August 15, 2008
Posted: 08:10 AM ET

From
McCain's choice of a favored ABBA tune drew analysis from political and musical observers alike.
McCain's choice of a favored ABBA tune drew analysis from political and musical observers alike.

ASPEN, Colorado (CNN) – ABBA might be one of the world’s most-ridiculed pop acts, but at long last, John McCain is rising to their defense.

Speaking to Walter Isaacson at the Aspen Institute in Colorado on Thursday, McCain found himself explaining a recent interview with Blender Magazine in which he selected ABBA’s 1976 track “Dancing Queen” as his favorite song.

Watch: McCain defends Abba

“What were you thinking?,” Isaacson asked him, looking incredulous.

“If there is anything I am lacking in, I’ve got to tell you, it is taste in music and art and other great things in life,” McCain joked. “I’ve got to say that a lot of my taste in music stopped about the time I impacted a surface-to-air missile with my own airplane and never caught up again.”

But McCain quickly defended his musical taste, citing the Swedish band’s longevity and crossover success on Broadway.

“Now look, everybody says, ‘I hate ABBA. Oh ABBA, how terrible! Blah blah blah,’” he said. “How come everybody goes to ‘Mamma Mia?’ Huh? I mean really, seriously, huh? ‘I hate ABBA, they’re no good, you know.’ Well, everybody goes. They’ve been selling out for years.”

A few minutes later, following a question about Iraq’s budget surplus, McCain turned back to his discussion of the finer things in life, saying he plans to take an art class “when I have the opportunity.”

“I loved my Naval Academy education and my time at the National War College, but some of the things weren’t there that I would like to see to fill out my education,” he said. “But I make no excuses for my taste in music.”

Filed under: ABBA • John McCain


Stacy   August 15th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Meanwhile, WWIII has begun with Russia at the wheel and the USA is reading about ABBA.

WTH? I've been a lifelong Democrat but Obama has, once again, missed the boat on what Russia is trying to do right now. Only one of the candidates has been engaged in what is happening right before our eyes. Looks like this Dem will be voting for the only candidate that seems to even be aware - McCain.

Robert Johnson   August 15th, 2008 1:15 pm ET

That's great! At least the man knows what he likes. And ABBA is pretty darned good too. It's pop music. No one ever claimed it was genius. A Big Mac is not a filet mignon, but it is still pretty tasty. Sometimes you just want a Big Mac. Abba is that big mac. I'm not an Obamaton or a McCainiac but this was pretty funny. Good for him.

mello doug New Mexico   August 15th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

God, not only is he old and losing it, he has no taste. That has got to be a sure sign that he will be elected.

Original Pechanga's Blog   August 15th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Geez,

McCain always brings up his naval aviator experience and getting shot down and surviving Hanoi Hilton for 5 years.

And Obama always brings up being a neighborhood organizers.

The way these guys bring up their highlights is amazing. Well and least one has something of importance..

SOUTHERN HOTTIE   August 15th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Y A W N.

Yahoo.com has more current news than CNN.

dittohead with forty names   August 15th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

They must have played ABBA for him while he was in prison camp to torture him.

Samir   August 15th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

McCain likes ABBA?

I thought they don't let those types of people in the military.

dittohead with forty names   August 15th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

John learned alot at theTHE WAR COLLEGE.

Tami   August 15th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Why don't you ever post my anti-Obama posts? No wonder your ratings are in the tank.

BK   August 15th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

So let me get this straight, he's trying to say that DANCING QUEEN is a good song by saying MAMA MIA is a good movie?

…That's pretty masculine

Real Men for Obama '08

TX for OBAMA   August 15th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Susie:
I thought McCain's campaign said "McCain does not speak for the campaign". I also heard that the Puppet masters are cutting back on the cell time for Gramps, as he is listening to anyone and everyone.

And you want to vote for this joker as your president??

DJ   August 15th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

To the person who wondered how GWB has "dumbed down" the country, just consider how much the "elitist" term has been thrown around during this election cycle. It's actually BAD to be smart now. That's not good for the country, and I for one give credit for this shift to the good ol' boy in the White House. He made imbeciles everywhere proud of being imbeciles. Sorry - I want a president who is smarter than me - AND the morons who voted Bush in (well, once anyway).

Philly Guy   August 15th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Why does he take every opportunity to mention being shot down. By the way, Dancing Queen came out more than 10 years after he was shot down so doesn't even have relevance to his military service. Why won't CNN do peices on how he doesn't now ANY foriegn policy? How he can't tell the difference between Sunni and Shiites? He doesn't know which countries border Iraq? Need I go on?

SazzyCat   August 15th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Hey! Where's his flag pin!??!! He's no 'Merica!

Lisa   August 15th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

McCain is not a puppet? Wow how Rich!!!Poor guy he is less than a puppet, but what does that have to do with Abba? I have the cd shown in the picture, I love it. Love Obama too, and Your point was????

Erika, KS   August 15th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

HA, HA, HA, HA! McCain DOES have a sense of humor!

Kim   August 15th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Really, he even blames his music choices on being a POW - that's a bit of a stretch!

Manuel TX   August 15th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

It's amusing to see the Obama supporters slamming McCain for liking "Dancing Queen"…and stating that he is stuck in the 70s.

By contrast they say Obama's favorite album is Dylan's "Blood on the Tracks".

Hmm.

Let's see…

"Blood on the Tracks" was recorded in 1976 and "Dancing Queen" was recorded in 1975. It looks like both candidates are "stuck" in the 70s.

Vote for Hillary I say. :)

|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||

John   August 15th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

He's so funny and down to earth!

CB   August 15th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

McCain's sympathy stick = "when I was shot down in my fighter-jet"

jrzshor   August 15th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

when ludacris becomes a distant memory, ABBA will still be selling songs.

Wishy Washy or is it just me?   August 15th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

He loves ABBA & He loves Harleys? That dog don't hunt !

tired of stupid people   August 15th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Hey get off it about McCain referring to his Life changing moments…You ever had any….? I fought in Vietnam and Iraq, the things that happen to youin those moments hours days and years are what make you what you bcame, and there is no way to wash them out of your life or conversation… if you ever havea life changing moment you will see what Imean until then GET A LIFE OF YOUR OWN….

Robert   August 15th, 2008 12:29 pm ET

Thank you CNN, thank you so very much for providing me with this article of information, it has greatly impacted my decision on who I'm going to vote for in November….. You've got to be kidding me. The pathetic attempts at insulting comments and twisted reasoning from the loony liberals were more interesting than the piece.

