July 23, 2008
Posted: July 23rd, 2008 08:43 AM ET

From ,
CNN

Watch a volunteer tell McCain he needs to get a new staff.

(CNN) - It was a statement that a McCain town-hall participant said would land her on the campaign's "s**t list."

Addressing the Republican presidential candidate during his town-hall forum in New Hampshire Tuesday, a woman identified herself as a volunteer for his campaign, and said she had come to believe it was time McCain hires a new staff in the state.

"You've got to make some changes," the woman told McCain. "I've had problems with a lot of your paid staff."

Watch: a volunteer tells McCain to make some staff changes

The volunteers had put up all the signs ahead of the town hall event, she complained. "You've got two people sitting right here next to me…They have done more work for you volunteering than a lot of your paid staff have. All your signs that are up outside today, they were put up by us, not by your staff people.”

McCain, whose campaign has battled charges of incompetence - even from some within his own party - joked, "A lot of our paid staff, a lot of them are on work release programs as you know."

McCain later said the staff problems would be fixed.

"We'll have our folks sit down and chat with you about what needs to be fixed in your mind and in your view,” he said. “And let me just say again: I'm very aware, I'm very aware that the only way that campaigns succeed - and certainly the only way every one of mine have - is through volunteers, and I'm extremely grateful and I thank you."

Filed under: John McCain • New Hampshire


karen-phoenix   July 22nd, 2008 4:22 pm ET

McCain scares me to death!!! He's sooo out of touch! AND way toooo old!!!! I'm in my 60's and I do not want anyone any older than I am trying to take care of MY COUNTRY!!!

Stephen Z (TX)   July 22nd, 2008 4:21 pm ET

What do people expect when McCain is trying to blame a 30 year foreign oil addiction on someone that has been in the senate a few years? McCain is insane, and no I"m not exaggerating. I fear for this country greatly if he wins. I know bush is at least top 3 as in worse president of all time, but god save us all if McCain wins. He will make Bush look like Roosevelt....

MBG (NYC)   July 22nd, 2008 4:21 pm ET

So much for the battleground state....

Don't Follow the Flock   July 22nd, 2008 4:21 pm ET

Peter -

You're missing the point. The biggest criticism that you and your leftist friends on here can level at McCain is that his volunteers, rather than paid staff, are hanging the banners outside his town hall??? Seriously?

And last time I checked volunteers are supposed to do what they're asked to do and not complain that paid staff aren't helping sufficiently. If you want to volunteer to do work, that's great. If you don't, shut up and leave.

FactCheck   July 22nd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Maybe McCain can hire the former head of FEMA and Donald Rumsfeld to run his campaign. It would be a step up.

dan   July 22nd, 2008 4:20 pm ET

why doesnt McCain ever get accused of having no substance? All he ever says is "Victory in Iraq, Winning in Iraq" yet he cant tell us what Victory means? Thats what you people call substance? Tell us were winning, but cant tell us how or why?

John   July 22nd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

Incompetent is one thing. Criminal is another.

I was reading a Newsweek article about McCains fight with Boeing and the tanker contract. Eventually a number of people got into trouble both at Boeing and the Air Force.

The contract was awarded to the Airbus people. Come to find out five of McCain's staffers are paid lobbyist for Airbus.

Because of public uproar the contract will be rebid. Which is fair. Why hasn't more attention been paid with McCain's meddling and the and the obvious conflict of interest with his staffers..?

Bud   July 22nd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

That brave volunteer has more backbone than mccain.

no no no!   July 22nd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

bone head

Enlightened Voter   July 22nd, 2008 4:19 pm ET

He has run a faulty campaign and you repuglicans want him to run your country? But the real problem is that his staffers don't believe in him, his cause or campaign. It's that simple.

no kidding   July 22nd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

One more reason not to let this idiot be president. How can he lead a country if he can't even lead his staff? Good for that women for speaking up about it–it's about time a republican acted like a person instead of a parrot.

Jackie Ryan   July 22nd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

At least McCain has the balls to take tough questions like this and not have staged "town halls" like Bush did in 2004. McCain is not really the problem – it's the Republican establishment trying to change him from who he really is.

The Dragon   July 22nd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

You Dems are so uptight.

Listen Up...   July 22nd, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Why does he have to give silly one liners about everything? My vote for Obama is burning a hole in my hand...I can't WAIT until Nov!

RB   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Poor lady. It's all in HER MIND. She should stop whining.

Kevin, B-More   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

How would he be able to Control the White House??? They say Obama has no experience, but he sure can build a good campaign staff. Communication and Organization is the key to all great Civilizations and Businesses. McCain doesn't sound like he has much Experience in this case.

Quincy   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Inspiration begins at the top

john williams san diego, ca.   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

This sounds a lot like osamas volunteer staff...the press and television anchors...

Patrick   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Can't wait until the right-wing media hosts get ahold of this. Let the excuses begin!

On the other hand, to all you liberal and lefty hosts: watch it with the "we told you so's". Obama's got a lot to learn.

rice, bryan   July 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

this is just the start of things to fix with mcbush's campaign.

Kurt Tappe, Wilmington DE   July 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Indeed, supporting McCain must indeed be pretty hard. But you know what? I have no sympathy. Most of his followers were going to vote GOP absolutely no matter what, and if they're going to be that blindly devoted instead of making a cogent evaluation and choice of a best candidate, then they get what they deserve. This woman, for example, does not see the disorganization in the campaign as the warning sign that it is of a potentially disorganized administration. At no point does she even consider Obama as an option–it's McCain all the way, he just needs to change some staffers. She represents the big flaw in our politics–people who do not look and see what's actually happening.

MMN-Milwaukee WI   July 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Bush has 181 days left in the White House and that is not good for McCain or the GOP and that’s all that matters.
Count with me
181
180
179
178
177

Cricket   July 22nd, 2008 4:15 pm ET

What can you say except-if you can't even handle staff and volunteers for local town hall meetings-how can you run our country- not to mention be considered the leader of the free world?? If this is a sign of experience, I think I'll take the novice!!

OBAMA/BIDEN

Chicago Architect   July 22nd, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Does everyone see how crafty and pointed McCain's response was? - "...what needs to be fixed in your mind and in your view,"

There's a huge disclaimer there pointing out the its only in this volunteer's mind and only in her view that there's something to be fixed. It insinuates that there may be something wrong with your point of view. This has been prevalent in this current administration, that nothing is wrong and nothing is their fault and that its people's perceptions that are at fault.

This comment came directly from a volunteer who saw the way McCain's campaign works. You can't get a more candid and honest look than this.

Let's hope that people can see the culture and the way this campaign (and future government) is being run and will be run. Its clear that accountability and competence will not be in their program.

We don't any more Brownies....please!

Matt, Manchester, CT   July 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Eh, could be worse. McCain could have the campaign staff full of shock troops..er..brown shirts that Obama has. Even remotely ask any of them for specfiics and they blow up at you. Better yet, display even the slightest bit of disagreement w/ anything that comes out of Senator "I'll just vote present"'s mouth and you must be some kind of neanderthal.

ali   July 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

he didnt blame it on obama?what is this?

Johnboy   July 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

"Hey, if I think of an insulting word and put "Mc" in front of it, it would be like a play on words where people know I am talking about McCain but I am insulting him at the same time! That is SO witty and clever! I should take over for Conan O'Brien! Think about it! McShame, McBush, McDummy.....the list is neverending!"

*Yawn* This just shows the immaturity od most Democrats.

Truthfully, I hope McCain removes any staffers who are incompetent so that he gets his money's worth out of them. Thank you volunteers for doing your job!

a southern bell for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

NOW FOLKS AS A LIFE LONG REPUBLICAN, I CAN TELL

YOU WE HAVE MADE A MISTAKE STARTING WITH GEORGE SR.

