July 30, 2008
Posted: July 30th, 2008 04:12 PM ET

From
CNN

Obama: 'I'm ready to duel' McCain over taxes.

SPRINGFIELD, Missouri (CNN) – In his first interaction with voters since returning from his overseas trip, Barack Obama is focusing on the economy on a bus tour in southwest Missouri Wednesday where the Illinois senator took his regular challenge to debate John McCain on taxes to a new level, invoking alleged local heritage.

WATCH Obama: 'I'm ready to duel'

“I was just reading that Wild Bill Hickock, he had the first duel in the town square here in Springfield,” said Obama. “The family legend is that Wild Bill Hickock, he's a distant cousin of mine. I'm serious. This is part of the family legend.”

“So we're going to research that ‘cause I'm ready to duel John McCain on taxes,” Obama added to laughter from supporters, “Right now, right here. I'm a quick draw.”

WATCH McCain: 'I will not raise your taxes'

A McCain spokesman shot back quickly with an e-mail to reporters asking, “If Barack Obama wants this so-called ‘duel’ than why did he and his entourage run for the hills when John McCain challenged him to ten town halls?”

The McCain camp has consistently argued that Obama will raise taxes, an accusation Obama tried to lay to rest Wednesday.

“You're going to start seeing ads. This is what happens every election season. They're going to say, ‘Aw, he's a tax and spend liberal Democrat. He wants to get into your pocket. He's going to spend it on all kinds of crazy pork barrel projects,’” mocked Obama. “They just replace the name each election cycle, but it's the same ad over and over again.”

“Let me be absolutely clear,” said Obama, “if you are a family making less than $250,000 a year, you will not see your taxes go up. Not your capital gains tax, not your payroll tax, not your income tax. No taxes. Your taxes will not go up.”

With a new McCain ad out Wednesday calling Obama a celebrity and asking if he’s ready to lead, Obama shot back at the notion that he’s the risky candidate.

“Nobody thinks that Bush or McCain have a real answer for the challenges we face. So what they are going to try to do is make you scared of me,” he said, “[they’ll say] ‘he's not patriotic enough. He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills.’”

“Seriously, that's basically the argument, Obama added. “It's like, ‘well we don't have very much to offer but he's risky.’”

Filed under: Barack Obama • Economy • John McCain


S. Boatman   July 30th, 2008 9:47 pm ET

Mccains Town Hall Meetings Are A Joke! No One Every Ask Him Any Real Questions And The Entire Audience Is Screened Before You Can Even Get In! That Has Been Proven And Is The Reason Obama Doesnt Wants Any Part Of Mccains Phony Town Hall Meetings! All Of His Questions Are Written Out Before So He Doesnt Fumble On His Phony Answers While Giving His Yellow Tooth Grin!

Trans   July 30th, 2008 9:34 pm ET

Why is CNN only posting comments today that speak against Obama and for McCain?

McCain is simply too old (72 years old) to lead this country in the 21st century. All he knows how to do is fight wars so rich CEO's of companies that make military weapons can continue to make billions. In the meantime Americans are hurting because of a poor economy, unemployment and increasing gas and food prices.

How many more good men and women will have to die for a war that was not necessary? How many more billions of dollars will be wasted? How do you pick up where you left off, when you are twenty-something and your arms and legs have been blown off.

McCain and the Republicans have nothing to offer America this year but negative attack ads, the same as before.

Less end this war and bring our troops home with dignity and honor. They will need our help. Let's show the world that we are a nation of peace and not a nation of war mongers.

jaison Biagini   July 30th, 2008 9:27 pm ET

are you people just dumb or do you have selective memory?
john mccain wanted 10 town hall's and 0 real debates.
obama replied with the 3 real debates that are held every year and 2 town halls.
mccain said no, because he is afraid of a real debate.
these town halls are lame and have no hard questions or follow-ups. mccain is the one afraid to debate.

aware   July 30th, 2008 9:11 pm ET

Give it up Obama!

Never underestimate or ridicule an American hero! You are going to lose! :)

jane jones   July 30th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Obama cannot debate mcCAIN until he returns from chechoslovakia located somewhere near the afghanistan iraqi border.

susie   July 30th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Obama is getting to be a joke. Now, he is related to Wild Bill and wants to duel McCain. Do that after the debates you said you would have with McCain. Obama is all words and no action.

Monica for Obama in Indiana   July 30th, 2008 9:05 pm ET

CNN, why don't you write on how john mccain ran into the arms of the Viet Cong? 'saying ,
please, please save poor me, I'm a admiral's son from across the seas.
I'll tell you what you want to know, so please don't torture me.
Just put me in the hospital and is that a hotel over there I see.
I will denounce the USofA, time and time again
if you will just take care of me.

Today, 600 pages of mccain war records in the viet nam war is sealed.

CNN if you don't print this, At least I know you read it.

Vietnam Vet   July 30th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

Its amazing these republican nit wicks keep over looking the fact, Senator Obama is a highly intellegent person. Town hall meeting are just what it is ,a forum for BS like McWar is currently doing. when the debates start with no teleprompter or someone whispering correct information in his ear, he is toast. The fact is, he should be grateful the press don't follow him around, all of those senior moments he has been having he would be toast already.

REA   July 30th, 2008 8:58 pm ET

GET READY MCCAIN NAP TIME IS OVER

TheTruthHurts   July 30th, 2008 8:53 pm ET

Obama has not done open-mic town hall meetings. He's never ducked a debate. I frankly think town halls are bad for both of them. Many of McCain's gaffes have come at them and Obama knows he won't get the benefit of the doubt McCain has gotten on those gaffes because he's fighting the inexperience label.

They will debate in a controlled format though. Obama is smart. Any fool who thinks he skated through Harvard Law magna cum laude is a straight idiot. He will be fine in a debate. McCain will probably do fine as well. But at least then, we'll see the DRAMATIC contrast in their proposals and frankly in their ability to do basic math.

ex-Republican for Obama   July 30th, 2008 8:48 pm ET

Obama will trounce McWar in the debates. Bring them on!!!!

Mark   July 30th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

Spider- John McCain shys away from Real Debates, as he can't fill the audience with his own supporters...

its called a LEVEL playing field... real debate, not a townhall, I have seen quite enough of those to know I don't want to see anymore

Xavier   July 30th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

Afraid of your neighbors? What a sad and pathetic thing to say.

Scott L   July 30th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

McCain is chomping at the bit to debate Obama. He won't have to prepare for anything. Obama is going to get trounced in the debates. He will wave his hand with his single finger and wrist spinning in circles trying to get across his point, but people watching the debates will see it as talking down to McCain and disrespectful. Obama is going to get crushed...

Mark   July 30th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square- you should get your facts straight... and you better check up on the time, oh yeah, when John McCain was Born in Panama, and in reality owes Barack a great deal of thanks, as if it were not for him, and a few others, he would not be recognized as an amaerican born citizen and able to run for the POTUS....

Mike, Syracuse, NY- Go back to PUMA....you republican...

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square- In reality we are all related to everyone, if you look back far enough and believe in Adam and Eve, we are direct decendants of everyone, and also on his point of wild bill, you should read a bit better..it was satire...

Donna   July 30th, 2008 8:46 pm ET

Obama did not run and did agree to a couple of town halls, not the 10 that McOld wanted..after all he is campaigning...when the debates come and you see YOUTH versus PREHISTORIA it'll be all over for gramps...hopefully he'll have enough Gingseng, etc in his system to get him through!!!!

Now if he doesn't put his audience to sleep, it'll be a win-win for everyone!!!

Xavier   July 30th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

I cant believe some of you re still complaining about Hillary Clinton not getting the nomination. What you all should do is band together and send her 1.00 each. If there really are 18 million of you then you should be able to wipe out most of her debt. Also, if Obama did the townhall meeting with McCain, then McCain would be getting free press. Let the old man pay for his own adds!

Republicans, the democrats own you this year.

PUMA 4 HILL   July 30th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

BS Obama... you are ready when McCain's not around. What about the town hall challenge McCain's proposed??? Empty suit you are...

Where's the Beef Obama? No beef on your buns..
NO BEEF, NOBAMA

Jim   July 30th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

To John G
your statement already tells me that you are a racist..period, and if you don't vote the right candidate cos of your color too bad

Tennisguypitt   July 30th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

This is going to be good...

Obama will eat McCain alive. Just refer to his numerous flip-flops, "gaffes", adherence to Bush policy, and worst of all his "jokes" about killing Iranians.

McBush has too much to defend. GO GET HIM OBAMA!!!

