CNN Political Ticker
1301 days ago

New York Times rejects McCain essay

The New York Times rejected an editorial written by John McCain.
The New York Times rejected an editorial written by John McCain.

(CNN) - The New York Times has rejected an op-ed piece written by John McCain defending his Iraq war policy in response to a piece by Barack Obama published in the paper last week.

Read the rejected op-ed

In an e-mail to the McCain campaign, Opinion Page Editor David Shipley said he could not accept the piece as written, but would be “pleased, though, to look at another draft.”

“Let me suggest an approach,” he wrote. “The Obama piece worked for me because it offered new information (it appeared before his speech); while Senator Obama discussed Senator McCain, he also went into detail about his own plans. It would be terrific to have an article from Senator McCain that mirrors Senator Obama's piece.”

McCain’s rejected op-ed had been a lengthy critique of Obama’s positions on Iraq policy, particularly his view of the surge. “Senator Obama seems to have learned nothing from recent history,” wrote McCain, criticizing Obama’s call for an early withdrawal timeline. “I find it ironic that he is emulating the worst mistake of the Bush administration by waving the ‘Mission Accomplished’ banner prematurely.”

Obama’s July 14 essay had taken shots at McCain for not further encouraging the Iraqi government to take control of the country.

Full story

soundoff (266 Responses)
  1. chuck

    The New York Times owes nothing to McSames' typical republican rhetoric. "if we can't say what we want, then we won't say anything" boo hoo hoo!! They Republican's will be whining for the next 20 years or until they get in the White House again.

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  2. Jim

    I guess we know who the Times wants to be President. That's some good unbiased journalism.

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  3. GE stock owner

    and rightfully so....what can McCain possibly say? nothing of relevance only unwarranted attacks and fear mongering. the people who have bought McCain want desperately for Mccain to win so they can continue to rape our Nation

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  4. smile|||||

    what would you expect from DUMMY?

    it would be beyond his intelligence,,,,,,,,

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  5. Voter

    So in other words... McCain has no "plan" and just wants to attack Obama's plan rather than put one together... GOP "leadership" at its best!

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  6. Janelle

    I am glad that the Times is asking for a balanced article that McCain will have to articulate his views and policies, not just a broad criticism of Obama. I am sure that there will be plenty of comments posted about how "biased" they are in support of Obama. But all they are doing is making sure they are a forum for the candidates to use to bring their policies to the public and not being used for one candidate to just bash the ideas of the other.

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  7. Shawn

    If he doesn't stop blatantly lying in his commercials, those are going to start being refused too!

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  8. Thank You GW

    We wouldn't even have a historical election had it not be for the idiocy of George Bush. So thank you George for being a complete moron. We love the fact that the country is voting for women and minorities now.

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  9. JA Cook

    It seems that McCain's campaign is now built wholly on criticism and negativity.

    I hear so little about what he actually wants to offer, but far more about what he thinks is wrong with Obama – much of that exaggerated or totally off base.

    While Obama travels, McCain is like a grumpy old man sitting back and sniping.

    July 21, 2008 01:35 pm at 1:35 pm |
  10. Mike, Syracuse, NY

    Amazing. The NY Times trying to tell a Presidential candidate what to say. Did it tell Obama what he had to say? This is media bias at it's worse. This is an abuse of the First Amendment.

    July 21, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  11. Tired of W, OH

    NYT: " It would be terrific to have an article from Senator McCain that mirrors Senator Obama's piece.”

    LOL! That shouldn't be too hard, McSame. You've been copying Obama's policies for a while now!

    McCain: “I find it ironic that he (Obama) is emulating the worst mistake of the Bush administration by waving the ‘Mission Accomplished’ banner prematurely.”

    LMAO! Didn't McCain just say last week that we've already WON in Iraq? This is just too easy... Go take your meds, McCain. Maybe then you can remember what you say from one day to the next.

    July 21, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  12. Dominique

    The New York Times made a reasonable request. I expect my leaders to be able to do more than simply attack their opponent. I want to hear about how they will approach issues and solve problems.

    On another note, may I respectfully suggest another trip for Sen. McCain? After he completes his tour of Czechoslovakia, perhaps he would also consider touring that border between Iraq and Pakistan.

    July 21, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  13. George

    The New York Times: All the News that's fit to print...unless we don't like it or it comes from a Republican.

    July 21, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  14. David from Ohio

    Yes that's it, they're dirtbags for rejecting what amounts to a written attack ad from McCain with no mention of his plan for "winning" in Iraq. Funny how he can't define "victory" but promises to achieve. Sounds like he's the empty suit.

    July 21, 2008 01:36 pm at 1:36 pm |
  15. FactCheck

    Does McCain know how to do anything other than react? I doubt that the public really cares what he thinks of Obama's policies. We want to know what you have to offer... if anything. By the way, CNN, still waiting on the story about how McCain didn't know that Iraq and Pakistan DO NOT SHARE A BORDER.

    July 21, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  16. kingsley

    Thank god for a publication that will demand the meaning of VICTORY IN IRAQ I keep hearing it from McSame and i beleive the illiterates buy into that.

    congrats to the NEW YORK TIMES for this demands

    July 21, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  17. richard cranium

    The NYT isn't even subtle in their democratic bias.

    Their refusal to print the McCain op-ed and their attempt to 'legislate' it's contents reflect the level of journalism pervading their approach to this election.

    July 21, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  18. It's obvious

    The New York Times showing favoritism toward Barack Obama and losing their editorial objectivity in the process?

    I'm shocked. Shocked I tell you.

    July 21, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  19. helen

    I didn't know McWar knew how to write.

    July 21, 2008 01:37 pm at 1:37 pm |
  20. ali

    they dont allow editorials of gobbledeegook.although ,i do credit mccain with eliminating two serious problems for us ,in the middle east.apparrently,afghanistan and iran no longer exist,because mccain moved the iraqi border over next to pakistan.

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  21. Tina

    Good for the Times. You think I want to spend one waking moment of my day reading John let-me-kiss-your-ring McSame's propaganda about Barack? NO.

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  22. Retired Marine

    I find it humorous that the Times has chosen to side with BO. I don't think that stands for Body Odor?

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  23. Save us

    Does this mean that America is becoming an Obamanation in the eyes of the Lord?

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  24. An American

    This is laughable! They really are playing catch up...and poorly! The editor said it himself. The Obama editorial presented NEW information (not regurgitated info) AND offered details. (There goes the argument again that he never gives any details. Repub/McCain spin perhaps?) And the best McCain could do was respond with a lengthy critique?

    Get over yourself, McCain, and start telling us exactly what you plan on doing. From where I sit, your only plan is telling us what you think is wrong with Obama's plan.

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  25. George

    Need we say anything else??????

    There is no credibilty at the New York Times. That is why I cancelled my subscription years ago.

    I expected no less from them

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  26. Typical White Person

    Yet one more example of how the MSM is smitten with Obama to the point of being unable to remain neutral in their coverage...

    Isn't there a journalism professor somewhere out there with the ballz to step up and call them on it???

    July 21, 2008 01:38 pm at 1:38 pm |
  27. Ms. RDS

    They rejected it b/c it's crap! Almost every sentence starts out with Sen. Obama.....almost similar to his speeches. Why can't he focus on HIS policy issues. He never offers any of his own solutions, the only thing he does is say what he thinks is wrong with Obama's ideas. Maybe this is b/c his plans are NON-EXISTENT! If you wanna hear or read a McCain opinion it goes like this. Senator Obama (Insert opinion)

    July 21, 2008 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  28. shadman

    “Senator Obama seems to have learned nothing from recent history,” wrote McCain, criticizing Obama’s call for an early withdrawal timeline. “I find it ironic that he is emulating the worst mistake of the Bush administration by waving the ‘Mission Accomplished’ banner prematurely.”

    So McCain admits that this was the "worst mistake of Bush administration"..yet he continues to promise to do the same...

    July 21, 2008 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  29. ZR

    it seems like the straight talk express lost all his tooth.

    July 21, 2008 01:39 pm at 1:39 pm |
  30. jen

    GOOD!!! Define victory Senator McCain...You won't because you can't.

    July 21, 2008 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  31. Bob Indianapolis, IN

    Yo John Boy! Send it to Bill O'Reilly! He has no problem with propaganda!

    July 21, 2008 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  32. ps

    Is there any doubt that the NYT, like so much other media, is actually endorsing Senator Obama?

    How is this responsible journalism?

    July 21, 2008 01:40 pm at 1:40 pm |
  33. Travis

    Wow, he cant even get an op-ed piece published. Dont get me wrong, McCain deserves respect for being a 20th century hero and patriot for left, right and center causes. But this is the 21st century and we need a 21st cent leader like Obama. The presidency is not about who can do the work to try to get the job done, however its about who can inspire the most people to work together to get teh job done. Obama inspires!! McCain bores.

    July 21, 2008 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  34. Clinton/McCain

    Wow, unbelievable! The bias is so obvious. That's okay. This long-time Democrat will show the media and Democratic party elders they can not pick the next president. I will surely vote for McCain. He's actually qualified to be president.

    July 21, 2008 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  35. kiki

    This is horrible media biased.

    July 21, 2008 01:41 pm at 1:41 pm |
  36. KH in Wyoming

    I find it interesting that the Republicans and McCain are never willing to define what “Victory” is or means. At least Obama defined what his foreign policy plans are in his recent speech. I can’t say the same for McCain.