THEN WE ADDED INSULT TO INJURY TO OUR ECONOMY AND

OUR NATION BY ELECTING GEORGE JR.. ELECTING MCIDIOT

WOULD BE A WALK THROUGH THE PARK OF COMPLETE INSANITY.

Larry   July 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Great piece of propaganda.

A nice negative spin on the McCain townhall event, plus you've only posted negative comments directed at McCain.

Don't worry, I don't expect your moderator to post this one...you've been censoring posts ciritcal of CNN's bias for quite awhile.

Chris, Denver CO   July 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Funny joke about his paid staff. Yeah, McCain is funny. Too bad he's not running for head comedian.

TB   July 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Sure looks like McCain AND Obama are both trying to lose.

Nt   July 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol lol McCain's experience is really paying off.

James Nelson   July 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

If the staff is anything like their candidate, they're about 4000 years old and hopelessly out of touch. So yeah, they probably DO need to be replaced.

On the other hand, the fish rots from the head....

Steven Pentecost   July 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

What about enlisting Charles Keating? He didn't mind giving Mac thousands of $$$$ to run for Senate, of course there was the small issue of the "quid pro quo" when

it came to intervening with the investigation of the infamous S&L debacle. Recon the fact that Ms Mac had 400,000G's invested with Cheatin' Keatin'? It's not lost in my mind that Mac recently pressured the boys at the Pentagon to let EADS keep the contract for Air Force tankers because practically his entire top staff are lobbists for EADS and they stand to lose bigtime if the contract goes to Boing. Maybe Mac can get his oldest children to volunteer; but, maybe they remember their officer and gentleman ole man began his adultrous relationship with the new Ms Mac when their Mom was seriouslly ill.

JohnW in NC   July 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

The problem with the GOP campaign is that McCain is really a Burger King kind of guy. Every time he opens his mouth, he has changed the condiments on his hamburger. McCain takes "have it your way" to the extreme and more than anything, enjoys sharing a "Whopper" with the rest of us!

Annette   July 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Wow, what a public statement, but it is obvious there are problems with his team. To many chiefs, not enough indians. McCain you better take notice to that comment.

Shame ON YOU!!!!!   July 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

You've got to make some changes," the woman told McCain. "I've had problems with a lot of your paid staff."he is too busy attacking Senator Obama can't even run his own campaign
McCain and his negative group of advisors are obviously getting desparate and will do or say anything to discredit Obama

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

By the way, I think the joke was a little off color, but not horrific.
Except that we all know that if they aren't part of the lobbyist network, you ain't getting work. Nothing against convicted felons. It's just that those that get paid are those who are connected.

Then again, with Cunningham from San Diego in jail, and the former Rep. congressman from Ohio in jail, maybe Senator McCain was just letting us know what his plans are once he gets into office? If so, that is very charitable. But more likely than not, it's just a reality that his campaign is not up to snuff.

Diing in Washington   July 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

The problem with Senator McCain is that he seems to be more smarter than his staffs. My friends, it's scary to imagine anyone dummer than our belove Arizona Senator.

Nicole In NE   July 22nd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

He should also look at how NEGATIVE his campaign is becoming!
Smells more and more like the same ol same ol everyday. so sad

Doug in Seattle   July 22nd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

One candidate is very good at organizing and delegating campaign duties, and those are qualities that will serve him well as president. That persone is not John McCain.

Livonia, MI   July 22nd, 2008 4:10 pm ET

You can start by removing McCain and replacing him Romney. He's the republican presumptive runner up, and clearly he would have been the better choice for the republicans. Rom knows the economy and he could go toe to toe with Barack without looking like an idiot. Fix your mistake, it's not too late.

Peter (CA)   July 22nd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

What does this say about his campaign when this has been a common problem not only in NH?

His advisors and his surrogates are completely out of touch also.

Rod   July 22nd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

OUCH!

arlene,CA   July 22nd, 2008 4:09 pm ET

It seems like McSame just isn't up to running a campaign. Volunteers are doing most of the work, while he pays a staff, probable high pay & doesn't really know what they are doing, & does not care. Another poorly run campaign. He doesn't know how to use the internet & probable completely out of touch with other everyday tech that most people use on a daily basis. McSame, are you sure, REALLY SURE, you know what you are doing???? Because it does not appear that you do. You have made ALLOT of errors, you become quite frustrated & angry that Obama's trip over seas has been a success & that he was so well received by the foreign leaders. Obama is ready on day one to lead, I don't think you are up to the job. Obama for Pres 08-16

Bryan, Michigan   July 22nd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

And people really want to vote for McCain after all the issues he has in holding a campaign together? Running a country will be much more challenging than running a campaign.

Look at what Obama put together and was able to take down the Clintons. That is true ability in getting people to work together for a cause. McCains experience certainly does not seem to work for him against the "inexperienced" senator from Illinois.

I voters to look at how well these two candidates have been able to run their campaigns, pick the people around them to help run the campaigns, and then decide who would be best to run the great country of ours.

J Kay - KCMO   July 22nd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Is it possible that McCain is just warming the Pub's nominee seat for Romney? McCain announces in mid August that he's been advised that medically he needs to step aside. With the Iraq crisis seemingly calming with Obama hence Romney – economy expert – steps up to accept the nomination at the convention. I hope not, but I see a canary not getting enough oxygen.

Former Republican for Obama

Len in Washington   July 22nd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

I'm surprised he didn't tell this poor person that he would "Send in a Surge of Staff" to fix the problem. He got several questions at this Town Hall that he wasn't particularly fond of answering. Perhaps he's not as bullet proof in this format as has been thought.

Uncle Sam   July 22nd, 2008 4:08 pm ET

It takes volunteers – like those who place our country's welfare over partisan or self-interest. Like John McCain.

Americans for McCain '08

Heidi   July 22nd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

I can't seem to remember which of McCain's campaigns were run "successfully"...his failed 2000 attempt? Oh, wait...

Dr.Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 4:07 pm ET

MCCLUELESS COULD NOT EFFICIENTLY MANAGE

A MEDIUM SIZED DOG POUND, LET ALONE A CAMPAIGN.

IF GIVEN A CHANCE, MCBUSH WOULD MAKE BUSH LOOK GOOD.

Sooner   July 22nd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

McCain can't even get positive remarks when he stacks the deck with these so called "town-hall" forums. The campaign is doomed beyond repair...just drop out now and give us all a break.

Gene   July 22nd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Seeing how someone plans a campaign is a good indication of how they would plan to run this country.

Hillary couldn't balance her own campaign budget... and ran regardless of the fact that the math was very much against her after super tuesday... she was told at that time that she should withdraw... so we know she doesn't listen to reason and she can't balance a budget... this is for you PUMA people.

And McCain... after all this time to plan... has no original ideas and laughs it off every time someone criticizes him... or blames Obama... because his volunteer obviously must have been an Obama spy :) . This is the person you want running the country... someone without the common sense to surround themselves with competent people? Like they said in that other article... I would would be terrified knowing that my country is being run by a sub-par student, who surrounds himself with lazy, incompetent, and self serving staff.

Robert in Toronto,ON   July 22nd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

McCain is like his staff – paid to sit there and do nothing.

Sal   July 22nd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

no chance "skeletor with a comb over" you and evil lyn have no chance.

Obama in '08

Open minded   July 22nd, 2008 4:06 pm ET

It is good to see a lot of open minded people, who obviously THINK they know, well everything. It is nice to see people judge others that they have never personally sat down with. Have some more Kool-Aid

Glenn   July 22nd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

The more I listen to McCain, the more realize how senile he has become. He, himself, his surrogates and his staff are so frightfully out of touch with most Americans that it is frightening. He is becoming more and more a bumbling fool. The GOP is reaping what it sowed. When cannot afford another four more years of the failing policies and actions of the Bush administration. A McCain vote is a vote for continuing the Bush failures.

