August 11, 2008
Posted: August 11th, 2008 07:13 AM ET

From
CNN

Watch Barack Obama's new ad that says John McCain is Washington's biggest celebrity.

WASHINGTON (CNN) - The battle over who's a celebrity continues.

Barack Obama's campaign fired back today, releasing a campaign commercial that suggests Republican presumptive presidential nominee John McCain is a celebrity.

The ad starts by saying that "for decades, he's been Washington's biggest celebrity. And as Washington embraced him, John McCain hugged right back."

The commercial concludes by saying that the senator from Arizona is "a Washington celebrity playing the same old Washington games."

The commercial appears to be a response to a number of ads that the McCain campaign released over the past two weeks that suggest that Barack Obama is a celebrity and not ready for the White House.

The Obama campaign says its new ad, titled "Embrace," will run in some of the battleground states in which the McCain commercials that ridicule Obama's celebrity are currently airing.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Popular Posts


Uncle Sam   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

Just to be clear, there is nothing wrong with being famous.
But fame without substance is mere vanity.

johnson   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

about time. why did he wait so long to do this? he is begining to act like kerry!! what is he doing with all those money he raised? what happened to "they bring knife, we bring guns"? i am nervous for this guy. obama, mr nice guy will not take you anywhere!! obama have a lot of weapons against mccain, but he is not using them. remember 2004 and 1988!!!

Greg   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

Lorna, NY August 11th, 2008 8:35 am ET: "We are a country full of IDIOTS!"

We sure are if Obama is elected. What a disaster for this country if Obama were to be elected. We would no longer recognize our great country. I'm shocked the idiot has made it as far as he has.

v.a.   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

hahaha oh my gosh. now both campaigns are being stupid. now that's entertainment!

Celebrity for Peace   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

Weak ad Barack ... a waste of my money.

Kimberly   August 11th, 2008 9:10 am ET

Sweet....

arc, Lugano CH   August 11th, 2008 9:09 am ET

The Obama campaign should tread lightly when retaliating against John McCain’s fear-based adds. Senator McCain’s adds are as strategically targeted towards Hillary’s bitter bigots as much as they are designed for Bush ‘values voters’. The hope of winning over votes from that demographic is already somewhat minimal. Their votes aren't won through intellect, but simple fear.

The Obama campaign should also remember to stick to facts coupled with the honorable dignity that they have so far utilized so successfully. No reason to sink into Hillary’s dirty sewer.

john   August 11th, 2008 9:09 am ET

Obama has been doing the same copy cat thing to Hillary Clinton as well. Where is his originality?!

Mark G   August 11th, 2008 9:09 am ET

Oh yeah...McCain is ready for the white house...just like George Bush. Of course, I'm sure the people supporting him and defending him are th ones who have not been hit by this horrible economy...well, I guess I am just a whiner.

If you think McCain is ready and is going to be a good thing for this country...well, maybe it's time for you to take your meds.

Maggie Muggins From Selwyn   August 11th, 2008 9:08 am ET

I can't see what all the smoke and mirrors is about in this election as the choice is clear if you like what has happened over the past 8 years you will vote for McCain and if you want a change in direction with an intelligent President who thinks talking before shooting is a better idea then you'll vote for Obama.

Otis   August 11th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Are you kidding me? Yeah, change we can believe in. Different kind of politician.

Sorry, Obama. More of the same.

I wonder how third party candidates look. There'll be no change with either of these two jockeying for celebrity status.

First one who talks about issues with viable solutions gets my vote.

PELOSI SUCKS   August 11th, 2008 9:07 am ET

BARACK OBAMA : SAME OLD DUMB AD ACCUSING OTHERS OF PRACTICING OLD POLITICS

natty   August 11th, 2008 9:07 am ET

well if john McCain is to be a president of AMERICA, ITS good for EUROPE, due that things will get worse and USA ,will become our playing ground , NO super power . l don't understand Americans,why same policy ,open eyes, its not abaut that Obama is black is abaut yo future

Jon from Indiana   August 11th, 2008 9:07 am ET

You're a celebrity!

No, you are!

This is childish on both sides, but when Obama tries to call McCain the same thing McCain has called him, he's just validating the argument and bringing the whole thing back into the public conversation. Isn't it obvious who is the bigger celebrity in the first place, anyways? Is it the guy who has throngs of rabid, chanting followers or is it the guy who hangs out at a sausage restaurant in Ohio? Why are we even talking about this in the first place?

randy   August 11th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Now the guy is flipp flopping on ads. He cant even come up with an original ad. Follows Mcain on, drilling, pulling troops out, taxes and now this. He is like a little kid following big brother.

Dan, Ohio   August 11th, 2008 9:06 am ET

In response to JJ:
Every time Obama has stuck to the issues and played positive ads, he's been labeled an elitist and everyone's come out saying "He can't take a punch, how does he expect to be president?". I don't think its an issue of him thinking the American electorate is stupid. I think the American electorate is demanding this kind of politics.

Jon   August 11th, 2008 9:06 am ET

I that pathetic or what? Gee Obama is getting so desperate. At least McCain's ad was origional.

Chris Joe   August 11th, 2008 9:06 am ET

Like the primary debates Obama waits for the other candidate to answer then copies or agrees with their answer. Now he copies campaign ads. If he is president who will he copy then.

Amy   August 11th, 2008 9:06 am ET

I understand many may feel disapointed that Obama is using this tactic, but trust me, he needs to. A good proportion of the electorate only responds to these kinds of attacks, as the polls show. We can't afford to let McCain define him to some key voters ahead of the convetion, ahead of the Nov votes. Obama's ad actually makes more sense.
1. There is no blasphemy. He is not using a prophete to incarnate a presidential candidate and some of my jewish friends were pretty offended by that ad.
2. he is not mocking 215,000 hopeful citizens of the world who came to cheer with America and celebrate' the historic nomination of a presidential candidate.
3. His as was a real turn off for the millions of non-americans who are following these elections. He suggested that they were silly for hoping for Change from a candidate who he cowardly calls a celebrity, when we all know he is so much more.
4. There is nothing worse in these times of hardship for the AMerican people than electing a president who will be embracing the Bush's failed policies. I know that sentence gets boring, but trust me, it is not boring to the millions of its victims. Please detach yourself from fear and prejudice, vote for the one who will restore our integrity, and that really is Obama.

Rodney   August 11th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Can these bigoted conservatives come up with something new.......? Here it is.... almost Sept. and we still have intellectuals that can't get through Obama's middle name. HERE'S ONE FOR YOU..... Hitler's middle name was BUSH... lol. Now go soak yourself with the gasoline you can't afford.

R U Kiddin   August 11th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Richard said: "Copycat! Copycat!
Can't Barack Obama come up with something better!"

Oh, I see. So Senator Obama ISN'T supposed to fight back? Would YOU sit here and allow someone else to take shot after borderline libelous shot at you, your character, your integrity? Are you so spineless that you would just roll over and take it? What a miserable, pathetic existence that would be.

Think about it. You wouldn't like it very much either.

Amy   August 11th, 2008 9:05 am ET

I understand many may feel disapointed that Obama is using this tactic, but trust me, he needs to. A good proportion of the electorate only responds to these kinds of attacks, as the polls show. We can't afford to let McCain define him to some key voters ahead of the convetion, ahead of the Nov votes. Obama's ad actually makes more sense.
1. There is no blaspheme. He is not using a prophete to incarnate a presidential candidate and some of my jewish friends were pretty offended by that ad.
2. he is not mocking 215,000 hopeful citizens of the world who came to cheer with America and celebrate' the historic nomination of a presidential candidate.
3. His as was a real turn off for the millions of non-americans who are following these elections. He suggested that they were silly for hoping for Change from a candidate who he cowardly calls a celebrity, when we all know he is so much more.
4. There is nothing worse in these times of hardship for the AMerican people than electing a president who will be embracing the Bush's failed policies. I know that sentence gets boring, but trust me, it is not boring to the millions of its victims. Please detach yourself from fear and prejudice, vote for the one who will restore our integrity, and that really is Obama.

The Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   August 11th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Obama's politics as usual. what a loser he is. and he is risky.

Be careful of this guy with a foreign name and a funny name at that.

I can't believe he conned the DNC to give him the nomination over Hillary who won big in the mid west.

Missourian   August 11th, 2008 9:04 am ET

McCain called Obama a celebrity like it was a bad thing. The only thing McCain forgot was to remove all the references from his OWN website that called himself a "political celebrity" first. Just as he forgot to remove references from his OWN website calling himself "THE ONE" before attacking Obama as the one.

Mark   August 11th, 2008 9:03 am ET

Boy, that must hurt! We all know that McCain is offering the same old games. But we are human and we tend to forget things like that. Thanks for reminding us.

Shawnte'   August 11th, 2008 9:01 am ET

Good job... They said Obama was weak, I'm glad he is hitting back. He has had many negative ads against him and hasn't retaliated to them all... He hits back when needed, isn't that what a president should do?? I'd rather be the type of celeb McCain accuses him of being than the other way around!!

Greg, Florida   August 11th, 2008 9:01 am ET

By now I'm sick of both POLITICIANS. because that's all they are. neither candidate will actually deliver on half of what they promise

NOBAMA   August 11th, 2008 9:01 am ET

Obama can not come up with an original idea even if it hit him in the head. Hillary should be the nominee still. I LOVE YOU HILLARY!

Dan from Philly   August 11th, 2008 9:00 am ET

In one way of thinking, Obama does need to respond in kind to some of McCain's tactics. It'd be nice to think that only substantive issues matter to voters but if you think for three seconds about the past elections you KNOW that's not true, the swiftboaters killing Kerry's chances being the most recent example. A large proportion of voters are swayed by these 'image' attacks and so Obama does need to counter them. I think he can do that and also address more important issues.

