July 22, 2008
Posted: July 22nd, 2008 12:07 PM ET

From ,
CNN

Watch McCain slam Obama on Iraq.

(CNN) - After Barack Obama spoke out against the surge again Tuesday, John McCain's campaign responded by repeating athe charge that the Illinois senator favors “unconditional withdrawal.”

Earlier: Obama: Stability in hands of Iraqis

“By continuing his opposition to the surge strategy long after it has proven successful and by admitting that his plan for withdrawal places him at odds with General David Patraeus, Barack Obama has made clear that his goal remains unconditional withdrawal rather than securing the victory our troops have earned and the surge has made possible," McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds said.

The McCain campaign is also conducting a conference call with Rep. Heather Wilson, Sen. Sam Brownback, and McCain adviser Randy Scheunemann to keep up the pressure on Obama.

Listen: McCain surrogates target Obama over his Iraq policy

UPDATE: McCain himself also took a swipe at Obama over his Iraq policy at a New Hampshire town hall Tuesday.

"You might recall that Senator Obama, my opponent, said the surge would not succeed, that he wanted us out. If he had his way, we'd been out last March. .. We would have had defeat," he said. "And my friends, that would have been a catastrophe for the United States of America. He was wrong then, he's wrong now and he still failed to acknowledge that the surge succeeded ... remarkable, remarkable. "

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


Moses, Ca.   July 22nd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

" BREAKING NEWS " Obama won't make a gaffe overseas. like expected by the media. So can we report the mis-speaks that McCain makes at his town hall meeting.

Linda Esen   July 22nd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

selected not elected July 22nd, 2008 12:08 pm ET :

I love this flip flopping term that was created ; NOTE: its not flip flopping its being flexible when the facts change...we have "stayed the course" with Bush and look what that has got us...

Independent leaning left   July 22nd, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Why does everyone believe the sole cause of the decrease in violence is due to the military surge. I applaud our brave young men and women who completed this excellent task. However, it is not the only and (quite frankly) not the main driver of the decrease. There are many factors:

1) Awakening of the Iraqi people to fight back
2) Larger and better trained (thanks to US military) Iraqi security force
3) and THE BIGGEST REASON is:

The current administration is paying billions of $ to hold a very "thin" cease fire with the Al Sadr army. Let me ask you this question; What do you think Al Sadr and his Medhi army is doing with those funds. They are buying better and more dangerous weapons to attack with once the US leaves or they determine they do not need any further funding.

That's right, the USA is funding the same extremists that want to see our young troops killed. Furthermore, this is all being set up for when the US does leave, a regrouped and better equiped Al Sadr army will take over IRAQ. That will leave a victorious or not victorious John McCain to stand up and say "I told you we needed to stay". So sad! That is the main reason I leaning left.

Mark, B'ham., Al.   July 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

If the democrats, including Obama had their way after the 2006 Election we would not have had the surge and the vast improvements in security and safety in Iraq. The democrats including their supporters have not lost their post Viet Nam attitude of we cannot fight to win a war because it is not politcally correct to destroy your enemey, which contributed to the Viet Nam War loss. Obama is not man enoough toadmit his party was wrong about the surge and that the US Military can do what the college educated diplomats could not do.

AA   July 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Best one I've read so far...

-snip-
Obama has fallen for his own hype...
I want a humble leader who acts to the benefit of others...
-snip-

Are you enjoying your benefits right now hmmm...?
Enjoying paying for an occupation because of...?
Enjoying watching the benefits that the people of Iraq are swimming in?

Let me know how its going for you please, we could all use more benefits.

Wake up.

McCain is too old   July 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

The difference between McCain and Obama couldn't be more glaring. Obama is intelligent, values diplomacy and already commands international respect on a world stage.

Remember McCain's last trip to Iraq? I remember a befuddled old man running around in a bulletproof vest...with Leiberman whispering the difference between Shiite and Sunni in his hard of hearing ear for the umpteenth millionth time.

Now really, republican,democrat, or independent, who do you want representing the country you love? Have some pride, take back the US, and vote Obama!!!

Biffington, Biff   July 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

"McCain camp hammers Obama press conference" .....

(insert monotone voice here)

O, gee... what a sur prise..... that the mcstain camp attacks what Obama said. I am stunned......... STUNNED, I tell you..

ok... let's make a deal... let's say Obama agrees to admit the "surge" (escalation) has had a positive effect "IF" mccain admits it was a mistake going to Iraq in the first place...... (yeah, i thought not)....

David Goldman for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 12:59 pm ET

THE FOLKS THAT SUPPORT MCCLUELESS, I THINK,

DON'T REALIZE THAT HE DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A CURRENT

EQUIVALENT OF A GED DIPLOMA. THE MAN CAN'T SEND

AN EMAIL. HE DOESN'T USE THE INTERNET. MY GRANDMOTHER

IS OLDER THAN MCBUSH & SHE DOES BOTH. BUT HE IS PROUD

TO BE IGNORANT. HE CALLS HIMSELF A FOREIGN AFFAIRS

EXPERT BUT DOESN'T KNOW ABOUT THE BREAKUP OF A LARGE

COUNTRY LIKE CZECHOSLOVAKIA, 16 YEARS LATER. HE MAKES

GEORGE LOOK GOOD.

Berndt Seattle, WA   July 22nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

IF NObama really cares about this country, and our service men and women, why is he just now making his FIRST trip to Afghanistan? His trip there was nothing more than a continuation of his Pied Piper efforts to try and charm voters instead of work for them. His posing over there is an insult, especially when you consider he's been head of that one committee for over 18 months and has not held one meeting. How is that really caring about our troops?

I wish America and the media would wake up and see this arrogant, inexperienced, greedy jerk for who he really is.

Linda Esen   July 22nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Thats all McCain does is give negative rebuttals....

Hojo   July 22nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

The McCain campaign is like a broken record. All they can do is attempt to distort Obama's position on every issue. They continue to make fools of themselves each and every time.

JohnS   July 22nd, 2008 12:58 pm ET

McCain, Bush and Cheney were wrong to invade Iraq that had nothing to do with the 911 attack and never had WMD.

Truth must be spoken.

Let's ne a nation that can dare and be proud again to speak the truth.

Let's cinycism belong to the past.

Let's enjoy the new ERA of the popularity of the United States of America again around the world.
This is exactly what will bring back the US world leadership in economy, human rights, environment. military, diplomacy.

OBAMA 2008 – 2016

==OVER-EXPOSURE==   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

with all the media hype around Sen Obama he must perform and act to whatever is asked . WOW ! what a runaway tongue he has...to disclose the private talk between himself and the Iraqi Prime Minister...
really bad JUDGEMENT !...as Sen Hillary Clinton often stated in the primaries 'EXPERIENCE' does count....After Bush ...another on the job TRAINEE.?? That America would be bad JUDGEMENT; Go with
"EXPERIENCE" and vote "MCCAIN"
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McCain is too old   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Selected not elected:

First off, HILLARY CLINTON LOST!!!!! If you love her sooo much, donate to her debt.

linda n carolina   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

John McWhiner will still be talking about the "surge" in his concession speech in Nov.

Brian J   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Who is John McCain again? :p As a candidate, Senator McCain is losing his foreign affairs luster. He and Bush are following Senator Obama's foreign policy in Iraq and Afghanistan. John McCain is showing more and more how his policies are simply a reflection of the many lobbyists in his campaign. Too bad the American people do not have a lobbyist-we are left out in the cold when it comes to Republican polices.

Candy West Virginia   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Hey Mccain and all you repuglicans, please tell me how we won this war? Please, I beg you. Tell me how we can win a war started on proven lies, that 4500 soldiers died needlessly over and we are trillions in debt because of. Spin your repuglican lies, and explain this stuff away. Terrorism is now worse because of our invasion and the world hates us and yet you guys say we won. Incredible! And if you believe the John McWar hype I have some swamp land in florida I wanna sell ya.

BVAL   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Questions for MCcain

-Bush-Mccain war was to destroy Saddam nuclear arsenal.
Where are those weapons?.
-Saddam was captured and executed because he was linked to terrorism.
Where is the proof of that?
-When us soldiers landed in Iraq there was not even a gun shot from the Iraqi army so called Saddam natianal guard .
who were we fighting with ?
Now the insurgents came just after and in many case to fight not only with the us soldiers but there own battle over control of Iraq that the after saddam has given an opportunity to pursue what they have always been pursuing even under saddam.

Is there anyone out there understand this is about the Bush-maccain ego cause they don't have any explanation for the american people after causing death of over 4.000 young men and women, destroying the economy, leaving hundred of thousands unemployed.

This is not about winning any war. It's about not willing to admits mistake. Mccain was for this war since the beginning and is equally responsible for the mess this war has caused. Electing Mccain is a license to disrespect and desregard to the american people who is in all circumstances the ultimate victim.

let's get over the war, let's get over Mcsame

suzyku   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

mcsame and his cohorts are desperate! whatever they say just doesn't really matter!

AJP Richardson, TX   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

McCain is a jerk!!

Phil, FL   July 22nd, 2008 12:57 pm ET

NEWS RELEASE – McCain has learned their are two countries now – Slovakia and the Czech Republic.

Hooray !!!!!!!!!

Go Obama '08

James in Ohio   July 22nd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Sheesh, you Obama congregants sound just like the Bushies. Both so completely obsessed with their leader that they can't admit he is human and can be wrong.

With supporters like these I can easily see that Obama would be a Bush 3rd term.

It's okay to say Obama was wrong about the surge.

AntiBrenda   July 22nd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Loud cries from losers. Put Obama at odds with General David Patraeus? Really looked like it in the chopper didn't it? Some of these guys cant wait to finally work with a reasonable president. They are sick and tired but stay mute because..... If they could tell you, you would know how much they hate war and war-mongers like McSame.

disgraced American   July 22nd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

Who cares what Mcain or the babbling idiots who speak for him have to say. Before trying to give talking points on a surge, which even an idiot should now know isn't the only reason for (TENTATIVE) success in Iraq, Mccain needs to learn how to write coherent thoughts before offering any form of rhetoric. When I was younger, I always heard the phrase 'peace to the Middle East,' a popular catch phrase used in the early 90s. Unfortunately, the US presence in the middle east has done little next to nothing to try and make that peace a reality.

Moses, Ca.   July 22nd, 2008 12:56 pm ET

McCain can't do any wrong. the media is so busy waiting for Obama to make a gaffe overseas that Mcbush can say and do anything he wants, even if it's wrong. No media takes McBush to task. McBush can say the sky is green and the media will show Obama riding a bike or going to the gym. Unreal.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   July 22nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

McCain ain't gotta nothin' nobody wants to hear.
Too old, too convervative, to witless and to dumb to quit.