Mary   July 22nd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

Cannot manage his own campaign let alone our Government. This old man is suffering from amnesia and I'm frieghtenly afraid!

Slider   July 22nd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

(Insert any serious question here)

"uuummmmm, uh, well, uh, ummmmmmmmmmm, uh, mmmmmmmhhmmmm, uuuhh, well, uh, ummmmmmmm, hummmmmm, well, uh, mmmmmmm" – Senator Obama

Let's see how Obama's staff fixes this.

Rickymo   July 22nd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

If he can't pick a good trained staff what will he do to this country? Use Bush's staff and then we will be guareenteed another 4 years of misery? It is really not the staff though–it is the candidate. he is a bigger yawn then Dole.

Fredric, Las Vegas   July 22nd, 2008 4:05 pm ET

And McCain is just frightening.

Leon   July 22nd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

McCain, if you can't run a good campaign, how will you run the country. We don't need a self-professed foreign expert, but someone who can handle domestic issues. America, please vote for Obama. Give the man a chance.

pam Eugene OR   July 22nd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

You are running out of time to get you act together John. Hillary's poorly preformed staff cost her the nomination.
You need to step up and fix this if you expect us to believe you can run this country. So far you are not looking very competent.

Becky   July 22nd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

We hear so many problems with McCain's campaign. Can't run a campaign, can't run the country.

Another old white woman for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Heather should go home and make some Churros.
Blind faith is just that. Blind as well as deaf and dumb. Like her hero.
He is no hero! No more a hero than any other soldier, sailor or marine. He dropped bombs on women and children from high up and didn't have to wade through the body parts and blood. He was a pilot and a bad one at that. He is a rat and a womanizer and couldn't even be loyal to his 1st wife. You remember her don't you.? The one who got crippled so he traded her in for a trophy wife? Some hero.

John, Long Island, NY   July 22nd, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Wow, Incompetent Republican Leadership, that's surprising.

mike in caroline va.   July 22nd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

incompetenr staff??? birds of a feather well everyone can finish this saying.

MattH   July 22nd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

And this is news, how?
Staff problems are nothing new.

David Goldman for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

HIS STAFF IS A REFLECTION OF MCSHAMES OWN INABILITIES.

MCSAME MAKES GEORGE LOOK LIKE A GENIUS BY CONTRAST.

HE WORKS HARDER FOR IRAQ THAN AMERICA.

BGIV in NC   July 22nd, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Yeah, he needs staff people who can point out that Iraq does not border Afghanistan. Then he can hire some people to put some signs out.

Frank, Missouri   July 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Well, maybe he should ask Obama how to run a campaign. That has success and efficiency written all over it. For McCain that's worth another lame joke (he is REALLY not good at that) ... he should better sober up – on a second thought ... he should better soldier on the way he does.

PUMA'S UNITE WITH OBAMA!   July 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

McCain needs to get a new brain!

jfs Memhis, Tn   July 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Now this is just great..............a voter who has given their , time, energy, and votes to this man has to bring to his attenetion that PAID STAFF are taking the volunteers for granted. I guess they are just whinners like the rest of America. Glad that McCain and his staff are not Elitists like a black kid with a single parent.

Kelby from Houston, TX   July 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

HAVE YOU CONSIDERED CHANGING THE CANDIDATE.
Okay, back to reality. The McCain campaign is not perfect. Sure they've been having logistical issues. Charged with utter incompetence and NO, THEY DON'T DO WHAT THEY ARE PAID FOR.
But let's face it, They were never gonna win.
Why put forth effort if you are just going to lose any way. So, hakunah matatah
DOWN WITH THE GOP
UP WITH PEOPLE

OBAMA '08 DEMOCRATS '08 AND FOREVER

Connie   July 22nd, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Seems like John McBush really has a judgment problem, when he has been ask a question that he can not or don't want to answer he makes a joke(poorly I might add) and often offends others. Such as the rape joke, bomb,bomb ,bomb Iran and now paid staffers on work release and on and on. Someone needs to tell him he is not funny and I for one do not want a president that can not be serious, we have one now. Connie from Indiana

Chris from NY   July 22nd, 2008 4:01 pm ET

OVERHAULING HIS STAFF MEMBERS DOESN'T CUT IT. MCCAIN HAS BEEN PART OF WASHINGTON FOR 26 YEARS. WE NEED SOMEONE DIFFERENT. WE NEED FRESH AIR.

Anonymous   July 22nd, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Most of his staff are researching when Czechoslovakia ceased to exist and when Pakistan moved so that is now shares a border with Iraq.

He is plain stupid!

He tries to be funny, but it just comes off as snide and stupid!!!

Chuck   July 22nd, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Another very stupid and out of touch joke/comment made by McCain.
A simple I hear what your saying and I will look into it and fix that issue immediately would have been appropriate. What is wrong with this man that he has to make a joke that a lot of his paid staff being on a work release program. Talking about a major slap in the face for those that are really working paid staff. This man needs serious help with his jokes. Everyone that I have heard lately have been completely out of taste, off color and totally way off in left field, maybe he should stop making jokes and trying to be funny and get serious about his campaign. This man complains toooo much as it is.

NPA   July 22nd, 2008 4:00 pm ET

McCain does not only need a new staff, he needs a new presidential candidate.

The McCain of 2000 is dead. The new McCain is now 95% in league with Bush. And when McCain is not busy contradicting himself, and seeing boarders where there is none (Iraqi-Afghanistan boarder, he is trying to recast Obama's ideas in his own words - which politically suicidal.

ANGIE FRANCE   July 22nd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Every little thing that makes him look bad it broadcast on this network. This is not newsworthy. I don't see the stupid things obama does paraded day and night like this.

Beverly, NYC   July 22nd, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Dear Volunteer:

Why not spend you hours working for a real campaign? Paid staff, do nothing job, is this how you expect to run a country?

Gene   July 22nd, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Why is this news? Everyone already knows that McCain's staff is completely incompetent.. They had all that time to prepare while Obama and Hillary were duking it out... and when the time came to start campaigning... they just slid right into that old GOP philosophy of "make everyone afraid of your opponent"

The average 5th grader could have planned this campaign better... or even been a better candidate.

A NATION OF WHINERS for OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 3:58 pm ET

WE THINK THE VOLUNTEER IS RIGHT.

MCCLUELESS CAB START BY FIRING HIMSELF.

HE IS THE EPITOME OF IGNORANCE & ARROGANCE.

Steve   July 22nd, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Does it even matter? All that matters is "HE KNOWS HOW TO WIN WARS". But nothing about keeping the peace and brining soldier, SICK AND TIRED OF WARS home to their families. .He's a bigger JOKER than the one in Batman. McCain is so wrong for America.

Change NOW   July 22nd, 2008 3:57 pm ET

he already twice changed his mind on comprehensive immigration reform even as he panders to hispanics, making vague statements like we'll have to work on that, or that is too bad....when your entire family gets deported.....while you are serving in Iraq!!!! this has happened repeatedly under dubya.....

Change NOW   July 22nd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

mccain needs to get a new campaign: among his daily gaffes was one in the spring in which he already thought the surge had succeeded BEFORE it even began:

"This spring, McCain said troops in Iraq were “down to pre-surge levels” when in fact there were 20,000 more troops than when the surge policy began."

what an airhead.....he probably does not even know who is in his campaign???

he is anti muslim but will elect jindal for vp???

he is anti nuclear energy for other countries but promotes nuclear energy??