And I still say that staunch Hillary supporters who are now willing to vote for McCain are either insane or never were really Hillary supporters in the first place. How can you justify in your little tiny brains voting for someone who is 180 degress from Hillary on every issue, even after she's asked you not to?!?

republicans hate america   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

McCain is part of the Baby Boom generation the most selfish of generations ever. its all about them and screw everyone else its been like that from the day they started to crawl this earth. i dont want anymore baby boomers leading our country.

kula   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

Obama will win, and the old wretched man McCain will loose like he is in the hell.

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

What's good for the goose...

Anonymous   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

@Mike is an idiot: Get your own facts straight. A recount conducted by a group of newspapers showed Bush won in 2000. 2004 wasn't even in dispute. Mr Flip-flop Kerry lost. Get over it already. You delusional Dems refuse to see reality. That must be why you are borg drones for the least qualifies candidate in 100 tears.

Rudy NYC   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

If I were the producer, I would have the word "celebrity" out altogether because it makes yourself look no better or different from the guy that you are criticizing. Same Old Politics.

Wake UP America   August 11th, 2008 8:59 am ET

BHO cannot come up with anything original ~ remember he likes to copy everyone else and take their ideas!!!!

NObama

Ted:Canada   August 11th, 2008 8:58 am ET

Yes – America your BIGGEST fear is that you will have four more years of the Republican disaster. In any other democratic country most people would have said Enough is Enough!!!

It is sad to say that some people in America put their party ahead of their country and their people.

I am not sure that is "democracy".

Maybe just plain – Stupidity!!

Raymond Duke   August 11th, 2008 8:58 am ET

I don,t like McCain but I had rather have him than a blacl liberation socialist who has no american values.I have listen to Obama and I have listen to McCain. Ihave never heard McCain talk bad about america or the american people. I have heard Obama and his surrgoate talk bad about america as a nation and I have heard him and hiscampagin call people of america who did not vote for him, uneducated, guntoting religious nuts,Whitey and Cracker. Throw in his radical friends and mentors such as reverend Wright, Father Flager,Resko,Ayers and other domestic terriost and I would have to say we might need change in Washington D.C. but not that type.

TAllis   August 11th, 2008 8:57 am ET

How long Mc Cain has been around,look he is the same old fashion game no matter what he said.This is a fact.

Brian   August 11th, 2008 8:57 am ET

The people who say Obama was being "uncreative" and "unoriginal" with this ad must not follow politics. McCain's strategy was to paint Obama as a whiner. The traditional response by a politician to an attack ad is to do nothing - allowing the charges to stick - or attack the other politician's character but in a different way, trying to change the subject. By giving McCain a taste of his own medicine, Obama is pointing out the lady doth protest too much. Just like how the most virulent anti-gay Republicans are actually gay, the "straight talk express" so angry at the media's annointment of Obama is a pure product of the media. It is a very creative strategy in terms of politics.

Mike from Texas's comment, saying the United States should be hardline against Russia, is exactly what's wrong with McCain and McCain supporters in general. They see the world in black and white, right and wrong, us versus them, one side versus another. The world is not a game of Risk where every single country is forced on one side or another. I hate to break it to Mike and people who think like him, but the Cold War is over. Picking a side when not necessary like Mike has is exactly what started the waste of a war in Iraq. Looks like Mike is the one ignorant of foreign policy.

Lorna, NY   August 11th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Why is CNN not reporting that Moveon.org is fighting to get the Hess donations to McCain's campaign investigated? This is the news that the public needs to hear.

Michelle is an idiot   August 11th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Hey Michelle, I have your sign so come and get it TARD!

Joyce   August 11th, 2008 8:57 am ET

I believe it is time for both of them to get with the program and deal with the things people are worried about and not who is a celebrity.
Both have good ideas but neither of them know how to make them happen.
They say what they think people want to here and hope for the best.
Politics will never change

Butch Dillon   August 11th, 2008 8:56 am ET

Between the two candidates, McCain's the only one who had parts in Hollywood movies. That's a measure of celebrity! Obama's ad is dead on with the truth. But I can't wait for Obama and company to release an ad of McCain offering his wife up to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip Queen contest. That one would be a scare for all those Hillary wanna be feminists.

cecil   August 11th, 2008 8:56 am ET

Sometimes you just need to retaliate, especially when you are competing in key battleground states .
All You Haters Need to Shut Up and Take it.
Sen. McCain Need To Get His Hearing Check.

Great "Hands" Ad

Obama 08

Anonymous   August 11th, 2008 8:56 am ET

Carolyn said it the best. Obama will be president and all of you McCstank fans will just say anything bad against Obama because they have NOTHING good to say about their candidate...you know, the one who is so old that he borrowed a dollar from jesus.. Funny how you people blog out here as if your pathetic remarks about Obama's middle name like you think it's going to affect anyone. Silly people. The people of America do not want a 5 foot white wrinkled napolean as president who's only qualification is that he didn't do a thing in his 26 years in congress and oh, I forgot, he was a confessing P.O.W! That only makes him qualified to be the presidents of confessing P.O.W's That's it. Obama will be president!

richard - Minneapolis   August 11th, 2008 8:55 am ET

As far as I'm concerned, "old", "white", "man", "with money and connections" are not presidential qualifications either, although they've apparently been for all the previous holders of the office. It is about time someone else is considered. It is about time for someone else to win!!

No Socialist, NY   August 11th, 2008 8:55 am ET

Craig, Bush doesn't drink anymore. Obama may be articulate but it's experience, wisdom and patriotism we need in times like this. Intelligence is only good if wisdom accompanies it. The 9/11 attacks were contrived by intelligence NOT wisdom. Age brings experience and wisdom; those are two good enough reasons to vote for McCain rather than Obama.

JML   August 11th, 2008 8:55 am ET

Same old forgetful. erratic, hot-tempered McCain....

an out-of-it old-timer who doesn't know a Shia from a Sunni, and doesn't know the countries that border Iraq...

Bush's buddy, now the puppet of the Swift Boat machine....

Time for a change!

Panala Kinzie   August 11th, 2008 8:55 am ET

What is important is that we don't keep making the same mistakes that we have made in the past. And in the past I include Clinton and McCain. If you would do your research. Look up Keating 5. McCain is no more ready to be President than Obama. and SURELY not Hillary or Barr. McCain is never held accountable for anything he says or does, not even for calling his wife a runt with a different consonant in front of the word.

El Kababa   August 11th, 2008 8:55 am ET

Who's the biggest celebrity? Whose wife is the prettiest? Whose wife is the mouthiest? Will Obama's wife have a more prestigious speaking slot than Hillary? Is Obama more Black than White or vice versa?

Are we electing a prom king? What about Child Health, Abortion, Civic Duty, Civility, Consumer Issues, Corporate Misbehavior, Crime, the Distribution of Income, Drug Use, the Economy, the Cost of Education, Election Accuracy, Employment, Energy, the Environment, Family Values, Foreign Policy, Homelessness, Immigration, the Decaying National Infrastructure, Justice, Law, Marketing and Advertising, Medical Care, Methods of Government, Native American issues, the Population Problem, Poverty, Private Life, Public Life, the Religion Problem, Science and Technology, Secularism, Separation of Church and State, Taxation, Veterans' Benefits, Wages, the War on Terror, and Women's Issues?

Shouldn't someone be thinking about these items too?

Susan   August 11th, 2008 8:54 am ET

McCain ads are just plain stupid. Obama is right, not only is McCain a celebrity in DC, he is a celebrity from tv and movie appearances. Who do they think they are fooling. hey Rick Davis, people are not as stupid as you and you Rove Gang of Terror think we are!

smile!!!!!!   August 11th, 2008 8:54 am ET

A Grandmother August 11th, 2008 8:03 am ET
but McCain IS ready for the White House.

As the celebrity JANITOR to clean up the whole mess, but he would have to qualify for it

Mike, TX....stop with the empty suit, rush doesn´t use any more, so since you follow him in all you write, get creative

JD   August 11th, 2008 8:54 am ET

Barack Obama is a beautiful new god. McCain is a horrible old wretch.

TC, Fl   August 11th, 2008 8:54 am ET

First Obama copies Hillary, now McCain. I hope his running mate has some new ideas for him.

And his comments on Georgia/Russia? Pathetic to say the least. C-in-C material? Only to oblivions.

mj   August 11th, 2008 8:54 am ET

Obama's middle name is irrelevant to anyone who can think and isn't a member of the KKK. Why make yourself look so ignorant–is it to try to win people over to your side, if so it is doing just the opposite. Most rational people don't want to lower themselves to such prejudices! Come up with some better argument if you don't like Obama–this one is just plain sick.

Diamond   August 11th, 2008 8:53 am ET

ZAP! ZING! ZAP! ZING! BANG! BANG!

AN EYE FOR AN EYE!

Chris   August 11th, 2008 8:53 am ET

All of you are morons wake up and see what is really going on! See whom really runs things! This political process is a joke! The news is a joke. CNN with there dumb slogan "fair and balanced" what BS! Corperate america owns the news all of it, you only get what they want you to hear and the oppinions they want you to have. Wake up clones!
What an absolute shame our leadership and people have become.

Amy   August 11th, 2008 8:53 am ET

Very Good. Sometimes you just need to retaliate, especially when you are competing in key battleground states. I agree, Obama is very popular, but he is not a Washington Celebrity. McCain can't therefore embrace the new politics of hope, this bright vision of the future 215,000 citizens of the world chanted in Berlin. His ad is pure hypocrisy. It is dishonest and unfair. Obama can't win these elections by being the good guy, he needs to show toughness.

No Washington Celebrity. We want THE ONE.

republicans hate america   August 11th, 2008 8:53 am ET

Obama has my vote. McPhony has had 26 years to try to change things and he hasnt

Floridian   August 11th, 2008 8:53 am ET

McCain really scares me. He's too entrenched in the strategies that brought us into this fiscal disaster. PLEASE vote for Obama. He may not have all the answers either, but at least he is willing to try something different. No more republican administrations... not for a long, long time.