Ugh!

Ken   July 22nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Define victory, McCain... you seem to keep refusing to do so.

I suspect 'victory' for the Neocons = permanent base of operations in Iraq... c'mon McCain, you know the American People don't want that. Just admit it.

Roger Neely   July 22nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

How egotistical of a comment, to compare his plan to the surge and if it would haved worked. Why not put your head up a cow's behind and see if butter is going to be more expensive tomorrow.

Frank, Missouri   July 22nd, 2008 12:55 pm ET

Obama did not mention 'unconditional withdrawal'. That's fiction.

So, but does anybody know what Bush/McCain's definition of victory is? From what I can tell, 'Staying in Iraq' means 'Victory in Iraq'. You cannot leave when violence is up, you cannot leave when violence is down. You cannot leave when the Iraqis ask us to stay, you cannot leave when the Iraqis ask us to leave.

Besides that, I don't understand McCain's claim that being a POW gives him so much knowledge about war (?) Being shot down in your plane is tragic but not really a great qualification for commander in chief.

Peter (CA)   July 22nd, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Waht is all this nonsense about Obama's "star image"?

Is it because he can actually speak clearly and intelligently while McCain struggles and Bush is an idiot? Is that why he is an "elitist"? As opposed to Bush who grew up in government luxury and McCain who grew up as military royalty?

Obama is constantly evaluating what is going on in the world and making adjustments to the situation. Would have been nice if Bush has tried that over the last 8 years. McCain has changed almost all of his positions to make the right-wing happy. Is that not "flip-flopping" also?

Dave C - NJ   July 22nd, 2008 12:54 pm ET

I love all the Obama haters who keep pointing out his middle name. We don't care. Obama, who never said anything about it, doesn't care.
I guess bigots care, but they won't vote for him anyway.
The only time HUSSEIN was an issue is when the Re-pukes were using it sarcastically and their own party told them to knock it off, ie, grow up.

And all of you are pretty vague in your attacks. Calling him hype and arrogant etc. I don't see it. Be specific, you sound like fools.

Obama has a plan: get out.

McCain wants to stay in.

Pick one.

Julie 22   July 22nd, 2008 12:54 pm ET

The democrats selected nominee is trashing our military men and women, destroying our childrens future, the anti-American party.

vote out all democrats. the prove to us daily they are unAmerican!

I know cnn ,this wont be posted, not pro-hitler enough. shame on you all.

Dave   July 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Yes, it is true nobody wants war. Unfortunately, those protesting the war seem to forget that there are terrorists out there who want kill us and any of our allies. Obama fails to realize that leaving a war prematurely will only result in us having to return in the future. Obama has opposed US involvement abroad in the past but now seems to see merit of conflict in Afghanistan. I'm not sure I want my commander in chief to make decisions without consulting the key military leaders.

NMB   July 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

I think McCain is now having second thoughts about urging Obama to go to Iraq since Malliki, too, wants us out by 2010.
So, the surge worked? Wonderful!
Say goodnight, Gracie – It's time to go.

Ex Democrat for McCain   July 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Are you guys really ready to put someone like Obama, with a learning curve that takes several years to kick in and catch up, into the highest office in the world ??? You gotta be kidding...

Obama Baracks!   July 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

If Old Johnny boy is such a humble and wise leader why can't he win the election with a clean campaign? Why must he attempt to drag down Obama while he tries to scrape and crawl to the top?

tidho   July 22nd, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Can't wait for the first debate. They need to have one soon.

The point of the surge was to allow political development. It succeeded in making things safer but they failed to move on policy.

So the military mission was succesful – which McCain applauds.
and the political mission failed – which Obama points out.

Neither seem to want to acknowledge that they're talking about two different things and instead just chose to confuse the public.

arun   July 22nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

What is remarkable is the fact that the republicans cannot fathom that EVEN THE IRAQIS WANT US OUT.

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 22nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

And Phanom can you explain why you're "..of the Prah" as opposed to the opera?
By the way, I think Senator McCain is on a mad power grab, trying to make up for the loss in Vietnam.

McPain Is Insane   July 22nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

This warmonger thinks he's going to roll over the American people and tell us lies to get in the White House. The Dems don't like him and his own party leaders think he's a place holder for their presidential aspirations. It won't work.

McPain will go home to Arizona and Barack will move into our Whtie House.

Obama 08, our next POTUS.

fluffy   July 22nd, 2008 12:52 pm ET

if the surge succeeded why are are those troops still there?

Amusing...   July 22nd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Love to see how people comment primarily on the title, without researching the context.

Incredible how well-trained conservatives are to seek comfort in ignorance, and believe in spin if it suits their fragile world view.

Cricket   July 22nd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

I guess McCain just can't find anything to talk about so he just continues his bashing of Obama. Does this mean he has no policy issue clear in his mind or it just his way of trying to take away the obvious success of Obams' trip? "An humble leader acting for the benefit of others", does that include the 4000+ young soldiers and the innocent Iraqis who have died in the name of OIL??

Go OBAMA

Retired Navy Veteran   July 22nd, 2008 12:51 pm ET

The are people who will be lucky to get re elected. Let them voice there option like you know what every one has one.

If they was more concered about the cost of living n the US we would all be a lot better off.

To hell wiith them...

Let's bring our troops home once we leave IRAQ they will just keep killing themselves until they come to an agreement....

Pamela   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

McCain continues to miss the point.
Exactly what "victory" is he referring to? The ability to have peaceful, unchallenged dibs on the Iraqi oil fields?

Cammi317   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Somebody needs to stay out of his wife's medicine cabinet. Delusional at best.

Lisa   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

I wish McCain would stop trying to sell a war that never should have happened in the first place. Does he thing we're all bunch of fools? Yes, I believe he does. Who knows....maybe he's right. Bush won twice.

Hillary Backer for McCain   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Jindel ? That name sounds so foreign and non traditional. I want a traditional conservative with a normal name. PUMAs are traditionalists ! No Jindul No Obama, this is a job for the White House, not the out house.

Concerned in Alabama   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

McSame's camp is running scared of Obama. McSame says the same things over and over: "this is Obama's first trip ever; this is Obama's first trip ever............."Obama was against the serge; Obama is against the serge...............PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

McSame, you don't have to visit the Middle East o know what's going on. All you have to do is count the body bags that are being shipped back to the US, the job losses, the gas prices, and please, not to mention the food that millions of Americans are in need of.

We don't care you who are Mr. Maggot, I mean Mr. Maverick. All we care about is getting our troops home alive with their families and getting America back to its prosperous state that we once enjoyed!

Pick Me! Pick Me!   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Is that a United Nations flag pin on Hussein's lapel? How presidential… he's already taking marching orders from third world countries and their sugar daddy George Soros.
________________________________________

Actually, if you bothered to look, you would have seen the U.S. Flag pin. When was the last time McCain wore one??

Speaking of McCain, this bears repeating:

For someone who had, "been there, done that" he (McCain) has done very little for the men and women who served before him and after him.

I guess this is one of many reasons a lot of us (veterans) won’t vote for him (McCain).

McCain: ‘I Received The Highest Award From Literally Every Veterans Organization In America"
The recognition McCain has received from veterans groups is not "high awards" but FAILING GRADES:

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America gave McCain a grade of D for his record of voting against veterans. (By contrast, Obama got a B+.)

Disabled Veterans of America noted McCain’s dismal 20 percent voting record on veterans’ issues. (Obama had an 80 percent.)

In a list of "Key Votes," Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) notes McCain "Voted Against Us" 15 times and "Voted For Us" only 8. (Obama voted for VVA 12 times, and against only once.)

Sequentially, integrity is what I look for in someone running for President. Self-aggrandizement without end is a characteristic flaw that I cannot overlook in anyone running for that same position.

vjh   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Phantom: It's called campaigning.

Sally   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Obama enjoys the spotlight when the stage is ready for him. His only effort is to give a speech and the crowd will cheer!!!! anything else Obama???

Richard, FL   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

The democratically elected leader of the country we invaded in order to give them democracy wants us out of the country. Guess that's not the "democracy" McCain and Bush have preached.

Here is what the hypocrites have said:

“If they were to say leave, we would leave”
- George Bush, White House rose garden, 5/2007
“It is obvious we would have to leave if they asked us to leave”
- John McCain, Council on Foreign Relations, 4/2004

AMIGO   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

Any fool knows that the 'surge' "worked" because the sunnis were paid off with large amounts of money to turn against AlQ- AND at the same time Muktada AlS- – instructed his militia to keep-it-down and ge3t some R&R !

Linda from Prescott AZ   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

It would be interesting to see the Senator from ARizona rationally address such things as the economy, health care, education, etc., you know all the stuph we are whining about....because quite frankly I'm darned tired of hearing im whine about Iraq and the surge. Keep in mind as well, McCain may be a decorated POW, however contrary to his statements he doesn't know how to win a war, end a war or anything of that nature. He is not one of the great foriegn policy wonks in this nature, he is merely a hawk and he's having frequent tantrums.

carol   July 22nd, 2008 12:50 pm ET

John McCain needs to chill and get a rocking chair and he can rock with Cindy McCain needs to stop talking so much about Barack and get on with things at hand. He is not presidental material never has and never will.

Joan   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

I think it is inappropriate for any presidential candidate to travel oversees and meet with governments while US troops are deployed in the region. Regardless if you love him or hate him..George Bush is still Commander in Chief. Such self centered interests only promotes one's own agenda and could possibly place those serving at greater risk.

Oh Yeah   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Dear Selected Not Elected:

The only arrogant fools are you and your candidate, McPain. This country has had enough and McPain will never go anywhere near our White House, except to help his buddy move his things back to Crawford.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

No wonder the New York Times rejected McCain's Op ed, it wasn't newsworthy, neither is McCain. McCain is a desperate old man and sounds more like a parrot repeating the same thing over and over and over and over, again. McCain can't be listening to his campaign advisors because he's another GWB and won't listen to anyone. Spport Obama.

Charles   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

What victory? This is one of those unwinnable wars. The major goal, I guess, was to get rid of Saddam. That's done. What more do you want? The troops have done their jobs and can leave knowing they did a great job. But winning a war when there is no clear enemy to say "I quit" is impossible. I would think a person with such vast military and foreign policy experience would have figured that out.

Jane, MD   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

As an Independent, I must confess that I am disappointed at the deficit in intelligence and rationale coming out of the McCain camp. Our country has had enough of people with a narrow and unintelligent world view.