Lily   August 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

The only thing dumber than this story are the comments posted here.

Steve, Jacksonville, Fl   August 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

McSames age or taste in music is not the issue here. This is just another example of how McSame is stuck in the past and out of touch. The planet has changed a great deal since the 70's but McSame still preaches the same old Blustering, Bullying tactics with foreign governments just like like his buddy George W. It's all he knows. We need a leader who has a firm grasp of history and a fresh outlook toward the future and that just ain't McSame. I say let's honor his military service in November by voting to send him back to the Senate!

Suhas   August 15th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

I'll forgive the guy for being in a POW camp when the best music was being made and not keeping up. I won't forgive him for being a warmonger and seling out his earlier stances on cap-and-trade, immigration, offshore drilling, and just about everything else. At least not having any musical taste is a position he can be consistent on.

sylvia   August 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

McCain went to national war college. No wonder he is a warmonger.

Kathryn Irby - Metairie, LA   August 15th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

McCain "rises" to Abba's defense? I don't think so–not at his age!!! Poor ole thing!

hey you kids get off my lawn   August 15th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

more asinine "news" from the msm. no wonder they're dying.

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   August 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

"Senator McCain, what is yoiur favorite ice cream flavor?"

"Well, ever since I GOT SHOT DOWN…….it has been neopolitan."

"Senator, what's your favorite band?"

(McCain thinks for a while and remembers the latest hip group ABBA)

"My favoirite band has been ABBA, ever since I GOT SHOT DOWN. Oh! And did I mention I was a POW?"

Noun-Verb-POW

McJoke   August 15th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Whenever McInsane opens his mouth, it shows how stupid he is. He is becoming a biggest joker in America. McFool

Carlo   August 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Nothing wrong with ABBA. Plenty wrong with McCain.

mike   August 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Master of Puppets are pulling your strings.

How many people still believe in the Republican / Democratic (good vs evil) dichotomy? Just listen to the bickering over who is better or older or cooler.

This whole Republican / Democratic ruse is soooo WWE…

victor0803   August 15th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Interestingly, Hillary Clinton occupies the border area between Obama and john McCain. So what should we expect, a surge of all form.

OBAMA!!!!!!!! 08

Rudy NYC   August 15th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

What is the first thing out of someone's mouth when they are getting to tell a lie?

ABBA, ABBA

Good !   August 15th, 2008 12:15 pm ET

Michelle August 15th, 2008 10:50 am ET

So what!

Obama loves Ludacris, the hate-spewing fool.

Gee, Obama runs to Hawaii at the same time that Edwards
admits his affair. No coincidence there. (wink, wink)

And there's more dirt leaking out each day. Just how much
did Obama's campaign know? Will the MSM dig or leave the real reporting up to the National Enquirer?

Got your original birth certificate yet, Barry?
____________________________________________________

His birth certificate is on his website for everyone to see…do your homework, because, frankly, you sound IGNORANT ! !

Obama RUNS TO hawai at the same time Edouards admits his affair ??!!! i hope you re not serious ! what does Obama have to do with the fact edouard has an affair ???! Next thing i know, you ll know and say he hooked them up ! Jesus…have some integrity people !

And what his that Ludacris BS ! Obama himself opposed ludacris song…AND SAID HE does not let his kids listen to this kind of violent music.

Now why dont you talk about the fact that McCain is known womanizer, that he left his disfigured wife and his kids for fame, beauty and wealth…Might not be a nice story, but at least its true !

Vegas Barbie for Obama   August 15th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

Obama supporters are not shallow, we just recognize an exciting candidate when we see one…while musical taste is certainly not key in electing a president, McCain's taste in such (i.e., ABBA songs) is just indicative of his generic, used up, personality and persona…yawn, McCain is the eight-track tape of this election…old and out of use…retire him!
OBAMA/BIDEN '08 & '12

shamik   August 15th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

I see all the liberals are hanging out at the Communist News Network.

Liberalism is a mental disorder.

susie   August 15th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

McCain speaks for himself, he is not a puppet, like Obama.

California Gold   August 15th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Do you mean there have been no other music groups since the 70s?

Or does it mean that's when McCain's long term memory ends?

Michele, Pittsburgh, PA   August 15th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Not much of a story, but then again, not much of an answer to a softball question by McCain. I was so on board with him in 2000, but continue to be disappointed this election cycle.

Lisa   August 15th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Michelle-get a grip!!! Do you work for the Enquirer, you are so full of information!!!!(wink,wink)

tina   August 15th, 2008 12:11 pm ET

Oh what about the comment I was not that proud of my country until I was a POW. Mc SHAME strikes again. KEATING 5……….

ChicagoJosh   August 15th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Tell me again how McCain is not an out of touch elitist???

mike   August 15th, 2008 12:07 pm ET

Anyone who thinks ABBA is bad but listen to the trash called #rap is a fool. #rap was invented for those "artists" Ha Ha who could not carry a tune in a bucket.

Glynn   August 15th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

I agree John, it does show that Obama supporters are as shallow as he is. And BTW Obama supporters, did you support John Kerry? Because he talked about his service a million times more than McCain does. Since when do we ridicule our American heroes? For ANY reason? I never ridiculed Kerry and I won't McCain. Grow up. I love ABBA.

Anonymous   August 15th, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Michelle:

His liking Ludacris, you can disagree with that.

But linking Obama's trip to Hawaii with the Edwards affair is stretching it, even for a deperate McCain supporter or a more desperate Clinton zealot.

Also, what does how much Obama knew or didn't know have to do with anything? I don't see the connection.

Finally, the birth certificate thing? Still? Really?

You forgot to say he's a secret Muslim.

Mischelle from Illinois   August 15th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

Notice and it should be in bold. HIS EDUCATION QUALIFICATIONS! to be the leader of the free world, on must have a clear understanding of the resources of that post.
The US MILITARY is the greatest on the planet. To command the military, The COMMANDER IN CHEIF must have a back ground steeped in this education qualification. An afirmative action Harvard educated lawyer, NOT EVEN CLOSE!
Who cares what his favorite song is, I wouldn't even care if it was from the swing band erra as long as HIS QUALIFICATIONS met muster.

Yeah, ludacris on your ipod is really something to brag about. PULEEESE!

Amanda M - Chicago, IL   August 15th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Now I love ABBA music but you have to admit it's pretty shallow music, very disco….doesn't really give off the impression that McCain has much depth….but then again, I have no idea what else he picked or what Obama picked so maybe its just music they like to dance to??

david   August 15th, 2008 11:59 am ET

JOHN YOU ARE JUST TOO OLD.LET THE YOUNGER GENERATION RUN THE COUNTRY.