Bill, Streamwood, IL   July 22nd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

... and exactly why is Candidate McCain experienced enough to run the country when he has severe problems with his own campaign staff?

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 22nd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

Come on over to the Obama side, there's nothing like volunteering for a winner

manubi   July 22nd, 2008 3:55 pm ET

If you can't manage your own paid staff, how do you manage people of this country? Mr. McCain should probably enroll a people management course before he runs for president.

Obama 08   July 22nd, 2008 3:54 pm ET

McNugget needs a lot more than a new staff. New policies might help.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   July 22nd, 2008 3:54 pm ET

McCain hires slackers and crony lobbyists. Is it any wonder his campaign is like Mr. Toad's Wild Ride?

Marilyn from Ohio   July 22nd, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Is McCain going to crack jokes in hopes of landing votes? He is an OLD man!

aaa   July 22nd, 2008 3:53 pm ET

mccain should stop attacking OBAMA because his not helping himleft. warmonger!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Doris,Memphis,TN   July 22nd, 2008 3:52 pm ET

The staff has lost hope. This is not good.

TN FOR OBAMA   July 22nd, 2008 3:51 pm ET

McSame if elected
McShame on anybody who votes for him!!!!

O-YEAH – OMAMA in '08

Willy   July 22nd, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I agree he needs a new staff across america with a huge set of onions. Obama is so weak and is a puppet for the DNC. He should be able to beat that peep squeak by a mile.

American   July 22nd, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Tuesday, a woman identified herself as a volunteer for his campaign, and said she had come to believe it was time McCain hires a new staff in the state.

Too funny he needs to hire a new entire staff....and the Repugs need to get a new candidate. McLame couldn't inspire his own family.

Natalia   July 22nd, 2008 3:51 pm ET

YES...That volunteer had guts to say what she believed. BRAVA. I am so 'sick' of the BLAME game that I am hearing daily from the McCain camp against Obama. STOP IT. Come up with some solutions. I agree with the NY Times.

Timothy   July 22nd, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Mccain's camp is bellyaching over Obama's overseas trip and the media attention and Mccain is the one had a clock on Obama to go to the middle east and know Obama is over there and all Mccain does is attack Obama. This is so inexperienced with no Judgement by Mccain.

Anita from Arizona   July 22nd, 2008 3:50 pm ET

Interesting...

joaquin   July 22nd, 2008 3:50 pm ET

This seems a little petty to me. He probably does need better staff. In fact, he needs a replacement for himself. But don't hang the lack of enthusiasm on the poor staff people. Supporting McCain must be really hard to do these days.

Open Your Eyes   July 22nd, 2008 3:49 pm ET

McSame = no change.

Campaign has battled charges of incompetence..................
Maybe McSame is the inexperenced one.

More daily snafu..........

No McSame!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

David, New York, NY   July 22nd, 2008 3:49 pm ET

I just need to say that Heather Wilson is one of the people who fueled the "Nipplegate" affair. Just this week, the FCC fine for this Super Bowl halftime scandal was struck down. How much taxpayer money was wasted on this distraction? She is the last person I'd listen to about anything at all.

Franky   July 22nd, 2008 3:48 pm ET

"You've got to make some changes," the woman told McCain. "I've had problems with a lot of your paid staff."

LOL!!!!!

Tommy   July 22nd, 2008 3:47 pm ET

The volunteer should have told McCain to get a new campaign strategy. All of these negative attacks on Obama have gotten old. Doesn't he realize that the american people are tired of that ancient style of republican dirty politics and as a result that approach is losing him votes everyday? Time for a dose of reality, John!

Rob   July 22nd, 2008 3:47 pm ET

It's not the staff...it's the candidate.

James   July 22nd, 2008 3:46 pm ET

McCain is a funny guy. We lose one 71 year old comedian, George Carlin, and we get another 71 year comedian. That's what makes America great.

Dave in Canada   July 22nd, 2008 3:45 pm ET

Why would anyone in their right mind support McCain? He's reaching the age of senility and doesn't have half the brains Obama has. He better hope that he doesn't go to any debates with Barack. He'll get blown out of the water.

Annoyed   July 22nd, 2008 3:45 pm ET

That's great – let's add to America's horrible treatment of convicted felons by suggesting that people in work release programs are incompetent to hang signs.

Yes, it was a joke. It was also in poor taste. That's not really the guy I want to represent my country.

Dan , TX   July 22nd, 2008 3:44 pm ET

McCain is frighteningly incompetent. Experience, where the heck is it? I don't see it. I'll take the competent, brilliant rookie over the washed up has-been anyday.

Republicans have NO PLANS except to screw America, take the profits, and move to Switzerland.

Eric in Ca   July 22nd, 2008 3:43 pm ET

It goes beyond New Hampshire ... Sen. McCain your Lobbyists influenced Champaign Staff aren't even behind you.

G   July 22nd, 2008 3:43 pm ET

He can't even run his campaign but thinks he can run the country. The Mccain volunteer should come over to Obama headquarters and see how competent people work.

John Sibley   July 22nd, 2008 3:42 pm ET

I think McCain, (who I support at this point) needs to hear what this woman is saying and take it to heart as well as to the next level. McCain needs to pay better attention to what comes out of the mouths of his constituency. Listening to this bigotry guised as campaigning makes me wonder just how in touch he is. The questionable fabric of those that speak on his behalf is as clear as the blue sky and is sure to come back and bite him in a rather sensitive part of the anatomy. The tide in this country is not what is used to be people on both sides of the fence are listening and are far more intelligent than his camp may perceive. People are growing tired of the "Old Political Machine" and its practices. Anyone with a 9th grade education can read between the lines. English is a language that many blacks as well as whites are well versed in. Party members like Heather Wilson are in need of a muzzle and not much more. It’s amazing what you’ll hear when you take the time to listen.

Tim, Seattle   July 22nd, 2008 3:42 pm ET

SOunds familiar don't it? Like the damage that ensued with Hillary's campaign when things weren't working and they started shaking up their staff in the middle of the race.
Yes, the wheels on the straight talk express are held together by a stick of gum and some duct tape.

McCAin is twisting in the wind on his own. He fired Graham, so now who is he leeching onto for advice on the economy? He's the odd man out on Iraq now too. And Obama has dominated the spotlight, perhaps forcing the desparate McLAme to cough up a premature VP pick.
And for the kicker, public money John has to spend his money before the convention. Yep, McLame will be shooting off all his fireworks before its even dark.
Its over, GOP, just look at the electoral map on Politico (it has been updated unlike CNN's) and Obama already has 291in projected delagates. Also, McCains numbers have dropped over the last few days.
Its gonna be a landslide, folks.

Winkzilla, Tucson   July 22nd, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Out-of-Control Republicans remind me of many manager I worked for over my lifetime.

They manage by wish.

They think that is is enough only to say what they want and think without any plans or understanding what is involved. They say it, and bing! it is suppose to miraculously materialize.

Lee-- Dallas, TX   July 22nd, 2008 3:41 pm ET

Marvelous… this is simply good stuff. Its amazing that the higher ups wouldn’t have figured this out by now—you don’t give your supporters junk to work with.

How does he expect them to be motivated enough to sell ideas they barely believe in, in the first place?

Another high mark for Barack and he’s out of the country.

Kiah   July 22nd, 2008 3:40 pm ET

LMAO! Now how's that for order. This guys candidacy is a joke!

Obama '08!

eric   July 22nd, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Kudos to the volunteer for speaking up, but one has to wonder why she would even want to persist for a candidate who can't even manage his own campaign. Persistence and tenacity are virtues only to a point. Reason must prevail sometime. Seems to me this volunteer lacks the judgment necessary to know when to jump from a sinking ship. Typical of all McCain/Bush supporters.