The Republicans have hate and jealousy steaming out of their ears, they just don't get it – We want out of Iraq. They want us out, and they sure have enough money now to self-govern.

Charles I Am   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

To all McSame supporters, allow me to offer you a life line. Saying the same thing over and over again does not make it true. Tell that to Mcsame the next time he comes to your town. The man needs new material, his old stuff was borrowed from Jack Benny. Fooled us twice and we let a C-student run this country into the ground. We will not be fooled a third time by you, Fox (fixed), CNN, ABC or the like. This time we are listening and buzz words (liberal, inexperienced, Rev Wright, etc.) won't work. Tell your candidate to lay out his (Pres. Bush) plans and let the votes fall where they may!!! He needs to MAN UP with some ideas or shut up and push rewind on Bush's old ones.

Andre' of Maryland   July 22nd, 2008 12:49 pm ET

All I hear,see, and read is what MCain does not like about Obama, his campaign, or his messege. My concern is that I hear nothig about McCain's plans, message, or vision. If McCain thinks that he will win the election because he attacks Obama all day what does America think he will do as President? He will do nothing but ensure we go from War to War with no end in sight. He has not grasped the fact that as President he sets the agenda for not only our Military but our Foreign Policy. He has shown me he cares only about......"winning wars." This means that his foreign policy will be to stay in, start, and look for another war. Is this the leadership we need?

nerakami   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Obama has fallen for his own hype… and the media spin.
He thinks he is a shoo in for president, so why bother to wait.
He puts his own glorification and star image above the good of his country. I want a humble leader who acts to the benefit of others- NOT just to advance himself. He is on a mad grab for power."
-------------------------------

Are you serious with this garbage you write? After 8 years of Bush renegade, corrupted, illegal style governing, your words are meaningless to those of us living the dire consequence of the past 8 years and to have a candidate like McCain who has voted 95% in line with Bush..... guess what? We are running in the opposite direction!!!!!!

SOUTHERN HOTTIE   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

z z z z z
yawn

same old, reworked, revised, reworded baloney from McCain.

who gives a crap about the surge?
who else besides McCain is talking about the surge?

this is so frustrating.

CNN, ya'll are starting to really suck. where's real news?

Emma, San Jose, CA   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

McCain – has a pattern of sounding like a broken record which will continue. If we wonder about McCain's cognitive confusion, you should do a review of the research that emphasizes we have a decline in our clear thinking that starts even before we are fifty. By the time we are 70, almost all of us have some decline. The bad news is that we continue to decline. (I am 72 and I experience the decline.) If elected, one can predict a chance of McCain becoming even more confused from year to year.

Bob Stephens   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Hey Weather vane McCain, before you start knocking anyone, sit down with a map of the world and learn which countries border each other , so you don't sound like an idiot.

Foreign observer   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

It was the American money surge to the Iraqi fighters which mattered. Now we applaud our soldiers for the surge results. Be honest – there have been 100 000 Suni fighters in the streets – now they are on American payroles.

Open Your 3rd Eye   July 22nd, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Don't let all the noise drown out the truth. McCain is stuck in a corner hollering for attention. THAT'S ALL THIS IS.

It's easy: Just ignore him like a 2 year old in time-out. Eventually, he'll cry himself to sleep.

SPARKY   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

McCain is just a tired old man too lazy to come up with ideas of his own. He either parrots Obama's positions and tries to claim them as his own, or criticizes everything Obama says because that's easier than having to think about explaining what he himself stands for. Mistake-a-day McCain needs to take a pill and lie down.

Uchenna   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Obviously my fellow Republicans McThuselah and Rudy do not have any other thing to talk about?

Republican for Barack Hussein Obama.

Irma in North Carolina   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Yes Mr Mccain put on your flag pin. The american people are getting tired of what you have to say about the war, so this is your strong point it is not going to get you the presidentcy this fall. Talk about the important things at home, gas prices, people losing their homes, the economy. What do you care this issues at home dont affect you as you have a rich wife, so you never have to worry do you. You will always be well cared for the heck with all the rest of the americans who are strugleing.

jr   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Obama, is looking to appease the far left and the europeams. The far left has been hamering him on his move to the center the last several weeks. Thus his return to his original postion. The europeans, with some exceptions, are off in socialist heaven and have never had the intestinal fortitude to do what it takes. Obama, never had any intention of considering the opinion of the generals or the conditions on the ground. His mind was already made up when he left on this magical mystery tour.

Up and Onward   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Barack is a good man and a great American. I hope his style of leadership does not distract from the fact that this country needs a new direction. We will take our country back and move up and onward.

Now that McCain finally gets the fact that the country is serious, he's talking about a new direction. At first he was talking about the same old direction, which was down, down, down. He is not the man to lead this country at this time. His new direction is George Bush's old direction, down.

Roger from CA   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

The commander-in-chief establishes policy. It is the job of the uniformed commander of the forces to implement the policy. Petraeus may feel that a timetable is not a good idea, but the military serves the civilian leadership and the people, NOT the other way around. They've had plenty of time to implement the surge, and either it has worked or it has not. If it is something that cannot be wound down without leading to chaos, then it NEVER WAS A GOOD POLICY!!

wdnsday   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

I'd like to see what McCain really means when he says that the surge is "working." Is it? Have we come any closer to stabilizing the situation? Or have we just put more Americans in a country where we never belonged in the first place, increasing the likelihood of American casualties (which, by the way, is exactly what happened – troop numbers surged, death numbers surged)?

O8AMA

Liz from Atlanta, GA   July 22nd, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Didn't we pay off our enemies over there to make sure the surge would "appear" to work? Who can educate me on that?

Obama '08

Greg Pottstown, Pa.   July 22nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Obama wants a surge in Afghanistan, I wonder where he got that idea.

dan   July 22nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

can someone tell me what exactly victory is in Iraq?

We invaded this naiton, who did not attack us, lost nearly 5,000 good men and women, and droven ourselves into ridiculous debt that has helped destroy our economy.

What is Victory? Why cant McCain tell us what Victory is? Who is REALLY the "empty suit" with no substance?

Dave, Illinois   July 22nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Obama just cannot deflate his ego enough to admit he was wrong. Why should he? His sheep will follow him no matter what the facts are. Just read the idiotic Obamite posts on these blogs. Sounds like a good portion of them get their news from MTV, The Daily Show, or MoveON.org.

Steve From Dallas   July 22nd, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Obama just does not get it....

Weak man... would make a weak President.

God help us.

Billy   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

These stories are getting old. If the networks want to keep us interested, they need to find something different than "McCain attacks Obama."

Is it Nov yet?

Hillary Backer for McCain   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

No to Bobby Jindul NO NO NO
We need a traditional conservative like Romney who is a morman so you know he is ethical.

Anon   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Hey CNN how about some basic reporting.. like how Obama has never said withdrawal will be unconditional?

Omar C. Baez   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Obama speaks to the realities on the ground while McCain speaks to the realities flying around in his head.

If the surge has been successfull and we have succeeded in Iraq, why can't the troops leave?

Is it because we have all of the contractors with their no-bid contracts and big money being awarded?!

Is it because we want to steal as much of Iraq's oil as possible before we leave?!!

Again if the surge has succeeded and if I remember everyone saying (Bush and McCain) "when the Iraqis ask us to leave we will" why can't our troops come home?

These are questions CNN won't ask.

Again here's the checklist

1. Surge Succeeded – Answer – Yes
2. Iraqis want a timeline for withdrawal by 2010 – Matches Obama's plan.
3. Iraqis asking us to leave – Answer – Yes

So why are we still there?

Surge

R.I.F.   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Once again, I thought McCain was supposed to be focused on the Economy this week. What a horribly run campaign. McCain had an opening this week to talk about Issue #1 – The Economy all by himself but instead he focuses on attacking Obama as usual. What an idiot. He's making himself look like a chump. This stragety of not focusing on your on ideas but just bashing your opponent is a sure fire way to lose this fall. People want solutions not Rove-Bush style attacks.

JML   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

The war was a mistake in the first place...Obama was right on that. Everything else is just an exit strategy.

ber6964   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Vote for Intelligence....Vote Obamba................

TEXAN   July 22nd, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Unconditional withdrawal or stay until a victory ??? This is something that each and every American has to ask themselves. Then, vote for what you really believe in. Must admit that I admire Obama for "sticking to his guns" and not letting anyone pressure him. I am sure that if he sees or feels anything to the contrary of his stance, he will change his mind. He is not afraid to do so. He has the best interest for our country in his heart. This is a sign of a true President !

Ed, Santa Fe NM   July 22nd, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Heather Wilson? Ya that loser will really help McBush in his pathetic campaign. Even with Domenici's personal attention and support, Wilson lost big time in the New Mexico primary. Losers advising losers... just a continuation of the Bush regime.

Obama to the rescue 08/12   July 22nd, 2008 12:44 pm ET

McWar is like a stuck record or a parrot take your pick he keeps repeating same lies he is a blank slate he flip- flops lies,brags what he did and he did nothing just lies .
Mr.Town Hall is jealous desperate what an old fool you might say he is running scared but the truth is HE CAN"T RUN .

Senile -Nearing the end of an erosion cycle .
Senility-Feebleness of body /mind caused by old age.

Hey that sounds like McLooser that is running for president

Super delegate NJ   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Obamatons, Lets be real guys...all these high profile international visits amount to nothing...ZERO. He is halfway through his trip and yet he still doesn’t look presidential like you all hoped. Obama has real issues in his party to deal with other than put on these media frenzies across the Middle East and Europe. For example we all know that the Democratic Party is split right in the middle no matter how many times you idiots bring out Obama and Hillary wearing the same uniform. You have already lost an election that had your party’s name all over it and trying to demonize Mc Cain’s pick for VP equals the last kicks of a dying hose. The thought of him naming a VP sends chills up your spines WHY???? Please remove the LOG in your eye before you remove the spec in mine.

Didn’t Obama once tell Hillary that traveling and meeting world leaders does not prepare you for the number one job in this country? By doing the same thing he criticized his opponent for isn’t it politics as usual or is it disguising the inexperience in him? America, do not trust this guy

Ian   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

I find it funny that Republicans are trying to spin "the surge is working" statement into covering up the fact that they used falsified data and "intelligence" to be in Iraq in the first place. Of course the surge is going to reduce violence, our troops are the best! It does not change the fact that the American people were lied to, there was no reason for us to be in Iraq, and McCain seeks to perpetuate that lie!

