September 6, 2008
Posted: 03:00 PM ET

From
A spokesman for the Democratic National Convention says these flags were not intended to be thrown out.
A spokesman for the Democratic National Convention says these flags were not intended to be thrown out.

COLORADO SPRINGS, CO (CNN)–Republicans kicked off a McCain/Palin rally in Colorado Springs with veterans handing out American flags they say were discarded after the Democratic National Convention in Denver.

Tom Kise –a spokesman for the McCain campaign in Colorado said a worker at Invesco field who wants to remain anonymous dropped off the flags to the McCain campaign this past week. He says there were 84 bags that amounted to roughly 12 thousand flags.

As thousands in the crowd waved flags, Senator McCain noticed them – saying “those flags look great” — but did not make direct mention of the flap.

Damon Jones, a spokesman for the Democratic Convention tells CNN “the story is false.”

He says the flags were bundled together, placed in bags and intended to be distrubited at Invesco. Jones says they “were removed without authorization”.

Updated with DNC response

In response to the accusations, DNC spokeswoman Karren Finney released the following statement:

"American flags were proudly waved by the 75,000 people who joined Barack Obama at the Democratic Convention. John McCain should applaud that, but instead his supporters wrongfully took leftover bundles of our flags from the stadium to play a cheap political stunt calling into question our patriotism. On the same day he agrees to join Barack Obama at Ground Zero on September 11, John McCain attacks the patriotism of Obama supporters who so proudly waved the American flag at our historic event in Denver just days ago."

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Popular Posts • Sarah Palin


Everyone is Biased   September 6th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

I heard some Boy Scouts found some flags in dumpsters. I guess that is storage for the Obama crowd.

Was the Obama campaign paying storage fees to Invesco field to "hold" these items?

Some of these previous comments are too funny!

M.   September 6th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

Obama: 8 years-Columbia University, Harvard Law School, Juris Doctor (J.D.) magna cum laude from Harvard
Biden: 8 years-Univerisity of Delaware, Syracuse University, J.D. from Syracuse University College of Law

McCain: 3 years-Naval Academy, Ranked 894 out of 899
Palin: 5 years at 5 different colleges, B.A. in Communications-Journalism from the University of Idaho.

INDEPENDANT VET.   September 6th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

NOW ENGAGE A LITTLE MEMORY , YOU RECALL THAT OBAMA HAD REMOVED HIS LAPEL PIN MONTHS AGO , AN ABC NEWS JOINED IN , TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR OBAMA . AN THOS E FLAGS THEY FOUND NOW , WERE BOUGHT WAY BEFORE TIS ALL TOOK PLACE , SO THEY HAD TO DICH THEM SOME PLACE . DOES NOT SUPRISE ANY ONE . FOR THEY ARE THE BIGGEST BUNCH OF ANTI AMERICANS , WANT TO CHANGE EVERYTHING , FOR HE SAID LONG AGO , HE WILL SWORN IN , NOT ON THE BIBLE WE KNOW , IT WILL BE THE QUARM .
ONE DAY NOT FAR OFF , HE WILL MAKE A BIG , SLIP AN THE MEDIA WILL BE CHASING THREW THE SKY'S TO SAVE THAT SLIP.

NO OBAMA, AN JOE , SIT DOWN AN LET JIMMY CATER GIVE YOU A TOAST , MAY HAVE SOME LEFT OVER BILL'S BEER.

CM   September 6th, 2008 5:56 pm ET

So these 'discarded' flags were all neatly rolled up and bagged when the convention was over?

Wouldn't put it past the GOP to steal those flags. They're been stealing from Americans for too long.

Give up the name of the 'donor'.

DrCats   September 6th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

If they were "thrown away", why are they all neatly folded?
When I throw something away, I dont tend to fold it up all neat-like…

Why aren't we asking why "hockey mom" wont do an interview with the press? You know if the situation was reversed, the McSame camp would be all over it…

KG   September 6th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

You can't spell neoconservative without "con". This sounds like another one.

Earl   September 6th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

The flags in the bag, pictured, were each rolled up neatly, not something you'd bother to do if you were collecting them to throw them out: they'd just be mixed with all the other debris, right?. Where are they now? Did the Republicans finally guide them into the garbage after they used them, or what….?

mary   September 6th, 2008 5:54 pm ET

I think some one stole the flags to use for whatever reason .why was the flags still rolled up neatly and neatly placed in a bag?If they were found the RNC has the DNC of OBAMA camp e-mail or could texed them if they were FOUND .something dosen,t smell right .Being a PROUD AMERICAN certianly would have made that contact .