RGB in MN   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

It is amazing how poisonous the liberal comments are on your site. They love to hate, blame and whine about everything that they themselves believe to be true. Very vile people will vote for BHO, which is change i do not think improves our country at all.

Nevada   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Do you think one of his paid staff could tell him to stop using the phrase "My friends"? And maybe he could add some 'substance' to his views on the issues voters are interested in? I would probably listen to him if I thought he would say something meaningful rather than just ranting and making attacks on his opponent.

Brandon Hillary PUMA 4Mc   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Well Obama needs to develope a platform and quit following cues from others.

Heather Wilson for Vice President !!!!!!

Hillary 2012.

We're NOT "your friends"!!!   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Excellent, we get a first-hand glimpse of what a McBush administration would look like, INCOMPETENCE. Eerily similar to what we've put up with the last 8 years. I hope were not stupid enough to go throught it again.

OBAMA '08 + '12

Voter   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

McCain basically told the woman "thanks and cya!"

Has he answered the Viagra vs Birth Control question yet? He said he would get back with us on that...

Desert Shield vets   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

makes you wonder what all those lobbyist really do for him ,other than payup. the volunteers should have been working for the the right
nominee OBAMA. they would have been respected for there work.

doesnt sound like a well oiled machine. Mr McCains Grand OLD Machine

Venus   July 22nd, 2008 3:38 pm ET

I don't blame her! He should get all of his attack dogs who are trying to hammer Obama to help! Now... who is more frigteningly and inexperienced?

David, Charlotte, NC   July 22nd, 2008 3:37 pm ET

I'm a Democrat and I feel that Obama is too inexperienced to be President. I don't know what the DNC was thinking. Our current state of affairs is too complex and too critical to trust to a novice. I lament the lack of a good choice this election. Right now I am struggling with which of the two candidates will do the least damage. As far as I'm concerned we have no viable options.

New Orleans 4 Obama   July 22nd, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Is it only me that notices that Mr. Obama seems prudent enough to hire the right people? Who spends money he actually has in his budget? And realizes that it isn't about him, it's about us?

ANA G. LOS ANGELES. CA   July 22nd, 2008 3:37 pm ET

sad

Fed up with the lies   July 22nd, 2008 3:37 pm ET

Sen. McCain; if you can't get your staff and your volunteers together; what makes you think you can run a country? Funny you never hear of this problem with the Obama camp.

Obama '08

jason, tx   July 22nd, 2008 3:36 pm ET

time to start volunteering for Obama, I would say :) .

It's about Turn Out!   July 22nd, 2008 3:36 pm ET

I've said it time after time. Obama will win this election because of turn out.

Here in NC McCain is way out organized and Obama has at least twice the volunteers as McCain does. McCain is spending his money on nonsense ads that people don't care about right now, while Obama is spending his money on the ground and getting out the vote.

And for those who say these newly registered voters won't vote. They said the same thing in the primaries here and who do you think won NC.

Obama/Clinton or Biden '08

John in Columbus   July 22nd, 2008 3:35 pm ET

McCain, whose campaign has battled charges of incompetence — even from some within his own party — joked, "A lot of our paid staff, a lot of them are on work release programs as you know."
---------
It's a Republican campaign and those are Republican campaign staff... that probably wasn't a joke. He may have been laughing at the truth.

bruce   July 22nd, 2008 3:35 pm ET

He can't seem to run a campaign but he wants to run the country. I just hope his mental capacity holds up until the convention........The Democrats couldn't have asked for a better candidate to run against and we wouldn't want to see him replaced.

JB   July 22nd, 2008 3:34 pm ET

"In your mind and in your view" – Obviously he doesn't seem to think anything is wrong...If it takes someone in the trenches volunteering for his campaign to have to use a public format like that to get their message out that something is wrong with his staff, he's obviously moving along with his eyes closed. Is he going to be the one listening to the troops in the trenches, or the pampered ones at the top, who have no idea?

tigerakabj   July 22nd, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Woah, his own volunteer is putting his "incompetence" on shout in his town halls? Even the screened people are very worried (and they should be). Yeah that set a real positive tone for that town hall.

McSenile and his rethug lot are going down in November. Reaping time has come for these goons. Hopefully they will join the ranks of the Whig and Federalists Party - oblivion. Keep up the bad work McSame.

Obama/Sebelius 2008/2012.

Susan   July 22nd, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Watch McLames whole campaign implode!!!

brice, south carolina   July 22nd, 2008 3:34 pm ET

i count 8 mcain stories on the political ticker today for mcain. 2 for obama. mcain supporters can't say that obama gets more coverage anymore. CNN has over compensated. I don't think they should have compensated for anything in the first place. all the mistakes mcain has made would have ended obama's chances. mcain is the one getting the easy ride.

Open Your 3rd Eye   July 22nd, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Man this is funny?

What's with all the news about McCain today? lol
You could have at least tried to be subliminal about it.

Sorry, but most of us are not concerned with McCain. You can leave that boring news to Fox.

nitro   July 22nd, 2008 3:33 pm ET

Doesnt Rep Wilson look like an ugly old school teacher.

Bob Stephens   July 22nd, 2008 3:33 pm ET

What McSame needs is a brain transplant...

CS in PA   July 22nd, 2008 3:32 pm ET

A new staff? How about a new candidate!

Venus   July 22nd, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Ha,ha,haaaa! This is too funny and it's great!

Instead of attacking Obama – McSame needs to FIX his Straight Talk Bus/Plane!

This gets better every day!

Hey – McSame wants more media coverage... give it to him!

Travis (in the real world   July 22nd, 2008 3:32 pm ET

I watched the so called "townhall meeting"....McWar never never and

still hasn't answered any questions that didn't fit his stump.

I'm glad that lady put McWar on the spot...all he did was sputter. (yes

his so called forte the Iraq war)

Looks like his RINGERS got mixed up and the microphone got in the

wrong hands.... BRAVO LADY you made McWar looked like an idiot

Griff   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

John McCain's Network, is a thousand times more Authentic. A Billion times more Gigabytes, than anything Obama's team can put together...

Jerry   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

McCain is so busy attacking Obama he whole campaign is out of order MCSAME need to sit down and retired I live in Georgia young children and elderly people is out on the street registering people to vote this 12 year girl came up to me and ask me was I register to vote for Obama I smile and said I am 39 year old and I been voteing since I was 18 year old she said I cant wait until I am a register to vote because I am going to voter for you.

Incompetent McSame   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Oh mine, the guy cannot even manage his own campaign, how can he run a nation like the United States. His paid staff cannot do the job and he cannot do anything about it. All that he knows is war, war, war. Where was his experience all these years with Israeil and Palestinian conflicts.

Brina   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

I'm sure this isn't the type of attention McCain wanted, LOL.....

joe   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

This side show is just pathetic. Someone who stands a chance against Obama needs to enter this race. We have too long before the election to be in such a sad state of affairs.

Ben, Nashville, TN   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Well, McCain has no executive experience, and he's used to having his wife do all the heavy lifting for him, so... there you go. He is definitely a pro when it comes to incompetence – crashing airplanes, ethics violations, forgetting names, voting against MLK holiday, etc.

Linda31   July 22nd, 2008 3:31 pm ET

That' what happens when you ask for more media attention.......we see and hear everything. Even the things you don't want highlighted. Experience...I think not.

Uchenna in MD   July 22nd, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Even we the republicans are ashamed of our nominee. Can we still change him?

Republican for Barack Hussein Obama.

Necie in OKC   July 22nd, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Time to come on over to the winning team. I'm an Obama volunteer (have not had a single problem). We'll take you!!!