Marv...   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

How lazy are the American people? We can't read nor listen to the non-political information which is provided each and everyday. McCain’s view of success in the Iraq screw-up is to cover the mistake of the Republican president. If I drove a truck through someone’s house and killed and injured the inhabitants, then stayed there and to fight against those who remain alive in order to defeat them… after I mistakenly destroyed their home.

How do I measure victory? No one in the house attacked me, so how do I claim victory? What is the measuring stick of success when I was the one who made the mistake?

How do we measure success in Iraq? Where do we claim victory?

Marguerite, NYC   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

McSame's camp has been complaining that the MSM favors Obama – well CNN, you've certainly proved them wrong – all I read on this website is anti-Obama nonsens. I guess my friends and co-workers are right – you've become a an info-tainment center – and it's the same old stories regurgitated over & over – I'd much rather read the laughable comments on politico, at least they're somewhat up to date & PBS is the only true news anyway, but at least MSNBC tries – since you've posted exactly zero of my comments in the past, I doubt you'll post this one, but doesn't matter, I won't be stopping by to read it anyway

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Seven years later and still no OBL. The McWar camp and the GOP wants to make Iraq the 51st state. Take there oil put the Iraq people on reservations and build casinos. And they wonder why the rest of the world does not like us?

Bobbie   July 22nd, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Obama doesn't even have a clue on how to be the Commander in Chief. He is telling you what you want to hear instead of what needs to be done. Wake up Americans before it is too late.

Angi's mom   July 22nd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

McCain just doesn't get it. This war stunk on Day 1. The American people want out now.

Thanks, Senator Obama, for bringing sanity to Washington.

David in Dallas   July 22nd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Barack Obama has made clear that his goal remains unconditional withdrawal rather than securing the victory our troops have earned and the surge has made possible.

Obama isn't actually for unconditional withdrawl, but let's set that fact aside for a moment.

McCain, you want to reward our troops for a job well done?

Let Iraq vets who want to stay at war go to Afghanistan. And let the rest come home, where they want to be.

Now that's a better reward for hard work and sacrifice than receiving orders to serve extended tours in war zones.

enlightened voter   July 22nd, 2008 12:42 pm ET

Strange, I thought Barry said the surge did work, even though he doesn't support it. I also thought he was brokering a deal (without any authority) to promise Karzai an additional 10k troops. How could that possibly work? Look at the true Barack, there is no change, just taking whatever view is required for political expediency. He just is not the real deal and if he is elected we will surely find that out.

Ken   July 22nd, 2008 12:41 pm ET

McCain hammering Obama? That's like saying the weak-minded neo-nuggets that post on here are hammering me. Quite unlike hammering, putting up with the illogical and fact-challenged 'arguments' of neo-wingers is like taking a walk in a light mist - the smallest of precautions is more than sufficient to protect oneself from the unpleasantness.

McCain is a political joke and so are his followers...most of his followers have proven that by their willingness to vote for FAILURE and INCOMPETENCE in the last two presidential elections. Having not learned their lesson, they would continue to distress this country by making yet another mistake at the polls.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

The pressure isn't on Obama...someone need to put a tournequette on McSame's campaign: it's bleeding b.s. and will be on life support soon...

Binh   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

I'm still curious.. What EXACTLY is McCain referring to when he's talking about America winning? What's there to win? Oil fields?

Adam, Los Angeles   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Just because it worked, doesn't mean it was the right thing to do!

Debra, Alton   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

McCain is desperate!! The bottom line is every country is ready to pull their troops. The surge is working! The surge is working! The surge is working! WE HEAR YOU! WE KNOW THE SURGE IS WORKING!

BUT ITS TIME TO MOVE ON!!!!!!!!!

rw   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Didn't he do all this as a US Senator, by confining withing the limits of US Senator; isn't this signed by other US Senator also; I think he didnt cross the line; as a US Senator, McCain was allowed to say along with Joe Lieberman almost the opposite; why is Obama not allowed to say what McCain/GOP doesnt want to hear ?

Dude   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

the first poster proclaimed, "Shows what a presumptuous, self-serving arrogant fool Obama is."
--–
How is bringing our troops home after seven years and giving Iraq their identity back self-serving? Critics of Barack state that he is too "inexperienced" to be our Prez, then, when he shows initiative and exhibits presidential actions and qualities, he is presumptuous and arrogant.

Tanya   July 22nd, 2008 12:40 pm ET

To withdraw?! You mean stop flushing down billion dollars a day that, oh by the way, we borrowed from communist China?
Perhaps spend this money at home to improve lives of American people?

Oh no, that would be so unpatriotic!

jet paul in memphis   July 22nd, 2008 12:39 pm ET

selected not elected you are the biggest foool that do not have a clue what you are talking about.racist foool where is the flip flop foool

Stephan - FL   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

A victory isn't for the troops. It's for the civilians. And the troops know that

Truth B Told   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

President Bush said years ago "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED" Ok so now years later and counting you still want to surge more? More Failed Policy, over and over again...

Obama 08

"Republicans can't handle the TRUTH"

You Failed our country!!!

Some Failed as an Oil Man!
Some Failed as an MLB Team Owner!
Some Failed as The President of the United States!
Some have the Seal of Approval for a Pro Alcholic Beverage Drinker!

marge   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

How sad, our choices for president is either an ego-maniac or a very tired old man...I'm staying home..

judy, Wisconsin   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

These are the most jealous bunch of whiners. McCain originally said the Iraq war, which had nothing to do with 9/11 would be quick and simple before it started (he's on video, go check). The "surge" has lessoned the violence, so start getting out as the Iraq-but no, they went in for the oil (which was supposed to pay for the war), so they aren't getting out ever. Obama has shown humility and strength over there in contrast to the geography gaffs and other gaffs by McCain who is showing progressive signs of dementia. Dems, independents, and common sense Republicans UNITE!!!!!!!

ProudToBeDemocrat   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

The McCain camp are stressed out they do know what to do anymore. You do not hear from Obama camp any false accusation. Karl Rove tactic is outdated it is not going to work this time give it up repulicans.

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 22nd, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Has anyone ever notice the McWar campaign does nothing but criticize and complain about everything. No new ideas, no positive message, just criticize and complain. They must wake up everyday and have there morning meetings and say ok guys what can we criticize and complain about today. These guys must be angry old men that are suffering from ERD. How does Cindy Mcwar live with this guy, I give her credit for hanging in there. God Bless Her.

McCain; criticize and complain, criticize and complain, criticize and complain, criticize and complain, criticize and complain, criticize and complain. If the MSM counts how many times McWar puts; out a negative messages to the public it must be a 50 to 1 ratio.

Mcwar try to come up with a positive message, please.

Selena , Canada   July 22nd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

To visit the troops in Iraq and then state publicly that the surge didn't work is a big slap in the face of every soldier that has given his life or is still risking his life out there.
It is shameful and shows great stupidity to make such statements.
Somebody should remind Obama that he is still a junior Senator and on a fact finding tour only.
Obama is a power hungry opportunist and everything has to revolve about him.
When is America going to wake up from their Obamarama coma..??

PUMA - Murphy   July 22nd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

You know, McCain could flip-flop on his stance. I think it's safe to say that the majority of American's want out of Iraq. 5 years was enough and it looks like this is going to go on for another 2 years. How much time is needed to get the job done?

As a founding member of PUMA I can say that McCain is going to need to do some recovery work on his campaign to sway us PUMA folks over. At this point, though still early, I would indeed vote for Obama over McCain or a 3rd party.

morefromLA   July 22nd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

This is the McCain Straight Talk Express straight over the cliff kicking and screaming all the way down without good judgement (supporting the invasion of Iraq; welcoming a role for Dick Cheney in his administration) to break his fall.

Hakim   July 22nd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

First of all Obama in the press conference (which I did watch in its entirety, never said "unconditional withdrawal". Most importantly the McCain really thinks this strategy of highlighting the greatness of the surge is going to work. Which it will not. The surge was one of the parts of things that has "reduced" violence, NOT ELIMINATED THE VIOLENCE. Things have improved from a once extremely dire sitiuation but the violence hasn't been eliminated. McCain at some point will need to come with ideas, it seems as if he has none, which is why the NYT didn't publish his article. Show some thought, intelligence McCain, vs. all we see from you is the ability to put out inaccrurate press releases. I also love the way you are choosing to try to hammer while he is overseas. I actually can't wait until he gets back from being Presidential to put McCain in his place. Most importantly how about the fact we shouldn't have have even gone to Iraq in the first place. The last of the surge forces left this month for those who didn't know, so the surge is over so we'll pray the status quo keeps things in place. GO OBAMA!

MurphyMorseJohnson   July 22nd, 2008 12:37 pm ET

"Unconditional withdrawal" is simply a McMain-made label. We have a better label. The Cheneys, Rumsfelds, Bushes, McCains and placed America's focus in Iraq. It has cost the United States countless loss of lives, trillions of dollars and still, no bin Laden. If these Republican hacks were selling us goods in the private sector, we would all be entitled to a refund for false advertising and incompetence.

steve   July 22nd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Hey Mike; McCain can't retire. He already has and is collecting his Social Security check. Check it out.

Mark   July 22nd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

I smell D E S P E R A T I O N !

Linda. Boston, MA   July 22nd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Everybody needs to take a step back and look at John McCain's arguments. He is obsessed – completely – with "victory & honor." Yet, he can't even define what victory in Iraq means. McCain was shot down, captured, and beaten in the only war he's ever fought in. And ultimately, we did NOT win that war. John McCain, while his courage and commitment is worthy of our praise, LOST to the enemy. It's clear now that his policies towards Iraq are based on a need for revenge. He needs to make someone pay for his suffering, and he needs a devastating "victory" to vindicate himself. This has blinded him to the realities of the situation in Iraq. If it were up to him, he'd send troop after troop to continue to die until he achieves his own twisted, emotionally disturbed sense of victory. When he said last week "I know how to win wars! I know how to win!" it sounded more like he was trying to convince himself of that. Because he's never won one. And this is what's driving his foreign policy – he is, unfortunately, in a war-mongering state of mind due to his POW experience.

SAGG   July 22nd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Pffft. Same ol' McCain whining. First, McCain rides Obama to go, then he rides Obama when he does go. McCain wants to try and keep the "pressure" on Obama, putting Obama on the defensive. Thing is, the Iraqis seem to favoring Obama's idea of getting out more than McCain's of staying there for awhile. Even Bush agreed to a "Time Horizon", which is another fancy term for a time benchmark. McCain's looking more and more isolated, and that's angering or frustrating him and his followers. So far, Obama's smelling like a rose (he even hit a three-point shot in a gym in front of the troops), and this is getting to McCain. He's even reported to be possibly announcing a running mate while Obama's overseas just to try and take away some of Obama's momentum. Johnny, I'd wait if I were you, say until right after the Dems convention. If this is true, and I'm not saying that it is, you'll need all the help you can get. Obama just might trump your VP choice if he gives a rousing speech in Berlin later this week...

