and domestic policy for that matter.

If we were electing a teleprompter reader he would get my vote - But the country needs a man of experience - the more, the better. He is not the one. He is inexperienced on ‘most’ issues.

I’m voting for McCain in November.

Anita from Arizona   July 16th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

And now, we are meeting with Iran with no preconditions to discuss their nuclear program. IRONY!!!!

Paul   July 16th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

Chuck Hagel is the real war hero. McCain needs to stop pandering with his military experience. Crashing some planes doesn't qualify you as an expert in anything.

LT for Obama   July 16th, 2008 11:14 pm ET

So Hagel agrees with Obama because he made an informed decision. Hagel visited Iraq and came up with the same conclusions that Obama did is what he is saying. Seems to me that a trip to the region is not so warranted after all is what he is saying.

What I get out of all this is that McCain seems to have wasted a lot of taxpayer money traveling to Iraq if the same conclusions can be reached on US soil.

Rave   July 16th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

McPain's eyes are dark right now.. All he can see is how to extend this unnecessary war in Iraq and feed his lobbyists with more unnecessary contracts using our Tax money.
This man is corrupt, fake, lying, flip-flopping, mentally instable.
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Trollmaster   July 16th, 2008 11:00 pm ET

Obama was right to oppose this war in the first place. McCain was wrong to be one of the biggest supporters of the war. A fact he constantly tries to avoid.

Is McCain serious when he says Obama is wrong on Iraq? Who's he trying to fool. It's not working.

NW   July 16th, 2008 10:55 pm ET

Arizona McCsham pretented that he is a friend of Hagel just to make it smooth for Sen. Hagel to think about what he said. But, the fact is that Sen. Hagel is right on what he's doing with Obama, meaning that he is not like McCsham and his Republican good in manipulating people's mind by flip flopping and not being honest to the American people. Since when, that the Republicans are telling the truth? Lying about the Iraq war, Lying about Terrorist treats, Fear and Smear, and so on. Wake up America. Don't people realized where we are right now? Economy, Two wars, US Dollar is down world wide and because of the Republican's corruption. We nee a change real change that we can believe in, which is the Obama Ticket.

NoMccain   July 16th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

Whatever..
I like how Bush is doing everything Obama is arguing needs to be done. Obama argues we need to increase troops in Afghanistan, and Bush does it. Obama argues we should talk with our adversaries, so does it with North Korea.
Keep talking Obama, it might screw you out of a future if bush keep implementing your plans.

Obama 08: 60 year old white female   July 16th, 2008 10:54 pm ET

McCain studied the intelligence and had Senate access to the knowledge going into the war and he was a wholehearted cheerleader of it. Does that mean he can't make a statement about Iran without going there.

This man is too full of himself...very, very arragant.

Lisa   July 16th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Obama/Michelle back in Chicago 08!!!

Dan, MA   July 16th, 2008 10:51 pm ET

I find it remarkable that McCain would talk about recent events in Czechoslovakia. The man is quickly becoming a dotard. On top of all of the policies of his with which I disagree (just about all of them), McCain's decline in mental stability is sealing my opinion of him.

Michael G- Ventura ca   July 16th, 2008 10:49 pm ET

I don't know who proclaimed McSame on Iraq, but he really should knock off the admonitions----He's NEVER been President, and has never been in combat THERE. I appreciate his POW status, but Gen. Clark said it right--

5 Point Plan From Obama   July 16th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

I'm sure McCain didn't listen to Obama's Foriegn Policy Action Plan before he criticized it.

If he had, he would know that in formulating that plan Obama took into account input from Petraus, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, the US General in charge of training Iraqi security forces and 3 other senior military officers.

It is a LIE for McCain to say that Obama formulated the plan without the input from troops in theatre.

The "dog & pony" show that McCain took and is advocating typically presents a sanitized version of what is going on. The last thing any 06 wants to have to explain is why some Congressional dignitary got injured or killed during a visit. What McCain is suggesting is a much less use unless the objective is a photo opp.

Jack Jodell, Minneapolis, MN   July 16th, 2008 10:45 pm ET

John McCain is DEAD WRONG on Iraq! He displays little grasp of the history or realpolitik aspects of the country or the Middle East as a whole! His and his buddy LIEberman's insane rhetoric about our withdrawing from Iraq being tantamount to surrender is irresponsible and dishonest fearmongering from a pair of frightened old men who just don't GET IT. While McCain and Bush (whose 3rd term McCain wishes to give us) were wrongly denying that Afghanistan was the REAL hotbed of alQaeda and terrorism, Barack Obama had it right all along. A McCain (Bush 3rd term) presidency would be a severely misguided one we cannot afford! The man simply isn't up to the job, the same way Bush never was.
OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT 2008 AND 2012!