Frank   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

That's just what Obama will do to our country. Take what he wants and throw the American dream in the trash! Everybody now…NO OBAMA….NO OBAMA….NO OBAMA…!

armywife   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

CNN's headline has quotes around the word discarded…therefore questioning whether they were actually thrown away! Jeez folks! Stop whining about CNN's "biased" coverage against your revered Obama!

Why can't people in the comment section actually keep their comments to the actual story & stop the complaining?

Patrick   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

I think the flags were stolen. I was at Invesco and we were told they ran out of flags. Now it looks like some "insider" hid the flags so he could give them to McCain. There were many people that wanted flags that did not get one. It seems that the McCain campaign should have checked into the story before using stolen items.

Mary   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Is this all you have?

I am sorry to hear about Jack"s wife. I love that man. he is so fair and honest..

Marie   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

How desperate are the republicans that they have to fabricate another lie like this.

Watching the RNC last week, made me realize what is really at stake. McCain/Palin are going to be nothing more than another 4 years of Bush/Cheney.

Sending Palin today to Alaska for two weeks is like Dick Cheney being in an undisclosed location.

Reba   September 6th, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Bill…. If the surge worked…then why are we still there fighting. Ohhh, maybe because it didn't. It may have slowed the violence, but it did not and has not eliminated it. True victory is when the Iraqi people take care of and govern themselves and when we no longer have to be there to stand guard and fight their battles. It did NOT work. It was like putting a bandaid on a broken arm.

Terry   September 6th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

CNN, you need to change the title on your headline. Clearly the flags were stolen, not 'discarded.' Chock it up to the mainstream media like Fox and CNN to spread false rumours.

gobo   September 6th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Wow! I guess the McCain campaign is playing dirt by pretending to be more American. If you are more American, talk about the issues that are important to the American people– talk about your plans on the economy, education, healthcare, the environment, peace, instead of diverting to irrelevant matters such as who wears flag pins more often, who steals flags from the opposition campaign, etc.

Lana, California   September 6th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

That's right McCain/Palin.

You have no issues, no solutions, nothing substative to run on or legitimate reasons why you should win. Oh yes, there is the Fear Factor. I'll give you that red herring. So, they have to manufacture "outrage" to keep the mindless base happy.

Now, we learn that the McCain camp has hired Tucker Eskew, Bush's Media Guru, to chaperone little Sarah. How cute.

Hilarious….and here we thought McBush, er, McCain was trying to "distance" his ticket from the last 8 years of Bush/Cheney. Sounds like exactly more of the same to me.

Ah yes - 10% change indeed. We'll be lucky if we get THAT much out of this train wreck of a Repub ticket. My question is: If Palin is that wonderous, why does she need Bush handlers and minders?

Don't be fooled. Vote for REAL change you can believe in.

Obama/Biden 08

karen   September 6th, 2008 5:52 pm ET

I am totally saddened by the press of America. If the press was insulted and ignored like this even in Bangladesh I promise they will stop reporting about this party totally. America is promoting democacy all over the wourld, and has invaded Iraq to establish democracy there. America wants to change many govts to democracy buthere in America somebody is trying to be your president without answering your basic and valid questions. CNN I am more discouraged by you. It looks like you either are scared of mcpalin etc or you simply are ignoring your basic duty as press.You post this or dont I dont care but please wake up or you will also be responsible for the greatest disater of the history.

KM   September 6th, 2008 5:51 pm ET

CNN - Why do you take McCain talking points, yet refuse to ask him why he and Palin (I'd say ask her, but she is in hiding) LIED and misrepresented Obama's position and their own positions at the RNC?

hurricane palin   September 6th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

so the dems are just using gimmicks to win over the hearts of

americans? if the dems win and their masks comes off after obama

is potus, americans will be regretting, they voted for the wrong

person, inexperience

I used to be a Democrat   September 6th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

And now we see what the Democratic party is all about… total smoke and mirrors.

jeanne alicandro   September 6th, 2008 5:50 pm ET

why the misleading title?
this is a false story. stop perpetuating it. the flags were not "discarded"!
do your job

DOH!!!   September 6th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Good point Greg…..sounds like another sneaky, low down, Republican move……

David R in Carlsbad   September 6th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Mary Snow seems to have a bit of a history of these type of stories that are proven completely false after they are printed.

Kevin   September 6th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

LOL @ at the McCain campaign trying to make this election about image rather than issues. We'll see come November what's really on peoples' minds.