Democracy itself over loyalty to democratic party   July 22nd, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Another example of that perfect judgement we keep hearing about.

The Obama Cult will miss my sarcasm.

They are unable of independent thought. The Obama campaign has told them to march to whatever tune he's playing.

An American   July 22nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Nothing is going to change my mind, I am voting for Barack Obama. I am not undecided.

You know, I don't want four more years of the same direction we have been going. Remember when Bush kept saying we are turning a corner in 2004? Well we have been going around and around the block and the American people are getting hosed.

The McCain camp is just getting desperate and they are trying to get something to stick. It reminds me of when Bob Dole ran.

Time for change, sorry McCain, pack up your bags and head for retirement.

steve   July 22nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Looks to me that Iraq is getting it together. We need to move forward and leave to take care of other matters. Its funny that Bush/McCain don't want to leave even after the Iraq PM said he wants a time table for us to leave. 2010 is very possible for us to leave if things continue to play out as they have. McCain is seeing that a first termer African American is making since and he does not want to hear it.

DflateMacsStr8TalkXpress: Econ MIA, AWOL on facts, POW from reality   July 22nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

John McCain't was so wrong on everything Middle East including its geography, so the only life preserver he has is the surge, my friends. (Which for those of you who are disconnected from reality – DIDN'T WORK – but that depends on your definition of "work"). Go back in time to the original statements made for the purpose of the surge, and you can figure it out all by yourself without any help from Grampy and all his lying surrogates.

Anne E.   July 22nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

.....at least Sen. Obama knows:

– the difference between Sunni/Shia;
– which country we should've gone after in the first place; and
– WHICH COUNTRIES IRAQ BORDERS!!!

If his misstatements, slip-ups, and things he can't recall are indicative of his "experience," then that's EXPERIENCE WE DO NOT NEED.

poor johnny mack   July 22nd, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Phantom of the Oprah- are you serious??? and johnny mack hasn't look i was in the military and the last thing i would want to tell people is about my being a POW, it's like 50 cent saying i got shot nine times in the war on drugs ok we know for the millionth time sheeesh!!!!

Dan , TX   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Obama is for a safe ending of the war in Iraq, The Iraqis are ready to move on, and we should be too.

I also want to vote for the person who will give everyone here the biggest tax cut. That's Obama.

Shirley   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Why do we continue to call the Troops increase in IRAQ a SURGE,
if i remember correctly the Generals in IRAQ were asking for more
TROOPS and better equipment from the beginning.
Maybe MCcann and the Bush Admin. think that the American
people has forgotton about that request.
If we had more Troops in IRAQ from the start meybe we would
have save lives in IRAQ.
Read about..
Everytime MCcann say the word MYFRIEND, i get the feeling i am
being LIED TO.
THANKS

Mark   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Debra, Alton July 22nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

McCain…get over it! Nobody wants to continue a war!!!!!!!

Your are right, absolutely right.

The only difference between Obama and McCain is the McCain wants to end the war with a victory and Obama wants to end the war in defeat.

J   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I'm getting really sick of McCain saying Obama doesn't want victory in Iraq. He never says what victory means to him!!!! McCain is going to lose this election because all he does is attack Obama and make ridiculous claims about victory in Iraq. McCain always attacks Obama's energy policy too, which is ridiculous. McCain's gas tax holiday is a transparent joke and I can't wait till he's back in the Senate because I'm sick of hearing this old fool speak.

Linda31   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

McCain keeps on talking about the surge and his judgement. Also, trying to bully Obama saying that the surge worked. Problem is the war in Iraq was wrong. When McCain admits that then we can talk about the surge. Also, if the surge has worked why do we still have more troops in Iraq. Obama made a great point today. The job of the President is to take the advice of general and others and base on the COMPLETE information that he, the President, has and make decision. Generals are only looking at the war from one point of view, that's their job. The job of the President is to look at all aspects and make the best decision for our country.

Safety & Comfort   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

I wonder if Liberals' heads will explode when Obama loses in November. The writing is on the wall.

Norma   July 22nd, 2008 12:34 pm ET

This old fool only response to whatever Obama is doing. He talks more about Obama then what his plan is..Keep it up old fool it only make you look desperate.

Krissy   July 22nd, 2008 12:33 pm ET

McCain has been distorting Obama's position for so long now! Obama has never said his withdrawl would be unconditional, and at the democratic debates he was critiqued for not saying that withdrawl would be regardless of conditions on the ground. McCain is getting desperate.

In fact, Petraus, the Iraqi PM, The Chairman of the Joint Chief of Staff are all parroting Obama right now. The adminstration has changed positions to mirror Obama on Iran and diplomacy, Pakistan, and now Afghanistan.

Obama is truly a leader and has accurate long term vision.

fooled the sheople but not the people   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Obama is perfect.

Obama has spoken.

The media has listened.

The sheople have followed.

Isn't propaganda grand?

DJK   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Obama's position on the surge is more proof that this man isn't qualified to be the commander in chief. How can you be against a working strategy that is making Iraq safer for Iraqis and American soldiers?

Tony   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Why is this news?????

Of course McCain and other republicans are trashing, moaning and whining about everything Obama does.

That is usually what happens when the candidate has no message or real record to run on. The republican Dictatorship is coming to an end in a few months and they are terrified.

Get used to and deal with it, it's going to be a long 8 years of a Democrat in the White House and Congress.

After the damage that has been done to the country, it will take several Democratic presidents to try and undo some of the damage.

whytheliesmccain   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

WOW Jim you must have the best eyesight in the world to make a statement like that. I think it is a US flag pin. What does John McCain stand for? All he does is bash Senator Obama with half truths and lies. NOWHERE did Senator Obama ever say he wants unconditional withdrawal, he has always said we would have a security force in the region and would withdraw carefully. OH and whos plan for Iraq does the Prime Minister of Iraq support? OBAMAS. HMMM maybe he does know something McBush does not.

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

AMERICANS ARE NOT CURRENTLY ACCUSTOMED TO

THINKING HONEST LEADERS. WE HAVE NOT HAD ANY IN

THE WHITE HOUSE FORE DECADES. MCSAME IS, PLAIN

& SIMPLE, SLOW & DISHONEST. HE IS CONCENTRATING HIS

FOREIGN POLICY EXPERTISE ON CZECHOSLOVAKIA & THE USSR.

LETS NOT FORGET THE 100 YEAR WAR, AT A $BILLION PER DAY.

Johnny C.   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Funny how Obama's new 'War Strategy' has somehow morphed from 'get out now' to basically what Bush's Strategy has been all along.

You libs really don't get it, you are being led round and round and now you are supporting Bush and you don't even know it.

Obama 08 & 12!   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

selected not elected – what are you talking about – are we following the same election? Where has Obama flip-flopped? I saw the news conference in Jordan today and he was dead-on on his plan to withdraw in 16 months! Even after meeting the army general. Seriously, you need to read more carefully.

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   July 22nd, 2008 12:32 pm ET

It would seem that McBush is a desperate man these days! If I were in his shoes, I would be too! LOL!

Hitler youth for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Obama has learned that creating and hyping an image works to convince people that you are what the propaganda presents you to be.

Smart people will not fall for this and it will cost Obama votes.

The newbies and American idol watchers will crow how great he is and continue to be fooled by the demagogue of the century.

Marie   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

McCain is starting to look real childish and foolish. He needs to step back (reset) and start talking about his plans and policies and stop throwing spears at Obama. Senator Obama is on the world stage and McCain is throwing spitballs.

Robert   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

McCain and his negative group of advisors are obviously getting desparate and will do or say anything to discredit Obama. I think they realize that since have no plan as to how to really solve any of this countries problems so they resort to the negative approach. Only this approach proves that they are just a bunch of loosers.
The pressure is now on McCain and he knows he cannot win against Obama.

Beverly, NYC   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Dear John:

Get a clue, when your own President and the President of Iraq come over to Obama's way of thinking about a withdrawal or time horizon it time to give up the argument. The surge cost 4100 American lives, but that doesn't matter beacause you were "RIGHT" to throw bodies and money at the problem from your ivory towers. Sad and pathetic don't begin to descibe you and Bush. We armed the Sunnis to the teeth to fight the Shia's and the insurgents, hoped we picked the right side and they will be allies when we leave. In 1991 as a Marine in Desert Shield/Storm my unit helped build a tent city for the persecuted Taliban and we know how well that worked out. Face it, we broke it , and didn't fix it.

CHANGE IS COMING!!!!

CHICANO ART, ARIZONA   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Obama needs to be asked how many US casualties he is willing to accept in Afganinistan, how much collateral damage, how many years, how much violence? He is not a peace movement candidate anymore. The mountains of Afganistan have broken super powers and world powers in modern history and his strategy will pit our forces against history. I think we can be successful but how would an Obama administration react to calls from the left to get out when things get really ugly. The media needs to ask these questions.

OH   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

I love the arrogant McBush Neocons who love to beat the war drum. Anything Bush or his second in command McBush say is alright with them. It is only a pity their own children or family were/are not the ones dying for a stupid war.

They'll still not agree that Afghanistan is where the war is and should be fought while complaining about the bad economy. They prefer to spend a trillion bucks in an illegal war than helping their own family.

Ignorance is certainly bliss and for the Neocons, it's a blessing. Now they are saying Obama is the cause of the high gas price...hmmm...I wonder; was he in the meetings help by Dick Cheney and big oil?

Off Topic   July 22nd, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Orange County not only has Disneyland, it is the Dixieland of California. I hope Barack will watch his back when he goes to Saddleback Church. People are not so friendly here.

Obama 08

JimBlanco   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Why hasn't CNN reported on Obama's comments on how ethnic cleansing helped stabalize Iraq.... yes he actually said this, but gets another free ride from the press on yet another gaffe.

Independent-woman-4-Obama   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

I see the Obama-haters are out this morning. I don't understand why we can't debate the candidates without the personal attacks?

We were fooled by the GOP in 2000(even though W.'s margin of victory was tiny) and in 2004 (same thing small margin of victory)! We wont be fooled again. The RNC's attack machine is alive and attacking.