NY State of mind   July 22nd, 2008 3:30 pm ET

"We'll have our folks sit down and chat with you about what needs to be fixed in your mind and in your view"
****************************************************************************
In YOUR view and YOUR mind, but not in my perfect world.
What a clown

Obama 08

DflateMacsStr8TalkXpress: Econ MIA, AWOL on facts, POW from reality   July 22nd, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Humpty Dumpty had a great ???

Tim   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

If I were a Republican, I would suggest getting rid of Charlie Black first, but as a Democrat I cannot wait to see the fallout from his record that will be increasingly emphasized in the coming months.

Weepy   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

ONE VOLUNTEER voiced a complaint! So, what? Sounds legitimate to me. BUT maybe paid staff are paid to perform other tasks, unknown to a local volunteer. Putting out all the campaign signs sounds like it SHOULD be a task for the local volunteers. What else do the locals do anyway? Besides making the annoying, pesky phone calls to local party members! I am getting so sick of the whiney Democrats.

Obama the vote   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

I watched the town-hall meeting and was laughing at all the answers McSame gave. He did not have a real solution to any of the problems people asked him about. All he said was, " we are winning in Iraq."

I am sick of this guys bogus claims and base-less attack on Obama.

McBush, at the beginnig of the campaign said he will run a CLEAN campaign! I think he needs to take some memory pills. :-P

JA Cook   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

If McCain isn't attacking he's lost.

He's our current attack candidate and he wants to be our next attack President.

Obama is indeed frightening when he talks about pursuing diplomacy when we have all these bombs to work with.

Speak softly, but drop a big bomb.

Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran.

McCain 08

Debby, NJ   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

McShame, McShame even your own volunteers are telling you that you campaign stinks, lazy "paid" staff.
Didn't you just revamp your staff, Again
Call Barack , he can help you...
BARACK THE VOTE AMERICA !!!

John   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

McCain is not in charge of the organization of his campaign just as Obama is not in charge of his own. They have Campaign Managers whose duty is the organization of the campaigns. For McCain that person is Rick Davis and for Obama it is David Axelrod. Ignorantly charging McCain with not being able to organize a camaign and his ability to lead a nation ignores the focus of this article.

Bill, Alabama   July 22nd, 2008 3:29 pm ET

McCain's staff needs to be "fixed", but first the head honcho, he himself, needs "fixing". McSame is more incompetent that his staff ever thought about being.

PUMA - Murphy   July 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Sadly, I think the best run campaign thus far has been Obama's camp. Hillary had some bad apples along with John here.

As a PUMA member it pains me to say that. I really wish HRC had run a smoother campaign and than maybe her camp could have delt with the media bias better than they had.

Still, aside from campaigning, Obama is much more in-line with HRC's views. Let's keep our fingers crossed at the convention. It's a long shot, but it's still a shot.

bill for barack   July 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

To The Right Vote.
You say that McCain is next to incompetent.
What was Bush doing there anyway ?

Ken   July 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

I agree with McCain. The only way his campaign will succeed is if enough people 'volunteer' ...........'volunteer' to be as dumb as a rock.

poor johnny mack   July 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

poor me oh my

Change not McSame!!!!   July 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

McCain would be a worse President than Bush.

Bush put us in The Wrong War at the Wrong Time, and McSame wants to keep us there even longer!!!

Bush failed to recognize Economic Problems and now the Economy is a Mess, while McSame's Economic Advisor says the only economic problem is a Whiney Nation!!!

Bush failed to recognize that we need Vehicles with better Gas Mileage and Alternative Energy, so now Oil is at record high prices. While McSame just wants to drill more oil and do things the old way.

Wheither it's Bush or McCain it's the SAME OLE STORY, SAME OLE POLITICS that put us into the MESS WE HAVE NOW!!!!

TIME FOR CHANGE!!!
TIME FOR NEW IDEAS!!!
TIME FOR NEW POLITICS!!!
TIME FOR OBAMA!!!!

Nancy   July 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Its all about leadership Ms. Volunteer.
And your camp don't have any, from the candidate to the organisers...
go do something worth-while this summer

California Gold   July 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Sounds like the McCain campaign structure is inept from the candidate down to the lowest paid staffer.

Bet the McCain paid staff's work consists of complaining about and cricizing the Obama campaign staff. LOL!

bill for barack   July 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

I think the staff is fine. The problem is with the candidate. They need a new one .

Jason, Pittsburgh, PA   July 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

In terms of fund raising and results, Obama so far has run the most effective campaign in the history of American politics. McCain, on the other hand, nearly bankrupted his campaign; he relies on handouts (free corporate jet) from his rich wife; and insiders in his own party say his campaign is poorly managed. It's high time for the media to highlight the candidates qualifications, or lack thereof, based on actual deeds than to simply report "Today some McCain crony said Obama is inexperienced."

proud army and navy mom   July 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I love it. a presidential town hall meeting and they discuss lazy people and sign hanging

sounds exciting!

who in their right mind will vote for mcwar?

Clark Shaffer   July 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Simply incredible! I don't see how he can mouth the words "politically inexperienced" relative to his criticism of Obama. I'm surprised he didn't immediately have the volunteer worker drawn and quartered for "not being part of the team". Someone needs to keep an eye on this woman to make sure she doesn't "disappear"!

Roofin Reality, Houston, Tx.   July 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Okay, let me just say this.
It was reported that Senator McCain, just a week ago, opened up his first office in Michigan. That is clearly a battleground state and dude just put up an office there? He is a dud as it relates to running a smooth, efficient campaign. That leads me to believe that we'll have more of the same in terms of incompetent people running the administration.

Jodi   July 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

McCain's sense of humor is so strange...

Farrell, Houston, Tx   July 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

McCain can't run a competent staff because he has never been in charge of any staff in his whole career. And trust me, he's not listening to anything they are saying, he's too focused on what Obama is saying. Further, he has never had a successful campaign, what is he talking about. Senile.

Alison   July 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

is it just me or does that picture look funny? it looks like they are trying to make him taller...lol

Griff   July 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

John is far from ready for his 'Walking cane'.. Old is Gold.... No doub't the team will be there, when it's required...

ChicagoJosh   July 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

When Obama quotes Iraqi leaders, he's wrong and unsophisticated and needs to be feared. When McCain reads Obamas mind and knows that Obama really just wants Americans to surrender, McCain is a hero. This is bull.

blaising   July 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

You know what's great about all this McCain-Bush '08 trying to figure out a way to steal the thunder of Barack's overseas trip? It's kept them completely off-message all week.

What a lost opportunuty!! McCain-Bush '08 need to get sombody in there who knows how to manage.

Jealousy is monster that will eat you alive...and a SIN too!

ANGIE   July 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Wow how many times does he have to fix his campaign he cant even run a campaign how in the h– is going to run this country please people think think mccain will not be a good potus!!! please people wake up do the righ thing this time VOTE FOR OBAMA!!!!!!

William, from Cali   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

If I were running this "thing" for McCain; I would concede and save my time and money.............It's an "up-hill battle, at best.". When the "enemy" out-number you; retreat to fight another day( The Art of War)............................................Let the DemocRATS, have this one!
It worked for Hillary C.!

kim hussein taylor portland, oregon   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

yet another example of how poor he is at management, among SO MANY other things. he is surrounded by lobbyists and fools; his campaign has been a complete joke.

he cant manage his own team, how the H is he gonna manage our entire country???

"what needs to be fixed in your mind and in your view" --way to not take responsiblity for yours and your staff's FAILURES, mccain. and that's ELITIST too, by the way, folks!

and, as for mccain's supposed strength on foreign policy--will someone PLEASE explain to me how a hothead who literally doesnt know WHO is fighting whom, or where the major-player countries are even located can possibly do a good job??? are you mccain supporters out of your minds??? this guy is incompetent, inadequate, unknowledgable, HOW is he strong on foreign policy?? being willing to go to war is NOT strength, people, it is WEAKNESS (and in the case of iraq, illegal and greedy too).

our only hope out of the mess this country has become is with obama!!

no more neoCONs, they are unamericans!!