Anyone but these 2   August 15th, 2008 11:58 am ET

It's a shame that CNN will not post any of the balanced posts that promote American unity and/or attention to third party options. All they want is to see the Dems and Reps catfighting on these boards. It gets boring very fast for those of us who are not party-first zealots. I've tried to defend both McCain and Obama from various absurd attacks from their rivals, but those submissions never get posted. CNN is as bad as Fox. It is ultimately the media (not Obama or McCain) that will ruin America by dividing us for their gain.

NotFallingInLine.org   August 15th, 2008 11:57 am ET

This guy is simply worthless. Asked a serious question and he responded with a joke.

Anonymous   August 15th, 2008 11:52 am ET

Mama Mia! Here we go again.

Walter   August 15th, 2008 11:50 am ET

MY GOD! This man is worse about Viet Nam than Giuliani was about 9/11.

He can't even talk about music without reminding us that he got shot down in Viet Nam. Enough already!

Graeme   August 15th, 2008 11:50 am ET

ABBA was genius.

Joe Kiloz   August 15th, 2008 11:50 am ET

M c C A I N R O C K S ! ! ! M A M M A M I A !

Sandy - PA   August 15th, 2008 11:49 am ET

…And this is in the news, because…???

Eric   August 15th, 2008 11:49 am ET

No wonder he's against gay rights, he seems to be stuck in the closet.

Janey/Michigan   August 15th, 2008 11:48 am ET

I do not get why people think Obama is "good-looking" He is one of the homliest men I have seen-especially without clothes. His sarcasm and smart-aleck attitude make him even less attractive.

clint   August 15th, 2008 11:48 am ET

What i do not understand is how people can elect a president (Obama) if he will not even acknowledge our flag, or place his hand over his heart while the national anthem plays. He refuses to wear anything resembling America. His wife is proud to be an American ONLY after her husband (baby daddy as she likes to call him) has been elected for the Democratic nomination.

NAME ONE ACCOMPLISHMENT he has done in his couple of years in the Senate? That's right no one can.

I am not saying McCain is any better, but how can a American want a president that will not even acknowlege our flag or say the National Anthem?

Ron Paul Republican   August 15th, 2008 11:45 am ET

McCain is an "Inflation Queen". More wars and not paying for them is not smart leadership.

RAY   August 15th, 2008 11:45 am ET

I HAVE NOTHING AGAINST ANYBODY'S TASTE IN MUSIC- ITS CALLED THE FIRST AMENDMENT. HOWEVER IT'S MCWHATEVER'S TASTE IN HOW TO RUN THIS COUNTRY IS WHAT I HAVE THE PROBLEM WITH.

PUBLIC PANDERING   August 15th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Oh John, there are many other things you lack along with bad taste. Such as, knowledge of the economy, extending the mess that got us here isn't a solution, it's the problem. Judgement about the war, and everything else for that matter. A lack of policies! How can you have any policies when all you want to do is coninue the policies of GWB? A lack of open mindedness, a lack of understanding the plight of Americans today. If your so concerned about the housing crunch, you could offer one of your nine houses to a homeless family!

McCains message, attack Iran, attack Iraq, attack Obama, attack Russia, put a surge on the economy?? How do you surge the economy John, exactly how? Your ne nickname is Big Mac Attack!!

j-m   August 15th, 2008 11:43 am ET

To the airhead above who complained about Obama and his family staying in a beach mansion free (owned by a Democrat). Your mcsameasbush-cain owns seven to nine houses of which some he has not been paying property taxes on. He recently was FORCED to pay those back taxes are lose his properties. Does someone need nine houses?

Vince   August 15th, 2008 11:42 am ET

It would be so much fun to see who will win this election. Obama might not have all it takes but i really do not see any reason to vote for McCain. None. Ok so he was shot down….. so. That is what he was enlisted for. Many people sacrifice everyday in America…everyday. The police, the firemen, the teachers, the journalists, everybody plays a role. Enough already with the POW thing. Are the redcross volunteers less patriotic because they did not shoot people. America this is a test of where we want to be in the future. Back to the 70s or a forward looking progressive future. We are already in the 80s thanks to GW

Lori   August 15th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Obama-bots: Taste in music has nothing to do with ability to govern.

Your naivete and gullibility show every time you open your mouths.

Obama as president is a joke–Bob Dylan fan or not.

Lilah   August 15th, 2008 11:40 am ET

Hey wait, I like ABBA! Love how he just had to throw in the getting shot down in Vietnan thing in there, as it was obviously totally relevant to the topic.

Steve   August 15th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I like ABBA. It's McSurge music I'm not buying.

Thinkin Mencken   August 15th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Interesting that Nelson Mandela (who has been known to mention his own imprisonment ) is also a big ABBA fan. . .

Mike   August 15th, 2008 11:38 am ET

McBush admits his taste in music never recovered from his POW years. Unfortunatly, neither did his outlook on World Affairs. That is why to McWar, all Muslims are the same, Asians are gooks,Czechoslavakia is still a country and Russia is still the Soviet Union. Mc Lame is far to lost in the 70s to be an effective leader in this fast changeing world.

Juan M   August 15th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I was thinking about voting for Obama but I just don't trust the man. If Obama has to go toe-to-toe with someone like Putin, he will get eatin alive. What was Obama's response to the invasion of Georgia; "We should have a resolution at the UN against this." Does Obama not know that Russia, as a member of the security council, has veto power and there will not be a resolution. Obama has a lot to learn.
McCain '08

John   August 15th, 2008 11:37 am ET

This thread shows that Obama's supporters are as shallow as he is.

biffington, biff   August 15th, 2008 11:36 am ET

Tom, that was actually funny., nice one. (Lucacris stuff is hot, though)

Barry Soetoro….. please lighten up. Not EVERYTHING requires a nasty, snarky response.

emj… ditto.

michelle, ditto.

guys… SOME of you are soooo deep in the fight.. (or so deep inthe pockets of the RNC… that you miss the fact that just sometimes, something is reported for humor alone.

geez, already.

Alice Brinkley   August 15th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Don't you people get it? Obama wants to give everybody everything that makes them "happy". Who will pay for it — you!! That means higher taxes without any doubt. Higher taxes to move this country into socialism where Americans don't need to take care of themselves anymore because the government will do that for us. Then, we really won't be America any more but just some offshoot of Europe, second rate taxpayers, still dying at about 70 years old but with more schooling.