Obama '08

pumas support depends   July 30th, 2008 8:37 pm ET

Obama will debate him he just does not want any townhalls so Old Man can fill it with his paid questioners.

wct   July 30th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

Nobody thinks that Bush or McCain have a real answer for the challenges we face. - Nor does OBAMA have any answer....

"He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills.’” - now OBAMA is back to bringing up the race issue again that anyone not voting for him is a racist !!!! Nooooo, people dont want to vote for you because you have no experience!!!!!

OBAMA is an empty suit. Period!!

richard   July 30th, 2008 8:35 pm ET

Do the ten town halls Obama. PUMA

Mike Lopez   July 30th, 2008 8:31 pm ET

Tell me, what job on earth could McCain apply for and get at this stage, with his confused thinking and constant "gaffes" ? No way is this man qualified to lead a nation! LMAO!!!! Gimme a break! He cleary isn't the man is was in 2000 and I am starting to think that whole "maverick" thing was a fraud image.

Scary, scary thought of having someone as forgetful as McCain running ANYTHING! He doesn't know geography and can't remember things correctly at all. The man forgets things he said just last week. Are you kidding me? What an awful candidate he is. I have to believe the Reps will nominate someone else come the convention. No way will they nominate John McCain.

DEM 08   July 30th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

You Go Obama! I say bring own the duel I mean debate!
YES!
Fired up and ready to go!

Mary   July 30th, 2008 8:22 pm ET

If Obama wants to duel, why was he afraid of the town hall meetings with McCain? There's more to campaigning than standing in front of large crowds reading from a teleprompter. The town hall meeting are great places to respond "off-the-cuff" to real live voters.

Obama previously said he would raise the capitol gains tax to somewhere around 33%. Has he forgotten this tax increase? That increase would hurt a lot of people who are saving for retirement.

Also, what about the national debt? Even Bill Clinton had to raise taxes to get our country back in the black. Of course, people were doing so well during those years that some have probably forgotten.

RJ, CA   July 30th, 2008 8:18 pm ET

"Let me be absolutely clear,” Obama: You're a FLAKE!

obama is unfit to be president of this country   July 30th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

obama is such a joke. He would gag a magget.

CywBENZ, PA   July 30th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

I don't blame Senator Obama, I wouldn't let John McSurge and the republicans define his campaign or him. In other words, he's not letting them call the shots for him and when he will do things, it's his decision. Senator Obama is not afraid to debate McSurge, he will debate him on his own terms, in his own time and at the place of his choosing. Unlike McSurge, he doesn't need to have paid staffers sitting in a town hall audience to fill up the empty chairs and make it appear that anyone is really listening to him. Just like he had planned to visit the middle east and Europe long before McSurge "challenged" him to that trip, trying to paint the picture that Senator Obama was somehow afraid to go to the middle east. Well, we all saw the wonderful results of that trip!

What does Senator Obama have to be afraid of by debating McSurge, he had 22 debates with Hillary Clinton, with both of them showing signs of fatigue during the debates. Senator Obama is not afraid of debating, he has a right to set the tone of his campaign and not be told by the McSurge camp when he should debate! Now, live with that until Senator Obama decides!

Phil Newton Murphy, Oregon   July 30th, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Bring it on.

OBAMA 08

obama is unfit to be president of this country   July 30th, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Oh listen to Mr.Mouth now !! You counldn't debate Clinton and you were afraid to debate McCain. You're so stupid you can't think on your feet unless you've memorized a speech.You can never give a straigh answer until the next day.

Ilona Hussein Proud Canadian   July 30th, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Berkley Square Nightingale
=======================

I am soooooooooooo sorry that you are afraid of..............

Barack and your Neighbours!

WE KNOW THAT YOUR CLAIMS ABOUT BARACK ARE ALL LIES. You obviously fear BARACK because you know full well that McCAIN has no chance against him.

But why are you afraid of your neighbours, are they aware that you fear them?

Aunt   July 30th, 2008 8:12 pm ET

You Are So Jealous and A Liar and show very poor judgement in running these ads. You Make Our Politics here in America appear
sophomoric!

CNN does very poor Political reporting, they hold back that truth when it comes to McCain.

Jenna   July 30th, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Obama runs from any open forum's where there are open forums and no teleprompters. Not to be mean, but he does seem to have a speech impetemant. Maybe this is why the teleprompters are so important to him. He does not do well on un-rehearsed questions, I think I would be a little scared to debate if I had this difficulty myself, so I do feel for him but we are trying to elect the next president, and this type of furum is necessary. But it looks bad that he refused to accept the invitation given by the Fort Worth Naval Station for one of these debates, McCain gladly accepted and Obama declined. Does not look good.

deroy   July 30th, 2008 8:09 pm ET

family legend which family?
duel sounds good. obama turned down mccain for debates.

obama is a baby other than speeched written by axelrod for the telepropmpter.

Jenna   July 30th, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Obama runs from any open forum's where there are open forums and no teleprompters. Not to be mean, but he does seem to have a speech impetemant. Maybe this is why the teleprompters are so important to him. He does not do well on un-rehearsed questions, I think I would be a little scared to debate if I had this difficulty myself, so I do feel for him but we are trying to elect the next president, and this type of furum is necessary. But it looks bad that he refused accept the invitation given by the Fort Worth Naval Station for one of these debates, McCain gladly accepted and Obama declined. Does not look good.

Jenna   July 30th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

testing, testing 123

Vegas Barbie for Obama   July 30th, 2008 8:03 pm ET

Nightingale–
In case you are not hip to this concept, we all have a bit of everyone else in our racial heritage. People of all colors and kinds have been mixing it up since the beginning of time....So it is quite possible that Obama is related to Wild Bill...even if he isn't and said that in jest, it is sad you felt you had to comment on that comment, just a small point in a much bigger speech that Future POTUS Obama gave today. How do you get a song out with that bitter racism in your beak, nightingale?

Priscilla for Obama   July 30th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

McSame doesn't have a clue about our economy. He is not an intelligent person. He really doesn't have a clue about anyone of it. The only thing he has going for him is that he was a prisoner of war. He is inexperienced and too old!

sue calgary   July 30th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

Is it my imagination or is McCain afraid of debating Obama! Town hall meetings are all well and good, but how about some REAL debates like those between Hillary and Obama during the primaries? McCain is going to look and sound pretty lame standing side by side with Obama durindg a Presidential debate. BRING IT ON...

Ilona Hussein Proud Canadian   July 30th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Nova FROM NV
============

That was a FIXED DEBATE! fixed by HILLARY'S HENCHMAN. HER OWN SUPPORTER WAS ASKING MOST OF THE QUESTIONS, and I will bet you anything that she was made aware of the Questions that would be asked going in to the Debate! So please don't try to compare this so-called debate, to any debate which BARACK will be having with McCain!

How many times has John McCain fixed and filled his TOWN HALL TALKS with his SUPPORTERS AND STAFFERS, EVEN THE MEDIA REPORTED ON McCAIN'S TRICKS! When Barack is ready to DEBATE McCAIN, it will be in Barack's style and in Barack's time. BARACK WILL MAKE MINCE MEAT OUT OF McCAIN IN ANY HONEST DEBATE!

BARACK WILL NOT AGREE TO McCAIN'S FIXED/STACKED TOWN
HALL DEBATES. By the way if I am not mistaken there is a DEBATE SCHEDULED FOR SOMETIME IN AUGUST, so please pay CLOSE ATTERTION TO THAT ONE!

Debby, NJ   July 30th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Let the games begin !
BARACK THE VOTE !!!

Straight Stalk Distress   July 30th, 2008 7:58 pm ET

Yeah,...
Mc Pain has been stalking Obama for weeks..

I love how Obama just ignores him..
Its making him really Mc Cranky..:)
He's been Shadow Boxing Obama... & He debates Obama almost daily in front of record low size crowds.. when Obama isn't even there.

When they finally get in the ring, I suspect Mc Crab will Lull him to sleep.. :|

Thats why I hope Obama just keeps ignoring him and showing the utmost disrespect . It is self-evident who is the better speaker..
It is also self-evident that all presidential candiates are not created equal. Mc Crabb is seriously disabled..

After 25 years in Congress..Mc Same has finally found the answer to our energy problems... yeah... more of the same ..Drill now ... where ever possible...