But here are a few things I would like answers to:

HOW WILL MCCAIN PAY OFF THE $10 TRILLION IN NATIONAL DEBT?

HOW WILL CONTINUING TO SPEND $1.38 BILLION A DAY IN IRAQ STRENGTHEN OUR NATION?

HOW WILL SPENDING $650 BILLION A YEAR IN IRAQ SECURE US? ESPECIALLY SINCE MOST OF THE $$$$$ IS BORROWED MONEY??????????????????????????????????????????

HOW WILL MCCAIN FOREIGN POLICY "BOMB........BOMB......BOMB IRAN" HELP US??????????????????????????????????????

HOW CAN ANYONE VOTE FOR A MAN WHO VOTED FOR THE ENRON LOOPHOLE WHICH HAS ALLOWED SPECULATORS TO DRIVE UP THE PRICE OF OIL????????????????????????????

WHY IS NO ONE TALKIG ABOUT MCCAIN'S RECORD? HE VOTED FOR THE BAN ON OFF-SHORE DRILLING, NOW WANTS TO DRILL EVERYWHERE???????????????????????????????????????

WHY IS NO ONE UPSET ABOUT HIS CLOSE FRIEND AND ECONOMIC ADVISER, PHIL GRAMM CALLING THE RECESSION "ALL IN OUR HEADS"? AND AMERICANS WHINERS?????????????

Susan   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

They have no ideas, so the re-hash the same thing over, and over , and over, not matter what the American people wat, or the Iraqui's want. McLame wants to have an occupation of a socereign nation. He does not believe in democracy, only hypocrisy!

Heads up Obamanation   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Obama wants to be dictator of the world.

The globe revolves around this media created rock STAR.

Obama we see how cocky, arrogant, boastful, self-serving and caught up in yourself you are.

SIMP   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Mcain and his camp are pitiful. they are really reaching to make this trip to the Middle East and Europe look bad for Obama, it's to much good publicity for Obama and now they are really reaching for something, anything to make him look bad. What mccain and his camp needs to do is sit down and try to write another article, a good productive article for the new york times they are out of their league with this nonsense about the press conference.

Obama

deb in az   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

you got to love bho's efforts at playing president.....with his great judgement he shows just how weak of a president that he will make.......i would love to see him debate mccain in a live debate.....no prompters for bho to lean on......he will stammer all the way through like he did with hillary........he has ideas, everyone elses......and all you bho supporters think that he will end the war, think again. we will leave iraq only to move next door......as long as we need oil, we will be in the middle east with no end in sight.....this junior senator has some nerve acting as if he has won the oval office and the american people havent even voted yet.......making promises, that he may never keep.....again his great judgement....what a joke......

Tired of Idiots   July 22nd, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Every time I see McCain he reminds me of MR. Burns on the Simpsons

Sheri   July 22nd, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Grandaddy McCain GRABBING FOR STRAWS. ! Out of touch Old and Crazy!!!!!!!

Anonymous   July 22nd, 2008 12:28 pm ET

Some one in the other article commented that the McCain camp would misconstrue Obama's words and that person was precise and on the money.

McSad needs a life.

al   July 22nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

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

REPUBLICAN MACHINE IN FULL SWING. HAVING MCCAIN ON A STRING LIKE A PUPPET.

WAH.............WAH.........WAH...............

A LOT OF CRITICISM BUT NOT A WHOLE LOT OF SOLUTIONS.

REBULICANS ARE CONCERN ABOUT THEIR INTEREST NOT THE AMERICAN INTEREST.
THEY WANT TO CONTINUE THE RISING COST OF GAS
THEY WANT TO CONTINUE THE RISING COST OF GROCERIES
THEY WANT TO CONTINUE FORECLOSURES
THEY WANT TO CONTINUE FATTENING THE POCKETS OF BIG BUSINESS AND THEIR BUDDIES.

STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

Obama is King   July 22nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

Why isn't the media reporting this for what it is, an immature grab for perceived power.

He is just a senator on a fact-finding mission, remember?

He has no authority to negotiate with anyone.

Obama is just trying to create the perception that he is the inevitable president... so that the votes will follow the expectation created by hims, his campaign and the media.

Chris, Middletown, CT   July 22nd, 2008 12:27 pm ET

I'm a Republican....who will support Obama in the general election – there is really nothing wrong with McCain – other than the fact his policy ideas are dated...and don't reflect the US today...

Abby   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Lets see how many times the McCain camp says ‘surge’. idiots.

James Hussein, SC   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Surge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surgesurge, surge, surge, surge, surge, surge.

OK McCain, now that your surge has suceeded, how do we win? What do we win? When do we leave? Why should we stay? How many more American lives do we need to lose before this war ends?

Swanaay!   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Who cares if the surge worked? It should have worked, we added thousands of troops. The problem is JOHN, that we should not even be there in the first place, yet you continue to laud these minimal victories as though they are some sort of legitamate claim for your bid to claim the Presidency. You screwed up in the first place by supporting this ill-conceived war, on the wrong front, against the wrong enemy, in the wrong country, looking for weapons that you said were there to get us to go, and now you can't even get the government to work in 5 years. It's time to go Johnny, we need to leave and let Iraq settle itself now. Oh yea, ur an idiot.

Independent from PA   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Sorry McCain; you asked him to go and now you are regretting it! He looks good!

LET IT GO   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

Leave john allow, let him keep puting himself in a hole.

Quoted for Truth   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

"Of course Obama is getting twice the coverage than McCain.Obama is the media’s little darling, their rock star. Despite this man’s ties to racist anti-American people, flip-flopping on every issue, and refusing to debate McCain one-on-one. This man is going to be a disaster as President, and I am a life-long democrat! May God have mercy on us all.
The media is NOT going to dictate who I vote for, no matter how biased and in love they are with this empty suit."

Jamielynn
Atlanta, Ga.

Ogden   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

McCain sounds desperate to get some sort of media coverage.

Pity he can't get any by actually having ideas...

Tina   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

I really wish, just once, that McGaffe could explain how he is going to WIN the war! That's all he says "I'm going to win". Well, McGaffe, please, please tell us how?

I'm so sick of McGaffe saying that Obama has never been to Iraq. He just said it in his little town hall meeting. Not true McGaffe. Obama has been to Iraq, in fact he was there two years ago. So sick of this guys lies.

Dave   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

this is something that worries me about Obama. he was always against the war but once he secured the nomination we hear him saying he can't see a withdrawal until something like 2012. what the.....??? I thought he wanted them out of there quick. guess he's been bought and paid for by the military-industrial complex. no change coming....politics as usual.

poor johnny mack   July 22nd, 2008 12:26 pm ET

THE WHEELS ON THE BUS GO ROUND AND ROUND

Mike, Syracuse, NY   July 22nd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

If you withdraw without winning, why isn't that losing? How can Obama say he's still opposed to the surge when violence is finally down to levels where we can contemplate troop withdrawals because of the surge? This guy is a lunatic.

Ryan, New York, NY   July 22nd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Well at least this attack has a greater chance of being believed than the laughable "Obama is to blame for high gas prices" ad.

Hey John, if you're going to take the "offshore & ANWR drilling bans = high gas prices" POV, remind us again who's been in office for the past 30 years voting in favor of all of those bans? Oh, right, YOU WERE!

Will from NYC   July 22nd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Only 3 of 18 milestones the McCain helped draw up have been met. Tell us again how the surge is working. Tell us why we need to stay???

SHIRLEY-OHIO   July 22nd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

Obama appears to have very good judgement to be commander and cheif of the United States.

Linda K.   July 22nd, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I am sick and tired of McCain's whining about Obama. What does he have to offer besides criticism? Does the man actually stand for anything, or is he only against?

If he's like this now, imagine him in the White House. Do we want a president or just a grumpy old man?

Go home, McCain, and yell at the kids playing on your lawn.

Brandon   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Instead of hammering Obama, McCain just needs to get hammered. He is having two of the worst weeks I have ever witnessed in a presidential campaign.

Debby, NJ   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

"Unconditional withdrawal"?
MCSHAME, Obama NEVER SAID THAT
Stop Lying, It's not going to work.
BARACK THE VOTE !!!

Donna   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

John McPain will not let up. He'll continue to talk to himself until even he won't be able to stand it. Let's put him in an empty auditorium, maybe he'll fall asleep.

Obama, my next president.
08

ali   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

if the surge worked,why must we stay?please define victory.

Phil, FL   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

did mccain have a stroke? his eye looks funny.

MO for McCain   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

Can't take the heat, get out of the kitchen Obama fans, you and your candidate are too thin skinned for the whitehouse.

Obama wants to cut and run...he wants America to lose!

Obama Hussein is meeting w/ Abdulla Hussien today, how appropriate...

Independent   July 22nd, 2008 12:24 pm ET

To Mc Cain...blah blah blah blah blah, same old, same old, same old....NOT LISTENING to YOU.....

Salina, Washington, DC   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

The McCain camp is desperate!! Obama did not say 'Unconditional withdrawal' and he's NOT at odds with the general. You see how they've taken his words and twisted and distorted them to mean something else... And there are some people who will read that and run with it because they don't have sense enough to get the information from the source.

Obama is right, McCain and Bush are wrong! Simple as that.

Obama '08

Dusacre   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

McBush can bring all the pressures he wants, it is just like a baby hand. The Republicans must go. Iraq is not our country; the Iraqi did not attack us. Not a single 911 terrorist was Iraqi. Iraq did not have WMD.

If I hit you with my car and you are down, then I take you to the hospital, according to McBush I should be a hero. Forget that I hit you with my car; just remember that I take you in the hospital.

On one hand McSame doesn't want to take responsibility for his vote to invade Iraq that cost us so much in lives and treasury, but at the other hand he wants to take all the credits for the decrease in violence in Iraq.

Brandon   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

All McCain can resort to is untruthful and ridiculous attacks.. Between his joke of an add yesterday blaming Obama for gas prices and now stating that Obama supports unconditional withdrawl again when Obama repeatedly says that it is not unconditional McCain has finally put the final nail in the coffin of his "maverick" image.

The McCain campaign is a joke compared to the Clinton campaign. I expect Obama to roll over this gaffe and lie machine that the McCain campaign has become

salt of the earth   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

The sheople will flock and baaaaaaaaaah their approval.

The people will denounce this obvious power play for glory and media attention.