Venus   September 6th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

Ha,ha,ha!

They had to retract this story! It's not true!

Arizona   September 6th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

They were 'removed without authorization', so in other words, McCain is using stolen flags…way to go John.

Melissa   September 6th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

OMG!!!! McCain and Palin are a couple of losers and liars!!!!!!

It's obvious they stole those flags!!! Look at how they're packaged in the bag!!!

Voter   September 6th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

McBush STOLE flags from DNC would be more accurate!

victor,nj   September 6th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

WHICH IS MORE PATRIOTIC SAVING 12,000 FLAGS OR SAVING 5,000 SOLDIERS. REPUBS PLAYING TO VOTERS IGNORANCE AGAIN. THIS MAKES ME SICK TO MY STOMACH.

thomas   September 6th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Patriotism comes from heart and mind not the end of a pole. Honorable service is dishonored when another's honor and patriotism are questioned. A true patriot does not stand on his service for personal benefit. A patriot would never sacrifice a single life for undefined principles. A patriot believes in the constitution and what it stands for. Patriotism can never be bought and will never be sold. A patriot will never sit idle while his country collapses under the weight of incompetence, intolerance, indifference and neglect. A patriot will always choose freedom over a symbolic representation of it.

Mary   September 6th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

The worker wants to remain anonymous? CNN you would like the National Enquirer.

I don't buy that kind of crap if it is aimed at either party.

subtlesubtitles   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

clearly this is true. everyone knows how evil liberals are.

if this is the best mccains little dogs can do its sad. too bad they don't actually have a real plan to focus on that interests americans.

David   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Be ready for more divisive.. Republicans want to paint Obama as unpatriotic unlike McCain the hero. The person behind this devisive plot should be arrested.. why would they need in McCain campaign. Americans wake up..McCain/Palin want to win whatever the cost.

Gnomepark   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

they “were removed without authorization” - stolen.

And reused by McCain.

Shouldn't steal……but they were "recycled"….end of story…please back to the issues?

Obama 08
Richard Lugar for Secretary of State

HUD sucks, CT   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

Oh, PULEEZ!!!!

If that story were in fact true, why isn't there a name posted? Wait. Maybe soemone from MCPailin's camp "stole" the falgs becuase there isn't enoug money from their camp for more.

Get them at the friggin' Dollar Store Cheapskates.

Janet- New York   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

McCain will stoop to anything to win this election!!!!! He and Miss Pit Bull make me sick!
Looking forward to the end of this election when we can finally say, President Obama and Vice President Biden!

Matt, MN   September 6th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

If they were to be saved, why would they be put in bags? Surely if they were to be distrubted at various events at Invesco, they would have been put in actual boxes? They would have taken up less space in boxes, and would have been easier to move from storage location to storage location.

Ask yourself, have you ever seen any free give-away / handout at any sporting even, being pulled out of a garbage bag?

JH   September 6th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Rememebr your training McCain? INTEGRITY FIRST! Thats the flyboy creed

John   September 6th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

DNC is un-patriot.

Becky   September 6th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

CNN, you have crossed over into vile. You know the truth and you present it in this fashion. Trying to become FOX? Disgusting.

Voter   September 6th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Why is anyone talking about this?

Leah DiMarco, Texas   September 6th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Charges should be brought against the thief.
Also, charges should be brought against McCain for receiving stolen property.
This is probably a felony charge, because 12,000 flags of that size would have cost more than $12,000 dollars!

susan   September 6th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Of course, McCain The Joker didn't mention the flags with his lying storyline.
He has been caught in receipt of stolen property–a criminal offence.
His slimy operatives have this disgusting story all over the blogs. Will they retract to avoid prosecution?

Kathy a woman on a mission   September 6th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Theft by receiving, isn't that a Felony, McBushlin you are under arrest!
Turn in your Flag Pin, Wait you are not wearing one!

Truthtalker   September 6th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

Dems should win this going away instead they are even…what does that say about the democratic party!?! Evidently there are concerns that the party is represented by two empty suits who have never managed thing in their lives. Also, Democrats = the party of whiners. Just look at their vicious inmature comments on this board.

S. Boatman   September 6th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Shame On You Mccain! How Low Can Your Campaign Get! Every Time I Think You Hit Bottom You Find A New Low! This Story Has Already Been De Bunked! You Probably Stole The Flags Because Your Campaign Is Going Broke! If You Would Have Asked Im Sure Obama Would Have Given You Some! Not Only People In Your Party Are Patriots Mccain! There Are Plenty Of P O W That Didnt Rat Out Their Country For A Cigarette!

