August 21, 2008
Posted: 11:02 AM ET

From
CNN

Watch Kaine on American Morning.

(CNN) – Democrats jumped on a comment by John McCain that seemed to suggest he was unsure of how many homes he owned – the latest move in a series of attacks designed to paint the presumptive Republican nominee as wealthy and out-of-touch with ordinary Americans.

“I understand Senator McCain was asked yesterday this question: ‘how many houses do you own?’ And he couldn't answer that question,” Virginia Governor and VP contender Tim Kaine told CNN’s John Roberts in an interview on American Morning. “He couldn't count high enough to know how many houses he owns.

“We have Americans struggling, with foreclosures skyrocketing in Virginia and elsewhere, gas prices, jobs slowing down and the deficit at a record level. We have to have somebody who can change the direction of this economy. John McCain won't do it, but Barack Obama understands the new economy and he will.”

McCain’s wife Cindy is heir to a beer fortune estimated at roughly $100 million.

When asked about the number of houses he owned in a Politico interview published Thursday, McCain was unable to answer. "I think — I'll have my staff get to you," he replied. "It's condominiums where — I'll have them get to you."

The remark comes days after McCain faced criticism from Obama over a weekend remark at Pastor Rick Warren’s faith forum, where the Arizona senator joked that someone would need to earn $5 million a year in the United States to be defined as rich.

The McCain camp later told Politico the Arizona senator and his wife own at least four homes in three states. Other news organizations have reported a higher total.

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain


George   August 21st, 2008 11:37 am ET

Can we just kick everyone out of the country who has worked hard and made it big and become rich.

Republicans never gave Kerry a hard time for being married to Mrs. Heinz.

To quote South Park's Eric Cartman: "Democrats piss me off."

Liberal_GA   August 21st, 2008 11:37 am ET

The fact that McCain is wealthy has nothing to do with his ability to manage money…but it does have everything to do with his ability to MARRY money

Phil, Ashburn, VA   August 21st, 2008 11:36 am ET

72 years old… Who want's a grandpa to run the country? Who wants a another cowboy who shoots first and then think? Another war anyone? Don't let this man use religion and fear to get our country into more debt.

don montgomery   August 21st, 2008 11:36 am ET

does john mccain have althiemers, are the doctors going to tell the public just imagine a president with althiemers disease

R Wolf   August 21st, 2008 11:36 am ET

I wish someone would ask McCain what a loaf of bread or a gallon of bread costs. He has no more idea what regular Americans go through on a day to day basis then the Bush family did. Some people didn't vote for Al Gore because they thought he was too 'smart' so we got an idiot instead. Obama represents intelligence and an
understanding of how everyday life is for so many Americans today.
Please, don't let us have another four years of the current policies that have served to help destroy all the good things America stands for.

End the madness   August 21st, 2008 11:36 am ET

A home to remember McCain-

This is some of the last word's of Cpl. Gunnar Zwilling to his dad! "'It's gonna be a bloodbath" as he new they where unprepared to defend the area they had because of a failed Gov. back at home. Lets not forget the issues and whats at stake!

Obama 08

Bring them home and give them the tools they need until you do!!!!!!
Big money only cares about money, stay focused, don't be fooled.

obamaforyourmama   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Uh yeah, Mccain. And you called Obama elitist?
Puh-lease.

Michelle, PA   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Uh, paulie, McCain didn't build and manage wealth. He dumped the wife who waited 5 years for him to come back from Vietnam to marry it.

Kevin, NC   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Is Cindy going to divest in the Belgium own beer company she is now maintaining her wealth at?

MikeH   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Two things.

1. Show McCain some respect, stop with the McSenile, McLiar, etc. He may be those things, but minimize this childish innuendo.

2. Hit him hard and hit him unrelenting with charges and facts. Send him reeling into the ropes and keep him there.

MCCain's campaign has started the Rove tactic of accusing Obama of what McCain himself is guilty of. Obama can't effectively use those same charges once they're leveled at him. He has to strike first and he has to start now and not let up.

This 'Number of Houses" thing has a lot of potential, use it!

Chris B   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

This is John McCain's "Willie Horton"/windsurfing moment….Obama will pounce on this and destroy the guy

David Armendale, SF, CA   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

McCain not remembering how many houses he owns? Maybe his $520.00 Ferragamo Loafers are too tight?! He and Cindy are worth over $100 Million, they fly around in private jets, and yet – Obama is the elitist?

Another load of right-wing hooey!

Greg   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Jealousy is an interesting emotion, that's for sure. If you want as many houses as McCain owns, go out and GET A JOB, and work for it. That's the American Dream. If you put your mind to it, you can make it happen.

But…DO NOT steal from those who work for themselves to provide for the poor who are "too good" to work or just too lazy to find a job for themselves. Socialism is NOT the answer and not to mention that socialism is as un-American as un-American gets.

mel   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

paulie_nj: "The fact that McCain is wealthy can only bolster the fact that he can manage money and was able to build his wealth, something he can also do for our country."

…..except that he can't. he married into it. so he's really good at living off of someone else, and he seems to think all of america is his next prize.

Fight hard now , lots of people want a fighter.   August 21st, 2008 11:35 am ET

Don did rezko pay for Obama house? WHy don't you just shortup idiot.

You can't connect any wrong doing and yet you kept yapy yapy ..NO. connection with Rezko corruption charges. that is quite different with Keat 5 charges against McCain. Mccain have been investigated many times in wrong doing and he is a suspect on corrupt practices.

So. ask me to proof my point and you do the same Now or shortup.

John McCain   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Oops, I crapped my pants !

Shrill for Hill   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

McCain is an elitist. He said that you need to make over $5 million to be considered rich in America?!?! Now he can't remember how many homes he owns? He is out of touch and will pander to anybody to get a vote. He only cares about power. McBush is an empty suit and has no substance. He's too shallow, you can tell by his snarky answers.

I know who I want to answer the phone at 3 a.m….

Obama '08 – because McCain is too risky

Proud to be American   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Of course McCain is out of touch with the average American…. first of all what average American comes from a family of Admirals… I mean Grandfather, Father and they had him geared to do the same thing but it appear military career was not what he wanted… he deiced to divorce first wife, get rich new wife and venture into politics by any means necessary EXSPECIALLY with Cindy fortune to back him… he has been in office 26 years and one can not say one thing he has done for my great country…. Yes he was a POW takes a strong person to get shot down and become a POW… however, his 1st wife stood by him and he came home and cheated on her and just did her wrong. He had baby out of wedlock (the African American baby/girl unfortunately resembles him). His wife spends 750K a month on stuff…. heck what Average American makes that a year…. yes McCain is out of touch and no way can he relate … I do not hold his ambition against him I just no he will not get my vote to enhance his ambitions…. Question??? Why do we not hear/see his children from both marriages???

Obama 08

John B. From New Hampshire   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

google, songbird McCain… scary facts folks… this information is actually what sunk his chances in 2000. this needs to get out there before america makes the biggest mistake in human history!!

bill mullis   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

mcain wants to be president of my country and dont even know how many homes he owns staf will get back to you GIVE ME A BREAK THIS MAN LIKE HIS PREDISSOR IS A FOOL wake up america and be scared no more it wont work this time if americans vote with their heads FOUR MORE YEARS OF BUSH GOD HELP US ALL VOTE OBAMA 08 VOTE VOTE VOTE

Michelle O.   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Barack since your throwing stones at the windows of McCain's houses, don't let them bring up the Rezco issue. The deal we got from his wife for campain money was sooooo sweet. Remember how we saved over 300k on our mansion in the upscale hood now we can afford another illegal to do our laundry and the cooking.
By the way can you get us a free trip to Hawaii for us and the kids on the campain tab……..

ps. Is Oprah still going to let us use her mansion in Colo. for your corination, I just love her don't you agree, she just makes me soooo proud
LOL yo Babykins

McCain lives like a RockStar   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

McCain likes to portray Obama as a rockstar yet Obama owns 1 house, his wife doesn't own an airliner, and they both just recently paid off student loans! McCain divorced his first wife to marry an heiress to live like a true rockstar. Yet this vet doesn't support the new GI Bill for vets cause they are "too" generous?!! To all you in service find your own heiress!!!