CINDY HENSLEY AKA HOMEWRECKER   August 15th, 2008 11:34 am ET

McBush Better Get Use To A New Song Come November—-LANDSLIDE

C E H S   August 15th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Why are you people so nasty?? Listen to yourselves, you sound like a bunch of nasty little children, not thinking, respectful adults. Oh, that's right, respect for others is no longer popular. Let's slam the ones we don't like and be hateful to those that are different. People in this country were at one time thughtful, respectful and concerned with the feelings of others. It doesn't matter who is the President anymore, you will all just continue to complain and bad mouth about one thing or another, yOu are so busy being important. Your negativity is totally disgusting and I bet your parents are all sooooooooproud of you, unless of course you are just like them. Shame-shame. If you can't say something nice, SHUT UP!!!!!

Truth   August 15th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Michelle,
If you weren't aware, Obama condemned the distasteful lyrics from Ludacris' song.

His American birth certificate is posted on his website, since Hawaii has been part of the United States for almost 49 years. He and his family are visiting his grandmother there.

If you want to dwell on Edwards' indiscretion, are you willing to hold McCain up to the same level of scrutiny?

Now, "Dancing Queen" for a warmonger? That's hilarious!

Susan MO   August 15th, 2008 11:33 am ET

To James From Chicago

Was he blatantly honest about the Keating 5, to his first wife while he had numerous affairs, about the number land deals he authorized in Arizona to prominent contributors, etc. etc. etc. ?

Dylan   August 15th, 2008 11:32 am ET

LOL. McBush still thinks Abba is what the young kids listen to.

This guy is a joke.

Maya   August 15th, 2008 11:32 am ET

"A man that hath no music in himself is fit for treason, stratagems and spoils".

McCain seems to exemplify this adage…

biffington, biff   August 15th, 2008 11:30 am ET

you know he's partial to blondes right…

Wisco   August 15th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Meanwhile, McCain and RNC are being sued by Jackson Browne for stealing his song "Running on Empty". Music and McCain apparently do not get along. Maybe he should use Paris Hilton's album in his commercials?

PG   August 15th, 2008 11:28 am ET

I thought the "Dancing Queen" was Bush? Oh I forgot Panamanian McCain is connected with Bushie.

al   August 15th, 2008 11:26 am ET

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

C'MON MCCAIN TRY SOME HIP HOP. THEN FOLD YOUR ARM, TILT BACK, WITH A BANDANA ON YOUR FOREHEAD AND SAY WAHUP PLAYA. YOU WON'T GET MY VOTE BUT IT WOULD BE FUNNY.

Annie   August 15th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Funny how some people will decide because he likes Abba, he won't get their vote. That is nothing more than a comment from a non McCain supporter in the first place. I love Abba as well. So what? I also like the BeeGees, Celione Dion and prefer the sounds of the tunes of years ago coming over my stereo rather than the undistinguishable sounds of today. Funny how it's sport and perfectly acceptable to tear apart McCain for anything and everything about his life and about his character but it is almost illegal to speak ill of Obama in any fashion over anything he has done in his past . Once again a double standard rears its ugly head. And McCain talks about his military career as much as John Kerry did, so what!

Big D   August 15th, 2008 11:24 am ET

SIGH - A previous poster made one more false claim about Obama. A Politico story already gave info about where Obama is staying in Hawaii and clearly indicated that Obama is paying rent, and went through an agency to find a place, so is not connected to this moderate donor. So enough with these stupid false smears.

Sean Micheals   August 15th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Fluff to be sure but I, like ABBA too. Must be my fond memories of apple bottoms in those Jordache jeans.

Paula Diane   August 15th, 2008 11:23 am ET

God no wonder he is so crabby all the time.. can this man get anymore out of touch??? Nerd war monger..Nice!

Proud to be American   August 15th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Out of the mouth of the grumpy old man he is out of touch… he goes way back to pick a artist that is not even American…. HUM…. that states a lot… the choice of one music has no bearings on their policies that they promote and we all know McCain voted 95% with Bush …. and look at the mess we are in now… Russia is flexing and we can not do a thing about it as Bush looked in his president eyes and….. you know the rest. Heck might as well say that McCain looked into his eyes 95% of the time too… folks give it up …. do not judge these Presidential canidates on their choice of music it is deeper then that …. follow the money trail (where they are getting finance from) and their stance on the issues ….. then you will see for sure ….. Obama 08 &12

Matt   August 15th, 2008 11:15 am ET

McCain was shot down in 1967. He was released from prison in 1973. "Dancing Queen" was released in 1976. Why is he using his failure as a pilot as an excuse for liking ABBA? Can't he just be honest for once and not hide behind his old war stories?

J. Sully, New York   August 15th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Hey MIchelle,
Dirt on Edwards doesn't not equal dirt on Obama. They will never I repeat NEVER find any dirt on Obama cause there isn't any. No matter how much they try, the losing repubs can't find anything. they have to use "celebrity" and AntiChrist ads against him cause they have NOTHING. I repeat NOTHING.
As far as the ABBA thing, I knew John McCain had bad taste in music just by listening to him talk.

Pam   August 15th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Don't tell me…McCain is also a big fan of Air Supply.

Nova   August 15th, 2008 11:11 am ET

Over it's life time, ABBA sold hundred million dollars worth of records.

Tony from Torrington   August 15th, 2008 11:11 am ET

It is painfully apparent that the only people, with the exception of moi-même, who submit comments to CNN are young, un informed, liberal democrats who need to get an education by researching history and not by listening to liberal professors who studied liberal arts and nothing else. Attacking the administration, Bush and McCain may get you in print on the CNN blogs, but it only reinforces your ignorance.

Sampsonite   August 15th, 2008 11:09 am ET

“I’ve got to say that a lot of my taste in music stopped about the time I impacted a surface-to-air missile with my own airplane and never caught up again.”

I gotta say, the man can beat a dead horse alright…
I'd like to add; it's interesting that he always says he impacted the missile when in fact, he was not a good enough piolet to avoid being shot down in reality seems more likely the case.

Geronimo   August 15th, 2008 11:09 am ET

He should have kept his mouth shut about ABBA. Then again, I don't think there are many polititians out there who have good taste in music.
Even if McCain were a paraplegic, he'd still be 100 times better than Bambi. Heck, any one of the muppets would do a better job than that naive little affirmative action Presidential wannabe.

pat   August 15th, 2008 11:08 am ET

**********By the way folks… Back to Hawaii for a minute.

How come the media is not reporting that the Obama's are staying at a beach mansion "rent free" , this home is owned by a prominent Democratic contributor to Obama. The house is in a community that requires that rent be paid by non-residents. The non payment amounts to a "CONTRIBUTION" to Obama's campaign by a contributor who has already maxed out his contributions.*********

Is this all you have?