Moose   September 6th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

Say one thing in Alaska and another in St.Paul.
A moose has more manners than this bafoon.

3rd wold country   September 6th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

THIS IS LUDICROUS. YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN ARE DYING FOR A WAR THAT SHOULD HAVE NEVER HAPPEN. WHITE TREAT BLACK PEOPLE LESS THAN TRAH. BELITTLE OBAMA BECAUSE HE IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT AND HAS DIFFERENT VIEWS. YET WORRIED ABOUT FLAGS THAT STOLEN. GOD HELP US ALL FOR THE GREED OF HUMAN BEING.

Amazed   September 6th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

To be a country that is suppose to be one of the most influential nation in the world, we sure do let lies and distortions affect our thoughts and beliefs. Now if those flags were suppose to be discarded, why would they be neatly wrapped up and bagged together? Unless you are an individual suffering from OCD, things that you will throw away does not look like that. A few weeks ago before Palin was chosen by McCain, we were told that the election was very close and they had all these poll numbers that support this idea. Now, I hear from those same people saying that McCain know that he was going to lose the election so he had to chose Palin to rally the base. The media is doing such a disservice to the American people. I am astonished that they are doing this again. They did this with the Iraq war and then years later some (not all) admit that they did not sufficiently question Bush and his manipulative staff members. I hope and pray that at the end of all this, we are not fooled because we will suffer the consequences again. We are suffering the consequences at the moment with foreclosures, high gas prices, and high employment rates. Think people, are we really going to put our selves through this again?

Peace be with you all!!

John   September 6th, 2008 5:40 pm ET

John McCain is a disgrace to America. So what if he was a POW. A real american hero wouldn't capitalize his good deeds.

Tom IL.   September 6th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

As an independent I started by leaning towards Obama. But after seeing the rioters destroying St. Paul and reading all the mean, hateful posts here i just don't know anymore.

It seems like Obama supporters are a very angry and dangerous crowd.

concerned independent   September 6th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Notice that the republicans didn't state that they actually "bought" all those flags so they would look patriotic. Pretty sad that they would capitalize on stealing something from the demacrates……especially since the demacrats have had the message of "CHANGE" for over 18 months. John McCain flip flops more and more, it's been working for the dems, I might as well use it. Just like with the flags….great idea, think we'll steal them and beat them to it. Very sad indeed.

Adrian   September 6th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

This guy has 0 integrity, how people can vote for him is beyond me. Pathetic McCain!!!!

MLH   September 6th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

You know, if someone hands me a television and it turns out that it was taken from someone else, it's called receiving stolen goods.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 6th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

McCain's campaign steal the American flags that stands for integrity and truth so they can degrade it with lies. America won't let McCain and Palin short change us any more, NO WAY, NOW HOW, NO MCCAIN AND NO TO PALIN.

David Goldman for OBAMA   September 6th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

THESE FOLKS ARE JUST PATHOLOGICAL LIARS.

DeGee   September 6th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

This sounds like yet another sick fabrication from the McCain/Palin/Rove camp.

I think "Rep. Woman for Obama/Biden" said it best. Nobody in the crowd at the Dem's Convention would have discarded an American flag they acquired there…….No Way—No How. You can bet that most of those flags are being proudly displayed on walls and desks all over the US.

This constant challenging by the Republicans of the Democrats patriotism has gone way beyond out of control. Nobody, and I do mean nobody, but a true patriot would go thru the rigors of running for President of the United States, I don't care what party they belong to.

Getting away with it..   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Obviously they were not discarded because they we stacked and rolled-a lot of care was taken to store the flags.

Just another diversion tactic the Republican party is using. I am not surprised that this evil campaign can come up with such a dirty strategy.

NO McCain/Puppet VP

June W   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

If I hear one more story about flags and flag pins I think I'll throw up. If people would get as indignant over the fact that 5000 Americans and over 100.000 Iraqi's have been killed and thusands more maimed in a crimminal war while John McCain and Sarah Palin were warpped in the flag and wearing pins with hands over hearts as they embraced the war, perhaps we might see a glimmer of that "change" they want us to believe in. Wake up and deal with the REAL issues.

Morningstar   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

McCain how stupid do you think that Americans are?

je   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

as always fox stinks and CNN is following!! Yeah they were going to throw the flags but weird they stack the flags nicely in black bags! Some Americans actually believe this since they are ignorant! Educate!!!!!!!