A Senile plan..

john cu   July 30th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

people people people of USA meet your next president one and only MR Barack Obama...and you will love it...Even if you are a product of rcaist household..believe it. all you Obama haters will love it too:)

CBH   July 30th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Texas Voter, you are a idiot. You really do believe that Senior McCain can match up with Sen Obama in a debate. The upcoming debates are where Obama will separate himself from McCain. Spider: No town hall debates, that is the only way McCain get stay with Obama. Have you seen McCain in front of a mike?, it is a sight to see. If Obama has so many problems with a prepared speech then McCain should have little trouble out debating a junior Senator with 4 years or so in the Senate. We all know that McCain based on his so called experience should have bested a rookie Senator by now. Explain that Spider and Texas voter.

Chris from NY   July 30th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

I can't figure out why CNN aired BLACK IN AMERICA when they have been very critical of Obama while they let McCain get away with so many blunders. I watched Wolf Blitzer's Late Edition on Sunday. He watched and listened to McCain make so many claims that were incorrect and he couldn't even call him on it. He wasn't tough on his questioning like I've seen him go after Obama. Dana Bash, Gloria Borger and worst of all Lou Dobbs. Even those they bring on the show. Most of them don't represent Obama's interest. All the media outlets are biased against Obama.

Haas   July 30th, 2008 7:52 pm ET

Obama would eat McCain alive in a debate. Hillary was as competitive as it gets.

A Voter for Intelligence/Honesty in Govt   July 30th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Obama took time to establish himself as the leader of the Democratic Party and he is now ready to set the agenda.

The fact that McCain and his supporters are desperate is revealed in the silly celebrity ad and the high school talk of him believing he is the Messiah.

Retired Veteran from New York City   July 30th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square:
I am not sure that you understand what is at stakes in this election. This election is not about McCain Patriotism or Obama. It's about the future of America.

McCain in only talking about the Surge worked, listen to General Patreus. He even claimed that he knows how to win war. I don't know what war is talking about, the only war McCain is ever been is the Vietnam war, which he was shut down, captured and led him to be a POW in Vietnam. By the way, America lost that war.

This election is about restoring the image of America that has been tarnished by this current administration. America lost his prestige in the world stage, America is so damaged that countries like: China, Venezuela, Zimbabwe, Peru, Iran, North Korea etc. A host of bunch a little country that has nothing to offer is moquered America like nothing.

With Obama, the world sees changes, the world is waiting for a new direction with a President that has new vision for this great Nation. McCain with his old thinking has nothing to offer except to criticize Obama, and people with little head like you fell for it. Take a good look at McCain, he is tired, that's been shown by the amount of gaffes that he constantly repeated. America deserves better!

it wasnt me   July 30th, 2008 7:48 pm ET

McCain should donate his Social Security check to people strugling to pay for gas..His wealthy wife should do the same

Andrew   July 30th, 2008 7:41 pm ET

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square- You do realize his mom was white, right?

A town hall is not a debate. A town hall is people in the crowd throwing softballs to you. When John McCain was actually asked a real question from a Vietnam Vet about why his voting record for veterans is poor, Senator McCain said he has received the highest grades from all the veterans groups. WRONG. I can name 3 off the top of my head that McCain has lower ratings than Obama (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Disabled Veterans of America andVietnam Veterans of America). Yet, once he stated that, that was that. No follow up. That's a debate? Are you serious? Give me a break.

Chris W.   July 30th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

I love all the "bloggers" sent here directly from McCain's website (chock full of instructions on how to blog anti-Obama sentiments in news site comments).

Anyway, it's hilarious and gives me something to read at work. The more you type, the harder you try... the better you make Barack look. Beautiful strategy. Keep it up guys!

Abe   July 30th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

I want them to debate tax breaks for the rich. Why is McSame going to continue the same failed policy of his friend George Johnny McCain Bush? Let old Johnny explain to everybody why should the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.

Lisa   July 30th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

All talk and no subtance!

If you're going to debate him then do it!!!

No Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

Duel!? I think he spent too much time overseas. Sounding more and more like a pansy everyday.

joe   July 30th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

Senator Obama is a torchlight, lighting up the streets all across America. He gives us cause to believe that our country will be safer John McCain does not. Senator Obama will win any debate handsdown. John McCain is complaining about Senator Obama wanting to debate now, what is John McCain afraid of?

Sacto Joe   July 30th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

"Oil rose more than $4 a barrel on Wednesday after U.S. government data showed an unexpected drop in gasoline stocks as suppliers facing weak consumer demand cut production and imports."

Well, there it is, folks. We slow down and drive less, the inventory of gasoline increases, prices drop, and the refineries cut production. That in turn bumps the price of oil, which in turn will drive prices up.

WHERE'S THE OUTRAGE??! And where are the Republicans who should be investigating this blatant price manipulation? Oh, that's right: They, and McCain, are in the pockets of the oil barons.

WarHeroFmrPOW HijaxStr8talkXpress DrivzIn2GutR TurnzCoward XploitsTroopsAsProps UsesPatraeusAs PoliticalPawn   July 30th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

Yes, "watch" McCain's, "I will not raise your taxes" video when he's already flipped one way and then flopped back again in the last couple days while denying he said either. But CNN won't report that as anything other than a bold NEW stance on taxes, no doubt.

Boy, if that was Obama, it would have been a screaming headline and talked about for a week.

Media darling McCain, the maverick, never held accountable for anything as his base – also known as the media – continues to give him a free ride with no scrutiny. P-A-T-H-E-T-I-C!

CNN aren't you the same news network that never held Bush's feet to fire before invading IRAQ?

Joan, Ontario   July 30th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

If I was McCain, I'd be pretty careful about my challenges to Obama. Remember how he kept goading him into going to Iraq? We all know how that turned out. McCain had finished his primary three months earlier when he wanted Obama to meet him in the town hall meetings. Obama was just finishing a gruelling primary at the time. Obviously he was not going to jump at McCain's suggestions. It will be really interesting though when they do meet at town hall meetings this fall.

ran   July 30th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

Now everyone who is willing to open their ears and eyes will see the clear difference between hope and fear; the future and the past when the debates start.

Republican ashamed of McCain   July 30th, 2008 7:21 pm ET

I felt sorry and angry when Bush unfairly lied and falsey attacked McCain back in 2000. Now we see McCain using the exact same tactics that were immoral then just as much as they are now. What happened to McCain? He even unfairly attacked Mitt Romney calling him a flip-flopper over and over again. Now he wants him to be his VP? But he was just attacking him and calling him a flip-flopper 3 months ago. I still very sorry for McCain but in the same context. Now I feel sorry for him because of the person he has evolved into in just 7 short years. He will not get my vote. I am truly disappointed.

mb--texas   July 30th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Nothing off the table but today a flipflop.Now he says he won"t raise taxes been only three days since nothing off the table.

chris in va.   July 30th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

I can not wait to watch Obama use McInsane in a debate!

Not sleeping at the switch   July 30th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

Obama and McCain on the same stage on Live TV in front of impartial audience and moderators = Full on McCain meltdown and end of his run for Office. He will NEVER handle the pressure and doesn'thave the IQ NOR intellect to go toe to toe with Obama. The first time he is questioned about a FACTUAL situation he will cave in.

Cynthia   July 30th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

Now this will be a sight to see. I can't wait until they meet in the debates.

lois   July 30th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

Maybe these two career politicians could duke it out by slapping each other with wet noodles until one of them breaks. Sounds about as realistic as their supposed campaign promises.

Eric   July 30th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

Its very clear that this race will be ran on Sen Obama's terms and I love it!

marianna   July 30th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

A distant cousin of Wild Bill Hickock, Dick Cheney, who else?

A family legend? what family, of a single white mother in Hawaii/Indonesia, with an exotic father who fled home after a year or so?

Any relationship to Bush, by a chance? or Kennedy? How about Queen Victoria, Jesus, or Elvis?

Another Republican voting for Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

McCain has thrown the "maverick" out the window.

McCain has thrown the "straight talk express" out the window.

Now all he has left are his false attacks.

Peter (CA)   July 30th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Wow. So how dense are McCain's spokesmen.

A one-on-one debate is not the same as the "town halls". If you want to have a couple of those also, fine. But, let's have a real debate about the issues.

Good for Obama!

tigerakabj   July 30th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

That's right Obama. Spank his butt in those debates so 80 million viewers can see what a moron this guy is.

And I thought Bush was an idiot. McSenile corners this screwed-up market on that.

Obama/Sebelius 2008/2012.