Hello!!!   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

Deb, Allentown.
I see, as an Obama follower, that you fell for the sound bite of the "5 million" comment from McCain. He knew you would. It was a joke…

ChicagoJosh   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

You lost your home to foreclosure?? Well just move into one of your beachside condos you big whinner. Oh don't get testy with me, just let them eat cake if thier groceries get to high.

JDM   August 21st, 2008 11:34 am ET

I didn't know Mcain had more than one house?
JUST KIDDING!!!!!
MCAIN HAS ALOT OF EVERYTHING
BUT NO ONE CALL HIM ON THIS!

I HOPE THIS IS A SIGN THAT OB IS GOING TO PUNCH BACK!
I' AM ABOUT DONE WITH THE NICE STUFF.
MCAIN HAS HIRED THE BEST ELECTION TEAM AND THEY KNOW HOW TO FIGHT.
WHEN YOUR ENEMY HAS STOP TALKING-YOU BETTER BE SWINGING!

JB, Nashville, TN   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

No wonder he doesn't know. His rich wife is the one who owns them.

Mike, TX   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

How many homes does Obama own? Or better yet, how many homes did he actually pay for?

James   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

We have yet another election where the rich elite are running against the rich elite.

don montgomery   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

does john mccain have althiemers, are the doctors going to tell the public

Octogenarian   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

Forget about being nice! Hit hard Obama! McCain and all the others took advantage of the fact that you won't role up your sleeves and get as dirty as they are. You can't bring a knife to a gunfight! McCain thinks he can say what he wants and you won't strike back. What happened to the kind of dirty politics he promised not to play? Foget about it! Now is the time to come out swinging ! We got your back!

Go Obama!

Foreign observer   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

McCain has no public events today. He counts his houses.

Mohammad, LA CA   August 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

You need to capitalize "Senator McCain". Not that I like him, but, you know, it's proper english!

Jim   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Really? Like Barack Obama is not rich himself? Any politician running for president with a major party is out of touch. And why would a reporter waste time asking a question like this?

David   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Nice try Kaine, but most of you in politics have money are are not in touch with us. You can say and act like you are but when out of the public eye it's another story.

Teddy   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Hey…I dont know how many houses I have either…My accountants take care of that for me. So what. Dont be jealous of me…try to be like me. If you get wealthy, you can travel a lot, quit your boring job, give a lot of time, talent, and treasure to charity, whatever you want. We should all aspire to be filthy rich, and generous happy people.

Women Decide   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

McCain also wears 500 dollar shoes!

And they think Barack Obama, a former organizer of poor neighborhoods in Chicago, is elitist?

The New York Times also reported today that one elderly white man in small-town Pennsylvania said "Obama was actually right, we are bitter." The man went on to tell about the tough economic times they have had under 8 years of Republican rule.

sam   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

McCain say he owns atleast four homes. What does that means. Please CNN press him to give specific answer. He wants us to believe that he gives straight answer but I afraid this answer is not straight. Is he owning 5, 6, 7 or 8 houses? He critizes other as elitist but here we have him owing so many housing to a point that he can't even remember them or count them.

Ian   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

John McCain knew the answer, but you could tell he was fighting back the incontenance and was having a hard time keeping focus.

Mister Anderson   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

I don't blame McCain. He's old and can't count that high!

tom   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

bush is far much better than this guy, believe me

Cheryl Wilson   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Please print my message. This is really important. I just called the McCain campaign headquarters asking about the 10 homes that McCain owns. I also asked, "what about the millions of Americans that are losing their 1 home in foreclosures?" The McCain campaign replied, "What can I tell you? John married a very, very wealthy wife." No lie. You can look up the telephone number on John McCain's campaign website and call there yourself. This is outrageous.

I hope the Obama people send photogs to take pics of all 10 estates and put that up on the big screen for all of America to see. Run that ad over and over and over and over again, especially in states where foreclosures are at an all time high.

WAKE UP AMERICA! JOHN McCAIN WILL TAKE FROM THE POOR TO BUY AN 11TH HOUSE!

elm   August 21st, 2008 11:32 am ET

Maybe John McCain can't remember because he was brainwashed by the North Vietnamese while he was a prisoner. Doesn't anyone remember the movie Manchurain Candidate?

Has he ever released any psychological tests?

Farrell, Houston, Tx   August 21st, 2008 11:31 am ET

CNN interviewed McCain giving insight into his personal life and failed marriage to Carol whom he agreed he cheated only many times with several women and lied publically many times. McCain said "I didn't know why I cheated on my wife". Records in Arizona also show that he was still married and living with Carol when he applied for a marriage license to marry Cindy, McCain didn't deny that. Carol was a victim of lies and deceit by McCain and America doesn't have to also be a victim of McCain's lies.

Bob Texas   August 21st, 2008 11:31 am ET

For Mike,
If you believe Hannity you are really dumb! That guy turns all truth into a lie just for his own GOP agenda!

SHL   August 21st, 2008 11:31 am ET

Are you serious? How low and desperate can be Dems get? Just because McCain is rich, it does not mean that he is out of touch. The person who is out of touch is Obama. Claiming he is for change and he will lead a different type of government, yet he is not difference from the rest. At least the rest do not claim that they are different. Go McCain '08.

DAN   August 21st, 2008 11:31 am ET

So what after the saddleback debate the elitist are puffing hot air on anything because they know Obama proved he is not fit to be president especially after lying about his abortion vote. So McCain like Kerry has a rich wife who cares?

don montgomery   August 21st, 2008 11:31 am ET

one of john mccains doctors has said mr mccain has althiemers disease. why do you think he wont tell the public

Kim   August 21st, 2008 11:30 am ET

Well we know how many homes Obama owns and we know how he got that home, right? Isn't the person that helped Obama in jail now? Just checking.

go away mongers- Ventura ca   August 21st, 2008 11:30 am ET

And THIS is America's answer to the Economic recession? A President who doesn't get it? We've had one of those for 8 LONG years-
TIME FOR CHANGE!

JP   August 21st, 2008 11:30 am ET

I'm sure they're paying property tax on all their houses, then where is the problem?

O P, WI   August 21st, 2008 11:30 am ET

That is pathetic. How can you not know how many houses you own? Good grief. Putting John Mcsame in the white house will only confuse him further.

FedUpDem   August 21st, 2008 11:30 am ET

Who cares and why??

He's probably never been to them, never knew his wife owned them.
Such a non-issue. ONN has to make something out of nothing-
And my Governor—-rofl—-do you think Timmy lad, maybe there is more going on in the world that is important to the Senator from AZ than how many homes his wife / family own?? Lets ask the Kennedys how many homes they own!! Let's ask the Pelosi's!!
Let's ask obama how many other shady house deals he has in his history!!