Sharon   August 11th, 2008 8:52 am ET

Hit back and hit back hard – but please let it be original!!
Obama talks about change – so lets see some originality.
Want to see O get their in style – you can do better than this.

jano1234   August 11th, 2008 8:52 am ET

Obama shows his lack of experience AGAIN!!!! Nothing worth saying.

Erik   August 11th, 2008 8:51 am ET

All McCain has been doing lately is throwing punches (and we can reject the idea that this is somehow an indication of readiness to lead). What the heck does he stand for, except snide and petty Obama-bashing? What will he do to make things better? He is an honorable has-been. His day has come and gone. The Republican National Committee let him run because they expected to lose 2008 handily, and now that the the Democratic infighting makes this less likely, McCain actually has a slim chance of winning. Do you want the RNC runnign the nation? That's what'll happen if this old man gets elected.

Darrell   August 11th, 2008 8:51 am ET

At least this commercial is filled with TRUTH ! Mr late night TV is much more like Paris then Obama. He truly has been one that has had many years of media coverage for being shot down and then has had incredible media coverage for all the times he has gotten in trouble.Thi is a more like Paris the Barrack.Mr what have you done lately has far too many people that feel sorry for the old man, and give him a spot to bore the public with his used car salesman (my freinds) speeches which are only good for insomnia sufferers.He has had nothing of significance to say in months.Obama has been out there with real plans and a very serious campaign so nice to see the truth in this ad with some slight humor of payback.Hard to believe anyone thinks McCain could run the most important office with any real leadership.

Anthony   August 11th, 2008 8:50 am ET

Hmmm... I wonder which one is the celebrity...

Do you knuckle head McCain supporters think everyone forgets he actually appeared in a movie? Old School – falls into line with his base and ideals.

JR, Plymouth   August 11th, 2008 8:50 am ET

Sadly, the McCain attack dogs seemed to be succeeding, resulting in this response in kind. Now maybe McCain's advertising agency can start mimicking Obama's advertising agency and produce some positive ads about their own candidate. May the better advertising agency win.....

Jim   August 11th, 2008 8:50 am ET

I really dislike the negative ads, but the fact is: they work. After several weeks of McCain's negative ads, he caught up in some of the polls. If there is something to complain about, complain about the voters of this country who are swayed by this trivial nonsense. Sometimes they are referred to as "swing voters."

Illene hebert   August 11th, 2008 8:49 am ET

Well one more lobbyist for Mccain remember Ralph Reed Abramhof's good friend i have written before about having a bunch of lobbyist on Mccain's campain trail everybody should be thinking about that and the consequences BE WORRY REAL WORRY

Vinny Fairfield, Ct   August 11th, 2008 8:48 am ET

Obama is a celebrity who reads lines from a teleprompter very well. When trying to speak without one, he stumbles, bumbles, fumbles. He's a flip flopping "empty suit" and he is "the second coming" (of Jimmy Carter, and we all know how that worked out!!)

jeff   August 11th, 2008 8:48 am ET

I thought Obama was suppose to stand for change? Looks like the same old Washington tactics Obama is accusing McCain of. Can't Obama have some original ideas of his own? First he used Edward's ideas, then Hillary's and now McCain. His platform is a combination of all three. Change, I don't see any just a man trying to get to the White House by using people. Politics as usual!!!!!

Nikhil   August 11th, 2008 8:48 am ET

All i can say is finally, McSame is a guy whose 72 years old who thinks Iraq and Afghanistan share a border, even tough Iran is inbetween them, and if he becomes president Russia will attack us, we need change, god bless Obama

Tony   August 11th, 2008 8:48 am ET

It's about time Obama got tough. McCain deserves everythingthrown at him.

Obama should have put his Hawaiian vacation on hold and stayed at home and campaigning. It looks as though he is arrogant and unaware that the election is only 3 months away.

It is time for him to put up or shut up. If McCain wins in November, there will be alot of blame to, AGAIN, go around in teh Democratic party and most of it will be Obama's.

dan   August 11th, 2008 8:47 am ET

i am a HUGE obama supporter, but i have to say that this guy is a COMPLETE idiot sometimes. he runs perfectly, gets everyone thinking these negative attacks are bad and he does the EXACT same thing! He does not want to win this election. it gets to the point where i can't read the news anymore because of all these stupid mess ups he does, from not keeping his mouth shut to not doing what he JUST preeched.

making this kind of mistake is making me see why the PUMAs are so disgruntled. even though i'd never vote republican, but i mean i just can't believe he just did that.

Marty   August 11th, 2008 8:47 am ET

Call me a celebrity, I'll call you one back. So there, take that. Sounds like a couple of children on the playground. Don't we have any grown-up candidates to vote for???? Stick to the issues, both of you, and trust the American people make educated votes in November.

No Socialist, NY   August 11th, 2008 8:46 am ET

Slacko, What made McCain a celebrity was his willingness to serve in the military, not returning to the luxury of freedom (as a POW) without his comrades, and his willingness to persevere as a politician to protect this country from rogue nations and terrorists, something the liberals practically deny are a threat to us. I'm sure Obama knows the difference between Sunni and Shiite and what countries border Pakistan (if he was paying attention to his lessons in elementary school}. I doubt he knows how to make us energy independant...well, unless he decides to make a deal with Iran, Syria, Sudan etc. All options are on the table, right?

BT in CO   August 11th, 2008 8:46 am ET

This is the political equivalent of the childish retort, "I know you are, but what am I?" Nana Nana Woo Woo.

Especially after the last 8 years, we need an adult in the White House.

ben   August 11th, 2008 8:45 am ET

WHAT KIND OF POLITICAL CAMPAIGN IS THIS? WE ARE STILL LOSING AMERICAN LIVES IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY WE INVADED WITHOUT JUSTIFICATION. wE ARE LOSING OUT HOMES. gASOLINE IS RUINING THOUSAND OF SMALL BUSINESSES BY FORCING THEM TO RAISE PRICES WHILE THE LARGE WALL MARTS WHO BUY IN HUGE VOLUMES AND LOWER PRICES CAN RIDE OUT THE STORM. WHERE
BANKS ARE GOING THROUGH BANK RUPTURE. WHILE WE ARE FACING A WORSE DEPRESSION THAN THE CRASh OF 1929
DO THEY THINK CALLING EACH OTHER A CELEBRITY IS THE WAY TO
WIN AN ELECTION.

scooter   August 11th, 2008 8:45 am ET

The one that should of been the big Celeb is John Edwards. the news should of spoke and done their job. makes you wonder how many voteshe stole. Ive talked to few who voted for him during the Primaries and there 2nd chose was Hillary. How many others did this same thing around the nation. So for many of you Bobots claiming that it was just his affair and should not be a public thing. He should of said something before and bowed down. So in the long run it has affected all of us

Molly   August 11th, 2008 8:45 am ET

That CNN has the discretion to post comments or not, it is worrisome at best that they would choose one so culturally explosive and prejudice as the one where Obama's entire middle name is capitalized as a reason why he is not qualified to be in the white house. Frankly, I honestly believe that no one is truly ready for what awaits them in the white house, but McCain has nothing original to offer us. His positions are the whatever the last person on his team told them they should be.

But the point: It is one thing to disagree. But by posting such obvious prejudice, CNN is feeding something that could prove very dangerous to all of us. It is absolutely no better than positing something that would suggest Obama is not fit by virtue of his skin tone. So when Obama makes a point of telling Americans that others are trying to make them afraid of him. It is CNN to whom he is speaking.

JJ   August 11th, 2008 8:44 am ET

This is getting ridiculous. Just how stupid do the candidates think the American electorate is? Both campaigns' ads are beyond absurd.

mario   August 11th, 2008 8:44 am ET

How many times has Mccain voted against equal pay for equal work, how many times has he voted against expanding veterans benefits...hey have you heard of the new McCain card. It will allow Veterans to use the free market healthcare system for services not adeqately provided by the VA...So let's see, expand services so big business can overcharge our Veterans for services, instead of improving our VA system and services he will leave our veterans care to the free market.. Pls remember that we have numerous examples of hospitals that have allowed patients to die in their waiting rooms, I don't see this alone as a good plan, we need to better the VA and expand it, and simultaneously work on getting veterans more access.

COOP   August 11th, 2008 8:44 am ET

You guys voting for McCain who "WERE" Hillary supporters are a joke. Where is the comparison between the two? Oh I see, the answer is so obvious the question isn't even worth asking. Get real folks.

Jeffrey   August 11th, 2008 8:44 am ET

Anyone who has to mention Obama's middle name-in all capital letters-is obviously a complete moron and no comment is really necessary. However, I'll do it anyway. Though Obama's middle name is totally irrelevant, let me remind Richard that 9/11 was enacted by mostly Saudi Arabian agents, but Saudi Arabia has nevertheless remained one of our closest allies (too closely tied to Bush's family to offend); by Osama bin Laden (not caught by the Bush administration, and when's the last time anyone heard McCain clamoring for his capture; bin Laden's family are also longtime family friends of George W. and George H. W. Bush), and not by any Iraqi agents or Saddam Hussein. It has now been established and is widely understood by everyone except right-wing psychos with their heads in the sand that Iraq was uninvolved in 9/11 and that Iraq was attacked under either intentional false pretenses (which would make the Bush administration war criminals) or bad intelligence (making them the most incompetent administration ever). But wait! Barack Obama's middle name is Hussein! Don't vote for him, or all is lost! Vote for John McCain, who despite once being some sort of principled man, has stood by in relative silence during the Bush administration, watching its excesses, incompetence, and criminality, still believing that warmongering leads to peace. His ads are all attacks on Obama, implying that even though he has policy positions, his campaign knows that these policy positions enumerated in ads won't lead to increased McCain votes. Richard, I'll be thinking of you on election day when the electoral votes for Obama come piling in, burying the pitiful few McCain will collect from the states with the most racist, ignorant people who are active voters. It's going to be a landslide for Barack HUSSEIN Obama.