Ricky - Hispanic/Educated and voting for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Haha I love it!!

helen   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

And we want this man to become president. Good Luck America!

kayla   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

mcsame stop fooling yourself. you can't handle a campaing l much less the country!

D in Phoenix   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

The woman is just a whiner! It's all in her head. We're going to stay in Iraq for 100 years and they're going to learn to like it! Viagra for everyone, birth control for no one!

And people are still considering this guy?

MurphyMorseJohnson   July 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

If you were stuck in a cage for several years, you would have staffing problems too. JFK had a better idea–elude the enemy.

Old Campaign Hand   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

HA! That's always been the problem with McCain. The best campaign staff the GOP has to offer has never worked for him, and most of us never will.

SUNSHINE   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

That must of been a tough bullet to bite for McCain.
I think that will at least give him some playing ground for the electiom even though I am an Obama supporter, it would be a shame to see this or any person go down in a landslide. Unfortunately, incompetence can not be improved without CHANGE..LOL

Sharon Minnesota   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Wow, that's gotta hurt, a volunteer calling out paid staffers.

joe   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

The CEO himself does not know his geography.What are you talking about? He has to be the first to get fired. To hear surrogate Wilson talking about Obamas' inexperience,you got to be kidding!

Yasriel   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

McWar needs to be taken up on "The Sadr City is safe. Mosul is safe. Basra is safe. The people of Iraq, and I've been there, are now leading normal lives."
What is the definition of NORMAL LIVE when there are more than 100,000 American Military men/women and a lot more of Iraqi service men patrolling the streets of Iraq.
Wouldn't a measure of NORMAL LIVE be what we are used to over here? When was the last time you went to Wal-Mart and be afraid that the place will be blown up or you see hundreds of military guys patrolling in and around Wal-Mart.?
I am really afraid this McClueless guy could some how steal the presidency....He would be worse than Bush.

Mike   July 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

The headline should read, "McCain Gets Hammered By Own Volunteer."

Michelle   July 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

This seems like a petty issue to be brought up in a town hall debate.

Lee from FL   July 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Why am i not surprised.

In McCain's term "STOP BEING A WHINER"

I am john mccain and i approve this message?

DJ, LA, CA   July 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Hmmm...I think it's safe to safe the Republican party itself is a mess and contempt with corruption by the big $ lobbies...especially with 3 oil executives calling the shots. Bush/Cheney/Rice are all rotten to the core and infected McCain...whom was once a free-thinker, but not any more.

AREYOUFORREAL   July 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I thought his staff was new. Why don't you just move over to
the O side. No new staff needed.

BSP   July 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

McCain/Romney 08
For Security and Economic Solutions

Republicans For Obama   July 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

McCain can't manage his own campaign, how does he plan to ever manage a country????

Obama 08

Frequent Flyer NYC   July 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

All this gguy does is joke...he joked...he joked......the country's dire situation is not a joke McLame.

Timber (ex dem)   July 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Thank you Rep. Heather Wilson for standing up and telling it like it is. BHO as president would be like a 4 year old child running a Nuclear power station.

JJ   July 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

I applaud that volunteer for standing up and saying something but unfortunately, I don't think it will help any. He's still going to lose in November.

Boyd@Boston   July 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

He can't even run his own campaign and wants to run the United States of America. Please, this is "No Country for Old Men"

G   July 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Independent-Minded American,
You are an idiot

SJ,
You are flat-out wrong, AND a moron.

Joe Reg   July 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

It's not the people or the staff.

It's the policy stupid. No more repubs this year.

Go Obama go.

Obama 08 & 12.

Obama Supporter from FL   July 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

I think that getting that message to the McCain camp was important, but the appropriate way for the volunteer to bring that up was NOT at the townhall in front of the press. With volunteers like that, who needs enemies?!

JohnBoy   July 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

I miss Hillary.

When do the debates start?

Why is Obama scared of the debates?

McCain 08

skunkrat The Marine   July 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

I agree with the lady, McCain's campaign is on life support. This staff has to consist of the biggest bunch of Idoits in the Republican party. ATTACK WITH A PLAN OF YOUR OWN. ROVE'S STRADEGY WILL NOLONGER WORK. THE AMERICAN PEOPLE KNOW HOW IT WORKS AND DON'T CARE FOR IT. Tell That stupid woman from New Mexico to SIT DOWN & SHUT UP.

Damian Salter   July 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Ouch – Slammed by your own volunteer!
Can't bode well.

Jim in Houston   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Better listren to your NH vols John. This happens every cycle in NH politics. The paid staff thinks their too important to do this kind of stuff.

HAHAHA   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Dude doesn't even know how lacky his own staff is and he wants to run our country and fight 2 wars!!?! HAHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!

Crush Rush   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Its sad to watch even the so called Republicans,running a campaign as mismanaged as this.This is like having Sonny Liston fight Ali.In the mean time all Rush can do is have his Dittoheads try to make fun of Obama by chanting ahahahahah while listening to recordings of Obama.Rush is so pathetic and so are his hate filled followers.

psittacines   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Today in N.H. John McCain blatantly plagiarized T. Boone Pickens on the statements the oil man's ads are making on the economy....why is the press not saying anything about this when the GOP jumped on Obama for using a sentence from his campaign advisor....???:)

Kristara Barrington   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Why did McCain attempt to sneak Phil Gramm out of his campaign in the middle of the night? I mean I know he called Americans “WHINERS” and said that the economic slowdown is only a “MENTAL RECESSION”, but isn’t Dr. Phil Gramm (Economist) the primary architect of Senator McCain’s economic plan?

McCain has already stated he knows ZERO on the economy. Now This? I’m sure he will trot out some replacement but the principles from Gramm are going to remain embedded in McCain’s plan, otherwise it was a bad plan to begin with.

James Hussein, SC   July 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Now that's ORGANIZED!!!!

The Wrong Experience   July 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

When will the McCain people get the message that the experience that Obama DO NOT HAVE is EXACTLY the experience WE DON'T NEED!!!

This election is LESS about OBAMA and MORE about the USA moving AWAY from the TERRIBLE POLICIES of GEORGE BUSH and JOHN MCCAIN!!!!

Anonymous   July 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I have volunteered at the McCain headquarters in Arlington VA. The paid staff there seems arrogant and ungrateful to the volunteers. I will not be back.

providence, ri   July 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Consider this is another generic left-wing comment with a word misspelled.

Substance not Rhetoric   July 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

This country needs to be organized, inspired and led. I said in before. McCain is a hero not a leader. Clinton was a fighter not a leader. Obama is a leader and this country needs a leader badly.

prairieguy   July 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

First McWhinner needs to fire himself as a candidate...he is pathetic...almost like Dole vs Clinton in 96.

He has become the Whinner & Gaffer in Chief!!!!!!

Sue in MI   July 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

How can this man actually have supporters, paid or otherwise? Did he know what state he was in today? Or who they border? And the good congresswoman calls Obama "frightening?"

McNo   July 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Now imagine how McPhony's cabinet would work for the American people.....NOT!

Capt. Smash, Salt Lake City, Utah   July 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

I'm very aware, I'm very aware that the only way that campaigns succeed — and certainly the only way every one of mine have — is through volunteers, and I'm extremely grateful and I thank you."

Now if you can help me change my 'depends' I will be very greatful also!

Tony   July 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

NOTHING MAKES MY DAY MORE THAN WATCHING A REPUBLICAN SQUIRM!