Uncle Fester   August 15th, 2008 11:08 am ET

Gee, Obama runs to Hawaii at the same time that Edwards
admits his affair. No coincidence there. (wink, wink)

Gee Michelle, why is it that Edwards adultery is an issue
for Obama, and McCain's adultery is not an issue for McCain
(wink wink)

Tyler in Raleigh   August 15th, 2008 11:08 am ET

I could care less what awful music he listens to (and ABBA is one of the worst), what matters is they ask the guy about Iraq………… "hey, know what band I like"??

Answer the question, stop talking about music, your war experience (we know, you like war) and celebrities. I don't care if the President is well received in Europe (as if that is a bad thing), all I want to know is WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO?

Pat F   August 15th, 2008 11:08 am ET

More ageist comments from the "caring party", the Democrats. Makes me ashamed I was ever a Democrat - won't get fooled again!

Vote for a man of honor, not an empty suit.

McCain 08/12

Tired of W, OH   August 15th, 2008 11:06 am ET

McCain:
"Well, my favorite choice in music is blah, blah, blah. Did I mention I got shot down in combat?"
"My favorite food is blah, blah, blah. I was a POW, you know."
"Did you know that they call me the Maverick."

It's getting old, old man.

Brian MacDougall   August 15th, 2008 11:06 am ET

Huh. All the guys I know who love ABBA are gay. Ask him about Cher next time, then we'll know for sure.

LLM from MD   August 15th, 2008 11:06 am ET

To: ANNOY THE MEDIA…..

GET A LIFE!! Sounds like jealousy to me….what's the problem here?

Mk   August 15th, 2008 11:05 am ET

If being shot down is such an all defining moment for McCain why don't we know more about how it impacted him.
He allegedly is quite closed mouth about it, except of course when he wants to look patriotic.
Lets ask him the hard questions, like
How has he dealt with the psychological effects of having been a POW ?
What is his opinion on PTSD and how it should be treated?
Does he still suffer from any of physical and psychological problems? If not, what has he done to help himself cope?
By McCain's own admission, being a POW impacted his life greatly why wouldn't this be issue number one for the American public to know about.
He discloses medical records and there isn't ANYTHING in there about his psychological health?

Humphrey, MN   August 15th, 2008 11:01 am ET

How does CNN find the space to print this mindless, meaningless fluff but gives McCain a completely free ride when it comes to the idiotic and deeply troubling gaffes he makes on a nearly daily basis? Are there no CNN reporters with a shred of courage remaining?

Maggie VT   August 15th, 2008 11:01 am ET

Hey, JM, don't speak for me, I didn't go see it and don't intend to. Speak for yourself.

Obama 08   August 15th, 2008 11:00 am ET

Get your facts straight….Obama paid rent for the house he used for the vacation is Hawaii. Unlike McCant, he only has one house, not 9 or 10 like the McCants.

donna4hillary   August 15th, 2008 11:00 am ET

i will take ABBA over rap music anyday. ABBA never wrote or sang a song that dissed women, law enforcement, whites etc etc etc. yea you can tell alot about the music that people listen to. wonder what obamas children are learning from the music they listen to. you can bet they arent listening to Bach or Chopin.

RB from NH   August 15th, 2008 10:59 am ET

We don't need a dancing queen for president!!!!

With all the EXPERIENCE McCain seems to claim, he has none relating to culture and the better things in life?

Thats not what we need at the top.

kent   August 15th, 2008 10:57 am ET

This is another dislay of McCain's sound judgement on who qualify as genuine celebrity rock stars: Abba, Brittany, Paris, Barack….

Linda from Prescott AZ   August 15th, 2008 10:55 am ET

Can McCain talk about anything that he can't connect with being shot down. Has he done nothing since then but womanize, scandalize (KIeating 5) and run a nasty campaign?

ben   August 15th, 2008 10:53 am ET

To misinformed "No to Obama" Are you so ignorant you believe if I own a house and a friend visits me, he would have to pay rent? The law in Hawaii is for tenenants not casual friends. Man, it is people like you who will decide this election and that is scarry!

Heather,CA,US   August 15th, 2008 10:53 am ET

I don't see why John McCain should have to explain himself.ABBA changed music.They had a unique sound and made their own contribution to music. I don't like all of their songs but most of them.McCain is right.I give him a big break for at least wanting to open up to the world about his desire to be more cultured.Good for him!

Barry Soetoro AKA Barrack Obama   August 15th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Ya God forbid McCain listens to something other then Kayne West who decries hatred for white people and violence in songs.

Oh wait Obama is inviting him to Denver… Way to unite the country by having a radical hip hop star there.

Yasriel   August 15th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Hey folks! Let's give McSenile a break. At least he has got a taste for beautiful women even though he has not got any taste for Technology, Economy, and now "Art and Music".

He is such a joke.

emtp JB   August 15th, 2008 10:52 am ET

Maybe McCain needs to concentrate on how he is going to get us out of the recession, Iraq, and the oil crisis and not bore us with comments on ABBA!!!! Get real and get with it. What an idiot!

Tom   August 15th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Wow..that's just Ludacris…get it?!?

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   August 15th, 2008 10:51 am ET

I haven't a clue who or what "ABBA" is–is that an acronym for something–but what does McCain's preference for them/him/her/it have to do with his qualifications to be president?

FlaDem   August 15th, 2008 10:50 am ET

At least he's not talking about starting a war again. Keep him distracted from the important issues. That way he can't do any harm.

Michelle   August 15th, 2008 10:50 am ET

So what!

Obama loves Ludacris, the hate-spewing fool.

Gee, Obama runs to Hawaii at the same time that Edwards
admits his affair. No coincidence there. (wink, wink)

And there's more dirt leaking out each day. Just how much
did Obama's campaign know? Will the MSM dig or leave the real reporting up to the National Enquirer?

Got your original birth certificate yet, Barry?

freddie   August 15th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Right. Seems like everything stopped when he hit that missile. He's still fighting the Commies!

Vera /AB. Canada   August 15th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Why does McSame keep on going he makes a fool of himself every week, I bet he is thinking to himself "Oh why did I start this". I can see why some Repub. are crossing over . I change the channel when he is speaking as he is boring, and a liar all he can talk about is getting Obama, not the econ.