Maggie Muggins From Selwyn   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

There is a video of Sara Palin declaring the Iraq war is a holy and they are doing God's bidding. Why don't you show this video since you have a copy then ask Sara is the Holy war to kill Muslims or Arabs or both.

Then ask Sara if it's doing God's will to keep killing Arabs and Muslims throughout the Middle East.

The challenge CNN is whether or not you print the truth as this statement and the fact you wouldn't print it will go on every blog on the Internet.

MikeH   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Sounds like the the flags were STOLEN by the Republicans.

Seems like the Republicans have STOLEN a lot from this country in the last eight years.

Sarah herself may have participated in the theft of part of the $27 MILLION she left Wasilla Alaska in debt for.

BTW CNN, why don't you show some investigative courage and investigate the library book-banning Sarah Palin implemented in Alaska. She's looking more like a NAZI every day.

Mean   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

John McCain-tell this stupid woman to shut her mouth. Otherwise, peole are going to shut yours.
Sarah Palin is calling Obama a "sambo" and Aboriginal people as Arctic Arabs, mocking community organisers and wants to break all the china?in the white House.
It is not the change -it is mean, nasty, destruction.
She comes from all white Alaska state. The RNC convention didn't represent the American society. Sarah's husband calls for independent state. McCain didn't wear flag pin at the convention.
So, what is all this -Country first?

David R in Carlsbad   September 6th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

How about changing the title to: McCain/Palin campaign office in Denver accepted stolen property from and Invesco employee.

Darryl Miller   September 6th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Senator John McCain and Gov. Sarah Palin should show some leadership and responsibility and reinburse the Democratice Party for the Stolen Flags.

I am truly disappointed about the lies that Sarah Palin have been putting out about Senator Obama and Senator Bden.

John Smith   September 6th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Mike M wrote this:
I honestly didn't hear one plausible solution to this country's many problems during the entire four days of the republican convention.

McCain said:
1. He's going to solve the energy crisis by drilling more. Even T Boone Pickens says that won't work.
2. He's going to continue the Bush tax cuts for the rich. Isn't that what got us in the economic mess we're in now?
3. He wants to tax the portion of health-care premiums that are paid by employers. For me that means my income would be tax at an additional $1200 annually. Thanks McCain!!
4. I have no idea what his plan is for global warming and the environmental problems we face. Maybe John would like a do over? I think he forgot to mention that.

The one thing I do agree with was his call for change, however, I don't think anyone told him Obama has been calling for that for almost 2 years now.

Let's go with the real deal - Barack Obama. Not someone like John McCain that has changed his campaighn strategy no less than three times to attract votes.

bk   September 6th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Don't worry Dems you will not see anything bad about Obama on CNN. They will not even look into a bad story about him. Thats a promise. Its a well known fact on the other networks.

Scott L   September 6th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

McCAIN = Republican version of Harry Truman. Watch out Obamabots…if you don't know what I mean, do some history lessons on 1948 election.

gary   September 6th, 2008 5:35 pm ET

GIGS YOUR STINKEN HATING MORON LIKE THE REST OF YOU LOOSERS. OBAMA IS ANTI AMERICAN ANYWAYS ,SO BELIEVE WHAT YOU WANT TO YOU LITTLE NAIVE MORONS. IF YOU READ THE FACTS AND WATCH GLEN BECK ,YOU WILL SEE THE FACTS. CNN IS KEEPING ALOT OF CORRUPTION ISSUES OF OBAMAFROM OUR COUNTRY. THEM ALONG WITH O.B. AND THE DNC SWIFTBOATED HRC OUT OF THE RACE.YOU YONG MORONS ARE JUST PUPPETS AND OBAMA IS YOUR MASTER. HE PULL YOUR STRINGS AND TELLS YOU WHAT YOU WANT TO HEAR FOR YOUR MONEY AND VOTES.HE IS MORE LIKE BUSH THAN MCCAIN EVER THAUGHT OF BEING. WHY DONT YOU DO REAL RESEARCH ON YOUR CANIDATE INSTEAD OF HEARING IT FROM THE MEDIATHATSKEEPING THE TRUTH FROM YOU.