A NATION OF WHINERS   July 16th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

MCBUSH IS SO GREAT AT FOREIGN POLICY,

THAT HE IS 16 YEARS BEHIND THE TIMES.

New Yorker   July 16th, 2008 10:40 pm ET

Obama gave a major policy speech on Iraq and Afghanistan without consulting the General and not traveling to those countries first because he thinks he know's what is best regardless of what the truth is. Our presence in Iraq has been the best thing for this country and that country, but for democrats to admit it would mean defeat for them. So they just go on perpetrating the lie that this is an illegal war, we never should have gone in and we are losing.. Far, far from the truth. No one likes war, ESPECIALLY those who have been in a POW camp, but in times like this, it is necessary to defend ourselves. People need to remember WE did not start this war; the terrorists did. We struck where we needed to -WMD's or not.

aware   July 16th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

Hagel who?

This is getting boring beyond belief!

In the first place, if Obama was genuinely interested in change, he would be running as an Independent and leading his gung ho followers with integrity instead of chicanery!

Instead he is running tied by the umbilical cord to the hard core left-wing Democrats who can't change their socks without a huge push from the Republicans! :)

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz   July 16th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION IS BEGINNING TO IMPLEMENT

MUCH OF THE OBAMA VISION OF THE MIDDLE EAST.

1) TALKING TO IRAN

2) MOVING TROOPS FROM IRAQ TO AFGHANISTAN.

MCCLUELESS JUST STUCK IN THE PAST.

lany   July 16th, 2008 10:37 pm ET

This is the same old McBush who went in Iraq April 1, 2007 and said to the world that Iraq was safe enough that Gen. David Petraeus goes about Baghdad in an unarmored Humvee. It turned out later that during McBush infamous Baghdad shopping trip, he was surrounded by heavily armed and armored U.S. troops, and attack helicopters were hovering overhead.

Now this same McBush is admonishing Obama about Iraq? McCain is just too old to put two and two together.

Corey, Maryland   July 16th, 2008 10:37 pm ET

That doesnt even make sense!!!!! why do you have to have military experience to know that the war is not going well!!!!! it doesnt take a rocket scientist to know we shouldnt be there but concentrate all our efforts on the Pakistan/ Afghanistan border to find Bin Laden! or have you all completely forgot about the guy that killed 3000 americans!!!!!!!

Obama Richardson 2008

David Newport, OR   July 16th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

This is perfect example of how different McCain is. McCain believes that once an order is given, he needs to let the commanding officer on the ground achieve the desired results. Anyone who doesnt agree w/ him is "wrong". Obama believes that if an "order" is wrong, it is his responsibility to protect those wrongly involved. It is as different as black and white. I will vote for Obama.

Puffin   July 16th, 2008 10:35 pm ET

McCain said he is "pleased" that Obama will be accompanied by Hagel, "who has military experience, who has knowledge of these issues."

"Senator Hagel is wrong," McCain said.
___________

So, which one is it? Only McCain is right on the war?

M.S. Indiana   July 16th, 2008 10:32 pm ET

McCain, going to Iraq and having 100's of soldiers around you is not a way to see what is really going on over there..

You can get a better view from your TV, if you know what that is, news papers cover Iraq pretty good to too, and the new way, the internet...

NickNas   July 16th, 2008 10:28 pm ET

McCain is a joke. I PRAY for the day this all ends. That should be 24 hours after he gets up the nerve to appear onstage on Live TV in front of an impartial crowd and questioners against Obama.

He will be destroyed. and he KNOWS it.

David Goldman   July 16th, 2008 10:26 pm ET

DUDE, GIVE IT UP.

A REPUBLICAN PRESIDENT & HIS CHIEFS OF STAFF ARE

BEGINNING TO FOLLOW OBAMA'S RECOMMENDATIONS ON

IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN & IRAN.

STICK TO CZECHOSLOVAKIA. YOU ARE DOING GREAT WITH IT.

Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca   July 16th, 2008 10:24 pm ET

McCain should focus on the issues and not on VP's. Obama's career is questionable and is really scary for a johnny come lately like him. One would think this type of things happen in movies and not in real life Presidential campaigns. The records about his law and political career is as unnerving as the discussion on national security. There are many Hagels around in the US. And no expert has asked him if he was banking on choosing an African American for VP to give his candidacy substance. Is everyone sleeping or afraid?

lady in michigan   July 16th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Choice 1: guy who has been to Iraq many times and can't tell the difference between Sunni and Shia
Choice 2: guy who hasn't been to Iraq many times, knows who's who, and has a plan to get out.

Travis   July 16th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

McCain is a established liar as a result has zero credibility. Honestly, only a fool would think otherwise.

Fillibuddy   July 16th, 2008 10:14 pm ET

McCain sounds senile.

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