Joe   August 11th, 2008 8:44 am ET

I totally don't understand the McCain ad that started this whole thing. Why would it be a bad thing to have a President that the rest of the world likes and respects? I get it, it would certainly be a change from what we have now. But isn't that what we want?

Kimberly   August 11th, 2008 8:43 am ET

One simple question....If you like the way your life has improved over the last 8 years vote for McCain. Ask a Mother if losing her son or daughter was worth it when there is an empty spot at the table at the next family gathering. WAKE UP people, especially Hillary voters. Honor her run for President and vote for Obama. For you to be thinking about supporting this monster is simply appalling. We need a new direction and our only hope is to put a Democrat back in power. I am a former supporter of hers but I am a true Democrat and will not turn my back on my party. She lost so lets move on together.

Kentucky   August 11th, 2008 8:43 am ET

Lets not let lose our focus here on these adds and remember the issues for most Americans here is what we are going to do about energy, health insurance, jobs, social security and national debt. I think that McCain being a multi millionaire really does not understand what the rest of us our dealing with here. He does not have to deal with the price of a gallon of gas or whats going to become of his social security {which he never has had to pay into} nor will he ever have to worry about health insurance or a job. He is married to a wealthy millionaire. Lets vote for someone that's just a little more in touch. Obama.

Walt   August 11th, 2008 8:43 am ET

Wake up America, do you want the same old face in the white house.
McCain will contiue to do the same as Bush ruin your Great country.
I'm not an American, and I can clearly see that if you(the voting populace) put this guy in the Greastest House in the world, NOTHING will change in your country. It dosn't take just being a POW to make you a great leader, and from what I see this guy is just the same old static quo.

Richard J   August 11th, 2008 8:42 am ET

Its time for McCain. He's tried for years to get the party nomination but is always put on the backburner for his "less-than-tight" ties to the far right. The Republican party is ready for someone who actually tells it LIKE IT IS. Sure, he could say NO to drilling and YES to alternative fuels but reality says that drilling is more of a realistic short-term solution. Viable AND economic biofuels are still in their infancy, solar is still not economically viable. Wind is viable but runs afoul of other environmental concerns. Electric cars still require coal, gas, etc.

As much as we don't want to hear it, we ARE still a nation dependant on fossil fuels – wouldn't you rather hear the truth and use our own fossil fuels (you know we're the 3rd largest producer, right?) than be dependant on our possible enemies?

Tired of W, OH   August 11th, 2008 8:42 am ET

Hey, DICK, I mean Richard. Real clever with the middle name thing. By the way, what's McCain's middle name? I'm guessing it's W.

Michael "C" Lorton, Virginia   August 11th, 2008 8:42 am ET

McCain is truly a political celebriy, but sometimes being a political celebrity can be hard on the knees.

fella from Chicago   August 11th, 2008 8:42 am ET

That a boy, Barack. Show the nation you're just another mud slinging politician using negative ads to focus on your opponent. And "they" thought you were the candidate of change. Now that's a funny.

Elariia   August 11th, 2008 8:41 am ET

It's about time Obama hit back. I hope there's more where this came from. Obama should be running ads showing Lieberman whispering the difference between Sunni and Shia in McCain's ear, for example. Obama should also showcase McCain's NINE homes and $500 shoes to paint him as elitist and out of touch.

Javone   August 11th, 2008 8:41 am ET

Richard you cannot TRULY be calling Obama a copycat LOL That is beyond laughable!! The copycat is the one who saw Bush wanted a war and was right behind saying "Yeah! Me too!!!!"

Mike is an idiot   August 11th, 2008 8:41 am ET

Hey mike you think john mccain is being original in his ads with paris hilton and britney spears!! By the way john mccain called for a cease fire on both sides georgia and russia. Get your facts straight. By the way the only election stolen recently was the 2000 and 2004 AND YOU KNOW IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! John mccain has been in washington for 26 years if he wanted to change something i think he would of by now. Lets see he voted against equal pay for women!!! He voted against making MLK a national holiday. He wants to take a womens right of there own body away from them. He wants to stay in iraq 100 years. And he missed the vote on the college opprotunity and affordabilty act!! On july 31, 2008. he is ready alright.

Anthony Martin   August 11th, 2008 8:39 am ET

McCain is the Republican celebrity, how else to you think he won the nomination without the conservative backing. The main media built him up and now us conservatives don't have a horse in this race :(

NMDave   August 11th, 2008 8:39 am ET

Obama is doing the right tactics. You have to dumb down to get the votes to win. This is not an intellectual discourse. Keep the negative ads going and keep the message simple. How else do you think Bush won for two terms?

ron   August 11th, 2008 8:39 am ET

yes we see McCain on the cover of numerous magazines. we also see him flying around with all his news media puppets in his 757 done up jet, and we will soon be seeing him at his rented NFL stadium where we can pay homage to Mr. hollywood john McCain. yeah right. poor sen. obama every body's picking on him

Ian   August 11th, 2008 8:39 am ET

He better watch himself. John McCain won't invite Obama to his birthday party if he keeps it up.

High School '08

sherry for Obama   August 11th, 2008 8:39 am ET

Shelley I couldnt agree with you more.....

Repub's think they are special and I cant for the life of me see how they would vote for McCain.

We are in this position with all the high prices and our country in debt because of the right wing agenda.

Obama for a better America

Sherria   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

John McCain is NOT a celebrity in my book. He is however a bona fide symbol of the old political machine that is Washington D.C. OUT with the OLD and IN with Barack Obama.....the NEW and definitely IMPROVED version of what America wants and what America needs.

Craig   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Funny how you folks didn't mind that W didn't have "actual Washington experience, international experience, and real life experience" (other than a few failed companies, of course) when you gave him the job. Now it's your biggest concern?

Are you still choosing the president by who you would like to have a beer with? See how far that gets you again. God forbid this country should ever elect an intelligent, articulate man for its leader.

Michelle   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Obama is copying again; a lame attempt.

Obama looked like a fool on the Georgia crisis.

The Oracle   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Lol. McLame is done. Im glad that Obomber is finally hitting back. It should be harder though.

doc4nuts   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

Yep, there should be a current events, poli-sci, i.q. quiz, etc. before anyone is allowed to vote. Even the spelling on this site is horrid!

Scott102215   August 11th, 2008 8:38 am ET

This is really too bad. I was just thinking the other day how disappointed I was with McCain for these types of ads and Obama has sunk to the same level. He could have handled this much better then slinging mud in the other direction. He is suppose to be for change and a different type of Washington. This looks like the same election tactics we have seen from every other candidate for the last fifty years.
Disappointed.

Jim   August 11th, 2008 8:37 am ET

I can't wait until these two start "Yo mama so fat" jokes back and forth. They're campaigning for th highest office? We're doomed.

Jim - Philadelphia   August 11th, 2008 8:37 am ET

There's no sense in asking Richard (above) about his HUSSEIN comment. Most Republicans have fewer brain cells and asking them questions like this only confuses them.

Just another reason to vote the homophobic racist bigots out of office this year!

susie   August 11th, 2008 8:36 am ET

Obama copy cats everyone!!! Doesn't he have any original ideas of his own. The only "change" is him changing his mind everyday for instance between Russia and Georgia.

Gerald in Georgia   August 11th, 2008 8:35 am ET

Richard, why don't you take a long walk on a short pier. That's an old joke but since you are apparently a Mcain supporter, you should be familiar with "OLD JOKES".

Obama08!!

Lorna, NY   August 11th, 2008 8:35 am ET

We are a country full of IDIOTS!

Bibek   August 11th, 2008 8:35 am ET

So true.

I love this ad.

Taste of your own medicine McBush!

Obama '08 :-D

Andy J, NY   August 11th, 2008 8:35 am ET

Hmmm... seems like the same old Washington games and crap in this commercial. Am i surprised? Not so much.

Obama is a hypocrite.

Don't get me wrong, McCain sucks, too.

Forget both of these bums.

jt   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

McCain is not like Bush, he's gonna be wrose than bush, he's 72, You can lie to American peopele but you can not lie your own age, think about it people 72 years President, and knows nothing about economy, so it's a biggest risk to elect John McCain, he should be honorably retired and spend his time with his grand kids, relatives or whoever.

If you are above 60, are you still going to vote for a perosn who is older than you, in this 21st century economy.

Amazing   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

After 26 years in congress what has McCain done to improve the lives of average Americans? Nothing! McCain likes to talk about experience, but 26 years of doing nothing is not something to be proud of. The Obama campaign needs to use McCains 26 years in Washington against him. 26 years in Washington and nothing to show for it... and he wants 4 more years... to do what. 26 years. John McCain 26 years of playing the Washington game with nothing to show for it. 26 years and we can't afford to give him 4 as president. 26 years with nothing to show.

Johnny   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

Obama is an overinflated media built celebrity.

He has no record.

He has no experience.

If an average person had his resume' the would be lucky to get a job in community service.

Obama is the quintessential politician. He has already proven to succumb to pressure from any and all sides.

He really does not stand for anything.

You can see that in what small voting record he does have.

Wise up America!! Keep Obama out of the White House!!

Deb   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

Richard may well be an alias for Sean Hannity or Ann Coulter.

valerie   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

i want in usa

kennywest   August 11th, 2008 8:34 am ET

McCain is ready to lead the same Washington.

Tom   August 11th, 2008 8:33 am ET

This is the same thing only different; Obama needs some new material. Last week he was saying that he wasn't a 'Maverick' anymore.

I wonder what Obama's employers at MoveOn.org think of his (bowel) movement towards the center in wanting a new Surge in Afghanastan?

Bob Stephens   August 11th, 2008 8:33 am ET

War Monger McSame isn't going to like the fact that Obama is fighting back........