Morons……

samuel walz   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

wow. who doesnt know that 'mcsame', sorry 'mccain' is out of touch with the ordinary americans.
if any of us wants universal healthcare, new altenative energy and a better economy, we should think really hard before we vote for mr 'mcbush'.

gl   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

We are still waiting on McSame answer regarding voting against the government helping up with payment on Birth control pills. That is McSame favorited answer he get back to you when he doesn't no the answer.

Tom NObama   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

When asked how many States he's visited, NOBAMA said "57″ and I think I have one more left!!!! DUH!!! OBambi is totally out of touch, does he want to take one of McCain's houses and redistribute it to someone poor.

NY Girl Ready for Change   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

This is just the latest absurd example of John McCain's inability to connect with real people, let alone Americans. What marginal percentage of our general population makes at least $5 million a year? The answer to that should even MORE easily define for McCain just how impoverished our country is becoming thanks to the Bush economy, if that's the new barometer to define "rich." Yet he'd like to keep spending billions to sustain the military occupation of a nation who we may not really like very much, but still fundamentally don't have the right to continue trying to run on behalf of the native people. Anyway… McCain can't remember how many houses he owns why? because senility is setting in? Because he and Cindy have too many to count? Either way you slice it: a terrible choice to lead the country. Maybe next time his staff sits him down for a lesson on which countries currently exist, they can throw in a reminder about how many houses he owns, before tucking him in for his afternoon nap.

Cheryl   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

baby mama: did you even READ this article you commented on? "Just another Democrat….how sad"? The article is about mccain, honey. Last time I checked, he is a Republican. A presidential candidate who doesn't know how many homes he owns…now THAT is sad.

ELIZABETH FOR OBAMA   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

Everything is a joke to McCain. The joke is McCain.

The late Governor Ann Richards said of Geoge Bush, "He was born with a silver foot in his mouth". Now we have McCain who doesn't know how many homes they own, says that if you make over $5 million a year then you are considered rich. How can he possible identify with the people we have lost their jobs, homes, reitirement, and are paying the price of gas. It's easy McCain says, I want to give you a "tax holiday". That will give you an extra $28 to spend. WOW!!!

McCain makes fun of the American People everytime he opens his mouth.

McCain laughs everytime he is caught in a lie. McCain laughs a lot.
McCain is an adultrer. With no character – why would anyone want McCain as President? Everyone just attacked John Edwards for committing adultrey and running for President. McCain has done the samething then threw his wife away. I can't believe Christian's can support and vote for McCain.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

Wretched excess is the hallmark of the last eight years. If you are rich, good for you! If your wrong-headed vote for the Clown Prince in 2000, and 2004 has adversely affected you financially, you have to have a death wish to vote for McSame…THINK!

Ambrose Smith, Borrego Springs, California   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

McCain later responded that he has AT LEAST 4 houses.

AT LEAST?

C'mon McCain. How about the EXACT NUMBER?

I heard it was SEVEN!

Can you spare me one? I need a second home.

McCain is out of touch!

Caryn   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

Must be nice to not know how many homes you have. Wouldn't know though, I'm struggling just to keep the one I have.

U.S. Common Sense   August 21st, 2008 11:29 am ET

I think the $5Million comment is probably fair game, but when it comes to his wife's investment property, I don't think the general public will hold that against him.

And what's with this "new economy" thing? That is twice now I've heard an Obama spokesperson use that phrase. Note, they aren't talking abou the "current economy," but the "new economy." It definitely sounds like that Obama has more than just capital gains and payroll tax hikes in mind. Sounds like some serious government intervention.

Gregg   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

These political hacks have no clue. Who cares if he does not know how many houses he owns. I don't want someone in office who is "in touch" with the "common American." The common American has proved themselves to be incapable of handling their finances and mortgages. We need someone in office who understands these things and how to help fix them.

I am sure Obama is really in touch with the average American, he is probably the biggest phony……ever.

s   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

people can barely hold on to their condos- yet McCain doesn't even know how many homes he owns.

god help us, if he's elected. people would barely be able to hold on to their cardbox sheet.

john williams san diego, ca.   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

and osama can't remember hearing any sermon by Rev. Wright..The messiah is over his pay grade–

Fight hard now , lots of people want a fighter.   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Here goes a man who want to become future president do not know how many houses he own. wow….that is not a shocker, most people failed to realize that Mccain is just another rich man who do not care about your suffering.

" America people should go get second job to pay their mortgage, there will be no money for them"
That meant their housing forclosure issues is not cause by mortgage lender, it is cause by ordinary people who were deceived into getting houses.
Obama campaign are not doing a good job pointing out McCaflip flipper mispeak or wrong tactice.
There are lots of tools for the Obama campaigns to use but they have failed to utilize them.

Eric   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

they own "at least" which means they still don't actually know? they could own more? I no exactly how many properties I own, zero. If you can't keep track of your own holdings how can you be expected to keep track of a country's holdings? Not that the US actually owns any of the US anymore.

Foreign observer   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Only Italy is better. There the richest man governs the country !!!

Dude needs a haircut!   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Oh my..Mr. Kaine needs to see John Edward's barber fast!
I hope Colin Powell will be the one or Joe Biden.. Barack needs some good substantial wisdom to HELP guide him through and we ALL need some of that. Thank God above Barack doesn't have the self important ego that he can run the show by himself.. a party should be a team effort.
I think Americans are so blessed to have this wonderful man running for President..I pray they use some judgment instead of fear , fear and more fear.. that John McCain is selling.

Black Person that is not for Obama or Racist   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Democrats have become stupid and emotional. To take down Bill Clinton, the most hardworking and significant democrat in the last 50 years of American Presidents (and his wife) for a junior senator because he is popular and ethnic is stupid.

The party is getting what it deserves, and many people are wise to leave. Obama supporters do not have any idea what Obama is capable of because he hasn't done anything. It is such a dumb emotional, juvenile party, it needs to break up.

Terry, Butte, Mt   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

Your video don't work. Also, why haven't we heard anything from CNN about McCain yesterday at a town hall in New Mexico where he agreed with a questioner that said "If you want to follow Bin Laden to the gates of hell then you will have to open up the Draft." McCain's response, "I don't disagree with you."

It seems to me that would be a bigger gaff, unless he really does want to bring back the Draft and it is not a gaff. That would just make him Scary.

We're NOT "your friends"!!!   August 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

I'm sure that's something every American can relate to, not being able to remember how MANY homes you own! Are you kidding me, I mean seriously come on!!! Is this guy serious???

OBAMA '08

John in Binghamton NY   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Its funny how filthy rich playboy call anyone an else an elitist. The guy wears $600 shoes while walking through the FL swamp land and has more houses than he can count.

He said during the debate that Americans are better off over the last 8 years. What? I don't know about you, but I am losing wages to inflation and had to cut back.

Out of touch??? You think???

This guy cheated on his wife after she waited 6 years for him to come back from the war. How many people do you think would of waited while not even knowing if he ever would of come back?

How does he reward his loyal wife? By cheating on her and then leaving her for fluzy beer heiress. All while his wife is limping around on TV from injures sustained in a car accident.

WHAT A MAN!!!

Time to expose Mc Fraud. Stop making this guy a hero CNN!!!!!!!

russell   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

This is exactly the right kind of stuff the Dems need to get out to win. Don't let the Rep's win by labelling and painting our candidate as unamerican, elitist, etc. Beat them at their own game.

All the Dem's have to do is state fact, like the fact that McCain can't count his houses, or he wears 500 dollar shoes, or that he started having extramarital sex with Cindi while still married to someone else, or that he narrowly escaped jail in the S&L disaster, or that he didn't show up for any energy votes, etc., etc. You can't, and don't have to, make this stuff up.