Obama 08/12

crownsy   August 15th, 2008 10:49 am ET

between not being able to use a computer and listing a pop song as his favroite of all time, he's ruined any chance i will ote for him.

I

Old Fart   August 15th, 2008 10:48 am ET

"They've been selling out for years."
And McCain knows a thing or two about selling out.
Guaranteed Lieberman turned him on to ABBA.

boered1   August 15th, 2008 10:47 am ET

“I’ve got to say that a lot of my taste in music stopped about the time I impacted a surface-to-air missile with my own airplane and never caught up again.”
______________________________________________________

not only has he lost track of who is who in Iraq (are they shi'ia or sunni?) who is being trained in Iran (Al-Queada is being trained by Iran… err excuse me Joe Liebermann just pointed out to me that Itran is NOT training Al-Queada), what countries exist (Czechoslovakia???!!!) who is in charge of Germany… etc we now know that time has been lost also.. since he got shot down in Vietnam (psst that was in the late 60s for those who have forgotten) and ABBA came out in the late 70s…. I begin to wonder if he is a safe bet experiance does you no good when you cannot recall the FACTS straight….

An American   August 15th, 2008 10:47 am ET

I thought we weren't supposed to talk about his military record and crashed jet planes?

McCain:SmallWeakCowardlyMan OffersMoreOfTheSame TearsOthersDownToBuildHimselfUp   August 15th, 2008 10:46 am ET

No, John, you are lacking mental stability and common sense. Forget about the music, it's all in your pea-sized brain.

INDEPENDENT NYC   August 15th, 2008 10:46 am ET

Now that I think about his comment that his mind is stuck in retro since his capture and he has never caught up sounds like my grandmother. May GOD bless her she suffers from Alzheimer's.

Wrinkled OLD White Man   August 15th, 2008 10:45 am ET

a noun, a verb and POW

Perk   August 15th, 2008 10:44 am ET

So what if he likes ABBA, sure, they are not the coolest band ever, but at least McCain says what he really thinks. I have a hard time beliving in what Obama listens to, I guess a pr-consult have helped him making up everything.

mcbush!   August 15th, 2008 10:44 am ET

as if i needed another reason not to vote for him…..

Typical White Person   August 15th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Better ABBA than gangster rap.

Did you guys notice that Obama had a song about himself as one of his top 10?

Pa-leeze…

Roberto   August 15th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Folks…..Inflate your tires! You need to get behind someone who has that as a message. Now there's a man we should trust to lead the free world. Not some man who has served his whole life in honor of his country and who has reached accross the aisle to help get things done in the senate. I say lets back the guy who has the real answer for all our petroleum needs. Let's get behind that candidate. All 57 states! Duh!!! The choice is clear. If we can't have Hilary it has to be McCain!

John   August 15th, 2008 10:42 am ET

I prefer McCain's taste in music than Obama's taste… I'm sick of the low-life thug music played over and over again, which Obama clearly likes, as he has made it so obvious. At least ABBA has real music, and they are one of the most successful music talents in the wolrd!

And yes, I used to be a democrat… HAHA!

sherry for Obama   August 15th, 2008 10:42 am ET

TIRED OF W ……

YOU MADE MY DAY…..I LMAO

I WAS THINKING THE SAME THING TOO.

I WONDER IF HE WEARS THE SAME SIZE SHOES AS CINDY?
MAYBE SHE LETS HIM WEAR THEM.

HE NEEDS TO BORROW SOME OF HER MAKE-UP THOUGH
HES SO PALE AND ASHY LOOKING.

A.   August 15th, 2008 10:40 am ET

I can't stop picturing him dancing (or you know, trying to dance) around to Dancing Queen.

Denise   August 15th, 2008 10:39 am ET

One of the world's most ridiculed acts being used by one of the world's most ridiculous politicans!

anonymous   August 15th, 2008 10:38 am ET

I LOVE ABBA!!! Mama Mia is a great movie!! I love John McCain!!! Nobama can go back to Indonesia and swing from a tree!

Mike - Texas   August 15th, 2008 10:38 am ET

Yes, and Obama listens to Ludacris and his bad rap lyrics that demean women.

Very distasteful.

Brenda of Saginaw ,Michigan   August 15th, 2008 10:37 am ET

I like "Nelly" and I am 64 years old., I like Tom Jones ,I like Elvis ,so what does this have to do with running the United States of America?

Keith   August 15th, 2008 10:35 am ET

Sooner or later we will be hearing "Dancing Queen" in one of his ridiculous TV ads. Mark my words.

Lost (maybe) in CNN Moderation   August 15th, 2008 10:35 am ET

Big D,

You said it best "my friend"!

Justin   August 15th, 2008 10:34 am ET

I agree with the first comment. How someone percieves the arts tells a tremendous amount about a person. McCain's comments show him to be out of touch with American culture today, as well as having horrible taste.

Dem in Utah   August 15th, 2008 10:33 am ET

"…the time I impacted a surface-to-air missile with my own airplane and never caught up again.” So, um, he shot himself down? HE impacted and missile with HIS own plane. Jesus, McCain. Dumb it up much?

Montana is Obama Country   August 15th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Abba is soooo yesterday and so is John MCain..

Too OLD for a 21st century America…

Indy for Obama   August 15th, 2008 10:32 am ET

"If there is anything I am lacking in, I’ve got to tell you, it is taste in music and art and other great things in life." - John McCain

Need I say more.

Andrew, Chicago   August 15th, 2008 10:31 am ET

Hey I like ABBA.

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   August 15th, 2008 10:31 am ET

This just goes to show how henpecked this "man" is. His defense of liking ABBA is saying how many people went to see Mamma Mia?!?! What man would admit to actually going to see that movie voluntarily?!?!

Historian   August 15th, 2008 10:30 am ET

Frankly, on another note, when I saw the headline for this article, I instantly thought OH NO McCain wants to send missiles to Sweden now! I guess that is telling, in that the second I see the words "McCain" and "defend" used together in a sentence, I automatically think military and war. Count me in as someone who is also tired of his constant references to his experience as a POW.

M. Winners, Mesa, AZ   August 15th, 2008 10:28 am ET

McLame like ABBA - well excuse me while I stifle my gag reflex. I knew something was strange about the old coot from the git-go.
What does the "old dude" mean he doesn't appreciate the finer things in life? Does that mean $550 Italian (not American) loafers and 8-to-10 houses aren't the finer things? If McLame can't smear it, fear it, mock it, drill it or lie about he just "doesn't get it".
Besides, what's getting shot down have to do with McLame's choice in pop music??? Oh I forgot, that's why he thinks he's qualified for POTUS

cecil   August 15th, 2008 10:27 am ET

More Tax Deceptions factcheck.org
August 8, 2008
Updated: August 12, 2008
McCain misrepresents Obama's tax proposals again. And again, and again.