Sue/PA   July 30th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

10 town halls?? McCain just wanted a "free meal ticket. "

Dont fret McCain camp..you'll get your debates... I cant wait to see you stumble, gaffe and lie. Not to mention get very very angry....its just below the surface and it shows. Time bomb..tick, tick, tick

Another Republican voting for Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

The Republican Party under the rule of George Bush and Dick Cheney will say anything to get the American people to believe that opening enviromentally sensitive land will bring down gas prices.

The real plan is to get as much land freed up for the big oil companies before George Bush and Dick Cheney leave office.

So what the latest polls are saying is that we have a bunch of naive Americans willing to believe the lies coming from the Republican party. Haven't they fooled us enough? How much more of beating can we take?

Don Anderson   July 30th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

I'm sick of McCain. He never was a war hero, merely a war victim, and that is sad. As a senator, he never accomplished anything of note. As a presumtive nominee, he has proven to be a liar, a cheat and a fraud. Some people age and acquire wisdom. McCain merely putrifies.

Another Republican voting for Obama   July 30th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Experience is only as good as it's possessor

Incompetent people have so called "experience"
Idiots have so called "experience"
Criminals have so called "experience"
Liars have so called "experience"
Cheaters have so called "experience"

Experience is only as good as it's possessor

Frank   July 30th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

It should also be noted when McCain's folks mention the candidate "challenging (Obama) to 10 town halls," a "town hall" is hardly a legitimate format for proper debate.

The best of all possible worlds, really, would be if the League of Women Voters took back control of the debates. Sadly, neither party perceives such a thing as being in their own interest. Everyone wants to control the format and setting somehow.

Jon   July 30th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

McShame camp is wrong again . McCain wanted townhalls on his terms, Obama came back with a counter offer McShame said no. If I was McShame I would want to be standing next to Man everyone wants to see. When McCain has a townhall meeting and what 50, 60 people attend. Obama has stop-over and 5000 attend or gives a speech in Germany and 250,000 turn-up. Obama is a man that people want to hear. I think everyone is sick of McCains whinning about Obama.

carol   July 30th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Yes we can! Over with Mccain!!

Bob   July 30th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Obama wont do a town hall with McCain because he has no character and he is afraid to answer the tough questions. All talk and no(bama) substance.

Aaron   July 30th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

There goes that race card again. Senator, the only person that mentions that you are black is you.

Not the post-racial candidate he was billed to be. I had hope.......

curmudgeon   July 30th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Screw town halls and McCain's comfort zone. Let's see him stand up under the bright lights of a real debate with Sen. Obama about the issues–then ole Johnnie can reitierate his loyalty to Bush.Cheney. Iraq War. tax cuts for the rich. Republican overspending-budget deficits, etc., etc.

Denise Groves   July 30th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

whatever you do, obama, be gentle on the old, decrepit, grumpy, tempermental, cancer ridden, jealous, envious old coot!

Will, NJ   July 30th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Time to break out the ol' six shooter agenda.

Independents for Obama   July 30th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

John "Mr Magoo" McCain hasn't a chance against Obama.

Lisa   July 30th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Yeah Obama we heard that before!!

Day 75 that Barack refuse to debate Mccain.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

When Clinton upped the tax paid by the upper 1-1/2% of the wealthiest Americans, he created a surplus and 23,000,000 new jobs.

That's called a blueprint for success!

Tom   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

"if you are a family making less than $250,000 a year, you will not see your taxes go up. Not your capital gains tax, not your payroll tax, not your income tax. No taxes. Your taxes will not go up"

Remember this in a year people... Obama just did a "read my lips"

LatinosforMcCain   July 30th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

This is the time when McCain will dominate Obama. The polls are starting to reflect TOWARDS McCain. Latinos open your eyes there is a Rotten Rat in obama.

Latinos for McCain

Dave, Illinois   July 30th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Ha Ha, Obama ready to dual? He is to afraid to even hold a townhall meeting among real people. McCain has been doing that and has answered some pretty tough questions and listened to some very vocal people critical of his stances. He remained polite and responsive each time. It takes a real leader to do that.
Obama is a scripted, empty suit. He will be slaughtered by McCain in a fair debate or townhall meeting.

GO GET EM !!!!!!   July 30th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Obama: 'I'm ready to duel' McCain over taxes***Hit him in that old Hog JAW***

Aaron Hussein   July 30th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I can't wait for their first debate. All those smucks who say Obama needs a teleprompter to speak. Come on, he's a harvard grad and was the 1st black human to be president of the Harvard Law club. Obama is smarter and tougher then McCain. Can't wait!

Canadian black man for Obama.   July 30th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Once a man twice a child>This is Senator McCain second childish behavour. McCain is now behaving like a child with his ad attacks.

To compare a fello senator popularity as a celeb without real contrast with the celebrities in question, is very childish.

When will McCainflip flop goind to learn?

Chuck, Euigene Oregon.   July 30th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Why should Obama give McCain anything, particularily free air time. McCain has been struggling to put his campaign on the road, and in his words the high road; however, all he has been able to muster is bitter, resentful, jealous retoric these past few weeks. McCain will be his own undoing.

Brian   July 30th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

My question exactly. Let's see some town hall debates! And no Obama, if you make less than $250,000 a year your taxes won't increase, but you just might be laid off when taxes go up on businesses.

Roger from CA   July 30th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Good. I'm glad that Obama is starting to hit back hard. He was WAY too distant and "ivory tower" aloof. I love his speeches with their lofty thinking, but he desperately needs to work on the direct, blunt, clear answers to kitchen-table concerns. If he can get himself to step out from behind the podium and do that, he will win big.

The McCryptKeeper   July 30th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

While a HUGE Obama supporter, I will call it like I see it, and I have to agree with the McCain spokesperson a bit.

Obama SHOULD debate McCain in an open-un-scripted town hall. Obama is right on the issues and would mop the floor with McCain so I don't see why that is a problem.

OBAMA '08!!!!!!!!

Tim   July 30th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

That's laughable. McSenile can't even compare to Obama. A debate with McOld would be just as funny as watching him try to answer the birth control Viagra question!!! Duh!!!!

Donna from Colorado Springs   July 30th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Obama has stated clearly that if you make $150 thousand dollars or less, ther will be no new taxes on you. period. What part of that sentence does McBush not understand? I know! He's not used to hearing the truth coming out of anyones mouth, especially his. McBush doesn't want to debate the issues,especially taxes, because he is the master of the flip flop. He says maybe to raising taxes, then changes his mind again when the conservatives giving him money and running his campaign object. I would love to see a good old fashioned duel between Obama and McBush. Of course Cindy would have to be there to prop the old geezer up and poke him in tthe back when he says something stupid.......which he will. What it boils down to is that Obama is not a celebrity. He's just 100 times more popular than McBush is and McBush just can't stand that. McBush is jealous of the press he gets because of his personality, and that this country is desperate for a change in Washington. We don't want the same crap,different guy. Grow up John! You have the personality of a cadaver!

al   July 30th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

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

LET THE DEBATES BEGIN.

THIS IS GOING TO BE PAINFUL TO WATCH. RATED PG-13.

I USE TO ARGUE WITH MY GRAMPA AND I LEARNED THAT THEY NEVER LISTEN AND THEY DOESN'T SEEM TO CARE WHAT I SAY.
I JUST GIVE THEM A BIG SMILE AND SAY OK. OK.
BUT THE STAKES ARE HIGH AND WHEN THE STAKES ARE HIGH YOU NEED TO PUT GRAMPA IN HIS PLACE.

STOP THE MADNESS. VOTE OBAMA.

Andy   July 30th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Why is McCain afraid to participate in a conventional debate. The kind that Reagan and Carter, Kennedy and Nixon, and Bush and Clinton used to do? This false bravery is not very convincing. It's obvious that, like Dubya before him, he's wary of having to perform well in a conventional debate format, so he wants to do it his way. So instead of kindly requesting to do it his way, he pretends like Obama's scared of the town hall format. In my opinion, Obama will destroy him in either format.

dan   July 30th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

run for the hills? Just because you dont accept the first proposal is running for the hills? What about the proposal Obama's camp issued back for 6 debates that McCain rejected? Why not talk "running" from that challange?

Vig   July 30th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

What you will see with these "duels" is a straight talking, down to earth McCain, being as honest as he knows how to be and Obamaspeak – saying alot and saying nothing.

kim hussein taylor portland, oregon   July 30th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

"than why did he and his entourage run for the hills when John McCain challenged him to ten town halls?”

are these buffoons for real? it is hilarious to even imply that obama is afraid to debate Mr. Forgetful No Knowledge! and we all know that mccain's "townhall meetings" were a complete joke! since when is a "townhall meeting" held in a conference room of a major republican donor-completely ridiculous!

and yesterday mccain's staff actually said, about something mccain had said THAT day: "john mccain was not speaking for the mccain campaign when he said that..." you mccain supporters are getting fewer and fewer excuses to vote for the mess.