Frank   August 11th, 2008 8:33 am ET

Once again Obama and the Democrats disappoint. God Help this great country if this clown gets elected.

ALECO1 -----NOKOMIS,FL   August 11th, 2008 8:32 am ET

THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN 'SURG' HAS BEGUN-JOHN McCAIN WILL BE SORRY HE EVER RAN FOR PRESIDENT..

OBAMA WILL BE OUR NEXT PRESIDENT.

Williams   August 11th, 2008 8:32 am ET

I find it really frightening to think of Obama pretending to be president while we are dealing with a superpower like Russia. We would be crushed with a "leader" like Obama. He has ZERO EXPERIENCE. Obama is a celebrity but I don't want to put my safety in his hands.

This Democrat is voting form McCain.

PAFAERY   August 11th, 2008 8:32 am ET

What is wrong with using Obama's middle name. Hussein is a very popular muslim name and how do you suppose the muslims feel about making it eqivalent to the use of the "N" word? What about the poor muslims that live in the states? Oh, that's right, they are just here populating our country so that they can soon take over portions of our country. Once they become a majority how could we possibly stop them. Let's be a little more politically correct. Forget about the illegals taking over, lets start learning how to speak Arabic or muslimism. Mas alama

Dave from Gainesville   August 11th, 2008 8:31 am ET

Isn't it interesting that CNN provided a hotlink in the middle of their story about the Paris Hilton ad, which allowed readers to watch the ad - and then didn't do the same thing in this story? I wonder if my father, who calls CNN the "Clinton News Network," would feel contradicted by this glaring imbalance in reporting... or validated by it?

PSK   August 11th, 2008 8:31 am ET

Yeah the man is a celebrity all right- we, here, in his "home" state of Arizona rarely get to see the "Brown-Speckled McCainerinacus"- yes, indeed- it's a rare sightng in these parts. Ma & me carry a camera around JUST in case....the guy has gone Hollywood all right, but WHY Hollywood would want him, is beyond me.

Teej   August 11th, 2008 8:31 am ET

When if ever will all the name calling, insults and counter attacks on political opponents end. The candidates spend more time and money putting down their opponents than they do bolstering their own qualities for a position. Often the candidates say what the audience wants to hear to get the enthusiasm created rather than speak what is actually on their mind. I think that is why their are so many stutters, mispronunciations, misinterpretations and misstatements because candidates are trying to say what they think we are thinking rather than what they are. Case in point would be our current president who is quite an intelligent man but can not orchestrate a three line statement because he is not speaking for himself but for the ears of others. What do McCain, Clinton and Obama have to say from their own minds and souls? Let us choose the right person for how they will lead not how they will play the press and patronize the public audience. We need someone who will offensive not defensive to move our country forward. We have enough analysts to tell us what is going wrong but no one is showing us how they will or can fix it. Let's see who has the qualities in their gut and mind to do that, then we will have a good candidate.

Robert NYC & Miami   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

Obama will not win.

His only chance will be if he picks Hillary Clinton as his VP.

I hope Hillary turns it down.

LET HIM SINK A L L ON HIS OWN.

kyle   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

John McCain isn't ready and will never be ready to be the president of this country. He bills himself as a maverick, a man who acts alone based on his own judgments. By definition, this is NOT a man who has the capacity of leading a country built around democracy.

This country thrives on the fact that the population is represented by two equally sized parties. With John McCain it will be another four years of forgetting voices.

ben-Lagos   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

We know that McCain has nothing to offer to the American people other than Surge. McCain can go to Irag to contest since he has the solution to their problem.
America is not a country of blind people where a one eyed man is the king. we know better than the repubs. McCain is simple too old to handle issues.
we know what McCain wants (state burial), and we will give it to him........that's a promise.................

Tim in NC   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

McCain, a celebrity? Yeah, right. I guess the proves the adage that you see your own faults most clearly in others.

The more people learn about Obama, the less they like him. Of course, the die-hard Democrats will vote for Obama no matter what.

BTW, in 2004, Bush won 11% of the black vote (shocking, in my opinion) but this time only 2% of black voters support McCain. Seems pretty racist to me...

informed florida voter   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

Obama, always the copy cat. The man doesn't have an original idea in his head. He's so desperate he's fighting to register felon sex ofenders and killers to vote for him.

mario   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

I like it. all I ask is that the Obama ad's tell the truth about McCAin since the media is not vetting him at all and just accepting him as a Maverick...(I laugh everytime)..
There is no need to lie on McCain, all one has to do is play his own words from the numerous interviews he gives, dispite his Uncanny ability to put his own foot in his mouth, the combination of the two proves to me that I don't want him as President That's right Dems, play his own word back so the public will see who is out here just to get elected so his baqckers can control our country.

Jason   August 11th, 2008 8:30 am ET

And Obama knows what it's like to work and work and work and have nothing to show for it? You're not being fair at all.
W.I.H. (Write in Hillary!)

TheGuy   August 11th, 2008 8:29 am ET

McCain = too old.

Al   August 11th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Have you noticed how much bigotry, racism and low intelligence oozes from pro-McCain comments? Capitalizing HUSSEIN are we? :) I do believe McCain is ready to lead....a bunch of low-IQ rednecks into APOCALYPSE NOW!

TESAP;SAVANNAH, GA   August 11th, 2008 8:29 am ET

I WAS WONDERING WILL CLINTON SUPPORTER'S REALLY PROTEST AT THE CONVENTION?????

IF SO WOW........................ YOU GUYS KNOW THAT YOU WILL BE THE REASON WE LOSE IN NOVEMBER.................. THERE' S NOTHING LIKE A WOMAN SCORNED.........EVEN IF SHE LOST FAIR AND SQUAR...........

James   August 11th, 2008 8:29 am ET

Why would you approve the "educated land owners" response when that is clearly a jab based in race...

I was supporting McCain early on, but he is no longer a maverick. The more I watch Obama, the more I think he is true in his beliefs for this country.

REPUBLICANS FOR OBAMA

OBAMA '08

Reg   August 11th, 2008 8:28 am ET

Richard...you're pathetic. OBAMA is right on in this ad. Bill Clinton once said that the only way to combat attacks is to address them head on and that is what the Obama camp is doing. GOOD FOR THEM. Shame on McCain for these baseless attacks. He doesn't realize that his his time has come and gone. This young voter wants Obama to hit McCain as hard as he is hitting him because America is worth fighting for. My generation's JFK has come and I am so proud!!!

BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA for PRESIDENT in 2008!!!!!!

prince nare   August 11th, 2008 8:28 am ET

Y R MY COMMETS AWAITING MODERATION-CNN WHATS HAPPENING

Maritza   August 11th, 2008 8:28 am ET

We need “TRUTH” in our government and Obama will deliver it for all our new generation. I have faith in Obama.

Mr. McCain has lied so much in his ads that it is time to expose him. There should be more accountability for people such as Mr. McCain and his campaign. Time after time his surrogates go on television to plain out lie about Mr. Obama. There are very few people in the media confronting them with the TRUTH.

USAF Staff Sergeant   August 11th, 2008 8:27 am ET

I can't stand that McCain ad... all it looks like to me is that Mac has finally given up trying to hit Obama on any issues, and is resorting to complaining about his popularity. Wow...

I say that after that, it's fair for the Obama camp to run an ad that points out just how old and senile McCain is.

nc raleigh   August 11th, 2008 8:27 am ET

i support you McCain but this years for OBAMA
is right same old politics we are tired now
need change

Ron   August 11th, 2008 8:27 am ET

Everything the Republicans accuse the Democrats of doing, is what the Republicans are doing.

McCain has encouraged the media for years, isn't that a celebrity?

prince nare   August 11th, 2008 8:26 am ET

I THINK THIS IS COOL, MCSAME IS REALLY WASHINTONS FAVOURITE, HE WANTS DRILLING, TAX CUTS 4 THE RICH AND BIG OIL COMPANIES THAT ARE MAKING UNPRECEDENTED PROFITS, WAS 4 THE WAR IN IRAQ AND WANTS US TO STAY THERE REGARDLESS OF THE CALLS BY THE IRAQ PM AND THE IRAQS THAT WE MUST PACK AND GO. MCCELEB

Brian   August 11th, 2008 8:26 am ET

Hey richard, I dont get why you are making a big deal about his middle name being Hussein. What are you a racist who judge people solely on his middle name? what does saying his middle name in all capitals going to prove. yeah he copied and it is a little petty but it is immature on both sides to be arguing about who is to cool to be president.

Matt   August 11th, 2008 8:25 am ET

McCain has run a disgusting campaign and if the American people are stupid enough to fall for this type of politics again then we get what we deserve. As far as I can see, the only thing that is keeping McCain competitive for the presidency is that he is white and racists are not an endangered species. Case and point is the previous post.

PAFAERY   August 11th, 2008 8:25 am ET

McCain is the Man, the Old Man. He helped write the constitution and know how we are suppose to run this country. He know what the authors expected of us and wants to correct the mess the dems have gotten us into. With CNN'S help, we may become a muslim nation before we become a larger part of Mexico.

Charles   August 11th, 2008 8:25 am ET

Obama is reaching out to the dumb voter in battleground states that that believe this kind of stuff. You know, the same ones that McCain is trying to reach with his dumb ads.. The kind of voter who is not smart enough to not vote against their self interests.

Rise America Rise   August 11th, 2008 8:25 am ET

Seriously, I thought JOHN McCain was named after John Wayne Gacy, the pedophile murderer, but you might be right, maybe he was named after the corrupt king of England. In any event, I have had enough of JOHNs. and I am not even from WV. The name JOHN just scares me, it sounds too close to GEORGE for my comfort.