Independent-Latina-for-OBAMA   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Its amazing how the McCain-attack-machine has done all it can to make us believe that Sen. Obama is an elitist! When in fact McCain NEVER in his ENTIRE life had to struggle financially!

Sen. Obama went to school on scholarships, is the son of a single mom. Was raised by his grandparents. Worked to help the poor and working-poor in Chicago………. as a young 24 year old. But he's the elitist??????

McCain wears $500 shoes, owns NINE homes, he and his wife do not have to budget………. nor worry for a single day where the payment for the next trip to the gas station will come from!

WHO'S OUT OF TOUCH?

PLEASE, AMERICA…….. THINK FOR YOURSELVES, DO YOUR HOMEWORK! DON'T BE FOOLED BY SOMEONE OFFERING TO "DRILL…….DRILL……" THESE ARE EMPTY WORDS!

WE CAN'T AFFORD MCCAIN & THE GOP……… OUR NATION'S IS IN TROUBLE WE NEED TO START FRESH……… WE NEED TO GET REAL…….. WE NEED CHANGE!

Michelle, PA   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

Must be nice to have so many houses you can't remember how many off the top of your head. Many Americans can't even afford one, many more who used to be able to afford their own home are losing them due to the BUSH/McCAIN economic policies (with props for the mortgage fiasco to Phil Gramm, that "whiner" blast from the past who keeps popping up in McCain's entourage). It never ceased to amaze me that a candidate who flew around in his wife's private jet had the moxie to call anybody else an "elitist". McCain has sure proven his hypocrite credentials this time around!

Dave   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

How is it again that McCain isn't the elitist in this campaign? He appears in movies, wears $500 shoes, married a beer heiress, is the son of a Navy Admiral, went to a tony prep school and owns, at a minimum, four places of residence. But the guy who owns one home in Chicago and was raised by a single mom and her parents…THAT'S the elitist.

TRAVIS   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

I was so offended when I heard this. I'm glad we have one candidate (BO) that is like the rest of us running on a meager couple million a year and who is forced to stretch his wife’s modest $350k salary per year (that he helped her get as a crooked senator favor) to buy generic groceries at Food 4 Less.

Is the Obama camp really going to bang on Johnny-Mac for being rich? God these people are stupid.

Promises, promises...change, change...   August 21st, 2008 11:27 am ET

I sure hope that Mr. Obama will finally get down to the details and expose us to his great depth of understanding of the issues (economy, energy, etc) that America is facing. Come on, Barack, show us what you really KNOW about solutions to your country's problems! Get off of that mossy old Democrat stump and get REAL! BE REAL!!!

Nancy, CA   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

I've also heard McCain wears $520 shoes. And he's the one claiming Obama is out of touch with the average American worker. Wake up, everyone!!

fred   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Is there a problem with owning more than 1 house? Once again Liberals want to verbally tax the American dream of becoming successful. It's sad.

Chris, NJ   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

4 homes?
that's not that bad
I was expecting something crazy like 10

Jorge   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

McCain probably couldn't answer the question because it wasn't part of his memorized stump speech , and he didn't have his note cards in front of him.

60 year old white female, Mo   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

This is ridiculous and McCain IS OUT OF TOUCH. We need someone who understand how the average american strugles. ..So far I see only Obama… Hillary makes too much money….
Obam 08…!!!!

CC Reston VA   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Okay Obama where is the ad on this one. Please Obama make me happy and put this ad on all the states.

Phil   August 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

I think this points out which candidate is actually the elitist.

Foreign observer   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

How many Americans there are not knowing the number of their houses ? Guess it´s half the nation – all voting Republican !

gl   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

McSame can not relate to the Average American people that is living from pay check to pay check and Mcsame doesn't know how many homes he own. Most American can not keep just one home from forecloures. McSame is too rich and doesn't think American people is having any economy problems.

Lewis   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Good job John!!! Keep it up

Brandon - SC   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Yeah, but remember… with a name like "Barack Obama", he must be risky. So when America votes for another Republican who will fail us, all they will do is COMPLAIN for four MORE years, and then in 2012, vote republican again, because we love pain. It's why we will be overturned by 2020 and China will be the new world power.

End the madness   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

…And this guy is going to be able to relate to the common people.
He can't even remember where the front door on what house he's in is!

Obama 08

Phil-Texas   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Do you know how many pairs of socks you have or how many different stocks your portfolio has. Give the man a break. No wonder Obama is falling in the polls. They need to dicuss things that really matter!!!!!!

obamaton   August 21st, 2008 11:25 am ET

Obama knows that he doesn't own a house in all 57 states!

Carmon Minneapolis MN   August 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

They are filthy rich they dont care about us. Becoming President is just another notch under is $1,000 custom made belts. Ask yourself why does someone rich and powerful feel the need to rule over us common folks. Dont they already have enough power as it is. I call the GREED. And John McCain and Cindy are pretty darn full. I call that gluttony.

wow!!!!   August 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Sen. Obama´s campaign should keep the negative ads against the albino to about two a day, can´t wait for the repugnants reaction……..brainless hypocrites

Fight hard now , lots of people want a fighter.   August 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Here going future president do not know how many houses he own. wow….that is not a shocker, most people failed to realize that Mccain is just another rich man who do not care about your suffering.

" America people should go get second job to pay their mortgage, there will be no money for them"
That meant their housing forclosure issues is not cause by mortgage lender, it is cause by ordinary people who were deceived into getting houses.
Obama campaign are not doing a good job pointing out McCaflip flipper mispeak or wrong tactice.
There are lots of tools for the Obama campaigns to use but they have failed to utilize them.

Black Person that is not for Obama or Racist   August 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Democrats have become and stupid emotional. Taking down the only family that made serious contribution to the presidency as a democrat and his wife in almost 50 years, just because the senior is popular and black is stupid.
Glad to leave the party, the new members are no good.

Sig, Los Angeles CA   August 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Keep attacking…

S. Boatman   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

Mccain Is Out Of Touch With The American People, Out Of Ideas And Out Of His Mind! He Lacks The Judgement To Lead And Doesnt Have A Vision Of What Is Best For This Country! I Have Never Heard Of Someone Not Knowing How Many Homes They Own! You Wont Get My Vote Until You Learn How To Count Mccain . . . I Take That Back . . . You Will Never Get My Vote!

mothra   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

'senator mccain'???

Really, CNN? Really?

Joe Reg   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

McCain's campaign is being run by the the republican administration of Bush. The repubs are going down this November. The old tactics and failed policies will also fail this time.

Go Obama go.

OB 08/12.

O for '08!   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

In the immortal words of Red Foxx, "Ya big dummy!". How wouldn't you know how many homes you own? Wow, that's a little out of touch for those struggling to keep their one little dwellings. Way to go McShame.

Sick of this   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

This might actually help McCain. Americans clearly enjoy voting idiots into the most powerful position in the world. McCain's just letting his "bright" side shine. Maybe it'll have the same effect as George "I'll be your drinking buddy but will ruin your country" Bush's campaigns….success.

Hopefully not.

Walt   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

OK, all politics aside. If you are asked how many houses you own that question should be a no-brainer, end of subject. If you have to consult with your staff to answer that question, something is wrong.

Megan from San Diego   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

Thank you! It is time for the democrats to start exposing for McCain for the person he really is…

I don't have anything in common with people like John and Cindy MCain nor do I have any respect for a man that leaves his cripppled wife for a girl 17 years younger than him, who also happens to be hieress to a beer fortune!!! Nevermind the fact that he has totally sold himself out in this election!