Why Would You Want To Believe His New Tax Ad Now!

He Continues To LIE!

McScaremonger

JJWIII   August 15th, 2008 10:27 am ET

McCain is a verified, and proud, disabled veteran who suffered greatly for America. I'll cancel your vote out by saying he can bring it up all he wants to because it is 'true and correct'! I'm sick of Obama continually brining up the 'changes' we supposedly need in America. He wants to change things that will result in crippling America's defense systems and as a result, will create even more need for America to have to resort to military action to ward off subjugation.

Please Love Me and Post My Stuff   August 15th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Who cares. Are you going to tell us Barak's favorite song now too? NEWS…WHERE IS THE NEWS!

dittohead with forty names   August 15th, 2008 10:26 am ET

What do they teach people at the National War College?Freund had a few thoughts about the "Dancing Queen".

MD   August 15th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Even his taste in music highlights how OLD this man is. If disaster strikes and he is elected president, he will take us back at least 50 years. God help us all!

SoCal Roger   August 15th, 2008 10:23 am ET

McCain and his pandering lies disgust me. He was shot down in 1967 while that ABBA song came out at the end of 1976. It reminds me of when he blatantly lied/forgot about recalling the names of the Steelers defensive line while in prison. A quick search for "McCain Lies about Steelers" on YouTube will reveal what this senile old fool is about.

Andy in Charlotte, NC   August 15th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Isn't ABBA from Sweden? McCain is being unpatriotic!!! lol

Bill Stapp   August 15th, 2008 10:21 am ET

Senator McCain was in the Navy and he likes ABBA….

Then he married a wealthy lady…

Money, Money, Money… must be sunny… in a rich man's world

Rudy NYC   August 15th, 2008 10:20 am ET

Didn't ABBA have some leggy lookin' blondes?

Emma   August 15th, 2008 10:18 am ET

McCain is an OLD relic, need anyone say more? He is an OLD MAN. Let's face it…………………….

MCCAIN IS OLD; MCCAIN IS OLD; MCCAIN IS OLD; MCCAIN IS OLD!

Joe in StL   August 15th, 2008 10:17 am ET

Please, people, it's not ABBA's fault.

Chesley from Texas   August 15th, 2008 10:16 am ET

I took my 11yr old daughter to see Mamamia and it was a really good movie………….allot better than allot of gangtas killing eachother….what has happen to this country…..looks like we have a new MOTO…..Screw-up our kids as quick as posible. There is nothing wrong with ABBA…….if you do not like their music don't listen to……..Go listen to you screwed up rap music so the can make millions so they can by more dope. Yes I said it……Rap = Killings and Dope.

But go figure……………A bunch of idiots hate McCain because of the music he likes………………..

So I guess you all Like Obama because his favorite music is the Mexico Nation Anthem………..( He forgot to add that to his list)

George B.   August 15th, 2008 10:16 am ET

I can see how the concussion of a SAM would make a person an ABBA lover. :-)

Mike from CA.   August 15th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Funny how McCain never misses an opportunity to bring up his POW status.

Mike, Syracuse, NY   August 15th, 2008 10:15 am ET

Hey Obamatrons, this is a story about frickin music. Who cares if it's ABBA, or some other group. It has no relation to his qualifications as President. How many people still think the Beattles are the best band, or the Stones, or Black Sabbath for that matter? Usually your favorite is from a early time in your life and doesn't change. Grow up. Get a life. Better yet, get a candidate that's not still wearing diapers. At least McCain isn't building sand castles on Waikiki while Russia tramples democracy.

Joe in NJ   August 15th, 2008 10:14 am ET

"Pathetic. Just more proof of how disconnected McCain is to the average American."

Why? Because he likes ABBA? I suppose he should have said he listens to the Jonas Brothers and Kanye West. Would that have made you feel better?

mike   August 15th, 2008 10:14 am ET

Master of Puppets are pulling your strings….

BJGT   August 15th, 2008 10:13 am ET

"I"ve got to say that a lot of my taste in music stopped about the time I impacted a surface-to-air missile with my own airplane and never caught up again."

Well, at least he's admitting his injuries caused him brain damage

proud army and navy mom   August 15th, 2008 10:13 am ET

that's a good idea. mcold should retire and take up art and listen to ABBA.

Put him someplace nice and safe, so he won't do anyone harm and let the real honorable man, Sen Obama run this country, while keeping up safe.

Debby   August 15th, 2008 10:11 am ET

I like ABBA to and I am younger than McCain and Obama.

Say it Loud   August 15th, 2008 10:10 am ET

McCain ABBA is not from Switzerland you know! ABBA do take their social responsibility, that is why they are living in Sweden inspite the Sweden is "Libral" country. Do know how many vital inventions that Swedes have contributed into the world, stuff like Xray (Röntgen), zipper, GPS graphics, etc? Ignorance is a desease. Stop attacking Obama because he wants inclusiveness for all, that is why you attack him as "Libral". Inventions from "libral" country have saved and kept you alive, so you don't forget that when you make mockery of Obama or others!
ABBA is a great group, and don't mix them up with you low politics!

Puck   August 15th, 2008 10:06 am ET

Annoy the Media:

Why don't you do your due diligence and not spread lies?
Yes, the house Obama is staying in in Hawai'i is owned
by someone who's made contributions to Obama's
campaign. But, if you learned to READ, you would find out
that he actually IS paying rent on the home. Look up an
article called, "Obama: The Coincidental Tourist," before
you spew your nonsense.

Thank you.

ThinkingAmerican   August 15th, 2008 10:06 am ET

To: Annoy the Media, Say NO to Obama

Please get your facts right. He is paying the going rental rate for the house in Hawaii, unlike a lot of other politicians who stay at "friends' houses" as guests. He's got to rent from someone - Not all of us have the luxury that McCain has, of not having to worry about renting from people who may be contributors, since he and his wife own at least half a dozen houses. And they don't have to worry about renting a plane or getting a ride on someone else's plane since he and his wife own their own plane.

Matt   August 15th, 2008 10:05 am ET

ABBA is not one of the most ridiculed bands in the world. It is ridiculed in the USA. ABBA's music, in fact, is heralded as artistically powerful, believe it or not. The grotesque thing about this is how ABBA is so beautiful while McCain is so ugly. He should be into right wing country.