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  37. Rose

    Gosh, I hope McCain mentioned in his diatribe on the Surge about the 100,000 Sunni on the U.S. payroll. Or how about the walled ghettos to keep the sectarian violence down.

    Obama is right about everything so far. Nuff said.

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  38. Ian

    I wonder how long it will take McCain to rewrite his piece, considering he probably used a typewriter from the 1800's.

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  39. A

    HAHHAHAA

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  40. THE O

    Still what is the meaning of Victory? And based on what type of conditions on the ground? Sounds like he is saying that we have won when I say we have!!! What an EROGANT FOOL.....

    BARACK THE VOTE!!!!!!!!

    BARACK / SEBELIUS 08

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  41. Kent

    While Barack is out of town, McCain is giving face time to anyone who will listen. It's been a media blitz of the same old thing. It won't work, the American people know where the real interest lies–overseas. We can't wait to hear more news about our next president, Barack Obama.

    Obama 08

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  42. Abby

    Excellent work of journalism, NYT. I like to see backbone.

    CNN, HOW ABOUT REPORTING THE FOLLOWING re: IRAQ/PAKISTAN BORDER

    Asked by ABC's Diane Sawyer Monday morning whether the "the situation in Afghanistan in precarious and urgent," McCain responded:

    "I think it's serious. . . . It's a serious situation, but there's a lot of things we need to do. We have a lot of work to do and I'm afraid it's a very hard struggle, particularly given the situation on the Iraq/Pakistan border," said

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  43. Doris,Memphis,TN

    The New York Times rejected McCain and so will America!

    July 21, 2008 01:42 pm at 1:42 pm |
  44. patricia

    Hooray for The New York Times!

    July 21, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  45. California Gold

    See John, your hyper-critical Obama rhetoric doesn't work. Lowly voters to the New York Times are rejecting your approach to this campaign. When you lose the General Election I suppose you'll blame Obama for that too instead of objectively considering how miserably you failed to out campaign Obama. No one wants to elect an angry old man with a chip on his shoulder.

    July 21, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  46. Obama's Not Qualified

    OK, so Obama finally settles on an Iraq policy and gets to write about it in the NYT. McCain has been consistent on his policy for years and can't get printed because there is no new news.

    The new news is that Obama is making it up as he goes.

    July 21, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  47. Tom

    McSame just wants to criticizing Obama but offers no solutions or answers.

    No more fear republican rhetoric!

    July 21, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  48. JC

    Nothing like an unbiased media.......

    July 21, 2008 01:43 pm at 1:43 pm |
  49. Rob

    Hmmmmm.... wonder if it would have happened the other way around. Maybe the times accepted the first article for fear of being called racist. If it came down to being called bias or racist, I would choose biased any day.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  50. Concerned American

    This is just another example of the liberal media blocking the right of the republican nominee to have his say. Another example is that the media is all over the one visit obama is making to the middle east. However, the media doesn't even bother to show up when McCain visits. Before people are allowed to vote, they should read the Fountainhead and know just what the media can be capable of.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  51. Voter, Omaha NE

    My respect for the NY Times just went way down–yes, they are most definitely in bed with Obamaman–probably won't print this either since it is not news, just the truth

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  52. People make no sense

    Iraq appears to share Obama's pullout hope
    Statement on U.S. troop withdrawal by 2010 follows meeting with al-Maliki

    Wow, Obama's only been to Iraq once and he's been speaking about this timeline for years and on his second visit the Iraq government agrees with him....

    What a leader?

    How many times has McCain been there? These dummies on this blog have no clue about leadership. The call Al-Maliki a criminal but this is the man that was put into power by the republican's. So if he is a criminial, corrupt, or whatever else you call him, then who do you blame. This man may just be a great man who agrees with another great man. Maybe they aren't progressing in Iraq because our government's making high demands on them, just like refusing to listen to the will of a soverign nation who would like a time table. What goes on behind the small picture is ugly, anybody that has owned their own business or worked in an executive capacity understands this.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  53. Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)

    I can hear all of McCain's supporters screaming right now against the liberal media but the NY Times was right in this regard. McCain has spent far more time criticizing Obama's position instead of detailing his own.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  54. Donna

    "Fair and Balanced"..two words MCCAIN has never heard of...kudos to the Times for wanting to keep it fair between both candidates..McCain only wanted to whine and take digs at Obama...so much for his high road...

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  55. Anonymous

    LOL. wow. All McCain does is criticize... It seems as though he would do anything, at any means, to win the presidency. It's kind of sad... McCain needs to lighten up a bit with his poor attitude. It doesn't help his campaign at all.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  56. Matt, Manchester, CT

    Wow, this is a shocker of a turn of events. Never in a million years thought that the bastion of quality journalism, The New York Times, would ever do anything to make things seem difficult for a Republican candidate. And Obama's new found hawk status on Afghanistan is pandering to the point that his zombies can't even bring themselves to recognize it. Just keep sticking your fingers in your ears, kids. You'll be talking about "change we can believe in" all the way to the nuthouse.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  57. Jaime, Plantation FL

    Obama offers up specifics and policy. McCain offers up criticism and hackery. Obama's article is accepted, McCain's is turned down. Should McCain decide to put forth his own vision instead of just attacking and the ever so childish "We win or they win" rhetoric, then perhaps we can have a bit of a discussion.

    Of course everyone here is missing the point:
    McCain offers war in Iraq and inflation from paying for what we can't afford in the government with big debt.
    Obama offers war in Afghanistan and inflation (not as much as McCain but still plenty) for paying what we can't afford in the government with big debt.

    There is a third option here. How about NO foriegn wars, bring our troops home, and focus on infrastructure (energy, roads, education) instead of "Team America : World Police!" behavior.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  58. Heather

    Hahaha. That is priceless.

    July 21, 2008 01:44 pm at 1:44 pm |
  59. Annie

    LOL. wow. All McCain does is criticize... It seems as though he would do anything, at any means, to win the presidency. It's kind of sad... McCain needs to lighten up a bit with his poor attitude. It doesn't help his campaign at all.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  60. Michelle

    What has happened to our free press?

    A free press is essential to democracy.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  61. James B, Little Elm, TX

    I wonder if the NYTimes helped Obama write his editorial, or set some guidelines on it before publishing? I suspect not. Short of incoherent vulgar ranting, there is some value to publishing what McCain has to say, given the latest polls almost half of the country supports him for President. The NYTimes certainly has the right to publish whatever they like, it's their newspaper. But next year when their revenues and subscribers are both down, this will be an easy thing to point to as just another reason why.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  62. Irishspacemonk

    This has nothing to do with who the NYT wants as president and more to do with the fact McCain has nothing to offer the national dialogue. McCain needs to get out a computer, do a google search on some current topics and get up to speed with the world.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  63. DPerry

    Thank you GW: is the fact that we're voting for minorities and women a bad thing?? Or do you live in the south.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  64. James in NJ

    That is so funny...Take back your sloppy paper Johnny McCain and try to make it look more like Obama's. It sounds like a grade-school teacher episode.
    America love it or not you will have to endure a smart, sophisticated, charming, and all around different Commander In Chief than what you have been accustomed to.
    Go Obama in 08!

    PS Republicans:
    How's about when they asked Condi Rice who she was voting for and she said...I'd rather not say! That folks says it all.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  65. Ricky - Hispanic/Educated and voting for Obama

    I love the New York Times

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  66. Lee, New York City

    CNN, CBS, ABC, NY Times are doing all they can to portray Obama as the perfect candidate for President.

    The only thing they can't do is change his voting record as the most liberal Senator, the fact that he is a SOCIALIST, that he wants even bigger government, etc.

    He wants the highest earning American's to share more of the tax burden and CURRENTLY 1% OF THE HIGHEST EARNING AMERICANS PAY 46% OF THE TAXES IN AMERICA.

    Obama is WRONG FOR AMERERICA.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  67. Kingslough NY.

    Hmmmmm...i think McCain is losing it period

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  68. Peggy Robson

    The media has already elected Obama, I am not a bit surprised that there is just more and more negativity about every politician except Obama. No body even knows what were going to get with him because he has no experience, says nothing and if the media whipped him like they do McCain and Hillary where would he be...I'm just sitting back and waiting for all of this to come crashing down around Obama.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  69. CNN = Jerry Springer of news

    Doesn't McCain have any details about his Iraq and Afghanistan policies he can share with the rest of us besides, "Obama is wrong?" What are the post-surge plans for Iraq and what are the plans for Afghanistan? What I really want to know is how McCain plans to protect the non-existant Iraq/Pakistan border that he referred to this morning. I will be very interested to see some polls at the end of the week regarding who the voters currently think really is stronger in foreign relations. I think this one issue where McCain has led so far may even be slipping away from him. It will be interesting to see what the Republicans do with their nominee after the convention – they need a miracle.

    July 21, 2008 01:45 pm at 1:45 pm |
  70. DMAC in ID

    How very unprofessional of the NY Times. Sure go ahead and give Obama the free advertising and pushing his agenda and don't allow
    rebuttal. You should be ashamed of your selves showing so much blatant bias.

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  71. caywen

    Basically, if the NYT was SlashDot, Obama's oped would be (5, Informative) while McCain's would be (-1, Troll)

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  72. Janey for McCain

    The photo-op with the General made me cry–the Obamabot comments were so Hollywood. Do you people realize they were flying over a war-zone? Obama's grin was the biggest I have ever seen in any photo–I hate to break it to you, but this is not a movie–it is serious business. I have a nephew fighting for our freedom in Iraq and there is nothing funny about it. Strange that Obama would choose this photo out of hundreds of others.