PLEASE, it is Bush all over again. McCain should be the one compared to Paris Hilton, not OBAMA! Wake up people!

California Gold   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

Not many people I know can relate to this old guy who bears a striking resemblance to the Quaker Oat man and can't remember how many houses and condominiums he owns.

Independent, Georgia   August 21st, 2008 11:23 am ET

Is he trying to sell any of them? Is he trying to pay double mortgages – oh I forgot – his wife can just buy them outright…

McBush can't relate to the average person dealing with the mortgage/credit crisis. Remember when Bush was surprised by the price of gas?

Jimmy   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Right…. and I am sure that Obama and Kaine live in shacks. Please…..

Jerry   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

I guess you can only own one or two houses to be president. Thank god the Clitons did not get the Democratic bid. They have a few houses they own, and few million in the bank.

BxGrrl   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Not only that, but some time ago one of his houses was featured in Architectural Digest. He doesn't have to worry about keeping a roof over his head – he has many roofs to choose from.

Octogenarian   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

After watching the revalation of the two candidates last night , it is apparent why McCain wants to overturn Roe vs. Wade. He had many children by his first wife and abandoned them along with his crippled wife for Cindy. He has no respect for women and he appears to be an opportunist. No wonder he had no comment about John Edwards infidelity because he certainly had his share of flings, cheting on his first wife. I question his character and I know CNN want print this because this has to wait for moderation.
Obma's past is no comparison to this man's lifetime of wrongdoings. His past makes Rev. Wright's connection to Obama insignificant. Rev. Wright must give an acount of his own deeds.

Ryan, Denver   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Are you kidding me?!!! Americans have been losing thier homes at record highs and McSame can't even count how many he owns!!! Wake up America! – McSame is so completly out of touch – if this guy can't remember how many houses he has how is he supposed to be able to relate to the cost of a loaf of bread!!!

Felly   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

McCain cannot remember how many houses he owns because he is too old and forgetful. Another reason is that he is used to reading from the scripts like McBush. Take away the script, and he has no clue.

MB   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Just goes to show how out-of-touch mcbush is with the average American. If elected, he will undoubtedly put his rich friends in the military and oil industries ahead of all the rest of us.

dasd   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Who cares how many houses he has? Being successful makes him less qualified to be president?

JD in Moraga, CA   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

It really is ironically funny that the McCain camp tries to paint Obama as a "celebrity" and "out of touch" when the last time I checked it wasn't the Obama family that invited a group of VP-wannabes to a secluded ranch in Sedona…that, at least, was one property that J-Mac remembers owning…

W.   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Well, either the man honestly can't remember how many homes he owns, or he doesn't want to make the actual number public – at least in his direct, "Straight Talk" sessions. It's not a good proposition for either scenario. I mean, how many of us on this board would have trouble with the same straightforward question McCain was asked?

If the Democrats don't blow this up – as well as the "$5 Million" quote – in ads and talking points from her until November 4th, then they truly deserve the heavy mantle of failure.

Kaine   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Kaine is a fraud. Maybe he is one of the frequent commenters here on the Ticker. He certainly acts like one of the hyenas.

rayster   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

If John told how meny homes he had, he wouldn't be one of the regular folks that have lost thiers
Nice try John but the truth is you know very well how meny homes you have and there are MENY

Connie   August 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Can't remember how many houses they own, now is that old age or out of touch?Why is every lie that he gets caught in, he all ways says I will get back to you or I will have my staff get back to you.Why have the media failed to get his follow up on those questions. Like to the vet who ask about his vet votes,because McSenile don't know we can Google his voting record. OBAMA 08
Connie from Indiana

VA is for Lovers!! I love Tim Kaine!!   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

I'm a Virginia resident and Navy Veteran. I voted for Tim Kaine for governor and would absolutely love to see him as Vice President.

Virginia Veterans for Obama!

California Gold   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

I love it when McCain "wings it". His cadre of staff who prep him must need oxygen administered after his gaffes.

Chris from WI   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

I don't understand how someone who doesn't know how many houses he owns, and thinks that $5 million is what it takes to make you "rich," (ignoring the whole 'the poors can be rich in OTHER ways' dodge) can get away with calling a former inner-city community activist and organizer the "elitist" in the race.

Seriously.

Mike   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

Ummmm like seriously….all of the issues facing the country and this is what the dems give me to convince me to vote for them?

Like for real?

BigBear   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

I would say that Obama is pretty desperate to have his people worry about such an open-ended question. Did they mean what McCain himself owns, or what the family owns or what the business owns. The Obama campaign would do much better if they could come up with something constructive that Obama has done in his more than 40 years of life. So far, they have not been able to show a thing, nada, zilch.
P.S. How close to the people do you think Obama is? As close as someone who has been through five years of hell and survived with his faith and morals intact? Or as close as someone who survived twenty years of anti-American vitriol without knowing where his faith lies?

Tzigan   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

The dream of owning a home is so beyond the reach of myself and many people my age (I'm 24), that this makes me absolutely sick. I would love to own just one house, and so many Americans can't even do that. THIS is the guy who we want to be president? Someone who can't count his houses and thinks 5 million makes a person wealthy?

If he was any more out of touch…. actually, I can't even finish that. I don't believe he could possibly be more out of touch.

Natasha   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

GOP's are headed to the "Lakes of fire".

alicia   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

If he doesn’t know how many homes he has. This makes me think what else doesn’t John McCain know that wasn’t scripted to him. He is less a maverick and more of a product of entitlement. I guess Lieberman or Lindsey wasn’t there to bail him out this time. And Americans want to vote for this guy for President. That is scary. If Americans are dumb enough to vote for the old navy buddy who they rather have a beer with who speaks and thinks like a simpleton again rather than a self made guy who can solve problems, who is willing to listen to all sides and is actually smart than we deserve what we get.

Btw, wasn’t the media just screaming saying Obama was out of touch. At least Obama could tell us about his one home and doesn’t wear $500
.

Bob   August 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

The Dems need to use every opportunity to smear McBush whenever he makes a gaffe(tells the truth). As much as he does it they should make a lot of headway. Anyone with half a brain knows that if we are going to engage in more wars, the draft will have to be reinstated.

Foreign observer   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Born with a golden spoon in his mouth he never worked for his money.
Except as a POW he always got more than 150 k per year. His statements to understand ordinary Americans are just a lie.

Steve   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

People should go into you tube.com and search mccain:gaffes and you will find lots of them. I do not see how he functions anymore by himself. Do the same with temper. He has only showed up 5 times this year for Senate vote. His total score is 81.1% Not voting this year and for the entire 110th Congress the total is 63.8% Not Voting.
Why is this man getting away with what he is doing?

Beverly, NYC   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Maybe he didn't hear this question either. Doesn't bode well for the 3am phone call.

America Deserves Better than John McCain.

Ron   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

Aren't we all sick and tired of being led in this country by millionaire egomaniacs who just want to be elected to some office?
Would we ever miss them if they weren't even there?

Jessie   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

It's amazing to me that McCain paint Obama as an "elitist", and yet Obama only owns ONE house- the one he lives in with his family in Chicago. Obama also still owed student loan payments until only 5 years ago. How can McCain, who is so completely out of touch with the average American, still be even close to Obama in the polls???