Other nations are not the ones voting in American elections... not yet at least.

pat C.   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

please stop printing more of the same over and over again that McSAME is saying about obama. we are sick of hearing it. McCain is the most boring man i have ever had to listen to. the world is sick of hearing him make a complete fool of himself. does he even realize this is HIS week to talk about the economy? has he even mentioned our situation here in america that we are suffering with? this man is an idiot!! CNN please stop printing these ignorant responces from john McCain after each comment obama makes we just don't want to hear them. i am like the above reader...i am going to sit the next few months out and hopefully the old man will just give up and retire!

Tina   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Keep up the pressure for what? McCain is clearly the one getting the pressure here. Obama is calling for a withdrawl, Maliki is talking about withdrawl, Bush is speaking of a "time horizon". The only one feeling pressure here is McCain!

BTW I thought McCain was suppose to be talking about the economy this week? What happened to that?

Jude   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

It would seem like McCain and his camp thinks the American People are stupid fools. Well, here's some news for you!!! WE KNOW WHAT YOUR PLAN IS AND WE KNOW WHAT OBAMA'S PLAN IS AND WE PERFER OBAMA'S PLAN because we need to get out of IRAQ as quickly and safely as possible. We can't afford another 5 or 10 or 50 or 100 years in IRAQ!!! Yes, we want TimeTables!!! Seems like McCain is simply sreaming because Obama's getting all the coverage!!!

Rich in Seattle   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

So will McCain ever tell his his plans for "victory" or does all he do is knock down Obama? I'm starting to realize I know little about what McCain really stands for. Everytime he takes a stand, it seems to be in an attempt to pander to the right.

I wish he would stop all this negative campaigning and get to some real solutions to our countries problems. I mean, going as far as to blame Obama for high Gas prices... give me a break.

David, Silver Spring, MD   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

McQueeg is getting desperate. He knows that his chances of winning the election end the moment Obama is back on U.S. soil and people start talking about the state of the economy again.

McQueeg is playing up the Iraq debacle because he has nothing else to talk about.

Steve   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Didn't McCain say yesterday that Obama was ready to unfurl another 'Mission Accomplished' banner, yet today he says that Obama's trying to deny the troops the victory they've achieved?

Which way is it? Does Obama think they've won or lost? I think McCain has control of his spin. He looks woozy.

Xavier, Saint Louis, MO   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

The "surge" is a joke and so is McBush! Can anybody tell me what we are winning in Iraq from this "surge?"

THE WORLD IS WATCHING AMERICAN POLITICS   July 22nd, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I have never known the republican to this desparate. All they do is attack obama all day long. Please sen. John McCan still stay focus on the issues, and you will be just fine.

NC Man   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

checked out some polls this morning ... McCain now leads in Ohio and shows a 46 all tie in the national polls (this found on Rasmussen Report). Seems Obama's trip to Afgan and Iraqi is hurting the ALL MIGHT ONE.

his lack of knowledge is catching up with him. i can't wait to see what happens while he is touring europe.... maybe he will speak in french therefore no americans can understand what he is saying.

Ex-Republican for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

We can not win an ILLEGAL war. To attempt to, or campaign for, is demonic and criminal. When a murderer gets more help, do you applaud them for the crime working despite that its a crime?

Our brave men and women of the military are forced by what these politicians tell them to do. We need a president that does not tell them to fight an illegal war.

mollygonz   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

I love how the McSame campaign keeps putting words in Obama's mouth about Iraq...like "lose" and "defeat". We keep hearing the same garbage over and over coming out of that pathetic campaign.

David Goldman for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

HAMMER ALL YOU WANT, MCCLUELESS.

THE MORE YOU COMPLAIN ABOUT THE OBAMA

VISION OF A SUCCESSFUL, SANE, & THINKING

AMERICA THE MORE IDIOTIC YOU SOUND, AS

HARD AS THAT IS, YOU SOMEHOW MANAGE TO DO IT.

YOU JUST SAVE CZECHOSLOVAKIA FROM THE USSR.

Rita   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

"Aint nothing but the real thing baby".

Obama stands for honor and decency, and that's why we will put him in the White House.

Obama 08

Anita   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

McCain is trying to keep in the spotlight since Obama is out of the country and is receiving more publicity. Obama may have voted against the "surge" if this is the story yet has everyone forgotten Obama voted against the "war" in the first place and McCain voted for it.

no no no!   July 22nd, 2008 12:22 pm ET

if McCain could come up with anything other than attacking Obama may be he might seem more interesting. the fact is every leader has come to Obama's way of thinking...from Iraq to Iran. now that is a man who knows what he is doing, for America and the world....he is making a great leader already

Walt Doering   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Sen. McCain and his Republican campaign are truly desparate and losing it. Once again they distort by saying Obama favors "unconditional withdrawal" from Iraq. When will they learn to listen? And how can we afford to have a person in the White House who doesn't listen? Plus when will they become literate enough to analyze and dissect information so they can discern the complexities of problems and the need for comprehensive solutions?

Because McCain and his colleagues can only provide sound bites and no substance or the samo-samo of the Bush policies, all they do is blame, blame blame, attack, attack, attack, and criticize, criticize, criticize Obama over and over again without offering substantive proposals which will not allow us to stay in Iraq but rather leave responsibly so we can focus our attention and resources in Afghanistan were the terrorists are really at. And all this while McCain poses as a person of principle and high moral ground. What hogwash!

Moe, NY   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Just what victory is McCain talking about...as I write this blog, the war rages on....it is not over as our troops are still in Iraq. Even Iraq wants us out of Iraq...what is it that McCain doesn't grasp about this situation? Iraq does not want to be occupied any longer by a foreign entity. I agree with Obama....Afghan is where we should be focusing, and should have been focusing all along. Remember Osma anyone?

Jack   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

AM I the only one who thinks CNN is trying to make up for everyone else loving Obama? All I see here anymore are "McCain Slams Obama, Devastates Obama Clobbers Obama, Obama takes a beating" etc. And yet, it's not the case in reality.

One reporter and one photog showing up as McCain's plane lands yesterday? HAHAHAH! Yeah, he's drubbing Obama soooo hard.

Sweetie   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Obama is a prime example of self will gone amuck!

He is not a viable candidate.

I really shutter at the thought that he is even running for office...

Let alone what this flip flopping Left Wing Nut Job in Training Pants will do if he is elected. SCARY!

McCain 08

Brian   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

I guess that instead of proposing solutions, McSame thinks he can just throw stones at Obama? Good luck with that strategy, old man.

The tides have turned. Change is coming.

OBAMA '08!!!

Ian   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Is McCain referring to the surge of money we supplied the terrorists to stop fighting?

JA Cook   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

McCain is nothing more than a whiner of late.

The McCain campaign is a campaign of whiners.

ali   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

what is your definition of victory?bush claimed victory in 2003.victory would have benn finding all the wmds saddam didnt have.what is victory?is victory mean staying there with targets on our backs ,forever?people like mccain got us into this mess and he still has no plan to get out.let's just flush our entire country down the drain,so that iraq can be free.free from what?

Maggie Muggins From Selwyn   July 22nd, 2008 12:21 pm ET

People looking to make President George W. Bush appear as a good leader of America should make sure they get out and vote for John McCain in November.

I didn't think it would be possible but the fact is by electing John McCain as president is the only way you can make George W. Bush look like a genius.

My middle name is Hussein   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Maybe at the convention, Hillary will win the nomination by popular demand.

The superdelegates can still rally behind the true leader... so can the pledged delegates.

The people don't want Obama.

The left wing and the media... loud as they are... are NOT the majority.

The Bottom LINE   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

THE BOTTOM LINE FOR YOU REPs, IS THAT WE WENT TO WAR ALL FOR A LIE THAT YOUR REP. PRESIDENT SOLD TO US OUT OF FEAR.....
WE(THE AMERICAN PPL) ARE STILL WAITING FOR THE WEAPONS THAT DONT EXSIST TO SHOW UP!! 5 YRS LATER, WE STILL HAVENT FOUND ANY NUKES!!

WAKE UP PPL.......

Jamal kansas   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Mcbush is warmonger the Killing in Iraq has eased only because we are paying the militants that were attacking us then to not attack us now it also have to do with the troop level but if The iraq want to bomb they will bomb no matter how many troops we put in there it is there own reasons finacial and otherwise why they have not been as aggressive

Kim, Charlotte, NC   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Obama, you are going to give McCain a heart attack if you don't agree with him. Please agree with him so that he can sit down some where and shut-up!

anonymous   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Should wake up the NOBAMA fools but they can't see the forest for the trees. NOBAMA is a royal fool and should not have been allowed to go abroad, much less meet with those people. If he jeopardizes the lives of our service men and women, shame on the selfish, elitist, fool. He will place his own "glory" before anyone. I find it hard to believe all the "rock star" fans can't figure that out.

Lesley   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

McCain would serve himself better if he adopted a different campaign strategy, this one isn't "succeeding." No matter what the message is, repeating it over and over again is going to turn people off. Brainwashing won't work in this election, not a third time. Now that Obama is making points abroad and talking about his strategies, I would like to hear something more substantive from McCain.

Mel   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

OBAMA=BRILLIANCE.......

James   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

This is silly. There has never been a point where the words "unconditional withdrawal" have ever left Obama's mouth or his advocates. He has openly discussed and complemented our men and women in uniform for the success of their hard work in the surge. This is a blatent continuation of the Bush/Chaney doctrine of if you just keep saying it, that will make it true. When the reality is that only the die hard republicans who don't get their info from any other source and are not open to any other sources will continue to parrot what they say.

The McCain camp wants to be foriegn occupiers of a nation. You can only be an occupier if you stay when the country has told you to leave. And McCain's statements continue to ignore and purposely not mention the statements by the Iraqi government officials.

Shameful. Deceptive. Political.

Chris   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

“proven successful" – so we can leave then if it was "successful". I do believe the surge just pushed them into other countries... are we going to police every country in the world?

"withdrawal places him at odds with General David Patraeus" – does Patraeus set the genda for the USA??? Patraeus is a general, he has no incentive to withdraw and doesn't meet with global leaders like the POTUS does.

"victory our troops have earned" – like the NY Times said, please explain what conditions constitute a "victory"

war war war surge surge surge = McCain

John   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

The McCain campaign and republicans want to repeat "Obama's withdrawal plan was unconditional" as many times as possible in hopes that if they repeat it enough, it will be true.

But it's wrong!! Obama has always said that we wants a troop redeployment that is 'as careful getting out as we were careless getting in"... 1-2 brigades per month, dependant on the safety of our troops and little to no resurgence of violence.

SPEAK THE TRUTH REPUBLICANS!!!