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  73. Mel

    In the first place Mccain couldn't write a piece like that, not smart enough.....

    STUPID FOR PRESIDENT MCCAIN........

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  74. syl

    This merely shows the New York Times bias. If they asked for McCain's position, why would they want to dictate what he writes. Does lthe NY Times have a journalistic obligation to let their readers (American voters) know what the McCain position is on Iraq? What the NY Times approach indicate is a wanton lack of journalistic integrity.,

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  75. Veteran in Kansas

    Senator McCain has forgotten, why we are at war. We are at war chasing down those that planned and carried out the 9-11 attacks. We were side tracked.

    The Iraqi government as it is and Obama seem to agree on a senerio of a reduction of US combat troops in Iraq over a 16 month period. This also falls in line with Obama's understanding that we have too few troops on the ground in Afganistan to get the job done and that is where we needed the military force in the first place.

    McCain also appears to have failed to grasp that the true gains in Iraq have been from interaction with the Iraqi people and local governments. Even though it has been accomplished by military personnel, it is still called diplomacy.

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  76. Joe

    This war is different than any other war America has fought. It's not a defined army we're up against, instead against terrorists.

    So I don't understand when McCain says we must 'win'...

    How do put out a fire when you're the one fueling its flames?

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  77. Gary Chandler in Canada

    you either have charisma or you DONT,
    one of the presidential candidates has it, the other DOESNT

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  78. Eye Opener

    McCain is one shameless fellow. He is losing his respect and dignity by going for president. America is not in need of any monkey who is a war monger and is on his toes to go for war

    America needs someone who can fix the economy first. Improve the education system. Safeguard the country. Eliminate corruption. Throw people like Karl Roves and scooters.

    McCain is surrounded by idiots like Guiliani, Liberman who just want to be in limelight. If he goes by his own instinct and intelligence he can go forward.

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  79. JH from San Jose

    More McSame. If one article details the position(s) the candidate espouses and it would only be fitting to publishing an opposing article detailing what McCain espouses. The problem is that McCain espouses the status quo and no one is interested in that so instead he criticizes Obama's positions. Good for the New York Times.

    July 21, 2008 01:46 pm at 1:46 pm |
  80. Katie

    Unless there's a call to put the Bush war criminals in jail for torture and other heinous crimes, I'm not interested. What on earth is John McSame going to say? His A game amounts to attack Barack and pretend you know how to win wars. What WAR has he won? He was captured in the only war he participated in, and we LOST that one. Hello?

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  81. steve

    Wow! I am impressed with the New York Times. They have have actually refused to allow canidates to jerk them around and be used to reiterate trash talking drivel. Kudos for actual jounalistic integrity.

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  82. Jon, Pittsburgh, PA

    Of course, Obama's piece didn't attack right? This gets more ridiculous every day. When the Democratic primary was called by the DNC and the media as over, I was fine thinking that I'd vote for Obama in the fall. It hasn't taken very long for me to flip-flop – I will be voting for McCain.

    Obama's supporters have turned me against him so much.

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  83. Jim in Orlando

    A double standard from the New York Times ? Nah. Can't be .... not from "All the News that's fit to Wipe ........ errrr Print "

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  84. Jim

    All McCain does is complain and take potshots.

    This guy offers nothing positive, otehr than griping about Obama 24-7.

    He should be Whiner-in-Chief

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  85. Kathy

    It sickens me to know that the New York Times is now dictating WHAT the Republican nominee should be writing in HIS own opinion piece.

    Obama is free to criticize McCain in their rag of a newspaper, but the Times refuses to run anything McCain writes that is critical of Obama?

    July 21, 2008 01:47 pm at 1:47 pm |
  86. Shawna

    Times didn't ask McCain to change his plans/policies, they asked him to write an op ed piece laying out his policies in a fresh and interesting way. They are apart of the marketplace, they need buzz to sell papers, not name recognition. A free marketer like McCain should understand that logic.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  87. Robert

    The Times is asking McCain to write something as well-written as Obama's piece? Good luck to McCain.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  88. CMSgt Preston

    It would be nice to hear something constructive from Sen McCain. A plan. A strategy. It's easy to keep throwing our bravest and best to the dogs for political purposes. Is this the same sen McCain that voted against the recently approved Webb-Warner improved GI Bill. Incredible!

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  89. Lori J, Eden Prairie, MN

    Hey, I even took the time to read McSame's so-called "op-ed". It really is nothing more than insults hurled at Senator Obama. It holds no new ideas by McSame. It does, however, highlight all the advancements the Iraqi government has made, and the great and glorious benefits of the surge. If all this is true, there should be no questions of setting timelines and getting out of Iraq, as their government has requested. What's the hold-up, Grampy?
    Obama '08

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  90. Deb, Allentown, PA

    Every word out of McCain's mouth is an attack on Obama. How about some positive spin from the Republicans?

    Oh, wait, could the absence of positive spin stem from the fact that all we've gotten from them in the last 7 1/2 years are negative results?

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  91. BR

    Kool-aid drinking lefties on here agreeing with the times. It is an editorial, so McCain should be allowed to say what he wants whether you like it or not. I am glad I have a brain and am not just a brain washed progressive screaming hope and change

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  92. Mary

    McCain keeps saying he supported the surge, but he forgets that Obama OPPOSED this war to begin with.

    McCain should know that the war did not begin with the surge, it started with the Bush-McCain lies about WMDs in Iraq and not allowing the UN to complete its job.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  93. Jack - Des Moines

    Completely unabashed bias by the NYT. Their refusal to allow Senator McCain to rebutt the accussations and remarks of Senator Obama proves beyond the shadow of doubt what I have said all along...the media is promoting and protecting Senator Obama to the detriment of our democracy. They, having chosen to publish Senator Obama's op-ed peice, should be forced to publish Senator McCain's.

    I don't care what party or person you support for any office – this is not how things are to be done in America. Anyone supporting the NYT's behavior in this matter should be soundly ashamed of themselves.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  94. Jason

    I guess it was fine for the Times to print op-ed's from Arafat and Hamas amonst others, but McCain no way. They are a nothing but a left wing rag.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  95. People make no sense

    Bloggers claim CNN is biased and they print nonimportant stuff, and now the media is stepping up asking McCain to print intelligent, detailed and fact based information in his article and the Jim says they favor Obama.

    Just like I thought a bunch of dummies.

    July 21, 2008 01:48 pm at 1:48 pm |
  96. Clark

    By showing such a bias favorable to Obama, the NYT has lost some of the respect of its readers. Hwo do they dare to say "It would be terrific to have an article from Senator McCain that mirrors Senator Obama's piece.” The newspaper should let McCain write, what'd help America to understand how he works and then decide.

    July 21, 2008 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  97. Big 'O"

    Wasn't John McCain part of the Keaton Five ( the '80s loan and saving failure). Where countless american lost they life savings. So believe him when he say he knows nothing about the ecomony.

    July 21, 2008 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  98. Desert Shield vets

    Obama called it right.
    mr McCains judgement is impaired. you can't vanilla coat it..
    it is what it is. terrible losses in lives and money.

    Obama 08

    July 21, 2008 01:49 pm at 1:49 pm |
  99. Amit NYC

    McBush doesn't know how to use the computer, so he probably never got a chance to read Obama's article. McCain is NOT fit to be President, period.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  100. April, OR

    Man, McCain is insane. You think you can write propaganda and just hand it to a major newspaper? The Times was correct on calling this Bozo on it.

    You can't win an election by smearing your opponent with lies this time. The American people are sick of it, and we will not be distracted into thinking the GOP wants to be honorable after all these years.

    Hey John, buy a clue–this is America, not China.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  101. Adam

    That's pretty disgusting. And shame on some of the Obama supporters here who don't mind blantant violations of the First Amendment if it helps out their guy.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  102. Bill

    Funny how McCain has become exactly what the Democrats were accused of during the early years of the Bush presidency – a tired, bitter relic with no other use or purpose than to attack their opponents while contributing no new ideas or solutions to the problems and issues of our country.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  103. Gary Mathews

    The NYTimes stance does not surprise me due to their extreme left-wing positions. But, it appears that they are now trying to manipulate what the subscribers read and that is very bad for journalism. They should be taken to court!

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  104. Broad Street Buddy

    "that position will not change based on politics or the demands of the New York Times."

    What position? He has no position. He has no plan for 'victory' in Iraq. And he does not have a clue about Afganistan ('the Iraq/pakistan border" John McCain") Why cant who ever writes these news pieces add in those facts.

    Can somebody in the media please call McCain on just one of his incoherrent statements. It would have been great for the United States if someone had done this about bush in 2000. Instead the majority of Americans had to wait until after he was elected that Bush cannot speak in complete sentences or make any sense even when he does finish (the childrens do learn- Bush)!

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  105. Finally, thank God somebody finally asked!

    Shipley had advised the McCain campaign that “the article would have to articulate, in concrete terms, how Senator McCain defines victory in Iraq.

    FINALLY!

    Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you,

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  106. Joseph

    Because he will "Veto Every Beer that come to his table.... lol according to his words. I can't believe that, and thats someone who wants to e our president. NO WAY !!!