American en canada   August 21st, 2008 11:20 am ET

REPUBLICANS IN GENERAL ARE LIEMONGERS, WARMONGERS, DECEIVEMONGERS, MOTHERMONGERS AND FORGETFULLMONGERS

DEAR AMERICANS PAY ATTENTION DON'T MAKE THE SAME MISTAKES WE DID IN THE LAST 8 YEARS VOTE DEMOCRAT FOR BARRACK OBAMA

Elly   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Finally CNN adds a comment place
I hope they know how absurd McSame looks when he tries to paint
Obama as an elitist
Obama would have to go many years to catch up to the wealth the MCCains have
watch the great revealing show on MCSame and Obama by John King and suzanne Melville you will learn alot!!! excellent shows by both!!!
Senator Obama worked hard to get what he has in life so he can relate to the average american and their hardships
McCain has had wealth for years
I ask you in all fairness WHO is the elitist here…Certainly NOT Obama

Obama 08   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

What? He does not know how many homes he owns? This tells me he is irresponsible. How can you not know how many properties you have. How can such a person say he cares about the ordinary guy when he has all this money and does not know the homes he owns. Americans, wake up against McSame who want to jsut fulfill his ambition to become president as stated in his own memoir..

DonnieJ   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Who's elitist now, McClown?

paul oregon   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

cant belive american people are going to vote for this joker.
ah yes iguess ican they voted for bush twice. are the people so stupid that they cant think past there on noses? if you think not just listen to the commericals on t.v.

Jozee   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

Come on, Dems.

Everybody knows the McBeer Baron is rich, and it does no good to harp on silly stuff like how many houses they have.

Dems need to be talking about McCains's willingness to reinstate the draft that will send more of our sons and daughters to die for oil or to look for Bin Laden. Oh, I forgot, John said he was going to the gates of hell to get Bin Laden. Get busy, John, time's a-wastin!

OBAMA/BIDEN ALL THE WAY!

OBSERVERING   August 21st, 2008 11:19 am ET

S W E E T I E—-Y O U ' R E —-N O T—-G O I N G—-T O —-W I N———

T H E —-E L E C T I O N—–W I T H——T H I S

Lyle   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Democrats should be more concerned with Mr. Obama, who as many would like to forget, famously said that there are 57 states, in the United States. Of course, commensurate with his complete lack of experience and qualifications for the Presidency, I suppose this is about the best we can expect from Mr. Obama.

Nitpicking will not win this election for Democrats.

Mike - Texas   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Oh yes, and Obama got his house for over $300,000 off the asking price because of his convicted friend Tony Rezko. And it was because Rezko bought the adjoining lot.

I wish that I could get a deal like that.

There needs to be an investigation into how Obama was able to get such a good deal. Especially since Rezko is going to jail.

JDC // Ohio   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Quesion didn't even deserve an answer!

Gerald in Georgia   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Why do Americans think that we need an old president? Hillary is 60 and MCain is 71. Could we please elect someone that might have some new ideas? Look my Fellow Americans, have you noticed that the death rate seems to be claiming a lot more well known people lately? it's time out for playing games. if you want to play political games then go to Russia and try it there, or better yet go to North Korea and try it there. How can you be a Hillary supporter voting for MCain? What kind of sick twisted drugs are you on?

Andrew   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

10 homes, $500 loafers, Tax breaks to the richest people and business in this country….and he and his cronies try to paint Obama as an elitist?

The average American relates more to Obama than to McCain….but he GOP will paint him as inexepreiced.

All that "expereince" that McCain touts may play well in board rooms and in mansions. But on Main Street, I'd rather follow a man that has made HIS OWN WAY in the world through hard work and self sacrifice. NOT the priveldged son of an Admiral who perhaps would have fluncked out of the Naval Academy, had his fater not been a Admiral.

McCain served valiently and honorably during Vietnam, but that was a half a century ago. McCain isn't even the same man he was 8 years ago. He is a continuation of failed policies that have led to the common American losing faith in its Country. 75% of Americans feel the country his headed in the wrong direction with the current policies.

The time is now to change.

Tyler in Raleigh   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Ah yes, but Obama is the elite one….. what a joke!

McCain tries to pretend he is a beer drinking American just like Bush did. The country fell for it once and is doign so again. Who wants a President that drinks beer at the ranch anyways, we don't want to be their friend…. we want them to manage the country!

Obama may not be an Average Joe, but that is because he is educated and made money off a few books. McCain is just rich from marriage and many years of political favors.

Sharon, Minnesota   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

Elitist anyone? Not only that, he'll have his paid accountants go around and count how many houses/condos he owns and will report back.

Brian   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

first but foremost dang.. to hell with forty acres and a mule. wheres my five mill and unlimited number of condos.. if this is what "the average" American feels is the leader for them I am going to pray pray pray that the apocalypse comes soon..

Jarred   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

I have always known how many houses I own. ONE! All politicians are out of touch (including OBAMA). Mcain's just more out of touch becuase he's older. He's had more time to be in denial of his personal wealth!

proud army and navy mom   August 21st, 2008 11:18 am ET

mcidiot doesn't know how many houses he owns?????

Here the problem, if you need a staff to gather that info for you, it's a lot or you are a senile old man that is not fit to be commander in chief of the US.

greenfun   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

Gosh, I am so suprised. i thought Mr. Hope and Change was above this sort of politics as usual? I guess he really is just another politician–one with very little experience.

McCain=the draft   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

And who's the elitist?

Mccain=Warmonger   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

Mr Elitst with his 7 houses and 500 dollar shoes I bet he doesn't even pump his own gas and i know he doesn't do his own grocery shopping Mr Old Elitist doesn't know what us Blue collard workers go through he That is why his Economic advisers said we are a Bunch of whiners because when You are an Elitst like MCCAIN I guess the economic hardships of Ordinary Hard workers would seem like whinning. On Clear Choice in this Election and Elitist or a Canidate that pulled Himself Up by the Bootstraps Obama is the One we Should Choice

Sharon ohio   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

LOL

Democrats are getting desperate aren't they.

John in Ohio   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

McCain and his second wife are worth $100 million in beer money and kickbacks. They've got a private jet and "at least four" homes. McCain thinks in order to be rich you have to make $5 million a year. Unsurprising, because Cindy McCain's annual income just happens to be $6 million a year, which by McCain Math would make her just barely rich.

This is not a guy who lives in the same world the rest of us <$100k/yr people live.

kel   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

Talked being a being out ot touch

CitizenS   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

Out of touch is the least of what you could say. He obviously does not know his own fiances and doesn't have a handle on them. How could you expect him to be smart enough to manage the finances of the entire country. Has anyone seen the excerpt where he tells a voter he does not disagree with a possible DRAFT of our Youth? There's your strong leader for you, President McWar. He will lead you straight to you know where (and it ain't a good place). So all you people that will allow prejudice to stand in your way of something good for you PLEAZZZZZ vote for McCain. It's called cutting your nose off to spite your face!

JW Mathews   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

"Let's go home, Cindy" "Which one John?" Seriously, I'd bet Donald Trump knows the eact number of homes, condos etc. he owns! What a total disconnet by "Everman" McCain. Ask the City of La Jolla CA how long it took to get their property taxes because someone "forgot".?

How did I ever work for this guy in 2000.? Bill Clinton may have "felt your pain", but this guy's the "Louis XVI" of American politics. Now where's "Madam Defarge" this morning?

cindy   August 21st, 2008 11:17 am ET

McCain doesn't know how many houses he has and he is calling Obama Elite. This is ridiculus. Ask many Americans they will tell you they have one or none or some until bank foreclose on them. How many American can afford to buy house for a 17 years old only John McCain and he said he care about Americans what a lier. PUMAs get your head checked .