COME NOVEMBER JOHNNY BOY WILL BE A 2X LOSER!

SWEET!

R.I.F.   July 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

McCain needs to hire a tutor to help him write legitmate op-ed pieces and not the attack piece that he tried to submit to the NYT.

kcmookie   July 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Oh geez, I think I just crossed over. It really is starting to feel like we are making fun of people on the short-bus. It is no longer fun, but instead just sad and pathetic. It makes me wonder if we aren't watching the end of an entire party. How bad does it have to get when one of your unpaid volunteers feels so moved regarding the incompetence of your staff, that she actually speaks out?
Sad, just sad.

Rave   July 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Maybe he can fix his staff.. But who can fix him.
Man, this guy is soooooooooooooooooo dumb.
Go back to Arizona you old fart
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Donna   July 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Could his audience look any more bored???

Obama 08: white, 60 year old woman   July 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Another big development out of the McCain campaign today. Good job of providing equal coverage of this fascinating Republican campaign!!

Moderate Republican for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

If McCain's campaign management is any reflection of his ability to manage the office of the U.S. Presidency, then America will be in a whole lot of trouble if McCain is elected!

I have been amazed from the beginning at how remarkable Obama's campaign has been ran. It has slipped up a few times, but, by and large, Obama has done an amazing job considering that he has never run a national campaign before.

Now, McCain, on the otherhand, should know better. He has run for President before (I voted for him in the 2000 primary),. McCain has done a terrible job with his staff and I think he needs to follow the volunteer's advice and clean out the office.

Liz from Atlanta, GA   July 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

This is an awesome story. HA! It makes me laugh.

Obama '08

Obama-Junkie, IL   July 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Poor McCain...Obama is in Jordan making speeches and giving interviews on matters of US foreign policy with world diplomats and most the US press corp in tow while McCain is at town hall meetings getting yelled at by volunteers because they are doing too much work putting up his campaign signs. There was one reporter and one photographer to greet McCain when he arrived in New Hampshire.

LMAO!

Obama in 2008!

no no no!   July 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA AHAHAHHAHAHA HAHA HA HA HAA John McCain is sooo incompetent...he just does not get it, he IS OUT OF TOUCH with his own campaign how does he even think that we should trust him with our country? more than half of his "payed" staff are Lobbyist, the other half are wealthy...i mean Mccain cant expect them to dirty their Prada shoes by putting up signs...what was that volunteer thinking?
John Mccain:
-does not know the boarder of Afghan
-does not know Putin
-does not know Chezk
-does not know his own voting record
-does not know economics
-DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO RUN HIS OWN CAMPAIGN
- what does McCain know....oh yeah he knows how to cry about the media's interest in Obama, how to attack Obama and how to bomb bomb bomb bomb Iran....not a leader we can trust

S-Man   July 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Keep joking about your own staff. LOL. McCain has no leadership quality. Period.

GOP IS A FRAUD   July 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

YAWN THATS THE EXPERIENCE U NEED

Richard   July 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

This figures.. Bush's people were incompotent too. All they did was spread lies and partake in smear campaigns. It seems McCains staff is the same way. Paid to do nothing staff and McCain is "aware".. HA.

IF HE WAS SO AWARE WHY IS IT HAPPENING??

Rust On   July 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

I wonder how he plans to run the largest economy in the world if he can't even run his own campaign.

John in Columbus   July 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

"McCain, whose campaign has battled charges of incompetence — even from some within his own party — joked, "A lot of our paid staff, a lot of them are on work release programs as you know."

He's a Republican. I doubt that was a joke.

Upon Further Review   July 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

The incompetence starts at the top,John should resign His bid for the Presidency now.Ron Paul has a better chance at getting elected than he does.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   July 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Pretty sad, when the volunteers and the paid staff have to be at odds with each other...also sad that a volunteer is griping because they did something that volunteers should GLADLY do for the candidate they believe in to win...oh, but wait, that candidate would be OBAMA!
OBAMA '08 & '12 YES WE CAN!!

Greg, NY   July 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

I like how this volunteer was smart enough to say this in front of a lot of people. She knew McCain would have to pander to her instead of blow up which could be likely in a one on one meeting.

I say good job to her!

AmericanFishingJournals   July 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

The readers of americanfishingjournals.com would like to know where the presidential candidates stand on key environmental issues. If you are qualified to speak on their behalf, please stop by and share your insight.

Thanks,
AmericanFishingJournals.com

Lourdes   July 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Hmm. Can't run a campaign but thinks he can run the country. Is behaving completely un-statesmanly by bashing a fellow senator who is currently overseas. Has nothing to say to justify his own positions other than that his opponent is "scary". Refers to countries that no longer exist, makes continuous mistakes when speaking about foreign issues and then claims this to be his area of expertise, is totally out of touch regarding the economy and admittedly knows nothing about women's health issues.

The choice gets clearer and clearer every day. We cannot trust a McCain presidency.

Will, NJ   July 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

McCain incompetent? Nahhhh...

Tasha from Houston, TX   July 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Figures...I knew something was up with his campaign. It just seems to be running slow and always on the defense. McCain seems out of control. I hope he gets it together. He already admitted he doesnt know much about the economy. What will he look like if he allows his campaign to run into the ground?

Yeah right!   July 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

When Obama speaks in an arena, he reads off of a teleprompter and/or has a speech written on a sheet of paper in front of him. Speeches are prepared for him.

When McCain talks in town halls, he doesn't have a speech prepared. The audience raises their hands and he has a Question/Answer session with them. Filling arenas isn't impressive if you can't answer a simple question.

Obama without a teleprompter is a funny thing and moron

Ms. RDS   July 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

One simply question...If you can not run a simply campaign, how can you be trusted to run the most powerful country in the world!! I mean if you cant hold your own campaign together throughout this election process how can you run a country for 4 or more years. For all those years of experience and this being his 2nd campaign you would think he would have it together. Incompetence at its best....one of the muppets would have a better chance being the nominee!

Lani   July 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

McCain should fire himself!!

McCain = Bush   July 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Americans beware, a poorly run campaign is an indication of a poorly run presidency. If he can't manage his campaign, how can he manage the Unites States. Being a war hero does not mean he is qualified to be president. It means just that, he was a war hero.

Ian   July 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Talk about inexperience! His campaign can't even handle something as mundane as hanging signs, and he's supposed to run the country???

Mike from L.A.   July 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

I get it now!!: We elect McCain and nothing gets done..Hmm, I'm not sure about this one.

Tony Z- MD   July 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Having trouble managing his campaign and he wants to lead the country. I wonder what Rep. Wilson would say to that.

unions are not stupid   July 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

He can not even run his own campaign with out his wife having to run in and bail him out! Now he has volunteers that work for him telling him you are not running you campaign right. All he has done is negative negative negative and negaative. Really Mc Same go by yourself a clue

The Truth   July 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

wow, now who's inexperianced? If he can't run an election how is he going to run a country?

The Right Vote   July 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Brave volunteer – McCain is next to incompotent.

Independent-Minded American   July 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I'd fire McCain first. If you think Bush destroyed the country, sit tight for the McCain show... He'll make Bush look like George Washington.

SJ   July 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Incompetent – can't even run his own campaign, yet he wants to run the country. If he can't fire some of his own incompetent staff, what would he do if he were the President. Reminds me of Bush and Rumsfeld....

Turns out people were right. McSame = 3rd Bush Term. No thanks!

Bukky   July 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Raise you hand if you remember "brownie"... If you are already hiring incompetent people what will you do if you become president

Peter   July 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

It doesnt matter, McCain lost

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   July 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

It is going to take a whole lot more than new staff to fix McCain's problems!!! He has already thrown a great number of them under the bus to date!

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