Truth 2008

Moe   July 22nd, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Temper, temper–the McPain addicts are really out today.

the takeover   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Question…When has Iraq ever threatened our country? Are the right wing guys afraid of this country being invaded by iraq, which had no navy or air force or capability of reaching our borders prior to the U.S occupying it?

Nevada   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

The funny thing is... the vast majority doesn't look at the surge as a success, so his argument falls on it's face before it even gets started really.

Mike, TX   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Obama continues in his imaginary world where facts simply do not exist. Obama rejects the surge, though his visit to Iraq proves that the surge worked. He rejects doing anything that may reduce US dependence on foreign oil unless it increases the cost of energy within the US.

He is a fool.

Halle   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

McPain will NEVER be president. Get over it, and send him packing to Arizona-I hear he likes to relax anyway. So his heart is not in this.

Tammy - KCMO   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

The only impression I ever get from McCain and his supporters is that he has no plans on how to fix this country and he will continue to complain about Obama in hopes that no one will notice that he has nothing to say about why he should be president.
Just take a look at what Bush has done the past 8 years – that's what you will get if you are dumb enough to vote for McCain.

Al Sullivan   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

McCain keeps harping on how the surge supposedly worked. It didn't work. the drop in violence was because suni war lords decided to sit out the fight, not because the U.S. sent more troops.
The other reason for the decline in violence in Iraq has to do with the fact that the enemies have exploited U.S. weakness by shifting the fight back to Afghanistan where they have natural local support and plenty of cover.
President Bush failed to learn one of the most important lessons of the Nazi conflicts in WWII, never fight a war on two fronts. Instead of solving the Aghanistan battle, Bush decided to invade Iraq - and McCain will continue this folly.

fooled the sheople but not the people   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

He knows that the media hangs on his every word... and that they will spin this, too, into a positive thing.

Fact is, it was an unprecedented blunder by a self-serving power grabbing egotistical man.

Franky   July 22nd, 2008 12:19 pm ET

LOL!!!! This is like picking on somebody that you just don't like, but you got no other choice! LOL!! First, I don't know if the right time to pick on him is when the war has a way below approval rating!! LOL!!!!

Is like wathing Tom and Jerry! LOL!!!

Obamessiah   July 22nd, 2008 12:18 pm ET

You people are in for a rude awakening if Obama somehow gets elected... He has little to none experience, he is conceited, his policy is ripped off from other unintelligent democrats.

You people are all mindless Lemmings.

Trinity, OH   July 22nd, 2008 12:18 pm ET

People are so hateful. I guess the writing is on the wall and they can't stand the fact that we're taking our country back. They'd rather leave it in the hands of people who torture and tear up the Constitution for their own personal gains. Not any more–we're moving full speed ahead.

Obama 08, 12

a southern bell for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 12:18 pm ET

O YEA, HAMMER THE MAN THAT IS 100% RIGHT.

WE DON'T NEED ENEMIES WITH HEROES LIKE

MCCLUELESS TO LEAD US INTO SHAME & BANKRUPTCY.

Deb, Allentown, PA   July 22nd, 2008 12:17 pm ET

CNN, how many times a day and in how many ways are you going to print the same article? I'll be seeing this in my sleep, for Pete's sake! And, in my sleep, I'll be saying what I've said all along...

When McCain starts to spout positive rhetoric rather than attacking Obama at every opportunity, maybe I'll start listening to him. But for now, all I hear is "grumble, grumble, grumble".

ANGIE   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

watch the mccain camp try to spin everything he said thats all they got is to lie twist and spin please mccain give it up already!!!

Dems are stuck in the fix they rigged   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Another selfish, cocky, egotistical, self-serving move by the arrogant and self-important Obama.

His ego has no bounds.

crownsy   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

i love how maccain can just declare the surge strategy succesful with no facts or anything.

people are still being killed in reocred numbers by extermists, us troops and iraq's alike, how exactly did the surge work again jon?

Mabey i can convince myself things worked that had no measurable effect if i just claim them to be true as well...

"My strategy of not sneezing this weekend contributed to my overall health!"

Otanes - Atlanta   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

McCain, My Friend, tell me why I should vote for you instead of why I should not vote for Obama!

McHero 08   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Obama is such an idiot. I'm sat here right now watching a live interview with John Kerry who is telling the reporter that the surge didnt do anything and it was negotiations with the factions, that Obama supporterded, that made the difference. The reporter told him that the guys from the 10th mountain division who were in the main area of violence said that becuase of them going in (the surge) they created breathing room for negotiations, and only after they did this did the negotiations turn for the better.

Kerry is trying to say that the men in the 10th Mountain did nothing even though they are saying they created the security of this area in Iraq. Gotta love the anti-war Liberals, they cant EVER give anybody credit in this war – even our own awesome troops

Lorraine   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

Here we go again with this surge nonsense. McCain, you need to fire your entire staff and hire a new one. I cannot believe they have nothing else to talk about. Sorry you are not getting the attention, but everyone is listening to your stupid remarks. No matter what Obama says, whether you think its right or wrong, you always have something negative to say. Your constant attacks are like listening to someone scratching a blackboard. ENOUGH ALREADY.

proud army and navy mom   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

again how is it victory, mcmoron, if we are paying the sons of iraq not to attack us.

what is your definition of victory? Will the repugs please buy this idiot a clue and spell out to him what success and victory looks like.

in fighting a war that was built on lies and deceit, there are no victories. The only thing we can do successfully is to leave and let them handle their own country, because we have plenty problems in this one.

Mcidiot, your time will be better spent finding a way to lower food and gas prices instead of stalking Sen obama's every move.

Foreign observer   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

It was not the surge. America paying 100 000 Suni fighters made the difference !!! Employed people don´t fight !

Tina, MD   July 22nd, 2008 12:16 pm ET

McPain is trying so hard to sway Americans who actually think for themselves. It won't work.

Barack is our choice and he will be the next POTUS.

Obama 08

Melvin   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Are we going to stay in a country that wants us to leave?

Messiah complex   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Another self-serving Obama media moment to cast an image of himself as the next leader of the free world.

Obama went beyond the pale with this action.

And, just days after stating he was there as a senator on a fact-finding mission. What a hypocritical liar... seizing every opportunity to promote himself.

Now he pretends that he IS the president.

Thomas, Illinois   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

John?? Give it up, already...Is your plan better??? I don't think so....

No McBUSH   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

MCCAIN = Desperate!

Keep clawing with you fingernail to keep your party alive!

Bye Bye McWar your time is over!!!

Frank O.   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

What success? To begin with the so called surge should not have even happened. What are we there for? To keep the violence down? are we the police in Iraq? No occupaion. No surge. Complete withdrawl. That is what Iraq wants. let us give them that and walk the heck away from this mess. this is a golden opportunity for US to walk away from a disastrous blunder. no more young men and women to sacrifice for this unjust war and the so-called democracy. if Iraq wants democracy they know how to get it. let us get out of there and save face, save young men and women and save $$$$.

Diing in Washington   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

It would have make sense if this piece contains what Senator Obama said in the conference in Jordan. Whatever happens to presenting both sides of story?

ARB   July 22nd, 2008 12:15 pm ET

OBAMA BETTER BRING A TELEPROMPTER WITH HIM TO ALL OF HIS DEBATES IF HE WANTS TO WIN. I COULD DEBATE BETTER THAN THIS IDIOT.

Equal Coverage for All   July 22nd, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Story about McCain... Yet picture of Obama. It is disgusting how biased this election is becoming. News agencies are supposed to be neutral.

rumpusgoopus   July 22nd, 2008 12:14 pm ET

McCain is starting to sound like an unfunny version of the cranky muppet critics, Waldorf and Statler.

Nick, Rochester, NY   July 22nd, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Obama admitted that he will listen to Petraeus and then turn around and do whatever his inexpereinced, ideologically twisted mind dictates.
He also is in denial about the success of the surge. Obama is a direct threat to our culture. His presidential quest must be stopped!

RB from NH   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Its not a success if we are still there!

Its not a surge its an escalation!

Brina   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Please give the spin a rest.....

Creative Woody   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Yes, keep touting "victory" McCain. America will still want its troops back home.

By the way, if the surge is working, why is there still no timetable for withcrawl?

Ryan   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

when will McCain stop criticizing and start having some ideas of his own?

ANGIE   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

MCCAIN PLEASE PLEASE STOP THE WHINING YOU PRESSURED OBAMA TO TAKE THIS TRIP NOW DEAL WITH IT!!!!!!!!!!

Franky   July 22nd, 2008 12:13 pm ET

LOL!!!! Go ahead Reps!! Talk about a war that nobody cares, LOL!!!

Marcus, Great Lakes IL   July 22nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

So much for CNN focusing on Obama. McCain has five headlines while Obama has only two.

I would really like McCain to discuss the issues rather than discussing Obama for once.

Amy   July 22nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Obama is right McCain is wrong

mollygonz   July 22nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

McSame, give it a rest! You beginning to sound like a broken record.

California Gold   July 22nd, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Keep up the pressure on Obama? You can't even keep up with Obama! McCain you earn no points for originality. McCain you are becoming a charicature.

Phantom of the Oprah   July 22nd, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Obama has fallen for his own hype... and the media spin.

He thinks he is a shoo in for president, so why bother to wait.

He puts his own glorification and star image above the good of his country.

I want a humble leader who acts to the benefit of others- NOT just to advance himself.

He is on a mad grab for power.

Mike   July 22nd, 2008 12:11 pm ET

What is this pressure that they are putting on Obama? What is CNN's definition of "hammered?" Why does McCain keep saying the same thing over and over again? He is getting the same response every time from Obama, and I still can't figure out how we have succeeded in Iraq, but we still haven't won. I think I am done paying attention until October, maybe McCain will retire by then.

Gary   July 22nd, 2008 12:10 pm ET

"Unconditional withdrawal"? Where did Obama say that?

The McCain camp is desperate to make this up.

JimBlanco   July 22nd, 2008 12:10 pm ET

Is that a United Nations flag pin on Hussein's lapel? How presidential... he's already taking marching orders from third world countries and their sugar daddy George Soros.

Debra, Alton   July 22nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

McCain...get over it! Nobody wants to continue a war!!!!!!!

100 yrs in Iraq   July 22nd, 2008 12:09 pm ET

========who cares about mcBush.

Greg, NY   July 22nd, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Isn't this like the fourth article on the same subject now?

We know all McCain does is attack Obama on anything and everything. I guess the constant reminder is good, people will see through it.

selected not elected   July 22nd, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Shows what a presumptuous, self-serving arrogant fool Obama is.
And after stating that he would NOT do that.

So flip-flop and egotistical.

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