Loretta   September 6th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Republican liars…..and now thieves. What next. they had know right to remove the flags, They were packed in bags are were probably going to be delivered to another event.

curt   September 6th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Mccain is sinking to a new low road, he has been broken again just like Viet Nam, why would Mccain even comment that the flag's looked good if he were not trying to start a culture war, instead of starting a war on unemployent, no health care, the failing economy.

honestlady   September 6th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

These flags don't look discarded to me!!! They are folded very nicely. Someone must have stolen these flags!!

cmitch FW, TX for Clinton Obama-Biden08   September 6th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Stolen flags. How far will the republican go? Heaven is watching.

Reality   September 6th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Misplaced? Yeah right..

cmitch FW, TX for Clinton Obama-Biden08   September 6th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

Stolen flags. How far will the republican go? Remeber heaven is watching.

7 HOUSES to O   September 6th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

THE NEW & IMPROVED REPUBLICAN PARTY.

THE PARTY OF THE RICH FOR THE RICH.

AND WITH OUR MONEY, NO LESS.

jeanette   September 6th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

CNN - please do your job and investigate Palin and McCain.
These people are running for the highest office in the world, and they are being very secretive. They certaintly aren't neing forthcoming on Palin, and are spreading lies galore.
Come on CNN - start digging.

Cheryl R   September 6th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

Same old dirty dirty Rove style tricks.
Just when you think the Republicans can't go any lower they come up with something even more repulsive. These people are so morally bankrupt they are capable of stealing just so they can make another false attack, and you really want them running the country? No wonder America is in such a mess.

solofrapeli   September 6th, 2008 5:31 pm ET

y cant d repubs b original and creative?mcwar has never started anytin,even a bad idea in dis campaign.must he always wait 4 Obama 2 blaze d trail an for him to start lookin desperately 4 holes.d guy is a loser and all his antics shuld b ignored.

Jessica   September 6th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Yeah, those neatly rolled up, neatly stacked flags sure look like they were being thrown away!

Go Obama!!!   September 6th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

This is a non-story that will just fuel divisiveness and ridiculous accusations that Democrats are unpatriotic. We don't need more of the same!

Jimi NY   September 6th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

McCain didn't raise enough money to buy flags? These guys are pathetic. Having to dig around in Obama's garbage for flags. They may as well. They're trying to steal everything else from him. His slogans, ideas . . . McCain and Palin are bottom feeders.
I'm sick of hearing about him being a POW, too. Let it go . . . It's the past! You couldn't help the war effort being a POW. You were caught. You were only a statistic. End of story . . .
And Palin may be a dog, but she is an insult to Pit Bulls. You want to see a Pit Bull? Wait until Biden debates her. He'll tear he up like a rawhide chew toy.
OBAMA/BINEN '08 . . . THE LOGICAL CHOIDE!!!!

Stealing Mavericks   September 6th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

I bet sarah stole lipstick in Alaska store.

Willow, in Iowa   September 6th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Okay, we need answers. McBush needs to tell everybody who the thief is that he got these rolled up nicely flags. If they were discarded, they'd be in a dumpster somewhere, not rolled up neatly. They need to give the flags back to their right ful owner.

anyonmous   September 6th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

the vp is supposed to be working for the president when he is gone not the other way around and oh yeah the electoral map matters the most not the polls

chas alabama   September 6th, 2008 5:28 pm ET

CNN will not investigate McCain, he is the media darling, and CNN is just like FOX

Ewing   September 6th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Republican lies got us into a war in Iraq; Republican childish lies about these flags may involve theft…………

Wisdom   September 6th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

McCain = Bush
Palin = Cheney + TT (Trailer Trash)

Wake up America before it is too late & we become third world under McCain/Pit Bull 4 more years of Bush/Cheney

Our only hope is OBAMA/BIDEN 08/12

tonybama, grahamsville, ny   September 6th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

You've got to be kidding? How desperate can they be?

Republicans showed their true colors this past week with all their "humorous" sarcasm. There really isn't anything funny about the state they've left our country in over the past eight years (not to mention all the dead American troops and innocent Iraqi civilians), but its great to see they still have a sense of humor! Anything to not talk about real issues.

Its time to kick these jokers out and take our country back.

Mia and Mike   September 6th, 2008 5:27 pm ET

CNN, you need to change this headline, less you are becoming mighty smitten with how the GOP conducts their public information. As the headline now reads, this is slander against the Obama campaign and you all know it! What a disgusting way to try to conjure back up the false rumor that Obama is not patriotic. As an Indepndent who finds it hard enough to get unbiased news, you all are one of the few political blogs I frequent. Please don't make me be forced to not be able to trust you too.

Scott L   September 6th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Hope the guy who found the flags comes forward to shut the Democrat conspiracy theorists up…

How quickly their tune will change once they realize the truth!