California Voter   July 30th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Obama's a "quick draw"?? Watch out folks. I wonder who would who would break first under torture by the enemy??? Guess!

Mike in MN   July 30th, 2008 6:37 pm ET

Obama will raise taxes on everyone or he will run the deficit up to all time records or he will have to break promises. No matter how you look at it he is a lier.

Brandon Hillary PUMA 4Mc   July 30th, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Then why are we not seeing town halls Mr Hussein? Is it because your afraid of a repeat Pennsylvania performance? If your ready to duel it out step up to the plate and debate Mc Cain. Mc Cain has to call you out on your lack of substance the media certaintly has not and will not.

Dont let the media do to Mc Cain what they did to Hillary.
No Double Standards and biased coverage.

Glad to be an Independent   July 30th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

I am ready for Obama vs. McCain in a presidential debate. If Obama does well, then it is over for McCain. McCain needs a good performance at the debate or he will be in serious trouble. A bad performance at the debates by McCain would mean a landslide victory for Obama.

Ian MacIsaac   July 30th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

Obama speaks truth.

New Voter for McCain   July 30th, 2008 6:27 pm ET

How about a debate NOBAMA, or are you such a girlie man you can't face the nation and also a real man? Get with it, you are no different than any other candidate.
We are looking at you not as a black but as a man, step up to the plate like all men have done before you. You are becoming a joke! Looks like I might have to vote McCain if you don't clean up your act and face down McCain.

Sac Rob   July 30th, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Tax cuts to help the economy, better oil security and more reliable supplies by drilling off the coasts, a plan to engage the enemy overseas instead of running away and crossing our fingers hoping they won't hit us again with another 9/11. Sounds like McCain has more of a plan than anything Dr. Nobama has come up with.

foosayer   July 30th, 2008 6:23 pm ET

Obama should avoid appearing on the same stage with McNasty for two reasons: it would give McNasty publicity he hasn't earned, and would subject those who want to hear about Obama's plans to McNasty's mindless obfuscating vitriol. Only after the RNC stops spiking McNasty's geritol with sour grapes should Obama consider sharing the stage with him.

Tejano   July 30th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Wild Bill Hickock is turning over in his grave. Obama you are killing me with those ancestors you pluck out of thin air. How distant?
I am a distant relative of Fidel Castro so that makes me a communist?
How about Abe Lincoln or George Washington were they distant relatives too.

Now who is shooting from the hip...

Why won't he tell us about his tax plans for America.

Peter   July 30th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

No duh...

brenda   July 30th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

Everybody knows that town hall thing is just another way for McCain to run things and use a small format – the only arenas he can fill are town halls. Obama can use that time to reach huge crowds and thus use his time more effectively. Obama will win this duel! True leadership is not always letting your opponent make the calls.

Turnabout is Fair Play   July 30th, 2008 6:18 pm ET

A McCain spokesman shot back quickly with an e-mail to reporters asking, “If Barack Obama wants this so-called ‘duel’ than why did he and his entourage run for the hills when John McCain challenged him to ten town halls?”
--------------------------------

BECAUSE, you don't go to the enemy and fight on THEIR turf, you bring them to YOUR turf where YOU have the advantage. What a tard to say something as stupid as that.

Rich in Seattle   July 30th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Because ten town hall meetings would be STUPID!!!!! This isn't a TV reality show no matter how the McBush campaign would like to try to make it one.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   July 30th, 2008 6:17 pm ET

I have to laugh at the McCain camp countering about why Barack would not agree to a series of "town halls" with McSnoozeButton...BECAUSE a town hall is not a debate, Johnnie...McCain wanted town halls in lieu of debates because he would get free publicity out of the deal but beyond that, he knows that he will LOSE the duel with Obama come REAL debate time (especially because, and CNN will probaby not print this post, in dual "lingo" McCain is essentially an unarmed man, and that is no slam against his arm problems due to his POW status/aka the thing he is staking his bid for the presidency on, he was in the military and was a POW).
OBAMA '08 & '12 –YES WE CAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

wendy   July 30th, 2008 6:15 pm ET

As far as the Town Hall debates, McCain should be careful what he wishes for. Look at what took place on Obama's Trip.

Dave C - NJ   July 30th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

I make less than 250k.

So do all of my friends.

And we are all sick of the GOP. And sick of Iraq.

Obama has got it easy...that's why he seems confident. Cause it's an EASY WIN.

shadowgovernment   July 30th, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Oh hey, CNN, don't forget to mention that McCain said "there is nothing that’s off the table" when it comes to raising taxes rather than cutting them, as you promote McCain's "I will not raise your taxes" video.

~ the Shadow Knows

Johnny   July 30th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Senator McCain has no vision no specific plans for the United States his only platform is to bash Obama. He offers no solutions only critisisms. He dosent remember from one day to the next what it is he is supposed to be talking about , he dosent have a clue about the economy,his policy on Iraq is rooted in the past, he and his party are running scared throwing everything against the wall & nothing is sticking. Before this is over he will respect Senator Obama, comon America Mr. President has a nice ring to it dosent it?

Chris N.   July 30th, 2008 6:12 pm ET

I have been undecided (I am a moderate Independent) so far, but when the mud-slinging starts – the candidate pushes me away.

Obama's positive message is pulling me in closer and closer everyday. I was worried he was a little too liberal for my taste, but he has shown better character in this race then McCain has. McCain really is looking like Bush to me now and our country cannot afford anymore of it!

How I miss the McCain of 2000!

Dan (Redmond, WA)   July 30th, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Sen Obama is 100% correct. This is and has been the Republican strategy for years. Cut and paste the name of the candidate and make attacks.

EDW   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

McCain said in an interview with George Stephanopoulous that if raising taxes was on the table then he would consider it. Just like he would consider the 16 month time table to pull out of Iraq.

I HATE OBAMA   July 30th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

Duel?! Man, he did spend too much time overseas. He sounding more and more like Obambi everday. I can see him with his little Hat and White Gloves....Man what a pansy.

Jill in Chicago   July 30th, 2008 6:04 pm ET

First Hillary is referenced as Annie Oakley, and now he is invoking Bill Hickock. The wild west references are disingenuous. And yes, some people really think you are unpatriotic. I think he needs some rest.

Stop Obamunism   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

Barack Obama's tax plan: "Ok guys, here's what we're going to do...the economy is struggling so let's raise corporate tax rates and taxes on investment returns so that investments in the U.S. economy will decrease even further."

Great plan....NOT!! Barack's goal is to steal from businesses and hard-workers to give to the lazy.

Oregon calling   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

10 town halls is too much, I am seriously going into political overload. I think that perhaps maybe a couple, say two or three with the scheduled debates would be fine. As far as him not agreeing to all ten, come on, McCain aren't you getting enough free "publicity" as it is with the media playing your ads (so-called) for you?!?!?

Obama 08

Julie   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

Good Job Obama, keep putting McCain and the GOP in their place.
When all this first started McCain said he wanted a positive election.....
he had made it positively pitiful with his attack ads on Obama, some of them so dumb it make me wonder if he really is fit to lead.

Obama 08 - rocking it baby   July 30th, 2008 6:03 pm ET

To answer the question about why Obama didn't do the ten town hall meetings is because he did not need McSame riding on his financial coat tail.... Obama was adminstering to America and Abroad letting us know the issue at hand.... we have heard him loud and clear and now it is time to duel with McCain which he will win with one hand behind his back .... come on McSame lets get the debating started? Or run for the woods ....

linda from South Dakota   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

well th isnt a duel,, it should be a debate,,,, come one guys,, grow up and have a honest debate( but this could get interesting watch mccain flip-flo and get caught on it),,lol

David Newport, OR   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

bring out the gloves and let's get ready to beat each other to bloody pulps. Democrats know that this will get dirty, because that is the only way Republicans can win. Create fear and spread lies. It works because most Americans are too stupid to see it for what it is.

will   July 30th, 2008 6:02 pm ET

im in your corner barack. dont start playing the race card. innexperience doesnt equal racism. sometimes its okay for people to object to a lack of inexperience doesnt mean they are attacking your lack of whiteness

Swanaay!   July 30th, 2008 6:01 pm ET

Ding! Tell um what he's won Chet!