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  107. Mike Henderson

    It's not an "editorial." An editorial is collective opinion of members of an editorial board. It's a column.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  108. Rob K.

    Mike form Syracuse,

    The point is that there are certain criteria worth publishing and some that is not. McCain offers nothing of relevance except for a free opportunity to lay into Obama. That is not editorial stuff.

    They did the right thing and give McCain a second try. Hopefully he has some depth in his character to come back and enlighten us how he will be different that Bush and save this country with not knowing much about the economy.

    July 21, 2008 01:50 pm at 1:50 pm |
  109. Lacey

    How can McCain continue insisting on fighting where the people say "no?" It's incredible! There are just so many ways to say, "No thank you. We don't want your help anymore."

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  110. John Ret. Air Force

    McSame won't define what success would be because he and the neo-cons want to stay in Iraq forever with mutiple bases to protect our interests, ie. OIL. He said it himself "... go to war for oil" My freinds, our troops are diying and being physically and psychologically maimed -not because of 911-for oil. For oil companinies and corporations. We,ve heard enough from this blow-hard.

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  111. C W

    Who's the king of attack and fear-mongering? None other than Lee Atwater's protoge, Karl Rove. So it's no wonder McCain's piece is not full of substance, but rather full of attacks on Obama.

    John McCain has Karl Rove as an advisor; if McCain gets elected, there is no doubt we will have four more years of Bush, because it's been Rove (and Cheney and Norquist and Rumsfeld) who've been running the country from the get-go.

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  112. Maggie

    Maybe the NYT is afraid McCain will write something idiotic like.. oh i don't know.. the BORDER IRAQ PAKISTAN BORDER?!!!?

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  113. Jackson

    This is why newspapers are floundering ... they think they know more than their readers ... why not let the readers decide if McCain's article is worthwhile? And the truth is, Iraq is not ready for us to leave yet ... what happens in their next elections will be very important to stability in the Middle East.

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  114. Mike Obama

    Editor David Shipley is biased. He should have not accepted Obamas editorial page too. We have seeen the major tv networks swinging in that direction. What's wrong with this election. People should know that this election is between kenyan Anchor Baby and All American Baby; Between liberal and moderate. go figure!

    July 21, 2008 01:51 pm at 1:51 pm |
  115. Citizens Are Pissed and Will Remember ...

    This is what the media SHOULD BE DOING ...

    require both candidates to present and defend their own plans as a precondition for getting published.

    Sounds like Obama did this ALREADY with his 1st submission ...

    I've tired of politicians like McCain consuming the public airwaves and the constitutionally empowered FREE PRESS with their negative views of their opponent without saying why they deserve our votes.

    CNN, MSNBC, FOX, ABC, CBS you need to follow suit.

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  116. pam Eugene OR

    Again and again McCain has nothing to say for himself except to attempt to bring down Obama.
    We will listen to McCain's plans but are sick of his negative ramblings. The "kitchen sick: mentality did not work for Clinton and it is not working for McCain either.
    You need to try something else John. Can't you see by now that what you are doing is not working?

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  117. Wolf

    The Times is in Obama's back pocket....as are the rest of the MSM. Simply a shame that the American people are being so lead by media. Obama will have the economy in a depression....and oh ya – let's not forget that the nomination campaign was to end the war in Iraq and bring the troops home. NOW – oops, they will be going to Afghanistan. Do not count on seeing any of the troops in Iraq anytime soon!!! So the General Election campaign promise will be – "oh forget what I said during the nomination process – things are different now"...no they aren't – he has just gotten a bit more knowledge. Naiive and inexperience at it's best! Wonder how much the Times plans on making if Obama is elected?

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  118. Big 'O"

    Wasn't John McCain part of the Keaton Five ( the '80s loan and saving failure). Where countless american lost they life savings. So believe him when he say he knows nothing about the ecomony. By the way, CNN, still waiting on the story about how McCain didn't know that Iraq and Pakistan DO NOT SHARE A BORDER.

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  119. sarah

    another blatant example of the media glorifying obama. i and many others agree that the media bias in obama's favor is absolutely nauseating. never has the media been so determined to influence an election. this behavior is completely disgusting.

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  120. judy, Wisconsin

    Wow–this was interesting. I may subscribe or check out the New York Times. McCain blusters about the other guy, but never says anything himself other than bomb bomb bomb. Great to see some backbone.

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  121. phill

    I think McCain needs to learn that Obama gets more cover time because he is more interesting

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  122. Don

    McCAin = old man yells at clouds.

    Obama 08

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  123. TheWeaselMcCain

    McWeasel is nothing more than a tired old man, whining about not being treated fairly by the media and the NY Times. Learn to write an op-ed piece that is NOT FoxNews' concept of fair & balance, and maybe the world will take McWeasel seriously when he parts his mealy-mouth to discredit the next president of the United State.

    President Barack Obama

    How sweeeeeeeeeet!

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  124. Maggie

    Maybe the NYT is afraid McCain will write something idiotic like.. oh i don't know.. the IRAQ PAKISTAN BORDER?!!!?

    July 21, 2008 01:52 pm at 1:52 pm |
  125. Kelly from MI

    I'm impressed with the NY Times and their steadfastness in being balanced. I've seen some comments claiming that this is biased reporting, but you really have to look at the facts.

    Obama submitted a piece that gave his stance on Iraq and how to deal with the problem. Did it take a few potshots at McCain? Sure. Of course it did. It was a critique as well as a suggestion.

    McCain's article was nothing other than slander. Biased reporting would be allowing that trash to be published. Asking McCain to stop being a baby and write what his plans are isn't bias; it's only fair.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  126. Dems be dopes

    Interesting...........if we don't like what you have to say, we won't print it.

    No bias here!

    No worries though as paid readership falls I suspect Wacko Barako will bail them out to keep the media reporting fair.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  127. Bahahaha

    New York Times basically just called McCain an idiot.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  128. Andy

    It would be easier for all of us if the NY Times just came out and said they were a paper that supported the Democrat party and left wing political ideology.

    This way any aditional loss of readership could be blamed on the Replicans, like everything else.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  129. Peggy - Tx

    McCain does not want to clearly out line his position at this time as he does not want his plans, if he has any, to be critique by any one else. He just wants to talk about his own war experiences, smile, and give the impression that he has wisdom. Now McCain states: “victory in Iraq must be based on conditions on the ground, not arbitrary timetables."

    Obama has stated in clear terms that we should have a time line, but always qualified the time line based on the situation as it progresses. Obama inspires my confidence to do what is right in Iraq. He has not changed his position on Iraq, but I am Ok if he does, as long as he makes informed decisions at each critical junction and is always honest with the American people.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  130. Pat Metheny

    I have no idea of what McCain's platform is, unless it's to attack Obama until he concedes. He must have learned that strategy in 'Nam

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  131. The Voice

    McBush said Iraq is a success but yet he said there are upcoming Al-Qaeda attacks in Iraq, so how do you measure success?? This guy is confusing himself on the whole thing, and now the GOP and Bush mafia are calling a timetable, time "horizon". These guys are really insane. What American is stupid enough to believe this?

    Now McSame is scrambling since Obama set foot in the middle east. After McSame said if was safe to walk around in Baghdad market with a bullet proof vest and helicopters flying over.

    Does he really think we are that stupid???

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  132. Chi-Town Cheryl

    My goodness - the politics, the rhetoric of the war on terror in Iraq. I hope when Obama returns from the Middle East he will tell the American people that despite the FAILED policies of Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and Rice, we are winning the war in Iraq, but not because of the Washington politicians; we are winning because of our troops. God bless our troops. It is their resolve, fortitude, stamina, brillance and excellent training that we are winning in Iraq. Our troops were sent to the Middle East without a game plan. They worked out a game plan as the war progressed. This is why America is such a great nation right now. And, we can have an even greater nation with Obama as our President. The ordinary people, not the Washington insiders, are bringing home victory for America. I am very displeased with our nation and its policies, but I so love the American people. Obama has led the way for the people to take back control of this nation. No to the Clintons. No to the Bushs. Yes to the People! Hurry on November. Obama '08

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  133. Mike, TX

    No surprise here. The NY Times is the most biased tabloid in America.

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  134. CTP

    The Times made a good call. McSame's letter was probably almost completely factually false, anyway. Can McSame remember how to write? He's pretty old and haggardly. If McSame wants to respond to Obama's letter by attacking him, let him pay for airtime. Spend all that money, McSame!!!

    YES WE WILL TAKE BACK THIS COUNTRY!!!
    Obama '08

    July 21, 2008 01:53 pm at 1:53 pm |
  135. Len in Washington

    It wasn't because they couldn't read his longhand letter....really.

    They just couldn't get past all the manure left by the Pony Express horse.

    He really should take some lessons for the computer and email.

    July 21, 2008 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  136. Dan

    Jesus, I love that liberal rag. Not just the NY Times, but every media outlet – print, TV, internet – and their daily felating of Obama. Obama has carte blanche to do and say whatever. John McCain is held to a different standard. Incredible.

    The US and the media better hope that their Golden Boy can lead the country....

    July 21, 2008 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  137. Linda31

    LOL, I am glad that they rejected his op-ed. Maybe is he wrote about what he would do instead of attacking attacking attacking. We know that you do not agree, but why?