Mccain=Bush   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

Obama is ready for White House More than Mcbush Mccain is a puppet of the Republicans and is in the Pockets of Big Oil Companies Obama actaully wants to reform the Healthcare System so Kids can be covered, Obama actually wants to Get us off of Oil by using wind and solar and batteries to create new energy and 5 million new jobs if this is not a man that is ready to lead you should not be voting for president you should be voting for who is most likly to continue Bush policies and that is a rac Obama will Lose Because Mccain voted with Bush 90% of the time Obama is the Future of This Nation Like it or not

Anonymous   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

Mccain is too old to be prez... we have some great nursing homes in the country. Try one Mccain

Carol   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

This will blow up in your face, Obama!!!

fred   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

hey Slacko, you can't say that McCain's gaffes should keep him from the white house, because according to Obama, he's trying to become the president of all 57 states.

Morris Graham   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

McSame is a joke, he can't use a computer and he can't read his speaches that someone else wrote.

TO Mike from Texas   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

I'm sorry - WHO steals elections in this country??????

Please, spare me.

EBC   August 11th, 2008 8:24 am ET

That's RIGHT, John McCain doesn't want to go THERE okay. He supported Bush by voting on his FAILED policies 99% of the time AND he clearly said this in public in front of a camera.

But as usual, John McCain can't seem to "remember" his own lies and deceit 99% of the time either! Funny that huh?

Timber   August 11th, 2008 8:23 am ET

Come on Obama! Can't you come up with an original idea or thought?!
First you say McCain is old and washed up and now he is saying he is a celebrity! What a phoney!!

Drew   August 11th, 2008 8:23 am ET

Good comments from a racist and a woman just as old as McCain. If this represents his core voters, we're in great shape.

Doremus Jessup   August 11th, 2008 8:23 am ET

Well... So much for Obama being the Adult of this campaign.

John   August 11th, 2008 8:23 am ET

I think that this ad may do well for John. It says he know what he is doing–unlike George W Obama. I love the US.. I dont want any "change" but the guy that is there, right now , has gotta go.. either way, there are more similarities with Obama/George then with McCain and George... for instance how much did George serve at the National Level before he was president?? Yeah, granted, Obama had more.. but still... they both lacked exsperance and it showed for George as it will for Obama. I am all for McCain.. BTW... The McSame is lame.. know the man and dont be afraid to run against him.

Uche   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

That's good! Mcbush and his cronies have been running around playing silly games in the name of politics, even in the face of grave economic threats, two wars with thousands of casualties and crippling gas prices amongst other things. Obama give it right back to him!
Obama08

Euphemia, Dublin, Ireland   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Great Ad – hits the mark, and more importantantly is – TRUE!, unlike the facious drivel, Rove-like, GOP Ad.

fred   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

oh my gosh. Wow, very original Obama. Didn't he just say that these ads were not appropriate, or something like that. And then he makes one of his own. Obama is acting just a bit childish here.

Scott   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Can't you people see the forest for the trees? McCain will ruin this country.

Rise America Rise   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Obama is a celebrity, and that is a good thing. People get excited by him, people cheer him,, people have hope with him. I think Obama should accept that he is much more popular and much more exciting that McCain, and not try to give McCain any of that spotlight to share.

John   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

A Grandmother:
McCain WAS ready, but now he's too old.

Alice in Florida   August 11th, 2008 8:22 am ET

I think the ad makes McCain look GOOD! He's shown full of pep and smiling and working with everyone!

McCain '08 for Hillary '12

Franc   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

I haven't seen the Obama ad but I hope they somehow got into the ad the idea that McCain, the champion of the common man (as he pretends to be) campaigns in $500 Ferragamo loafers and is married to a billionheiress. Some common man!

Slacko   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

McCain truly is the celebrity, and isn't ready for the White House, as proven by his numerous foreign policy gaffes. McCain doesn't know the difference between Sunni and Shiite, he doesn't know what countries border Pakistan, and he doesn't know how to make America energy independent.

McCain has thrived off of his celebrity for decades. Now it's coming back to bite him.

AllthewayfromGuyana   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

He's just like a bad movie based on an overkilled storey. Mackey is a lousey actor in a rotten movie.

Joe in DE   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

I am just surprised that nobody pick-up on the fact the Britney & Paris ar reqistered Republican. and some Hilton money when to McCain – I guess that over.

Seriously   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Richard, would you seriously begrudge someone because of the middle name their parents gave them, oh no, let's not vote for McCain, cause his name is John, named aftered the corrupt king of England, the horrors!

Sifa   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Richard, why is his middle name all caps? Speaks volume about you individually.

A concerned american   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

KEATING 5 KEATING 5 KEATING 5!!!!

Richard is an idiot   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

richard, why do you capitalize obama's middle name as if it has anything to do with anything relevant? or are you the husband of that redneck i saw from WV that said she didn't vote obama because she had "had enough of hussein"?

Carl   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

While this is funny, Obama should be using positive ads to get across his message or rather stating some of his policies on how he will deliver change. Fighting fire with fire doesn't always work and usually does not put out the flames.

Mike, TX   August 11th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Heaven forbid someone who has actual Washington experience, international experience, and real life experience be elected to the White House.

Obama can't even be original in his ads. The empty suit is still trying to find out if he can win a general election even though his is unbelieveably ignorant on policy. I loved his call for both parties (Georgia and Russia) to stop the violence and start talking. Since Russia INVADED Georgia, that's like telling a beating victim that he should not fight back (then again, that's Obama's Iraq policy).

We'll see if Howard Dean, Pelosi and Reid can steal the general election like they did in the primaries.

The joke continues....

Rob   August 11th, 2008 8:20 am ET

This sort of tactic is so beneath either candidate, but especially Obama. If he would only stick to what his plan is and articulate it in more detail, McCain wouldn't stand a chance.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   August 11th, 2008 8:20 am ET

McCaiin might THINK he is ready for the White House, but his alzheimers will kick in in the 2nd year and he will have to be made into a puppet.

He is losing his bearings. He is an angry old man with no vision for the future.

Obama has my support.

Shelly from WI   August 11th, 2008 8:20 am ET

John McCain sucks...Republicans are Repulsive.

Hello!!!   August 11th, 2008 8:20 am ET

Good luck trying to convince the majority of voters that McCain is ANYTHING like Bush!
No Hillary....voting McCain :)

a huntington NY   August 11th, 2008 8:20 am ET

The level of discourse is scary. Makes me long for the days when only educated property owners could vote.

douglas   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

go obama go!

if he hits u below the belt u do the same

obama 08

PAFAERY   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

McCain is a celebrity. He is the last survivor of those that wrote the Constitution and all that He wants to do now is get us back to the basics and correct all the misinterpretations that have taken place in the past couple hundred years.

Concerned INDEPENDENT CT voter   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

Truth be told... If he (John McCain) were capable of soo much change, 26 years would be sufficient time to make some... Or at least prevent at least 1 (ONE) of the crisis we are suffering from right now...

He can't even understand what it's like to work & work & work & have nothing to show for it. He has 9 homes & multi multi millions... (yet still accepts Social Security *an "entitlement program" he feels needs to end)I used to be fair to him but the more I find out about McCain the more I know he does not represent the REAL America i know...

-V

Jim Nammack; Kentucky   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

It's about time that Obama starting hitting back. Better late than never.

Gary Bonner, Baltimore   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

This is at least a response, but if Obama wants to be President, two things must happen – and happen fast.

1. He will have to learn how to throw a punch. McCain seems to be far better at that.

2. The American people will have to be willing to invest the time to become really informed about the great public policy and foriegn policy issues that face our nation.

If the past is any indication, I have little faith that Americans will choose #2. So Obama had better learn how to throw a real punch.

Gary Bonner
Baltimore, Maryland

Jim Schimmer   August 11th, 2008 8:19 am ET

ha ha, good one.
McSame deserves that. He is the worst!

Carolyn   August 11th, 2008 8:18 am ET

Obama will be the 2008 President face it people..

Amy   August 11th, 2008 8:18 am ET

Good. Sometimes you just need to retaliate, especially when you are competing in key battleground states , where god only knows how far some voters are actually willing to think. I agree, Obama is very popular, but he is not a Washington Celebrity. McCain can't therefore embrace the new politics of hope, this bright vision of the future 215,000 citizens of the world chanted in Berlin.His ad is pure hypocrisy. It is dishonest and unfair.

No Washington Celebrity. We want THE ONE.

Carolyn   August 11th, 2008 8:18 am ET

grandmother you are old just like McCain...This man should not be running for President he is NOT qualfied!

suzyq-philadelphia   August 11th, 2008 8:17 am ET

About time Obama and another thing let's stop letting Mccain dictate how the campaigns are to be run, Step up.....get it together and hit him hard and fast..............and................let's get Ed Rendell for veep....yes

Amy   August 11th, 2008 8:16 am ET

Good. Sometimes you just need to retaliate, especially when you are competing in key battleground states , where god only knows how far some voters are actually willing to think. I agree, Obama is perhaps a celebrity, but he is not a Washington Celebrity. McCain can't therefore embrace the new politics of hope, this bright vision of the future 215,000 citizens of the world chanted in Berlin.
No Washington Celebrity. We want THE ONE. :)

Gilles   August 11th, 2008 8:16 am ET

Why you don't put a link to the ad? You did it for Mcain ads.

Amy   August 11th, 2008 8:15 am ET

At the very least, Obama should come up with something original instead of using McCain's silly ideas!

Blessings   August 11th, 2008 8:15 am ET

God Bless You Obama!
We must continue to fight back for freedom against the same old Washington games. Pray that you and family are getting some well deserved REST.
BlackObama '08

dave g, Minneapolis   August 11th, 2008 8:14 am ET

Thanks Obama for sinking to the attack ads.
Thanks McCain for doing the same.

Let's focus on the issues people!
Barr '08

b   August 11th, 2008 8:13 am ET

isn't it sad and childish when presidential candidates start to attack each other's image like this? They should be concentrating on important issues instead of wasting money on useless advertisement. They try to taint each other's image but end up only showing us a negative side of themselves. I thought we got over these kind of things after kindergarten?