Don't diss ABBA because this loser likes one of their songs.

RJ, CA   August 15th, 2008 10:05 am ET

I really do not appreciate Obama's attempts at being "crowned" the "emperor with no clothes" at a mega event in Denver, especially during these troubled times.

Deanna   August 15th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Chris,NJ says the rest of the interview may have been relevant to his comment about being shot down (which he repeats in rainman fashion constantly) …do you really think that CNN would not have put that in there if they had? LOL Sad part is that someone at CNN really thought this made Johnny Boy look good! and would have added that if it had been the case. CNN is all about supporting Wolfe Blitzer's choice for the fall….yes I did say The FALL…which is what is going to happen to Johnny Boy come election day..but hey…he won't remember the loss by the next day.

angel   August 15th, 2008 10:04 am ET

TO Annoy the Media, Say NO to Obama

You should really check your facts before you start spreading lies. Obama and his family members are paying market rental rates for the property they are renting and I haven't seen any respectable media source report otherwise. It is one thing not to support someone; it is another thing just to do anything to bring that person down. You people really should have more integrity. If you can't win based on the issues, then you don't deserve to win.

Scared of McCain   August 15th, 2008 10:04 am ET

There's something going on with him in the head. He needs a psycological evaluation and fast.

That Makes   August 15th, 2008 10:03 am ET

This makes me giggle for many reasons. ABBA when the other war time vets were listening to the Doors and rock and roll…. that is too funny. Also he doesn't know how to use a computer. He admits that his wife knows more about them than he does. What else has he not caught up on since "shot down in his plane?"

Ian   August 15th, 2008 10:03 am ET

This guy is worse than Guilliani and all his 9-11 comments. It's like every other sentence is about being shot down from his plane.

Anonymous   August 15th, 2008 10:02 am ET

What is so great about being shot at? Does it prove that one is very smart? If he did not get shot despite shots being fired at him i can understand that he is smart to do something right. Yes, going to war may mean that one is serving the country. But that is not true in his case. Given how good he was in academics or any other vocation he would not have gotten any job worth the name of his admiral father. So, he took what his father could get for him. By himself he has been a looser all his life.

As far as his refusing to be released before his turn is concerned just consider how it would have looked in front of other soldiers if he had accepted the offer. And if he really thinks that he did that out of sense of duty then why is he using that for political gain. Duty was done for the country and that's it. If he is using that for political mileage he was serving himself by turning down the offer and not the country. This is like those companies who donate 1 million dollars and then spend 5 million dollars telling everybody that they donated 1 million dollars.

Brian   August 15th, 2008 10:01 am ET

Johnny Boy graduated 894 our of 899 in college…and he's bragging on his education? John! Some people actually study in college and come away with a wealth of knowledge. Someone please point out to me why the US always seems to vote for people who have been failures in their lives? George Bush? Now John McCain? Their combined bios would read like a seedy side of the street novel…but thats right! this is all the republicans give us to vote for! while they tear any educated person down! Tells ya who they want in that top spot! Someone they can control so that big oil companies (of which they are all shareholders) can keep making big money off the backs of the American people.

John McShame, Obama Is Going to Tax You & Cindy, but Not Me & 95% Americans Making < $250,000/Yr   August 15th, 2008 10:01 am ET

McCain is antiquated and so are his ideas to take america back to the cold war years.

Daniel from FL   August 15th, 2008 10:00 am ET

OK I am sick and tired of McCain using everything as an opportunity to bring up his days as a POW. He plays that card entirely too much! That IDIOT Sean Hannaity on "Fixed Noise" even suggested that it was OK for him to cheat on his wife because he was "beaten and tortured for 5 years". At least Obama is faithful to his wife and family. This is ridiculous. Can McWar even talk about his taste (or absence thereof) in music without whining "I was a prisoner of war"? Ridiculous!

Obama 2008/2012

It Be Me   August 15th, 2008 10:00 am ET

does EVERYTHING have to come back to "I'm a great war hero". They were talking about his taste in music (or lack there of) and it still comes back to "when I was"……….and then again "when I was at the Navy school"…yada yada yada….enough already. We all know you were in the service…we all know you were shot down…..we all know you were a POW…..and we all know that DOESN'T MEAN A FLIPPING THING when it comes to being President. You are so out of touch…in EVERYTHING…….Maybe you should spend some time NOW filling in some of the gaps in your education.

kg   August 15th, 2008 9:59 am ET

Can someone tell John McCain, largely gay men and their middle aged female best friends (aka hags) kept Mamma Mia alive on Broadway and in theaters. He's in good company is you ask me.

Mike in NYC   August 15th, 2008 9:57 am ET

Rob Johnson wrote:

"A President who would dumb our culture down even more than Bush?"

All his negatives aside, I don't see how Bush has "dumbed down" our culture.

Those responsible for the coarsening and cheapening of our popular culture are more than represented among the ranks of BO's supporters.

As for BO’s brain — he may be smart, but he's no Bill Clinton.

Jack   August 15th, 2008 9:56 am ET

ABBA is great…McCain finally makes sense. Than again..who cares?

BTW, I am sure he had a great time at the Naval Academy ranking 894 out of 899 cadets (fact)..It must have been like animal house for him while everyone was studying.

Deanna   August 15th, 2008 9:56 am ET

What? Now he's pandering to Queens everywhere? LOL Someone needed to tell him that even the queens have better taste and hate THAT song. Try again Johnny Boy but leave out the reference to your being shot down….it's getting old and your beginning to really upset the Vets…over seas Vets contributed to Obama 6 to 1 already…one would think you would at least be smart enough to figure some of this out on your own…..

Phil Newton, Murphy, OREGON   August 15th, 2008 9:55 am ET

"They’ve been selling out for years.”

Sounds familiar…my friend.

OBAMA 08

SDindependent   August 15th, 2008 9:55 am ET

So is his entire foreign policy going to hinge on the time he impacted a missile with his plane?

Stop the lies   August 15th, 2008 9:54 am ET

Hey, 'Annoy the Media' — Obama's paying rent for the house you mention; the story was already covered a while back. No reason to make up lies.

I believe it is also mentioned that the owner of the property, while an Obama donor, was not directly involved in the arrangement. A rental company handled the details, and the Obama campaign wasn't even aware that there was a connection.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   August 15th, 2008 9:53 am ET

First Paris Hilton, now "Mama Mia"…McSame, pop culture references are nice, but they won't win you an election…