    July 21, 2008 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  138. Steve

    Here! Here! for the Editor of the NY Times. I am so tired of hearing the candidates complain about what another candidate is or isn't doing. I want to hear what each candidate stands for on their own and then make my own decision. It is so sad to see politicians doing this at the local and national level. Do they really have no respect for our intelligence or is it that they just don't know the answers and are avoiding the subject !

    July 21, 2008 01:54 pm at 1:54 pm |
  139. Becky

    McCain sounds bitter and desperate. I love how the republicans refer to a "time horizon" which is B.S. because they're too prideful to just accept the fate of a "time table". The Bush administration and McCain need to see that more respect is given to those who admit their mistakes and change their paths to a better course.

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  140. Larry WI

    If I were McCain I would feel slighted, and tell the NY T to go scratch and I would resubmit to another source. The editor liked the obama format more so he requests tha McCain follow obama's lead, not very smart MR editor.

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  141. Dirk

    Don't worry John, Sean Hannity will publish it, the whole thing. He wants every American to vote for you, and makes it very clear on his show. So he'll read it on the air, tonight. Just don't expect non Republicans to hear it, we won't because Fox Noise is bias.

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  142. Incredulous

    Are liberals becoming defenders of freedom of speech only if it mirrors their speech?

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  143. Mark Webb

    If I understand well, the NY suggests to McCain to stop whining and to propose his own proposals, rather than unsubstantiated criticisms???
    What is wrong with that??
    He should follow this advice ASAP, maybe this could give him some credibility.

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  144. SIMP

    Just send it to that hateful Bill Oreily and that nasty Hannity, those two have a hugh hatred for Obama till they can't see straight. LOL I don't watch these idiots but I have seen enough to know they are so bitter I have no idea how they stay on the air. OMG hannity is still talking about rev wright, get a life idiot.

    Obama

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  145. Patrick

    Believe it or not to those crying media bias, the New York Times doesn't have to publish anything that a prominent person rights. If you read their opinion page there are smart, nuanced editorials from the right and the left all the time. So, no, they aren't wrong to demand that if McCain wants to be in this forum he has to discuss things on that level.

    There are plenty of outlets for simplistic, right v. left negativity, congrats to the New York Times for trying to demand a deeper discussion of the issues...

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  146. MurphyMorseJohnson

    McCain doesn't get it–and never will!

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  147. A Latte Lover, Seattle, WA

    Yes, Senator McCain, I would like to hear what your plans are for Iraq. Instead of just criticizing Senator Obama, I would like to hear what you consider a win in Iraq to be, and how long your propose to keep us there. I would seriously like to know what your plans are. Good for the NY Times for not wanting to just run an attack piece on Obama.

    July 21, 2008 01:57 pm at 1:57 pm |
  148. Benj Thall

    Did McCain actually write the piece himself or did his staff... that's what I want to know. I read the piece, it was garbage and provided nothing new. It wasn't even a good rebuttal. McCain keeps talking about supposedly winning in IRAQ and I keep wondering 'Winning' What? When we know McCain's mission, maybe then we could know how it was winnable.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  149. Linda31

    The Times also were within their rights to request details about McCain's plans. Problem is, he doesn't have one.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  150. Mwita (Los Angeles, CA)

    Obama wrote an article spelling out his positions on Iraq, and Afghanistan. McCain was supposed to do the same, but he instead wrote and article of critical of Obama's positions ,without spelling out his own positions.

    Is like if this was a job interview, and you are asked to describe your self. And you say nothing about your self, but talk only of how much better you are than the last person interviewed.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  151. pamela

    I'm a firm Obama supporter, and a regular reader of the New York Times. I also think the Times should have printed McCain's article, which I just read. Yes it's biased and unbalanced and yes McCain has bungled his facts. But it is the Times's job to print a major political figure's opinion, and then let the readers decide if they agree or not. Isn't that what an op-ed page is for? After all, they print Bill Krystal's column ever week, and he is just as far right, and often as wrong and out of context, as McCain.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  152. Ted

    Judgement day is coming if people don't hop off the Obama marketing bandwagon and realize what he is and how his policies will destroy the fabric of American life.

    Vote for security in November – Vote McCain.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  153. F W

    If John McCain had his way, we'd still be fighting in Vietnam.

    Does McCain not realize that victory has to include the Iraqis standing up for themselves and not being dependent on the US?

    If now–at the time of the lowest level of violence since the beginning of the war–is not the time to test the the capacity of the Iraqis to secure their own counrty, then when will be the time?

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  154. Basilone

    I learned a long time ago in very hard places and situations that "Flashy" was not always better than "Boring."
    Obama

    McCain criticized the tactic and troop levels from the start. Never has he suggested 'more of the same." The "surge" worked because of sound troop levels and tactics.

    The US will get the president and congress it deserves.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  155. Jennifer

    who wants to hear mccain's constant railing? Gives us something to think about, not just how Obama is wrong...

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  156. David Peter

    McCain never had anything positive to offer the American people, just baseless criticism. That's why The Times rejected his hate speech.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  157. Obama '08

    The McCain, this is not FIX News, take your attacks eleswhere and present some real solutions instead of more of the same!

    (NUMEROUS COMMENTS SUBMITTED, PLEASE POST FOR ONCE)

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  158. TJ

    I support Obama, but even I have to say that this is ridiculously shameless bias from NYT

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  159. Voter

    Who reads the NY Times anyway. They are trying to increase readership by generating controversy.. Gee... now I must go read McCain's article to see what he has to say about Nobama. Vote for Ron Paul.
    McCain attacked Nobama because everyone already knows McCain's Iraq policy.. Stay in Iraq for 99 years. He said it clearly. How much clearer can he get? His choice is to have a base like we do in Korea and Germany and Okinawa.. To ensure stability in that part of the world. And have control over the oil and Iran.

    July 21, 2008 01:58 pm at 1:58 pm |
  160. Will-South Dakota

    What does the time table for withdrawl by the Iraqi government do to McCains 100 year war plans?

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  161. Lesley

    McCain's op-ed piece isn't news at all, but a forum for McCain's attacks. Those kinds of tactics worked against him in the 2000 election and he's hoping they will work for him this year. I believe that people this time will be checking facts and listening to the candidates put forth their agendas before deciding, not relying on attack ads. The problem with McCain's new strategy is that he isn't putting out as much as he is attacking. He talks more about Obama than the Obama campaign. I get confused about his message because he devotes so much of his "ad" time to his opponent. He couldn't even go on late night tv, have a few laughs and go home without critizing Obama. Give it a rest for at least 20 minutes! If the American public elects on the basis of attack ads like we've done for the last two elections, then we get what we deserve.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  162. Ex-democrat

    That is bologne. The media has been brain washed. God help us!

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  163. Mike

    It's about time the media called out McCain.

    Does anybody know what his position on ANYTHING is?

    We just know that he doesn't like any of Obama's positions.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  164. Kathy

    Come on, John McCain writing. You mean, he had someone write for him. So we missed someone else's words, not John let-me-stand-closer-to-you-Bush McSame.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  165. Former GOP

    This is yet another example of McCain trying to win this election based on his POW status. He has not real plan other then to keep the current Bush plan, instead of telling us what he plans to do he wants to bash Obama.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  166. me

    Well, there has been no better example of biased journalism. Give nobama free press and reject it for McCain. And for you nobama idiots posting, you'd have more credibility if you'd learn to spell.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  167. Ex-democrat

    That is unacceptable. The media has been brain washed.

    July 21, 2008 01:59 pm at 1:59 pm |
  168. Dan

    Is Senator Obama really saying anything new himself? Almost everyone in the democratic side had said the same thing about Iraq. Only those closely tied to the administration is contradicting it.

    The difference is Obama appears to say it better – deliver it better.

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  169. HavingFun

    Retired Marine, is that all you can do. Pick on people's name like some middle school kid !! ridiculous..Did you forget to bring back something from your previous war zone..like your lobes perhaps.

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  170. Cynthia - Arkansas

    I am glad the New York Times refuses to be a mouth piece for the worst candidate in history. All he can do is attack Obama, while having no ideas of his own. He takes credit for the surge like it was his idea. I think military people a little higher up would make those decisions. Don't you think? His campaign has had nothing but parrots out all weekend saying the exact same thing. It's really getting old.(No pun intended) McSame is really getting desperate and it will only get worse. Negative, Negative...that 's all he has.

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  171. What if?

    Some are questioning the amount of coverage Obama is receiving during his trips to Iraq, Iran and the other Countries, wasn’t this what McSain constantly bullied and slandered Obama about during the primaries and every chance he gets at the Town Hall meetings were he speaks.

    Now that Obama has excepted McSane constantly bullied and slandered arguments by traveling to these countries, McSane now realize that Obama’s has taken away his so called negative leverage. His bulling and toting has back fired and he can’t fool the voters anymore during his speeches, is now upset with the New York Time.

    The New York Times has asked him to submit an article they would approve, within that article request the New York Times stated the article would have to articulate, in concrete terms, how Senator McCain defines victory in Iraq. It would also have to lay out a clear plan for achieving victory — with troops levels, timetables and measures for compelling the Iraqis to cooperate”, this is now said to be a demand by the New York Times.

    Watch out McSane and camp you’re showing a sign of desperation. Is this being considered a demand because the New York Times is asking for an article with a degree of honesty?

    Obama 08

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  172. Juice

    It's looking like Obama will set the standard and McSame will react, attack, then check his facts. It does seems lately that McSame has been carrying out a smear campaign. I think it's because he realizes he's going to lose the election slowly but surely.