Barack Obama! You've won a four year trip to the WhiteHouse for correctly identifying the pathetic Republican strategy to defeat your Presidential election run!! You'll be flying roundtrip for the next few months to campaign and continue to lay out your plan, while the rest of us stick up for you and dispell these ludicris rumors.

Go Barack!

kevin   July 30th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

i hope sen. obama doesn't do a harold ford jr. and let the dirty politics and the right wing slant get into his head where harold ford went looking for and confronting his challenger like a stalker to prove his point and defend himself. slowly the right-wing talk radio, the republicans, and the mud slingers are working on the pysche of the barack and his campaign to see if and when they can get barack to break. the latest was about barack not stopping by to see the wounded while over seas. man the mccain pounced on that w/ speed. makes me think if this wasn't a setup and if there is a turncoat operative in obamas inner circle. something in the wash ain't clean about this. because mccain and his swiftboat attackers jumped right on this to quick. did they have a heads up?

Yay for Socialism!   July 30th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

Forget the duel... how about a debate, buddy? Put your money where your big stammering mouth is.

"Uh... we can... uh... run cars... uh... on... uh... alternative... uh... fuels... uh, er... like... uh... rainbows... and uh... er... eh... uh... and uh... unicorns... uh..."

Zelda of Pittsburgh   July 30th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

If you look at Sen. Obama's life, his upbringing, his time as a student, his time teaching law, his record in the Illinois state legislature, even his limited record in the U.S. Senate, he's not risky at all. Additionally, just peruse his website and really look at his proposals. He's not a cowboy. He's a thinker.

Mike   July 30th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Rock Obama used his time to very good effect and did not tie himself to McSurge's Town Hall meeting itinerary. But sounds like he is ready to meet on the street at sundown now. Come on McBush, Lets get it on!

Mikey   July 30th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Boy, that's an understatement, "they don't have much to offer."

Look at the posts on this website, day after day. 90% of the anti-Obama posts are simply aspersions like "arrogant", "egomaniac", "socialist", "naive", "empty suit", "dangerous" and the list goes on an on. Almost zero facts and precious few logical arguments are presented to explain why they don't like him – just that they don't – and no arguments as to why McCain is better, other than "experience".

History shows us that throught our history, or most "experienced" presidents have been among the worst – Buchanan comes to mind, but there are several examples. Perhaps that is because we "settle" for experience when the choices are weak – certainly not the case this time.

Oh, and they will get down to several debates, you can be sure of it. I expect that the McCain campaign and faithful will really be whining then. Be careful what you wish for. Not a fair fight, Obama vs. the daffy gaffer.

Vera /AB. Canada   July 30th, 2008 5:59 pm ET

Why should Obama do that after the way McSame is bad mouthing him. Go fly a kite Mc Same

adam   July 30th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

I hope they go toe to toe more than the standard 3 debates

Greg   July 30th, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Really? Obama, are you sure? You know that debates will not be teleprompter-compatible, right? Just making sure...

I thought for sure Obama would have figured out a way to be installed as our leader without any debates with the competition. That's certainly appears to have been the plan up to this point.

Do America a favor and vote for McCain!!

Mir   July 30th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Ah yes, the global citizen strikes again. Obama is from everywhere and related to everyone. INow that his numbers are steadying, he's ready to debate. Wasn't that aggressive back in June when McCain proposed the town hall style meetings...

Unshrub   July 30th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Eight years ago McCain was a nice guy, someone I wanted to win the White House, now he has become a pig in politics. He is the reason we need someone like Obama, someone new. McCain has become more personal against Obama than any other Presidential candidate in American history. I now despise the pig. He does not deserve to be treated with the respect one should give a Presidential candidate. And I despise those who support him. For the record, I have never voted for a democrat for President since Richard Nixon, but I will this time, and I am going to give him lots of money. It is time for change and McCain is demonstrating he is not the one to do it.

Niccole   July 30th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Last time I checked, McCain didn't run Obama's campaign. Just because McCain said in June that he wanted to do town hall meeting with Obama doesn't mean Obama has to do it on McCains schedule. McCain had two months of no real primary and had time to get his campaign together for the general election. Obama just finished the primaries in early June...so give me a break!!! Obama isn't afraid of McCain. Obama is smart and not letting McCain and the Republicans run his campaign.

Obama's campaign is Obama's campaign....

California Gold   July 30th, 2008 5:55 pm ET

McCain whined and complained about Obama's trip to the middle east. First it was he hadn't gone. Then it was that he went. Then it was that he returned after great success. McCain whines Obama won't debate. McCain now whines and complains when Obama agrees to go toe-to-toe with McCain. McCain's greatest problem is McCain. McCain has to scare us out of our wits to get our vote. Didn't work for Guiliani (911911-911-911 aren't you afraid? 911-911-911-vote for me Guiliani-911-911-911) and it won't work for McCain. McCain has nothing to offer. Can't even remember how the surge went. Lame.

ProudToBeDemocrat   July 30th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

Tell them obama, and don't worry after your presidency is over on 2016 you picture will be on the one hundred dollar bill. with a letter "Yes We can" on the bottom of it.

Frankie   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

It certainly changed my opinion of him. My father who claimed he would not vote for Obama, now views Obama as smarter and a better candidate than Mccain. But then again polls can be wrong.

America for the Truth   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

THAT SHOULDN'T BE HARD WHEN YOU SEE RECORD GAS PRICES, RECORD REPUBLICAN DEFICITS, HOME FORCLOSURES, FALLING DOLLAR, JOBS BEING LOST, DECISION IN THE FAVOR OF BIG OIL AND THE RICH. DRILLING OFFSHORE WILL ONLY INCREASE OUR DEPENDENCY ON OIL AND INCREASE BIG OIL PROFITS AND REPUBLICAN CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS.

R.I.F.   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

He's BAAACKKK!!!!! Those silly ads that McCain keeps putting out are actually making McCain look like an idiot. People want to hear about issues. Not who's like Britney and Paris. A 5th grader could do a better job at running McCain's campaign.

Independent   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

John McCain just had a town hall meeting yesterday in NV and today in CO.

It was absolutely pathetic. All this guy says is "my friends I know how to fix that" but then he gives not even the slightiest solutions to the problem he was asked about.

Wake up America! Not again, not again!

YES WE CAN!

Marcus B   July 30th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Obama has it exactly right! And he didn't run for the hills...he had a successful overseas trip to plan!

OBAMA/SEBELIUS 2008-2012

E B   July 30th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

I thought this was supposed to be a clean campaign. They campared Obama to a socialite chick that hasn't worked a day in her life and a disney chick gone bad. Wow, that;s fightin; works

LYNETTE IN CA   July 30th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

McCain just wanted to use Obama's ability to draw a crowd to attempt to showcase himself and try to get some free publicity given his campaign's financial situation. Why would Obama do that??. Not to mention, most town halls would not hold all the people that would try to get in to see Obama.

Anyway, McCain really needs time to practice getting his history, country and economic, among other facts, straight. The number of times he's gets his facts wrong will not fly while debating with Obama.

OBAMA '08

Mary   July 30th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

McCain please say it ain't so!!!

FEAR & SMEAR 2004 GOP campaign playbook is being used AGAIN!!!

mk   July 30th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

because nobody asks the hard questions at those meetings.
We all know that. The McCain campaign needs to quite thinking we are all that stupid.

Antonio in Los Angeles   July 30th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

So glad he didn't fall for that 10 townhall debate trap; and avoided the "lets go to iraq together" stuff. He should handle McCain pretty well. I certainly don't expect McCain to lay down though. McCain has proven to do his best in debates. Obama has to keep those Bush policies on a holster – ready to fire out a moments notice. When necessary, go on a little attack with out going negative to show some fight. Finally, keep your message of change and hope clear. The world is watching.

Kelby from Houston, TX   July 30th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

How could you NOT like senator Obama? Have you listened to him speak? Have you heard what he is proposing? How could there be any question in his ability to lead this country. HOW can you not have hope for the future after listening to him? How could you turn him down when he wants the best for America?
With every move he makes;with everything he does, he makes PUMA and the Hillary people look bitter beaten and foolish. JOIN US WON'T YOU? ALL ARE WELCOME TO DREAM THAT IS AMERCA!

OBAMA '08 DEMOCRATS '08 AND FOREVER

Billiam the Kid   July 30th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Lol....McCain is going to lose. Period...The problem is, is when I ask my older white friends about why they support McCain they say "Because I'm, not sure of Obama." Or, some misc anti Obama comment, none of them say because they have confidence in McCain, thats not good....