Alan Boyer   August 11th, 2008 8:13 am ET

Nice move!

Reggie Yamanaka   August 11th, 2008 8:13 am ET

uhm...that's why he would be good for the White House...
when you go up for a job interview, your experience counts a lot more than your personality. I believe McCain is saying Obama is more personality than substance for the job. He can charm his way in the beginning, but it's going to be harder to get out of situations after trying to be right for so many people.

Lindsay   August 11th, 2008 8:12 am ET

Hahahahhahahaha

Ok now *THAT* is funny!!

G Edwards   August 11th, 2008 8:12 am ET

Oh...I though Obama said that it was inappropriate for McCain to call him a celebrity, since there were more important issues to address. I guess he's just like every other politician - with the exception that he refuses to debate the issues head-to-head.

This guy's losing his charm.

Chuck   August 11th, 2008 8:12 am ET

I'm sure the Republican's will cry foul from the "Church" rafters.

Blessings   August 11th, 2008 8:11 am ET

God Bless You Obama!
We must continue to fight back for freedom against the same old Washington games. Pray that you and family are getting some well deserved REST.
BlackObamba '08

Doug   August 11th, 2008 8:11 am ET

Well...it had to happen. With luck, Obama's campaign will stick to the truth when they stick it to McCain.

BUt McCain is asking for it. And he will deserve it. Republican voters will need to remember that the John McCain that they're seeing and believeing now is not the same John McCain they liked two years ago. He is changing his tune on a lot of issues in order to get elected president.

And he has as many questions to answer as Obama does. What do we know about McCain's military record, other than the 5 1/2 years in a POW camp? Surely that isn't the highlight?! And how about his transcripts from Annapolis? His medical records seem to be a mystery. If he expects to be MY president, he'd better come clean on his health, given that he's basically too old to start a new job.

So pony up, Johnny. Give us the goods so we can learn more about you and ridicule you based on facts.

creighton   August 11th, 2008 8:11 am ET

They should look at his record on the Sunday talk shows, he's the darling of the Sunday circuit by 50 or more appearances, this when he wasn't running for President. But then that can't be right he's been running for President for 10 years.

I watched him on Chris Mathews Hardball. Hardball, more like cupcakeball. Seemed like like Mathews was almost ready to make love to the guy. It was almost comical.

Jonas, Denmark   August 11th, 2008 8:10 am ET

... I lol'd.

Beca   August 11th, 2008 8:09 am ET

Yeah right Obama! Sillyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

For Obama   August 11th, 2008 8:07 am ET

I think Barack has run a great campaign, don't blow it by stooping to the GOPs level.

Mike,ct   August 11th, 2008 8:07 am ET

McCain Lie's about every ad.

If he lie's in public, he will lie if he is elected.

Don't trust McCain he will do anything at this point to win.

What do you teach your kids to lie in school if so Vote McCain.

If you vote McCain you must love BUSH all the same.

VOTE SMART NOT ANOTHER BUSH

sk   August 11th, 2008 8:07 am ET

I no interest in Obama or McCain. However is this the best Obama could come up with. He is sounding like a little kid in a playground

We need change   August 11th, 2008 8:06 am ET

I have to say that even though I support Obama, I'm a little disappointed that they responded to McCain's childish and cheap attacks.

I understand that he has to though...too many people pay too much attention to negative campaigning that it would hurt them some by not responding. I just had such high hopes that we could get away from the silly mudslinging this time, since all the candidates promised no negative campaigning. Guess it's the same old same old.

Richard   August 11th, 2008 8:04 am ET

Copycat!

Copycat!

Cann't Barack HUSSEIN Obama come up with something better!

RightBrain   August 11th, 2008 8:04 am ET

Confirms that Obama has no fresh ideas: he's cloning those of a 71 yo. And this is not the first time we've seen this from him.

A Grandmother   August 11th, 2008 8:03 am ET

but McCain IS ready for the White House.

Carolyn   August 11th, 2008 8:03 am ET

McCain is the same old game. Anyone who votes for McCain must be insane and don't live in reality. Gas price, food, $ value come. Bush was a mistake and McCain is the same. Only fools will vote to have the same leadership in Washington.

Obama 08

David   August 11th, 2008 8:02 am ET

Go Obama.
He is that for real, that's why he is Bush third term.

Cosmic Comedy Queen   August 11th, 2008 8:02 am ET

I thought Obama was/is too good for that same "old style Washington politicks"....looks like he's mirroring "Politicks a la unsual", you know that kind where he has all the answers and won't stoop below to be like all of "them"...soryy but he is one of them, he's there isn't he?

Melvin Roach   August 11th, 2008 8:02 am ET

As my father used to tell me, "It's no fun when the rabbit has the gun." The Republican Party will now realize that they are not dealing with John Kerry. When attacked, the Obama Campaign and it's staff will attack in kind. John McCain cannot run on the issues, therefore he was reduced to ridiculing Barack Obama.

Robert   August 11th, 2008 8:02 am ET

It's about time McCain receives some of his own medicine. He has been getting away with unanswered negative Ads long enough. Every dirty politician like McCain should have to taste some of his own medicine. Thanks...Obama, even though I know you hated to have to respond in this way.

Michelle   August 11th, 2008 8:01 am ET

Good way to fire back... Obama 08!!!!

Jeff   August 11th, 2008 8:00 am ET

Playing the same old Washington game? Obama and his campaign should be very careful how they state things like this. The longer the campaign lasts, the more clear it becomes that Obama is just another politician. Change? Please! Whoever gets elected, it will be more of the same.

H   August 11th, 2008 8:00 am ET

THIS AD SHOWS MCCAIN FULL OF LIFE AND ENERGY. IT WAS A GIFT TO MCCAIN.

Brian   August 11th, 2008 8:00 am ET

How can Obama point fingers at anyone and claim THEY are playing the "Same Old Washington Games?". Since his nomination, Obama has back tracked on NAFTA, changed his position on drilling the Gulf of Mexico, changed his position on the Iraq War, and technically (if anyone is actually looking at this man's limited record rather than being spoon fed by the media) he has changed his position on Big Oil by suggesting that we take away their tax breaks (YES, HE VOTED TO GIVE THEM TO THEM IN THE FIRST PLACE, LOOK IT UP).

It's funny, actually, given the accusations he threw at Clinton in the primary that she would do anything to get elected. Seems to me constantly "refining positions", ie. changing your mind to get more votes, IS EXACTLY the same old Washington Game.

PUMA

Karl Rove   August 11th, 2008 7:59 am ET

Hey, the Dems aren't supposed to fight back against our manipulation and lies. How are us Repugs supposed to win – on the issues???? Get real!

Laura   August 11th, 2008 7:59 am ET

McCain is not what everyone of his Repub groupies thinks he is, I for one wonders why he didn't jump on the Edwards story and make a comment....... Maybe because he has no room for criticizing in that area at all being that he himself is a decorated cheater!!!! What makes him think that he is more ready than Obama to become POTUS!! He's a liar and tries to put fear in the hearts of those that see Obama as a good man, honest, and sincere. I for one am not following a crowd but listening and detemining for myself who is right for the job, and I am resentful that McCain seems to think that anyone voting for Obama is less intelligent and can't think or judge for ourselves, how about people are tired of the same old Politics and tired of the way the Republicans have run this Country until we're no longer respected by other Countries, they see our vulnerability. The people in other countries are excited to see someone like Obama who promises change, and we see the possibilities that we may become a better nation for us and others around us, become once again a role model the Land of the Free.

M.B. from Berlin FOR OBAMA   August 11th, 2008 7:58 am ET

Well...
I didn't hope that's the way it would go at all at this point of the presidential race. McCain started going "nasty", negative and childish and obviously Obama now "needs" to respond to those stupid ads in the same childish way.

Come on guys, as far as everybody knows you are STILL PRESUMPTIVE nominees so get a little smoothie until you're the official nominees. Maybe Clinton and Romney plan a putsch to steal your nominations, lol.

Nontheless I think if McCain starts turning childish and negative and – if one would believe in polls – it also works, probably Obama has no other choice than to show the people of the USA what kind of guy McSame is.

When it comes to Nov. YOU, no, WE don't have any other choice, either, than to vote Barack Obama President of the United States of America.

Walt, Belton,TX   August 11th, 2008 7:58 am ET

He's not just a Washington celebrity, Obama, he's a national celebrity and he earned it! It wasn't presented by a few old men in a Chicago smoked filled back room...........................

Terry   August 11th, 2008 7:57 am ET

McCain's biggest fan is George W. Bush.

HillaryClinton4BarackObama   August 11th, 2008 7:54 am ET

Early Birds ...

Yes We Can ...

Obama '08

Rob   August 11th, 2008 7:54 am ET

just pointing finger and no real content...

Rob

Semper Fi

Terry   August 11th, 2008 7:52 am ET

Lame. Obama has just left his comfort zone and is now playing McCain's game. He won't win that way.

This has the same net effect of Obama surrogates dismissing, just a "little to hard", McCains extensive experience, military heroism, and background as someone who crosses party lines.

Obama can't afford such contrasts. He needs to get back to vague referrences to hope and change before people catch on.

Bafana   August 11th, 2008 7:52 am ET

Go Obama, McCain is just waiting his time.

PJ, New York Independent   August 11th, 2008 7:52 am ET

Obama is the biggest joke and will lose HUGELY in November.

Was for Hillary, now for McCain.

Bafana   August 11th, 2008 7:50 am ET

It is very good that the Obama campaign has retaliated to this.John McCain should be the most powerful celebracy and not Obama.