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  173. keesa

    RIGHT ON NEW YORK TIMES MAGAZINE WERE TIRED OF MCcain B/S TALK ABOUT REAL ISSUE NOT CRITICISM.THE AMERICAN PEOPLE SUFFERING REAL ISSUE AND WE WANT REAL ISSUE TO SOLVE REAL PROBLEMS.

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  174. PELOSI SUCKS

    And the media bias CONTINUES

    God help this country!!!!!!!!

    July 21, 2008 02:00 pm at 2:00 pm |
  175. Nia - Phoenix, AZ

    ...wait...I'm a little confused. But Didn't McFlightSuit say last week that we won in Iraq? Did something happen over the weekend to where we are back at sqaure one? tisk...tisk...amature hour at camp Mccain...

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  176. Laura

    It seems like McCain's article was all negative, without offering his own policy proposals. I hope he revises his article to show more of what he would do, and then the NYT will print it.

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  177. Lulu

    So biased!

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  178. Kathy

    Fair is fair!!! This is just what I expected from the NY Times. They are just like the rest of the media. So Biased. Wake up people. We the people have a right to our choices too. You get Obama..... You'll be sorry!

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  179. Mark Webb

    <>????
    Can anyone translate this elitist phraseology in ordinary people language???

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  180. Obama 08 - rocking it baby

    How could one say NY Times is in bed with Obama (Voter, Omaha NE) ? This is the same paper that had the "satire" cover page correct? NYTimes know that no one want to hear McSame say the same old thing .... or throw mud at Obama ... since Bush is changing his policies towards the same way Obama has suggested McSane doesn't know what to do hehehehehe it is sad but one thing about McBush he won't fail without a Good CRY!

    Obama 08

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  181. Nevada

    Monday, July 21, 2008:

    "The Nevada Republican Party canceled its state convention for lack of interest. A quorum is 675 and only 300 people signed up. The delegates to the national convention will be chosen in a conference call."

    Quoted from electoral-vote.com

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  182. Stephen, Dallas, TX

    The New York Times' job is to publish "the news" or (on the OpEd pages) individuals' views re: "the news".

    I read the Obama OpEd piece... and there was nothing in it that he hasn't already been spouting during the campaign. By definition, it was NOT "the news". Therefore... it was (and rightly so for an OpEd piece), just somebody's opinion on "the news". Period. That's all it was.

    So... what's their problem with publishing somebody else's opinion on "the news"?

    The problem is obvious. The New York Times, it's editors and editorial staff, is and will be supporting the candidacy of Barak Obama for President of the United States... and will throw all it's significant resources behind that candidacy.

    No dfferent than Fox News in the other direction.

    Not surprising... but still very disappointing.

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  183. Sean

    Even though I will never vote for McWar, this was a bad move by the NYT. Obama's piece attacked McCain- can we really expect McCain not to attack Obama?

    All the news we want to print.

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  184. Kate

    Since when did page Editor David Shipley become the voice of what gets to be printed in a country where freedom of speech is paramount to an election, not to mention daily life?

    Who cares if the media is tiring of tools and tactics used in an election... the media shouldn't be directing political opinion, the media is resource for disseminating information... ALL information and opinions, whether the page editor agrees with it or not!

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  185. Mike, Syracuse, NY

    NY Times, where's your demands on Obama? How many residual troops will he leave in Iraq, and for how long? CNN estimated it could be 30,000-50,000. How long will we be in Afghanistan? What's your timetable for that? What's your definition of victory there? This is an absolute outrage, and just shows the media bias that McCain is fighting.

    July 21, 2008 02:01 pm at 2:01 pm |
  186. Anonymous

    The New York Times........................unbiased?

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  187. Kyle

    This is whats wrong with all the media. All they want to do is cover "Pretty Boy" Obama. It isnt fair!

    Oh well I am sure the American people will see through him in the end!

    McCain/Nobama 2008

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  188. andrew in SA

    Mike from Syracuse said,
    "Amazing. The NY Times trying to tell a Presidential candidate what to say. Did it tell Obama what he had to say? This is media bias at it's worse. This is an abuse of the First Amendment."

    They didn't have to tell Obama what to say, he wrote an editorial that expressed his views on substantial political issues, he didn't simply resort to bashing his opponent.

    How is this media bias!? The Times are trying to facilitate an honest discussion on relevant issues, that should be important to anyone no matter who you support.

    An abuse of the First Amendment!? Really? How? McCain can say whatever he wants, that doesn't mean the Times are obligated to publish it.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  189. Scott

    Lovely...just lovely. The NYT will print a speech by one candidate, but when a rebuttal editorial is submitted, NYT wants to control it's content. So much for unbiased reporting. I'm so sick of the "journalism" and "news" that we receive any more that it makes me sick our citizens died for the right to free press....for us only to end up with garbage like the NYT.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  190. Ann

    What a joke, wake up America, Obama is not the president and needs to stop being treated as such. What a joke this whole election has become all because people want to PUT Obama in as president, the news media, Fox is excluded, but people like CNN are nothing more but a lovefest for Obama. I came to visit my sister in Georgia this week, you think that qualifies me to have experience on foreign policies considering I don't live in Georgia and btw no one paid for my trip..

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  191. M from MD

    The NY Times has the right to reject material but it's utterly ridiculous to suggest to someone like John McCain what he should say! Forget about objective reporting, they are making a mockery out of journalism. I am a registered Democrat but I find this particularly appaling and it's media acts like this NY Times spectacle that sway me in the direction of McCain!

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  192. Jay

    I DON'T BELIEVE THIS???????

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  193. Juice

    Have any of you ever watched Fox news channel? It's about time somebody reacted to the republican attack dogs.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  194. Michelle

    Wall Street has downgraded the Big Three networks from
    "news" to "paparazzi."

    They have lost their status as serious news.

    patriotroom.com has the article

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  195. Tom Eyemdaman

    NYT: How dare you criticize our candidate. Please re-write your article to be less critical of our nominee!

    Is anyone surprised?

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  196. Fernando ATL

    Abby, FatCheck: McCain's mistake about the Iraq/Pakistan border is similar to Obama's suggestion that he would talk to the President of Canada about NAFTA... Do you really believe the candidates do not know those facts?... come on, le'ts focus on the issues...

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  197. Janelle

    Like I said, complaints about the Times being "biased" because they won't allow a candidate to bash another one.

    Obama wrote an article that was consistent with the paper's policy on what they will publish from a political candidate. McCain doesn't, just criticizes and offers nothing about his plans or policies, and gets turned down. He is also told that they will publish McCain's article when it conforms to the paper's policy. I respect the Times more and McCain less.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  198. HavingFun

    Iraq/Pakistan border..Yes Sir, McCain ! Please prepare an Agenda to hunt Osama and Al Qaeda there and to be there for 100 years !!!

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  199. F W

    CNN, please help the morons who see media bias in this understand the difference between the news sections of the papers and the editorials. A quick primer on the difference might help them understand why what Rush Limbaugh and Sean Hannity tell them differs from what the actual reporters report, as well as why the NY Times can be unbiased in its reporting, but take sides on in its editorial sections.

    Thanks.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  200. aaron from minneapolis

    McCain strategy is put more troops in the area while have no idea how long it'll take to work or if it'll work so he can't put timetables on it. Heaven forbid he makes a prediction of how long it would take. Being held captive for 5 years does not make you President worthy. He tried killing himself while being a POW. McCain can't even put together a plan good enough for the New York Times, how sad.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  201. E.C.Coleman

    Does this surprise anyone at all? The New York Times........the Left Wing Radical Arm of CNN News rejecting an editorial by Senator McCain? These folks have just announced to the WORLD that they are the Most Biased and Unfair, Media outlet in business. AND WHO CARES? HOW CLOSET RADICAL OF THE NEW YORK TIMES AND A MIRROR IMAGE OF BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA, THE NEW KNOW IT ALL OF THE MID EAST. How pitiful and how sad of the NYT. Fire the Editor.

    July 21, 2008 02:02 pm at 2:02 pm |
  202. Barbara Gooch

    How journalism plays politics is wrong, just print what you need to from both candidated, if it were Obama saying the same thing would you print it, I bet you would. It doesn,t matter weather you print McCain's script or not, he will be the next President, all the American people are not crazy.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  203. Ken in INdy

    Mike, Syracuse, NY:

    Actually, it's not an abuse of the First Amendment. That amendment protects against GOVERNMENT infringement of a citizen's rights guaranteed under that amendment. The New York Times is a private business that has the right to decide what it does and does not print. Just like "Fox Noise" has the right to decide what it reports and, most unfortunately, how it reports. The bottom line is McCain needs to have his feet held to the fire. He needs to provide what he feels is a solution. It doesn't do him much good to just throw stones at Obama when he has offered nothing substantive on his part.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  204. Callan

    I'm an Obama supporter, and we all know the New York Times has a liberal slant, but this is out of line.

    They should be presenting both candidates' viewpoints in an equal and unbiased manner.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  205. Republican who loves OBAMA

    Finally, someone holding McCain to task! I wanted to vote for McCain, but I don't know where he stands, or if he even knows where he stands! Age doesn't have anything to do with it, he simply has no idea what he is talking about! His campaign and surrogates have to constantly whisper in his ear to REMIND him of previous statements he has made. I watch his town halls to have an open mind about this election, but all he does is attack Obama's plan, w/o giving specifics about HIS plans. I need a president that offers solutions whether they will work or not, and who listens to and calls upon the American people to work with him to restore this great nation. I am not hearing that from McCain, and I don't think I ever will, that's why as a long time Republican, I will be voting for a Democrat this November. My conscience simply won't allow me to sit back and watch McCain start WW3!!