Pat Riot   July 30th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Since when is being successful a vice? There are thousands of small businesses our there that have owners making over $250,000 a year. Should they honestly be taxed to pay for bloated social programs and more government bureaucracy? My state doesn't even have an income tax and we have a great infrastructure. The federal government has a mirade of ways to collect taxes but raising the income tax for a group of individuals is plain weong, especially in difficult economic times. You're preaching socialism again Obama.

Marie in California   July 30th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

If Obama is willing to debate McCain, he must have figured out a way to bring an invisible teleprompter with him. Without that handy-dandy little device, he's been pretty much "speechless." Or maybe it's a tiny earpiece with someone feeding him answers......

Heaven help us all if Obama becomes president!

Was for Hillary, now for McCain!

PUMA

Ms. White   July 30th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Obama is polishing his "sword" of change.
Take this....Take That....

Lance Haun   July 30th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Waiting for you to come and debate. Lots of talk and pomp but no action.

MikeH   July 30th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Sounds to me like Kid Obama is calling out Ole' Shady McCain for some Colt 45 negotiating.

Willy   July 30th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

BHO get away from your polished 30 minute speeches and tela prompters an then try to "answer" a question vice going off the path. The will see what you really don't know.

EDW   July 30th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Obama didn't want the ten town hall meetings that were going to be full of Republican's. McCain had those town halls slanted in his favor. I hope you get McCain to debate late in the day, the old man is less lucid then. He flip flops best on taxes and Iraq during the later hours of the day.

Clinton/McCain   July 30th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

There he goes adding race into politics. Enough with the race-baiting!

Elinn   July 30th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Mr. Obama, please proceed with caution to the duel.......... if there is anything we can do to help sir....... remember, there are 250.000.000 Americans standing behind you sir...

M.S. Indiana   July 30th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Oh yeah baby, we are ready for McCain, go give him hell Obama..
he wont be man enough to stand up to his lies and garbage talk.
And he will confuse himself with his flip flops..

Lesley   July 30th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Typical McCain rhetoric. The answer is because McCain's campaign manager is not running Obama's campaign. He will debate McCain when his team sees fit. He was hardly running for the hills, he was campaigning using his own strategy. Obama is leading and McCain is following, it's been that way since day one. And now that the challenge is given, why doesn't McCain just say bring it on!

Chuck   July 30th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

A gun analogy? I Barrack starting to get "bitter?"

john   July 30th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

McOld have no ideas of his own, just attacking. I thought as you get old you become more respectful because you will like to be respected. But McOld is very shameful.

SANTE   July 30th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

ABOUT OBAMA:

1. Everybody who is NOT a snob senses that something is not exactly O.K. with that so called "New Politician".
I see him like my doughier: tells me exactly what I would like to hear.

I think that Guy and his gang had studied the social behaviour in USA long before had started the elections and they simply manipulate us very effectively!
Simply: DO NOT TRUST HIM!!!!

2. No offence, but am I correct that OBAMA is very much supported and loved by HOMOSEXUALS?

/ Not because I do not respect them as human beings/

3. His color is NOT my concern but his attitude : HE IS ARROGANT!
e.g. Is it appropriate a future President to chew a gum walking as a peacock at front of the cameras?

4. If he is "sooo gifted" and almost genius, what he had done for 45 years before the beginning of that election?

Jay   July 30th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

True!

Robert Wooller, England   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

The best thing Obama could do regarding McCain's comments about comparing him to Spears and Hilton is not argue back, just laugh it off and move on. This is more constructive than comparing McCain to anyone in a negative way.

Paris   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Why CNN you don't post comments that are not pro Obama?

Billy. LA   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Obama is becoming a bore-same BS day after day.

International "O"   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

True!

Sherry, Atlanta   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

AND WE'RE ON. McCain said (only two days ago, that he will raise SOCIAL SECURITY TAXES), did anyone see him on Larry King? Now today-2 days later, he said he will NOT RAISE ANY TAXES.

Does McCain not read these speech's first (before he comes to the public), that his people are writing for him.

IS THIS WHAT AMERICA DESERVES?

Rachel   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

hmm then debt him, and stop with this nonsense, nice duel remark for somebody who called Hillary Annie Oakley Obama hypocrite is thy name.

Angus McDugan   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

He must be feeling nerves. Remember when he was pulling ahead of Hillary, he did not engage in any more debates with her. This was because he could only jepordize his lead. Makes you wonder what's up???

COL.{retd]A.M.Khajawall   July 30th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Dear American Citizens and the Press

As a concerned citizen, I consider it is my duty to bring following message to you all.

"We the citizens of the United States of America have the ultimate responsibility to elect the " Right Candidate" to lead our nation, out of our huge present and future internal and external challenges as well as opportunities. This is to prevent depression and isolation in-spite of being the only superpower in the world morally, democratically, economically, and militarily.

We need to consider the "critical qualities and characteristics" of our presumptive presidential nominees at the time we vote.

In my personal and professional opinion the critical considerations are as under:

1. Calm, cool, and collected " temper " [ Presidential Temperament ].
2. Sound and sustained "Judgment and Caliber".
3. "Thought-fullness and togetherness" of purpose and positions.
4. Minimum "ex-poser and exploitation" around "Washington and Washington insiders".
5. Renewed " Vigor and Vision " for our Greatgrand Nation.
6. Foreign policy based on " American Values, Virtuous, Vastness".

Stay informed, stay involved, and stay engaged. Do not allow some partisan media, pundits, pollsters, and perpetual political opinion makers effect your vote in the wrong direction.

Don't be effected and duped by "Psychological Terrorism" that is directed at common American people without their full consent and awareness.

Long live U.S.A and its diverse but democratic people.

Col. A.M. Khajawall [Ret] MD., ABFM., ABDA.
Chief Consultant: World Wide Porfessional Consultants[WWPC]
Colonel, USAR/MC Combat Stress Control[Ret], Disabled American Veteran and Freedom team.
Consultant Psychiatrist: CA State, Medical Board of California, and Los Angeles Mental Health Department
Address: 7642 Eaglehelm Court Las Vegas NV 89123

Veteran for McCain   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

The GOP make a great point. If Obama is ready to "duel" then let's go. Let's see some of these town halls/debates that aren't prepared and that don't have any teleprompters. This is for the freaking President of the U.S. they should have several of these town halls across America.

Do it yourself   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

“Nobody thinks that Bush or McCain have a real answer for the challenges we face. So what they are going to try to do is make you scared of me,” he said, “[they’ll say] ‘he's not patriotic enough. He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills.’”

Oh yea... Barack doesn't play the race card!
This guys a joke... Wild Barack Hitchcock... what a tool!

The Surly Scholar   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

A debate? Sounds superb. My prediction is that Obama will state his tax plan, John McCain, while making no statement of his own, will churlishly attack Obama's, at which point Obama states McCain's plan FOR him, then start picking away at the economic inconsistencies and logistical missteps that form its backbone. At this point, McCain will probably get mad, snap, and start cursing Obama out until he's dragged kicking and screaming off the stage by his handlers.

Maybe that isn't how it'll actually play out, but I can't help but be amused by the thought.

Oh, and anyone who still perceives OBAMA as the risky choice at this point is really just being ignorant.

Nom Deplume   July 30th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

GO Obama,

Let's gun down the bourgeiose in the town square.

Time to take back America from the capitalists and return it to the people. Tax anyone with a six-figure salary and return the money to those who really need it.

TyWebb   July 30th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Duel? Like Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr?

Debby   July 30th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Oh brother Obama is really shooting himself in the foot with his comments the past couple of days. Duel McCain give it a rest this man is not qualified to be President.

Raymond Duke   July 30th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Obama bring it on. I think even that idiot John McCain can beat you. By the way Obama do you have any regular kinfolk and are any of them black. They all seem to be white rich people. You wouldn't be pulling our leg and trying to kiss up to all them blue collar, gun toting, religous racist would you. You know the ones who go on the tv for you and call them racist "WHITEY AND CRACKER' that didn't vote for you.

Leslie, MA.   July 30th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

More cowboy BS. WoW just what we need. How come Obama only wants to debate on his schedule?? We are the people, let him debate on our schedule. We've been waiting.....................

Tony, Miami   July 30th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Mc Cain (my friend) let's go for the duel have your witnesses ready.

Darryl   July 30th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Despite John McCain’s presidential campaign pledge forbidding official favors for top donors, the Arizona senator has introduced legislation and heavily intervened to acquire lucrative deals for a wealthy longtime friend who has raised a quarter of a million dollars for him so far.