Mccain=Bush   August 11th, 2008 7:50 am ET

This is good finally they are starting to hit back i have been waiting for this for a long time Obama and is campaign seem to know exactly what they are doing But the TV anchors don't Understand Obama is not the traditional canidate. Obama is the Future Obama 08

larryh wi   August 11th, 2008 7:50 am ET

Check this out!!
You all are aware, probably, that Barack Obama lost his bearings recently and said that he was going to campaign in all 57 states.
You heard this? And everybody chalked it up to, 'Well, he's tired.' Barack Obama says he's gonna go out and campaign in 57 states, he was just tired, you know, it's been such a long campaign, he's been so many places, he probably thinks there are 57 states.
Well, I have here a printout from a website called the International Humanist and Ethical Union. This is how the second paragraph of an article on that website begins.. 'Every year from 1999 to 2005 the organization of the Islamic conference representing the 57 Islamic states presented a resolution to the United Nations commission on human rights called combating.' The title of the piece here is, 'How the Islamic states dominate the UN human rights council,' and there are 57 of them.
Obama said he's going to campaign in 57 states, and it turns out that there are 57 Islamic states. There are 57 Islamic states. So did Obama just lose his bearings, or was this a more telling slip, ladies and gentlemen?

Marty   August 11th, 2008 7:49 am ET

haha...thats funny

urban   August 11th, 2008 7:49 am ET

this Ad is so persuasive, very direct and effective

LD   August 11th, 2008 7:48 am ET

Funny...
This post is supposed to be about Obama's ad, and for some reason the accompanying picture continues to be that of McCain's ad (especially, this one with the "is he ready to lead?" line). Is this a coincidence CNN? Why are Obama's video ads not available to play (and promoted) as those by McSame?
Your conservative bias is becoming more evident everyday, to the point that there is little difference today between CNN and FoxNews. The media should serve its role by reporting, not promoting/choosing either candidate...leave that to us the voters.

CNN (Conservative News Network?)

Marc   August 11th, 2008 7:48 am ET

Finally the Obama campaign is hitting back.

MyBADD   August 11th, 2008 7:47 am ET

If its gonna get muddy, LETS GET READY TO RUMMBBLE!!!

obama/08

wilfred   August 11th, 2008 7:46 am ET

good for him, John McCanne deserves worse than that.

Luis   August 11th, 2008 7:45 am ET

Monkey see, monkey do.....

Very weak attempt at retaliation and a perfect example of Obama's failure to come up with anything original, just steal or parrot from another source.

Vote McCain or Join the insane.....

mace   August 11th, 2008 7:44 am ET

Drill Surgent Mcfart is going to throw a tantrum over this.

Cricket   August 11th, 2008 7:44 am ET

Good!! I hope America soon wakes up and realizes mccain=4 more years of Bush!! I continue to be appalled at the number of women who declare they will vote for mccain-unbelievable!! I guess they don't care that he has continually voted against every bill that would help women. Not to mention how he treated his first wife.

OBAMA/BIDEN '08

temmydizzle   August 11th, 2008 7:44 am ET

tit for tat, what you sow you shall reap

Craig   August 11th, 2008 7:44 am ET

Rub a dub dub, the repubs are in the tub, together.

Ann Frantti   August 11th, 2008 7:43 am ET

Nice Try Obama Camp.
McCain was a POW and has served this country for years
Obama was a high school doper and such limited time in a state senate
How ridiculous ....such arrogance
Obama..more air than substance

NoLink   August 11th, 2008 7:42 am ET

Come on CNN,

Whenever Mc Cain has an ugly ad , you give him all the publicity in the world and provide all the links. But when Barack Bites Back, you just tell us about it and that's it.

Sniff Sniff , Something smells rotten.

gotcha   August 11th, 2008 7:42 am ET

Senator is not a celebrety, but a very brave man and a patriot, as opposed to Obama who is just a celebrity and not much of one at that. VOTE FOR THE PATRIOT.

A Thinking Woman   August 11th, 2008 7:42 am ET

But this celebrity (McCain} IS ready for the white house. Nice try Obama.

SAT   August 11th, 2008 7:42 am ET

Good! It is time for the Obama camp to start fighting back.

rachel   August 11th, 2008 7:42 am ET

Hmm Barack must really think he' running against bush, he keeps using him in ads.

Anna C   August 11th, 2008 7:38 am ET

I don't have a problem with candidates making fun of each other or capitalizing on 'political mistakes' the other candidate makes.

People commonly say Hillary's 'negative' campaign hurt her, but she did win PA by a landslide.
And, Barack walked himself into that criticism. Can you imagine, his campaign calling hers and asking them to 'let that SF comment go???'.
No wuss in the White House, please.

But I think Barack should focus on issues that would certainly scare people into not voting for McCain; for example, the likelihood of the next president selecting one or even two new Supreme Court justices.
The Dems are trying to scare people about McCain staying in Iraq forever. First of all, he never said that. And secondly, that strategy is not going to win over Independents and undecideds...because he never said it. He said we would stay as long as it takes. You cannot take people's words out of context and be effective with intelligent voters who have no agenda.
But the Supreme Court Justice issue...that is huge for independents and undecideds.

Alice Newman Center Harbor NH   August 11th, 2008 7:38 am ET

Former "Maverick" McCain has indeed been the celebrity: celebrated as a returning POW, declined a promotion to Admiral and choose the spotlight as a Senator.... everyone wanted to ride on his bus in 2000 ...

Now, he's older, and his ideas are all old news too. No coverage because he says the same things at all his town-hall meetings. Obama was speaking to 200,000 people in Germany while McCain was speaking to 20 at a German Restaurant in Ohio.

McCain is jealous: the only way he gets the attention he craves is personal attack ads. He used to be "the celebrity" – and now he's not.

robert e lowe   August 11th, 2008 7:38 am ET

hey fight back those lying republican bush alike McCain nothing but lies america need Obama 08

Beth   August 11th, 2008 7:37 am ET

This just lends credibility to what the republicans have been saying. Obama is not ready for a White House bid.
2 issues

1. the man is incapable of an original thought, he seems to "borrow" (I am being kind) other peoples ideas. Instead of putting a man in office that can use someone’s ideas it makes more sense to elect someone who HAS ideas.

2. Didn't Mr. Obama come out against these types of adds when McCain used them? Weren’t they wrong, politics as usual, unworthy? Now he is using the same add type and format. Did he lie to us? Again? hmmm not exactly the conviction of character I am looking for in a President

Jan   August 11th, 2008 7:37 am ET

good going democrats and Obama! This ad shows McCain full of energy and in with a lot of good people! Washington people who can help him get things done! A sharp contrast to "his greatness" who can only hang out with celebrities! Obama also takes money from Oil companies , so its a bit misleading that way, but, otherwise, its great for the McCain campaign! thanks!

bill   August 11th, 2008 7:36 am ET

Time to start over. Obama/McCain- two losers again. We get what we deserve.

Matt   August 11th, 2008 7:36 am ET

Typical democrat.

It's called projection.

Accuse the opposition of what you are guilty of.

ROLAND   August 11th, 2008 7:36 am ET

American voters,please stand up to take your country back from mess.....Vote Democratic party for restoration of the damages the Republican have done to your country......VOTE OBAMA

Go Obama!   August 11th, 2008 7:36 am ET

That's right, Obama! You HIT them where they hit you. DO NOT ALLOW THOSE GOP IDIOTS TO DEFINE YOU! Play dirty and cut them at the knees. That's what the American people like!

sharon   August 11th, 2008 7:32 am ET

i didn't get to see that ad but while you're at it, could you please tell americans that mccain has several houses and a private jet, and he has no empathy with struggling americans. now who's the elitist here! mccain can't even use a computer and so he's out-of-touch. mccain cheated on his first wife, then dumped her before settling with his current wife. of course he has no comments when asked about john edwards' extramarital affair. do you k now that he always uses his POW experience as a shielf?

Robert   August 11th, 2008 7:32 am ET

I thought the Obama celebrity ad was dumb.. But this one, is even dumber.

Sue in MI   August 11th, 2008 7:31 am ET

Now I want to hear the whining from McCain that Obama is being racist, petty, childish. Just remember who started the battle, McCain, and who decided to make this about Obama instead of your lack of vision.

e.   August 11th, 2008 7:28 am ET

Excellent.

Enlightened Voter   August 11th, 2008 7:28 am ET

Obama you are brilliant and you are running a brilliant campaign! They won['t be swiftboating you and good thing, it's about time someone got back at those evil repuglicans!

Char for Obama 08 & 12   August 11th, 2008 7:27 am ET

There you GO!! McCain the WASHINGTION~CELEBRITY
he is indeed! Being a POW he became a CELEBRITY!!!!!

Cindy   August 11th, 2008 7:25 am ET

I'm sure McShame won't remember a thing.....but Paris will approve this ad because she will think it is HOT!!!!

**I think it is so funny how all the OLD rhetoric of McShame is biting him south of the border, not Mexico either!

Texun   August 11th, 2008 7:25 am ET

What's accurate about the statements is that John McCain's maverick profile is highly misleading: he's a loyal Bush/Cheney-style Republican at least 90% of the time. His recent flip-flop on Bush's tax break for the wealthy is simply another reminder of the fact. By the way: when will he release is service record?

Chester drawers   August 11th, 2008 7:23 am ET

McCain is a celebrity, kind of like Charley Weaver, Grandpa Jones, George Burns.

CD   August 11th, 2008 7:23 am ET

Yes Obama battle this John McCain and kick his rears hard. The media should visit John McCain's adulterous affair with Cindy dumping his wife after that; at least Edwards did not dump Liz.

GIFTY   August 11th, 2008 7:21 am ET

This Ad will not change my perception about JOHN.
Go M ccain 08

Moderator loves PUMA!   August 11th, 2008 7:21 am ET

This article will be flooded with PUMA comments because the moderator seems to have a crush on them and posts every one of their comments.

Mark   August 11th, 2008 7:20 am ET

Is this the best that Obama can do and people are actually voting for him. Nobama 08

Michelle in Philly   August 11th, 2008 7:15 am ET

I want Hillary back. Obama has no idea what he is doing and this country will suffer because of it.

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