    OBAMA '08!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  206. T Harris

    It is ok for that useless Obama to have freedom of speech but not Mc Cain. It is quite obvious the media wants to have Obama elected. What a tragedy for America!! If Obama gets more expereince than maybe so.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  207. Jann, Denver CO

    If McCains editorial is anything like his dry, boring speeches I would not print them either.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  208. Sam, Menlo Park

    Just like when he refused to try and escape – AS IT WAS HIS DUTY TO DO – McCain is showing his cowardly side by attacking someone else instead of coming up with a plan of his own and defending THAT.

    July 21, 2008 02:03 pm at 2:03 pm |
  209. Marguerite, NYC

    Maybe McSame wants to write about the Iraq Pakistan border? He not only has the same policies as Bush (well sometimes now that the Bush admin seems to be following Obama's lead), but he has as much knowledge as Bush as well

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  210. Mike

    All major media outlets should demand to know what McCain's definition of "Victory in Iraq" is. They have been letting the current administration slide for so long without demanding a definition from them.

    McCain claims we are already victorious.

    "Mission Accomplished" was declared years ago.

    Yet, he thinks we need to keep fighting in Iraq?

    Republicans have a very vague notion of what "victory" is, and it seems to change from day to day.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  211. ali

    mccain doesnt sell news.he distracts from it with bs.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  212. ryan

    Those who defend this decision obviously care not about integrity in journalism or intelligent debate.

    Liberals and conservatives are ruining this country. Their fanaticism has caused what should be sober minded persons in areas which used to be respected for integrity and fairmindedness, into bastions of hypocrisy.

    No more can any liberal or conservative claim to be superior to the other. They are all the same.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  213. Aaron from Seattle

    Ok 2 things:
    First – An editor has the right to print or not print whatever he or she chooses. It's the reason there is such a job, to filter out erronious, or otherwise fluff articles.

    Second – If all McCain was going to do was gripe about Obama and not offer a concrete plan for our troops, the Iraq war, or the on-going conflict in Afghanistan than there really was no point to printing the article anyway since it probably didn't offer any insight other than more personal attacks. At least Obama has made points and is developing strategies, and puts forth these strategies for the public to review, where all McCain has spouted is the same ol' "stay the course."

    New York Times editor, I solute you!

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  214. Alan Boyer

    Using McCain's logic: Start a war of choice. Endure thousands of deaths. Spend billions of dollars. Start a surge. Lose more lives. Spend billions more. And somehow we have succeeded. Yes, we have succeeded in cleaning up the mess we never should have started. How many times can you win a war? Remember Mission Accomplished?

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  215. Dave

    The New York Times has clearly revealed its bias in this presidential campaign, as if there was any question before. I am a Democrat, but also a recovering journalist. Such blatant disregard of the need for balance on its editorial pages reflects poorly on those at the NY Times who still advocate for fair and balanced coverage of political campaigns.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  216. chris

    Can't say I'm comfortable with the NY Times giving Obama an open forum and rejecting McCain. As with all Elections, this is very important and all americans should pay attention and become as informed as possible.

    Additionally; I find many of these comments that readers posted very disheartening. When did we become such a hateful country? I'm not a fan of this President, but he is our leader and we're all Americans....like it or not.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  217. Richard, St. Paul, MN

    Typical Republican 'editorial'... try to tear down the other person and their plans, reject facts, spin-doctor anything you don't like, and again, reject facts, without providing any of your own. No wonder McClone is such a horrible candidate... he comes from a horrible party.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  218. Tom

    As a regular reader of the New York Times I think McCain shouldn't be censored and nor do I think he should have to self-censor himself as Mr. Shipley is obviously suggesting. Everyone knows the New York Times supports Obama. I'm fine with that and read the newspaper because of it's front-page reporting and not it's editorial page. Nonetheless, if it wants to be a part of the Obama campaign it should register with the Federal Election Committee and be subject to campaign finance laws. Even though it's a newspaper run by a corporation if it wants to give free advertising to a candidate that candidate should report it's value as a gift. In my view, the gift from the New York Times to Obama is probably worth several million dollars in which case several election laws were probably violated and the Times should be investigated for that.

    July 21, 2008 02:04 pm at 2:04 pm |
  219. Brad Morse

    I am so tired of all the media hipe over Obama. They are not giving McCain same coverage so he can articulate his veiws. I must say even if I wanted to vote for Obama I would not because the media is so unfair...maybe I just need to watch FOX.

    July 21, 2008 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  220. Country Over Party

    I am stunned that those who support Obama would not want balance in this election...and its coverage. And I say this is a Democrat who does not support McCain or any other Republican.

    But now I remember: that is exactly what you COUNTED on during the Primary, in order to get Obama nominated. No dissidence, right? *With us or against us.* Boy, does that sound familiar.

    You are all beginning to scare me a bit...

    July 21, 2008 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  221. Otanes - Atlanta

    Hey McCain, you want to be a “change I can believe in”, then tell me why I should vote for you instead of why I should NOT vote for Obama!

    July 21, 2008 02:05 pm at 2:05 pm |
  222. Tom Jones

    So much for free speech. I guess it's either the New York Times version or not at all!

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  223. RAC

    More people will end up reading this piece on the Drudge report than if the NYT had published it.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  224. Scott

    From "An American" (?) – Get over yourself, McCain, and start telling us exactly what you plan on doing. From where I sit, your only plan is telling us what you think is wrong with Obama's plan.

    I would like to hear details...even the SLIGHTEST detail of any sort from Obama...not just more, overplayed, worn-out rhetoric about hope, change, blah, blah, blah.....

    Obama has NO DETAILS because he has NO PLAN .....just rhetoric and catch-phrases.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  225. Andrew, NO

    it's not too much to ask for a candidate to write a short essay that concerns itself with NEWSWORTHY policy debate rather than attacks and overused political talking points. Obama's piece had details and new information, McCain's lacks both and is not worth a page in the NYT.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  226. RyanD.

    All the Repugs can do is go negative. Not this week, John Boy!

    Obama 08'

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  227. Mike

    Gee, what a shock. "The Treason Times" blocking out freedom of speech from a Republican, even if he is as liberal as their candidate. For all of you Fox News bashers out there, you might want to think again as to where the true bias in media really exists. It's in the "mainstream media", and here is the living proof.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  228. ANGIE FRANCE

    It was an opinion, he should be able to write whatever he likes. He should have every right to have it published. The NY times should change their name to the obama times. Maybe now there will be no argument about bias and how the left have no time for anyone's opinion other than their own. That's very clear and reading some of these idiotic responses, they are just preaching to the choir.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  229. JS

    "I find it ironic that he is emulating the worst mistake of the Bush administration by waving the ‘Mission Accomplished’ banner prematurely"

    Didn't John McCain say last week that the surge was a "success" (as opposed to "is succeeding").Altough there has been improvement in Iraq, far be it to say the goal of the surge, creating a completely stable environment where political reconcilation can be achieved, has been obtained.

    Today he was just saying that "he knows what Iraqis want"

    Im voting for Barrack Obama because Im sick of the Republicans treating me like im stupid (i.e; Let me tell you want you should think). I had enough of this for the last 8 years.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  230. Nia Hussein- Phoenix, AZ

    i find it intresting that since the war got started Obama position has been that same. The GOP Brow beat him for only being there once. he goes again with the same message and is already ahead of the game in years. the Iraq Gvomnt' agrees with him. And the GOP still find a reason to brow beat him...why? Cause he once again beat them?

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  231. Nando, Florida

    Its probally was full of spelling errors because he says he realy does not know much about computers and thought spell check was a Warlock term.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  232. James Hussein, SC

    Amercians view themselves as the smartest folks on the planet. Yet, they want to elect the second dumbest person into the top office, McCain. We might as well re-elect Bush for his third term. Atleast we would have someone who can think to some level; and not just behave as an attack dog.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  233. Mike

    For all the whiners that claim that the Times is wrong for rejecting McCain's editorial, and showing some kind of bias – take your predictable and tired Conservative Outrage back to the good old "fair and balanced" Fox News.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  234. Erika

    How can you call it media bias? This is an editorial letter. Sen. Obama was talking about his plan with some criticism of Sen McCain, while McCain is just writing to complaint about it, making it a propaganda. There is a big difference between the letters.

    And I am being objective about the subject.

    Senator McCain needs to be an adult about this and let us know that he is capable of discussing his plans with us, the people who actually vote. Besides, I remember back in the Iowa Caucus, he mentioned that the people do not like negative campaigning... wow, how fast he forgot about that.