A major U.S. newspaper has documented in a lengthy piece the decades-long relationship between the 2008 Republican presidential candidate and a powerful Arizona developer who has made millions of dollars thanks to the senator’s efforts on behalf of the deals.

Without McCain’s aggressive intervention, millionaire Donald Diamond could not have made the deals which, in a few instances involved beneficial public-for-private land swaps and the actual remapping of public lands. McCain helped his friend acquire the valuable properties by introducing legislation in 1991 and 1994 on his behalf. The senator’s efforts led to multi million-dollar profits and the acquisition of thousands of acres in Arizona. McCain has sponsored a third similar bill that currently sits before the U.S. Senate.

In 1999 McCain helped Diamond purchase highly-sought yet forbidden California land owned by the Army, which he immediately sold for a $20 million profit. Then McCain got his buddy a lucrative contract to develop a resort hotel and luxury housing in 2005. These efforts certainly contradict McCain’s vows not to intercede with the government on behalf of a donor or take any action on their behalf that doesn’t serve the public’s interest.

Stephina   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Obama keeps stating:

“Nobody thinks that Bush or McCain have a real answer for the challenges we face. So what they are going to try to do is make you scared of me,” he said, “[they’ll say] ‘he's not patriotic enough. He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills."

No the real problem is your lack of experience and total arrogance that is so scary!!!!

McCain in 2008.

Spider   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Of course Barack Obama shys away from joint town halls and debates, he is not a debater. He is a master debater.
Without a prepared speech and a teleprompter, Barack Obama stutters like a special education student.

Mike from L.A.   July 30th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Knock him out, Barry!

John G   July 30th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

"He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills.’”

Frankly I'm starting to get a little offended by the implication that anyone who doesn't vote for Obama is racist.

Mike, Syracuse, NY   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Sorry, but the possibility of a totally unqualified Obama becoming President IS scary. I don't need Mccain to tell me that. With the current deficit and all Obama's new promised spending, his promise not to raise taxes is a nonstarter too.

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

What is Obama saying? Is he saying he is related now to Wild Bill? I thought Wild Bill was a white man. Isn't it a shame that obama thinks he is related to everyone.

I imagine his second cousin is Ossama. And maybe obama is now related to Barney Frank. maybe while obama is researching his family, one may find he is related to Adolph.

WOW. No wonder obama thinks he is the new messiah? WOW what an ego he must have.

Shawn -GA   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Then debate the man already... you have been ducking away from being a man and standing toe to toe with Mcain... WEAK

What is the matter afraid you are not so good without your writing staff?? LOL

Jenna   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

I dont understand why Obama keeps dodging Town Hall debates with McCain, what's wrong with him?

tina   July 30th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

I can't wait to see these two square off. Its going to be a riot! I can see McCain showing his true colors, without all this nonsense of why Barack won't meet with him at a town hall meeting.

Barack 08
Anyone other than 4 more years of Bush politics!

Shane   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

That is funny "running for the hills".

Texas trail puppy!   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

There is a new SHERIFF in town and his name is BARACK OBAMA, Johnnie Boy better take cover for things are about to get UGLY.
Let the Debates begin!!!!

Gary of El Centro, Ca   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Obama has an interesting blood line. Remember, in addition to Wild Bill, he is also related to Dick "I'll shoot your face off" Cheney, aka "Dead Eye Dick".

John G   July 30th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Did his cousin help liberate Auschwitz?

Seriously if he were ready to duel the challenge has been on the table since the DNC handed him the nomination 2 months ago. McCain has been "ready to duel" for months.

Lets see here.

McCain says Obama lacks foreign policy experience- a few months later Obama takes a campaign trip overseas.

McCain challenges Obama to a series of town hall meetings. 2 months later Obama claims he is "ready to duel"

Maybe next Obama will support offshore drilling...

mwm   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

i think mccain wants to be obama,now.

It Be Me   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

so McCain....step up.....you wanted Obama to go to Iraq....he did...
you wanted a debat....here you go.....

Put up or shut up...

Down with Obama   July 30th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

I think it is going to be more like:

McCain ready to duel Obama.

McCain hasn't even started yet. Wait until after the conventions.....that is when the fun starts and Obama will go down. Obama is nothing but an empty suit and it is showing!!!!

Jim   July 30th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

I love how Obama gets to the point so quickly and with with a sense of humor too!

He is absolutaly right when he says: “Nobody thinks that Bush or McCain have a real answer for the challenges we face. So what they are going to try to do is make you scared of me,” he said, “[they’ll say] ‘he's not patriotic enough. He's got a funny name. You know, he doesn't look like all of those other presidents on the dollar bills.’” That summarizes precisely McCain's negative strategy!

A Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   July 30th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

What ? a girlie man wants to challenge an authentic American Hero who will protect your values? no McCain is the one to protect America and our values.

Obama is risky and maybe to foreign for my tastes. Didn't Obama live in Indonesia for his formative years. Wasn't his dad a Muslim from Kenya?
I am afraid of this candidate as well as my neighbors.

Biffington, Biff   July 30th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

if they are going to duel via their wits...

it won't be fair

Obama can't duel with an unarmed man.

Texun   July 30th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

McCain's "town halls" are not debates, that's why he prefers them. In a verbal shoot-out with Obama, the elderly senator would be loaded with blanks. Let's see if he ducks Obama's offer for serious debates!

Voter   July 30th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Obama is an ego maniac.

Four years of his crap is just one good reason to vote NO to Obama.

Jason   July 30th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Well said, Barack, well said.

Hopefully you do confront McCain, before the debates. It can't be hard to clearly prove how inconsistent and irrelevant the McCain's campaigns' arguments are, so that even the American that skims the front page for their education can understand what's going on.

Tom   July 30th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Finally after he had to answer hard questions on the ABC Debate, he would not debate Hillary anymore. Now he is ready to debate the old man McCain. Didn't he call Hillary – Annie Oakley. He is an arrogant i can't say the rest. He's digging himself deeper in a hole with smart thinking Americans.

Chris   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

you know the crazy thing... he's absolutely right...

ReaganDem84   July 30th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Based on CNN's above report of BO's words, is Dr. No (like Bush 41) PLEDGING NO NEW TAXES?!!!

“Let me be absolutely clear,” said Obama, “if you are a family making less than $250,000 a year, you will not see your taxes go up. Not your capital gains tax, not your payroll tax, not your income tax. No taxes. Your taxes will not go up.”

Please CNN reporters, please please push away the kool-aid and ask him:
"Are you pledging not to raise taxes on anyone making less that $250K?"

Thanks in advance CNN for your journalistic integrity. Your journalism professor will be proud.

Texas Voter   July 30th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

If Obama is ready to debate, then why does he refuse to debate McCain? McCain has asked Obama to debate and have an open town hall meeting numerous times. Obama time and time againsrefuses to debate in an open forum. That's because Obama does very poorly without a prewritten speech.

Nova from NV   July 30th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Obama is just going to falter under pressure of a debate (Remember last time he had to face Hillary?) I wonder which of the 300+ advisers he will take with him to the debate. Does America really thinks he can be a leader? He ducked a challenge from McCain long time ago and people should remember that.

FactCheck   July 30th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Oh you mean those "town hall meetings" that McCain has been having where the audience is packed with his staffers?

Comments have been closed for this article

subscribe RSS Icon
About The Ticker

The latest political news from CNN's Best Political Team, with campaign coverage, 24-7. Sign up for our twice daily Ticker emails. Got a news tip or feedback? For complete political coverage, bookmark CNNPolitics.com.

CNN=Politics Screensaver

CNN=Politics ScreensaverTap into the power of The Situation Room. Download this powerful new tool that keeps you posted on the latest political news from the campaign trail.
Download (4.1 MB, PC only)

twitter
hambypCNN: Badgers fans rush the floor after beating a wildly overrated Duke team in early December? Suspect.
Updated: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:21:14 -0800
hambypCNN: not sure bob knight has changed out of that green sweater at any point this season
Updated: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:07:59 -0800
@wolfblitzercnn: Wizards beat Bucks 104-102. Great game.
Updated: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:31:50 -0800
@PrestonCNN: RT @PoliticalTicker: "McCain uses the phone to target colleagues" - http://bit.ly/4DgvAZ
Updated: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:04:28 -0800
@KuhnCNN: In Atlanta for another 2 days so @vhernandezCNN brought me to an @NBA game. Thanks Victor!
Updated: Wed, 02 Dec 2009 16:01:14 -0800
Categories
Powered by WordPress.com VIP