Barbara   September 6th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Can't botox barbie afford to help her hubby out with props any more?

Just a tidbit of information from NC (supposedly a red state)

Registered voters in NC as of 9/6/2008

Democratic: 2,689,359 Republican: 1,941,651 Libertarian: 923 Unaffiliated: 1,301,921 Total: 5,933,854

I'm one of the unaffiliated that will go DEM this year. YOU DO THE MATH

CNN has kept this comment from being posted....   September 6th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Palin is a fake! I have tried to get CNN to post this comment all day concerning her love of earmarks, but says she is against them, but I guess CNN wants to keep Palin a likeable hockey mom. Voters, all we hear about is McCain's new lady but check this out: http://www.washingtonindependent.com/4346/palin-on-earmarks-we-did-well

Palin, you are a disgraceful, thoughtless, and empty candidate. As a woman I will never vote for you!

bill m   September 6th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

THEFT

dr.mimi de la cruz for OBAMA/BIDEN   September 6th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

LOOK SOME OF THESE FOLKS CAN'T SPEAK THEIR

MOTHER TONG…..ENGLISH.

Scott L   September 6th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Democrats will lose in November and McCain will be a lame duck. McCain will not re-run in 2012 and Palin will become the first female President of the united states after defeating Hillary Clinton (whom you should have nominated in the first place).

By then, the do nothing Democratic congress will be replaced by Republicans who ouster do nothing Democrat incumbents.

Independent will become a formidable force to contend with in 2012, possibly taking the presidency in 2016.

dr.mimi de la cruz for OBAMA/BIDEN   September 6th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

THESE BUSHNICKS CAN'T DISCUSS THE ECONOMY.

THEY CANT DISCUSS THE FUTURE, BECAUSE THEY

WANT TO TAKE OUR NATION TO THE 1920S.

THEY CAN'T DISCUSS THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

BECAUSE THEY HAVE ZERO. THEY HAVE ANNOUNCED

IT THEMSELVES THAT THEY ARE NOT, I REPEAT NOT,

RUNNING ON THE ISSUES. SO FLAGS IT IS. CAN ANYONE

YOU KNOW BUY BRED WITH THIS STORY. ANS. NOOOOOOOO!!!

je   September 6th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

untrue story again they need to investigate and mccain should return the stolen flags.

WR   September 6th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

I have never seen something like this in the american political history. How can a vice president is taking a different road from the actual candidate. Is Palah, whatever her name is…, is the one running for president or Mccan? I am confused. Besides, when republican party will start taking facts? I am tired of it..!

mama4obama   September 6th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Where I come from….taking stolen property is illegal.

Sean   September 6th, 2008 5:24 pm ET

Joe/Scott/WOW: It's getting really old buddy.

Shawn Colorado   September 6th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

The Dem's where bragging about how green there convention is and how environmentally conscious they are and yet they throw out the simble of our nation like a piece of garbage! I guess no one ever told them that our flag should never touch the ground, and people like this are going to help decide the election in our country. What a shame that they have such blatant disrespect for our great country.

Rose   September 6th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

The accusations just don't go away. The flags were in trash bags and boy scouts were told to collect them and throw them away. In this country, we don't throw our flags away. Notice Obama has not responded to this issue. They were in too big of a hurry to get out of town and fool people in some other state.
Remember that Biden also supported the Iraq war as did the majority of the Dems. There would have been no invasion but the Dem led Congress said OK. They could have voted NO but they didn't.

Sam Rose   September 6th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

WOW–Cannot believe that th Obama team is not on top of it–

Those dummies should of known there is PROTOCOL for FLAGS—

Anything and EVERYTHING that was able to be reused-should of been donated–including flags—

The basic tenement of building a Sustainable-GREEN-AMERICA is

Re-USE—–when you can—
NEVER THROW ANYTHING OUT–and especially FLAGS????

If it was paper it should of been recycled—anything else should of been donated—

Obama=Biden 08

Joe in NJ   September 6th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Typical of Democrats to scream, "Republicans are thieves"! You're name calling is getting really tiresome and pathetic. I can just imagine what we are going to hear if Obama loses the election - "Racism"! "Rigged election"! "McCain stole the election"!

Also,
"Lisa September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

I would also like to know why comments are closing so fast. Anything having to do with Palin and McWho are taken off quickly. "

Nonsense. CNN is doing it just as fast for the Dems as well. CNN does often re-open comments though so check back frequently.