    July 21, 2008 02:06 pm at 2:06 pm |
  235. Tony

    How's it smell up there Libs? You've all got your heads buried so far up your rear, it's pathetic (say hi to the mainstream media while you're up there too.) Why is it anytime anybody calls out the messiah for something he said or his wife said, that it's an attack. If you actually read McCains Op Ed – it's not an attack piece. You pseudo intellictuals make me sick. It's no small wonder that the New York Times is going down the tubes – there's just not enough of dimwitted losers out there to read that biased tripe to keep it in business. I can't wait to see the look on all of your socialist faces when your Messiah gets his butt kicked at the voting booths. A lot of the morons who favor him in the polls will not even bother to vote.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  236. Jay Nair

    Sen.McCain is quite dishonest and misleading in most of his utterances. He claims" I know how to win wars". Which war did he win?
    His surrogate Joe Lieberman says"Obama can now tour Iraq because of the safety brought on by the "surge". How did McCain and his favorite Sancho Panza(Joe) tour Iraq before the "surge".
    It is high time these bluffs got called.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  237. Teddy California

    New York Times has rights to publish anything they want. This is a free country. They can endorse Obama if they think appropriate. Everyone knows New York Times supports liberal candidates while Wall Street Journal supports conservatives.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  238. American "Whiner"

    The NY Times is right on this one. When they were wrong I called them out too. YOU CAN NOT SIMPLY ATTACK ANOTHER PERSON'S POLICY WITHOUT LAYING OUT YOUR OWN STRATEGY. Mccain go ahead and take obama's lead just like you have with his Afghanistan plan for more troops.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  239. Mike - Texas

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

    What do you expect?

    Mccain was a D student.
    Obama graduated number 1 at Harvard Law.

    They should give Mccan credit for spelling his name right.

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

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  240. Andy J, NY

    Typical of the NY Times.

    We don't agree with what you have to say, so we won't publish you.

    But, if you want to be just like our savior, Obama, then we will be happy to publish you.

    F the NY Times. Liberal propaganda.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  241. Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia

    Old guard politics and repetitious political rheortic isn't cutting the mustard. The New York Times wants McCain to present "tie down conditions" on his conclusion to the war in Iraq. It is not only the American people who want our troops out, the the Bush back Iraqi Prime Minister also wants US withdrawl. Old saying, why are we staying where we are not wanted?

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  242. Nick

    Won't be voting for McCain anytime soon, but I have to admit the NY Times is showing true colors. They've always been left bent. Another example of how liberal media won't stop until they've help get rid of any of the moral values this country has.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  243. Michael

    This paper is the biggest piece of crap in "journalism". Obama can write whatever he chooses, but McCain has to revise based of what some snot-nosed Liberal editor wants to hear? Don't think so.

    As a veteran, this paper is a continual disgrace and national security threat to this country. They, time and time again, reveal national security secrets for a headline, that is ALL they care about. It is the same wiener Harry Reid, Shumer and Polosi politics that makes Americas tired of the so called public servants that are out there. They play "GOTCHA!" and the Nation suffers.

    SHAME ON YOU New York Times! You lost the country's respect a very long, long time ago.

    McCain 08'

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  244. Joe in NJ

    The rag that is called the New York Times is not even worthy of being used as toilet paper. It lost all credibility and integrity years ago. This includes all of their coverage, be it politics, science, the arts, etc. It's amazing how irrelevant it has become.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  245. Serviceman

    Typical White Person

    I am white and have served my country for over 15 years and there is nothing typical of you and the majority white pop. You will see that in Nov.

    July 21, 2008 02:07 pm at 2:07 pm |
  246. Bob Hussein Akmad Jones

    I have yet to hear Pelosi and the rest of the democraps announce they want a fairnesss doctrine instituted for News Papers and Media. any libs care to answer wht that would be?

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  247. Aaron

    These comment postings on CNN have turned into nothing more than a name calling forum of John McCain, instead of discussing the actual issue; does the NY Times have a right to censor one candidate over the other. Calling one candidate names it childish and unproductive. Lets grow up and discuss the issues.

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  248. TJ

    NY Times as liberal as always. I'm not surprised.

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  249. Mccain LIES!

    In other words, they were not going to publish lies. I love it! Mccain your judgement sucks. Look where all that so called 'experience' has gotten you, your desperate and copy catting Obama on everything now. We don't need you in the white house. And he is still stuck on IRaq. Incredible!
    GOODNESS man, Iraq is old news and has been old news since we invaded them for no good reason. Get a clue Mccain.

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  250. Eric

    Ah, so it is up to the NYT to determine what "new" means. I guess those who have not heard what McCain has to say should just be smarter.

    "It would be great if McCain would just say what we want him to."

    This from the same crowd who will complain bitterly that the protesters at the national conventions are kept too far from the politicians. By NYT logic, we've already heard what code pink and move on have said, so why do we need to let them say it again?

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  251. Peachy Keen

    Why are some people so surprised that the NYT or any other paper just might endorse Obama. Historically, all papers, at one time or another, will endorse a candidate. It has nothing to do with journalism. It's just the way it is and I'm sure, very soon, the NYT will come out with their endorsment of Obama. And as far as I'm concerned, that is wonderful.

    July 21, 2008 02:08 pm at 2:08 pm |
  252. lawdog

    Let's see....the New York Times.....has Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson offered anything new to the New York times in the last 20 years......why should the NYT start enforcing a "editorial" guideline now?

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  253. WOW - Cedar Hill, TX

    Thanks NYTimes for seeing McCain for who he really is. A copy-cat...

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  254. trudi

    The "Times" is so notoriously biased it is disgraceful.......
    It is hard to believe any political rhetoric that comes out of it.
    Never do we get both sides from it. Really disappointing.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  255. Vinny Fairfield, Ct

    It's amazing how many people who posted here are happy that the NYT refused McCain's op-ed. They feel that only Obama's comments are worthy. Wow! Isn't that what's done in communist countries like Cuba and China, and dictatorships like Venezuela, Zimbawe? Those posters are all for "free speech" as long as it's theirs! What a bunch of hypocritical morons! As for the NYT, it's par for the course; that "newspaper" lost all its credibility a long time ago! (Even see their stock worth and readership numbers? Pathetic!)

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  256. Jeffrey

    After reading McCain's rejected piece, I can see all too well why he's achieved the nickname McSame. Only the NeoCons and warmongers like McCain continue to believe that the Iraq war can be "won" in the same sense that previous wars have been won. The Iraq war was lost the moment it started because it was a preemptive invasion. There is no way to reverse world opinion of America's suddenly naked imperialism by destroying Iraq through violence. Just for once, I'd like to see McCain or anyone prove that the terrorism has been weakened by the Iraq war. Of course, this proof will never come. You can defeat a nation or an army with war. You cannot defeat a method-terrorism-through war. It's impossible, by definition. Anyone who mocks the idea of exploring the root causes of terrorism like McCain lives with their head in the sand. Obama appears, at least, willing to consider that there may have been triggers caused by America's international policies that have read to the rise of terrorism.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  257. Change NOW

    could mccain just cut and past bush's plans, because they are identical???

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  258. Julie

    Good for the NYT's.

    What exactly is Mccains strategy other than just shooting down everything Obama says? Since he's behind, you'd think he'd focus on his stance on the issues. I lose respect for mccain on a daily basis. I didn't think the US could do worse than bush, but I see the potential of doing so with Mccain.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  259. Ed, Santa Fe NM

    so McBush flunked his written test??? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  260. Worst...Resume...Ever....

    The NY Times is the front for the vast left wing conspiracy.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  261. Love My USA

    I am a Dem. But I will not even consider working or voting for BO. Stop blaming the Repub. for what the Dem haven't done in the past two years they have been in control. BO is not cabable of leading this country.. God Bless America and all of our troops if BO becomes President. He is a sheep in wolves clothing.....

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  262. Ryan, New York, NY

    Why are people outraged that the NY Times isn't publishing every Op-Ed that it receives? The Times has repeatedly published tons of op-eds thoughout this election season from right leaning sources that often disagree with its left-leaning point of view. If it didn't meet their criteria, so be it. It's the op-ed section, not the news portion, anyhow.

    Additionally, this story will probably cause the op-ed to get more readers than if it'd been accepted and printed by the Times as is. I'm sure that the McCain campaign has already spread it all around and that other right-leaning publications will be publishing it to show "how fair they can be" compared with the Times.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  263. JR Shells

    Oh wow... I just read the Op-ed. At first, I was going to blast the Times but now I understand. Why would they print an op-ed that merely attacks but does not elucidate? McCain needs better campaign handlers.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  264. wthwah

    So basically the New York Times is saying you can have your own opinion, as long as it is theirs.

    I have lost all respect for the NYT, I think they are biased, have an agenda, and should be called the Obama Press Corps.

    I happen to be an Obama supporter, but have been rethinking this as I find he is being made into a messiah-like figure by the media, and that scares me. Did anyone see the cover of Time? He looks like he was superimposed over the image of Jesus.

    I will never buy or read a NYT owned product. I hope all their advertisers bail out too.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  265. Tim

    Furthermore it is completely inappropriate for McCain to be given a soapbox for Iraq considering that:

    1. Today on Good Morning America he said that Iraq and Pakistan share a border.

    2. At a fundraiser McCain leaked details of Obama's Iraq trip. Here are the militaries guidelines:

    "Please strongly discourage Congressional offices from issuing press releases prior to their trips which mention their intent to travel to the AOR and/or the dates of that travel or their scheduled meetings. Such releases are a serious compromise to OPSEC."

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |
  266. al

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

    HIS LETTER GOT REJECTED. TOO MUCH COMPLAINING NOT ENOUGH SOLUTION.

    HAHA...HARDI...HAR...HAR....

    SEND IT TO FOX THEY WOULD GALDLY BROADCAST IT.

    STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

    July 21, 2008 02:09 pm at 2:09 pm |