MD FOR OBAMA   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Totally in touch with America. NOT!

Abby   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

It’s not a crime to be rich but it is disingenuous and dishonest to suggest that the man with just one home and student loans that were just recently paid, the man who pulled himself up by his bootstraps is less in touch with America than you. John McCain, you have been found out.

OBAMA 08!!!!

Peg   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

The reason he doesn't know is because HE doesn't own any. Cindy owns everything and the 110 million dollars is in HER name. :-)

Typical White Person   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Yeah, financial success is such a bad trait to have…

Alfred   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Who cares how many houses he owns? Seven, eight, nine, what business is it of America? Does it really matter to the Presidential race? Since when has being successful American been such a bad thing? It seems that it's only bad when you're white and a Republican. Hypocrites.

Awaiting CNN moderation…

dEMOBRAT   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Who cares- the American Dream is to be successful, now were going to beat the guy up because he is successful and his wife is successful?

JP   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Why don't we nominate some one who makes less than 150K, that way, s/he can identify with most of the struggling Americans.
I'm sure Obama makes more than that; then why is he running in the first place, I don’t think he can identify himself with the struggling Americans either.

Greg from San Diego   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Unbelievable, but not surprising.

Let me check with my STAFF…

The "Help" will know.

Chris   August 21st, 2008 11:16 am ET

Hello Kettle, you are an arugula-eating elitist.

Sincerely,
Mr. Pot.

wycliffe, NJ   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

these truths we hold as self evidence…McCain is rich , cant even count how many houses he has.

Obama = Carter the 2nd!!!   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

You know McCain has them worried if they try to make hay of this. LOL

McCain does not know how many homes he owns and Obama does not know how many states there are in the USA.

Tam   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

That's sad. So many people are about to lose their homes, and many more can't even afford a home, and this man doesn't even know how many he has. And he calls Obama an elitist. I wish America would wake up. This is unreal.

Puffin   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

I believe he has no clue about finances. Cindy is most likely managing all that. He could not. The only thing McCain can manage is the DOD over-spending.

Jim   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

We all lose not matter what. The New World Order wins. Expect more Warfare and Welfare with Obama or McCain.

John McShame, Obama Is Going to Tax You & Cindy, but Not Me & 95% Americans Making < $250,000/Yr   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

McShame was asked to define the word “rich” and to give a figure. After promoting his fraudaulent tax policies for the SUPER RICH, McCain said: “I think if you are just talking about income, how about $5 million?”

Now if americans dont think this old twig is elitist and out of touch with ordinary americans, I guess John McShame and the repubilcan bigots think we are all STUPID!

I'm sure there are so many americans who believe the lies and distortions that's been spouted by this lying, two-faced adulter, and these are the same fools who voted for George Dubya twice!

Time for change is NOW! – Obama '08/'12!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kitten for Obama   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

McCain is so out of touch, he owns 9 homes and you have people here that are homeless. What about the economy he cannot relate because he is out of touch. He doesn't know what groceries cost, gas prices, having to buy clothes and shoes. What he paid for one pair of shoes some people don't make that for a two week salary. McCain is out of touch. All he is concern about is going to war and creating a draft for our sons and daughters. Voters we need to THINK!!!!!! before you put McCain in the Whitehouse we will all be in the poorhouse.

paulie_nj   August 21st, 2008 11:15 am ET

The fact that McCain is wealthy can only bolster the fact that he can manage money and was able to build his wealth, something he can also do for our country.

Carlos, Los Angeles   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

Is this the best the Democrats can do? Why would they bring up houses, when thet know there are still questions regarding the Obamas shady real estate deal. If the Democrats are going to go negative, they need to hit McCain where it is going to hurt, like the Keating scandal.

Credit Card Republicans   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

Cindy already outsourced Bud beer,whats next, Nascar?

Mike   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

Who cares how many house he owns, how many politicians are "intouch" with the common/ordinary person? I would venture to say none of them. They act as if they are, they act as if they are concerned, but the majority are only concerned with getting elected. It takes more than one person (president) to change anything–look at congress as well when pointing fingers (close to 600 additional faces) who have a hand in ANY decision made on Capitol Hill. We have politicians in congress who have received beneficial loans from Countrywide that any ordinary person would not be able to get, it is just how the world works. If you have power, you have benefits, look at our overpaid sport icons who are paid millions upon millions to play golf or basketball and who have dozens of homes and cars while our teachers and police officers are barely able to make ends meet? We just need to question the US lifestyle completely and make all ends right.

Pat Blankenship   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

I don't know where Kaine has any room to talk. Foreclosures in Va are just as bad as elsewhere. He may not have many houses but apparently he lives rent free as Governor. He is no better thehn McCain. And I hope that he is not the choice for VP because he has not done anything for Virginia! And yese McCain can count that high!.
Also what McCain went thru as a POW gives him the right to own as many houses as he wants and can afford. What has Obama or Kaine done in that regard? I can't get over how stupid our leaders are – especially Obama and Kaine.

CL OT   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

OMG!! He has investment properties!!!
How dare he!!!
Get my pitchfork!!!

Octavio Lima   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

Not knowing how many houses one has is a crime? Or is it any indication of how well one can perform as president? I am sure that will disqualify many democrats that have their money managed by a financial advisor while they concentrate on politics. Particularly the wealthy ones…

AL in West Palm Beach, FL   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

<<<this guy is working to pay for gas, and McCain is wearing $500 shoes. Yet he says he feels my pain. How? When?

Senator, your grandfather married into money, as did your father. You were not born with a silver spoon in your mouth. It was made of pure gold. Senator, I guess you married for love the first time and like your fore-fathers before you, you married into money as well. Senator, do you know what's it like to have college loans? Senator, do you know what's it like to study harder than your peers to be competitive? Senator, I don't have a dad who can pull strings to get me anywhere….YOU DID!

Senator, how do you feel my pain? You and I are nothing alike. So please stop telling me you how you feel my pain because YOU DON'T, CAN'T, WON'T….EVER.

Tracy---Indianapolis, IN   August 21st, 2008 11:14 am ET

I HOPE ALL OF YOU THAT ARE VOTING FOR MCCAIN THIS NOV. ONLY HAVE ONE SON BECAUSE HE'S BRINGING BACK THE DRAFT……..SO VOTE SMART IF YOU DON'T WANT YOU CHILDREN TO BE DRAFTED BECAUSE HE'S ALL ABOUT WAR AND NOTHING ELSE…

OBAMA 08

Lacy   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

And he wants to paint Obama as an out of touch elitest. Good move John, brilliant!

James   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

I wish I had the problem of forgetting how many houses I owned. Yeah I'd trust this guy with the economy.

A CANUCK   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

It's not that he didn't know how many houses he has…………he just didn't want the voters to know ! He's a freaking millionaire and has the nerve to say Obama doesn't understand the ordinary man. McCain is a man with two faces…..not a good thing !!!!

Real Change   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

I know this is just politics…but. seriously…how do you not know how many houses you own. I, for instance, know that I own exactly ONE.

New York voter   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

The pot calling the kettle black. Who are the Dems kidding? Look at the personal wealth of their top politicians. The Republicans get rich before they get into politics- the Democrats get rich through politics.

Janice   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

Actually, I was more wowed by McCain's agreement with a questioner at a town meeting yesterday that the draft needs to be started in order to get Bin Laden.

Hope the youth of the country and their parents and grandparents are paying attention to the media who reported this, because CNN doesn't seem to be on board yet with reporting this.