Greg FL.   September 6th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

Ask yourself this. If they were going to throw them out. Then why did they bother to seperate them into bags by themselves? Don't make much sense does it. I guess the McCain campaign just thinks the public is too stupid to notice that fact.

Donald, Canton NC   September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

McCain and company have no shame.

First they try to capitalize on footage of 911 and now they stoop so low as to accept stolen property from their opponents for their own advantage.

Yeah, both of them are real mavericks and agents of change — just like the current lying, criminal administration in office.

Lisa   September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

I would also like to know why comments are closing so fast. Anything having to do with Palin and McWho are taken off quickly. Notice Palin is first she is taking over JM's campaign, no wonder they picked her. That way when they say something stupid they can blame it on her and John McCain can stop looking like the old fool he really is.

LetYourLifeSpeak   September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

CNN,
did ya spend so much time at the RNC, all that "truthiness" rubbed off? How's about a headline that's a little LESS "truthy"? It only makes you an accomplice to the liars to perpetuate a lie, doesn't it? Sad.

Journalism is dead. Listen to NPR, America.

Scott L   September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

HOW — WOULD — REPUBLICANS — STEAL — 80+ — BAGS — OF — FLAGS — WITHOUT — ANYONE — NOTICING — ESPECIALLY — AS — TIGHT — AS — SECURITY — IS

DEMS — AND — CONSPIRACY — THEORIES — LAUGHABLE

dustin   September 6th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

These people are an so petty and think on such a small level, using patriotism as a divisive issue is simply a disgrace. If they cared as much about regular people as they did with these so called "left for trash" flags then they would be democrats.

FYI: Since the last federal election in 2006 more than 2 million people have registered Democrat to vote in the 28 states that register voters according to party affiliation. The Republicans have lost nearly 344,000 thousand voters in the same states.

Please Listen   September 6th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Since they are trying to be so honest. Ask them if Palin was Vetted or not.

Let us not forget get how McNiceguynow use his judgement skills.

Sue, MI   September 6th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

And you really do need to change the headline on this blurb- it's bordering on sleazy!

rais   September 6th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Unbelievable!!!

Lisa   September 6th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Geez is Obama being unpatriotic again, gosh John McCain thank goodness you are out there patroling this. This is a ridiculous and CNN stop posting things like this. I may as well go to FOX

Chris   September 6th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Wow, the McCain camp stole these American Flags from the democrats. That's pretty disgusting and just further evidence of how McCain is not capable of leading this nation in a troubled time. What ever happened to integrity…it's missing from the republicans right now.

Republican Woman Voting for Obama/Biden   September 6th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Bill…Obama will admit the surge worked when MCWAR admits it was wrong to INVADE Iraq in the first place!

Hoosier for Obama   September 6th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

So does that mean that McCain received stolen flags? Awesome.

Sue, MI   September 6th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

So in other words, the Republicans are distributing stolen merchandise. What a group of crooks!

Do I matter?   September 6th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

What????

They stole Flags to give to the other side and said that they were thrown out ….

Wow…

People are amazing…

She is slick   September 6th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

CNN please report something negative on McCain for once.

COUNTRY FIRST?   September 6th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

THEY DON'T LOOK 'DISCARDED" TO ME! THEY LOOK UNUSED.

Republican Woman Voting for Obama/Biden   September 6th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

CNN, why do you have this posted if it's been debunked? Are you trying to start a contraversy! You better believe that no-one would throw away a flag they got at that historic Obama rally! Also, those flags look mighty NEW for some odd reason…NO?

David R in Carlsbad   September 6th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

We need a counter on this page for Sarah & John's arrogant, condescending and outrageous lies on this page. They are getting more desperate the closer we get to the election.

Bill Colorado   September 6th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Just another example of the Dems trashing America. BTW did you see Obama admit that the surge in Iraq was successful beyond his wildest dreams on the O'Reilly show? His dreams sure seem to has a limited quality to them.

Greg, NY   September 6th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

If they were to be thrown out, then why would they be rolled up like that?

They were stolen by someone that intends to remain unnamed because if he/she is named, then they will be convicted of theft obviously.

Suburban Mom   September 6th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

John McCAin, what the heck happened to you? It makes me sick to see that you gave up your integrity just to win an election. Hopefully you will be able to live with yourself come November 5th when it finally sinks in that you are a loser.

gigs   September 6th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

i think you need to change the headline to make it more accurate

mccain campstole flags from the dnc convention to use at their own rally - mccain should turn over the name of the thief and the dnc should bring charges

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