McCain in his head really is living still in Vietnam – he never left. God help the youth of this country if he becomes President.

Scott L   August 21st, 2008 11:13 am ET

Virginians cannot afford them because Kaine raised taxes on us…duh…

Ki-Jana Carter   August 21st, 2008 11:12 am ET

Somone PLEASE crush him for this. Here is a guy trying to paint his opponent as an elitist, and he doesn't even know how many houses he has? That is the very definition of elitism. Either that or he is just plain senile, either way he is unfit to lead this nation.

Anonymous   August 21st, 2008 11:12 am ET

Keep hitting him.

McCain can't or won't answer even the simplest question without someone telling him the acceptable answer.

Do you McCain supporters really understand what you're doing to this country by supporting this person?

You may not like Obama or support his policies, but do you really think John McCain is fit to hold the office?

anonymous   August 21st, 2008 11:12 am ET

Baloney – its none of Kaine's business, or anyone else for that matter, how many homes McCain owns. Has anyone ever checked out the global warming award winning big mouth's house? Look in your own kitchen before choking!

John   August 21st, 2008 11:12 am ET

And McShame has the nerve to call Obama an Elitist? MCcain in no way is in touch with the common American person. Just say whatever will get him elected.

mel   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

McCain, do not care voter he have money,homesand jet.Poor
people are struggle

Don   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

The real question is did Rezko Barack's corrupt friend help him buyt his house with money he got illegally?

OUT OF TOUCH   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Mc Cain is out of touch …he does not speak for us the ordinary people.
He has so many houses ,he cannot keep count of them,while we are struggling to keep the one we have.

Obama identifies with us.
McCain says in he is in agreement with the draft.

Obama 08.

Chanda in Cincinnati Ohio   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Yeah…he really knows what the average American is up against. For crying out loud people!!!!!! This man could give a rats you know what if you can not make your mortgage, or buy groceries for your children. His rich cronies and Big oil will be the benificiaries of his term in office. While the rest of the American public gets flushed down the toilet…he will be sitting pretty off his millions.. Not to mention his military pension,social security benifits, and Senate salary. WHY THE HELL IS THIS MAN TAKING SOCIAL SECURITY!!!! He is worth MILLIONS, and Social Security, by all accounts, is going broke! How many more governmet sponsored checks does he need to take care of his 4+ homes!!!!!!!! Give me a big fat break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Me   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

who's elitist now???????

Rache from Bowie   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

The headline is:
A fool with a lot of houses is running for president.

WB, PSL   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

McCain and his Republican croonies wanted to paint Barack an Elitist
when he MCCAIN don't even know the amount of homes he OWNES. Sad piece of craps!!

No more Republicans!!!

NotFallingInLine.org   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Yup, John McCain is just like every one of us. RICH!
No wonder he undestands us so well.

KiloWhiskey   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Boy there's a "critical gaffe" for you……who cares? This is opposed to Obama where we know everything about his home – including the "convicted felon" help he had in buying it.

LOVE MY USA   August 21st, 2008 11:11 am ET

Who cares! BO and his group will do anything they can to hurt McCain. MCCAin didn't purchse his homes with a corrupt individual as BO did.
I am not rich, but my faimly has a few homes for investment .
Deal with the real issues, and that is BO is not ready to lead this country…..

He IS wealthy   August 21st, 2008 11:10 am ET

OK – he IS wealthy. Next question. Where was this blustering by the Democrats when Senator Heinz-Kerry was running?

Randy   August 21st, 2008 11:10 am ET

wow that is what they got against him….boy Obama is in trouble

doc4nuts   August 21st, 2008 11:09 am ET

As a Board Cerified Psychiatrist, I am beginning to question if early stage dementia is present. Again, I am not in a position to interview him 1:1 and could be very incorrect. However, the facial expressions, lack of affect and lack of consistent orieintation to the subject would indicate something is going on here. Naturally, the diagnosis and etiology could only be made by a proefessional in direct interaction with him.

Just a thought!

NObama   August 21st, 2008 11:09 am ET

So what. Obama obtained his home from Tony Resko, a sleezy dealer, and financed it with Arab money.

Shari, NY   August 21st, 2008 11:09 am ET

"When asked about the number of houses he owned in a Politico interview published Thursday, McCain was unable to answer. "I think — I'll have my staff get to you," he replied. "It's condominiums where — I'll have them get to you."

Sad comedy!

Jacob, Des Moines Iowa   August 21st, 2008 11:09 am ET

mmm….

…what a shame

maria   August 21st, 2008 11:09 am ET

obama 08,12 change we can believe in
Mcain is the same rich republican out there to help the rich. Mcain will continue a war in iraq possibly a war in iran and he promoted drafting.
Mcain will continue the failed policy's of george w bush.

Mcain is out of touch with the average americans.
Obama 08,12

Deb, Allentown, PA   August 21st, 2008 11:08 am ET

Besides being out of touch with those of us who make less than $5M a year, McCain can't get a word out of his mouth without bumbling and stumbling over it, or without reading from his cards. The man scares me.

And CNN, where is the ticker article about McCain not disagreeing that we may need to reinstate the draft? This is a huge piece of news that should be front and center!

CAPTAIN CAPSLOCK   August 21st, 2008 11:08 am ET

And yet half of the country wants to vote for McCain because "Obama is too risky" or "He won't make a good commander in chief" I'm guessing it's the same 50% that voted for bush 2 times.

The same 50% that shouldn't be allowed to vote because they don't know how to make informed, intelligent decisions.

If you are voting for McCain, please stay home and stop ruining mine and my daughters future.

Old f@rt McLame   August 21st, 2008 11:08 am ET

senile (adjective)

1) mentally less acute in LATER LIFE

nuff said

Tired of W, OH   August 21st, 2008 11:08 am ET

And half of America wants to vote for this guy?!? Unbelievable! The republicans can feed the people a spoon full of crap and tell them it's sugar…..and people will buy it!

Jordan - San Marcos TX   August 21st, 2008 11:08 am ET

*his student loans

Hello!!!   August 21st, 2008 11:07 am ET

They're just jealous. :)
After watching CNN's coverage of his life last night, John McCain deserves to live in as many homes as he wants.
What a remarkable life.
What a hero!

Jordan - San Marcos TX   August 21st, 2008 11:07 am ET

Meanwhile just a few years ago the Obama finished paying off the student loans while owning one house and having a net worth under $1 million (almost unheard of for a general election candidate.)

anna   August 21st, 2008 11:06 am ET

This is not a big deal.
I bet he doesnt know how many stocks he owns either.

He lets other people handle this stuff.

ari   August 21st, 2008 11:06 am ET

If you can't count the number of homes you have then that is called

FILTHY RICH!!!!

Len in Washington   August 21st, 2008 11:05 am ET

Ahhhhh, the truth hurts, eh, Johnny Boy?

Just who's the elitist?

mike   August 21st, 2008 11:05 am ET

obama faithful watch Orielly and Hannity and Combs tonight if you never watch them again. A real eye opener on character concerning abortion.

Kim, Charlotte, NC   August 21st, 2008 11:04 am ET

Just the sight of him stating he would follow Osama Bin Laden to the "Gates of Hell" pissed me off!

Sad………………………….

Jake   August 21st, 2008 11:04 am ET

Haha, who's the elitist now?

Obama '08. Because intelligence isn't "elitism".

baby mama   August 21st, 2008 11:04 am ET

so much for new politics……….Change?? I don't thnk so…………..

just another Democrat…………how sad

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