September 8, 2008
Posted: September 8th, 2008 02:19 PM ET

From
McCain is attacking Obama on military spending .
McCain is attacking Obama on military spending .

LEE’S SUMMIT, Missouri (CNN) –John McCain is launching a new line of attack against Barack Obama, criticizing his rival for saying Sunday that he would buck his own party by calling for an increase in the size of the U.S. military.

“Of course, now he wants to increase it,” McCain told an audience in Lee’s Summit, Missouri Monday. “But during the primary he told a liberal advocacy group that he’d cut defense spending by tens of billions of dollars. He promised them he would, quote, ‘slow our development of future combat systems.’”

Watch: McCain says he will 'veto every earmark'

McCain was referring to a YouTube clip from last October that features Obama promising the non-profit group “Caucus for Priorities” that he would reduce wasteful military spending.

“I will cut tens of billions of dollars in wasteful spending,” Obama said in the video. “I will cut investments in unproven missile defense systems. I will not weaponize space. I will slow our development of future combat systems.”

In the video, Obama also said: “As president, my sole priority for defense spending will be protecting the American people.”

Obama, now the Democratic nominee, was asked on ABC’s “This Week” on Sunday to cite examples of where he would be willing to break with his own party.

“I’ve said that we need to increase the size of our military,” Obama answered, noting that such legislation might anger some on the left.

McCain, who claimed in his remarks that the world is simply too dangerous to reduce military spending, said Obama is guilty of general election pandering.

“Sen. Obama told the extreme left what they wanted to hear during the primary, now he’s trying to tell you what he thinks you want to hear,” McCain responded in Missouri. “My friends, you may not always agree with me but you will always know where I stand.”

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Military Spending


Enough!!!!!   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Please McCain, sit down. You have not had an original thought yourself. All you can do is try to steal the CHANGE that has been introduced by the Obama Campaign. Just a shameless fraud.

crystal mitchell   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Again the GOP is talking out of the nonsense. When Obama say's something you can rest to know that it is right. Obama can't aford to be wrong. Obama doesn't have the luxuary of error. MCPalin can say anything and we go WOW!!!!!!!!! Right or wrong, lie or truth. We need to grow up and look at what's really right for this country. Obama/Biden. Is our best choice. This country is really in a state of emergency. And we do not need more of the same, eight years is too much . To afford 4 more years of GOP the country would collapse.

Zac, Atlanta   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I've been wit this campaign from the start, and from what I recall, Obama wants to spend more money to put more boots on the ground, but cut back on our nuclear arsenal and spending on unproven programs (for instance: shooting bullets out of the air with bullets)

Mike   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Isn't Biden's son a lobbyist? I guess Obama wasn't truthful about shaking up Washington with change! What next, him flipping on campaign financing? OOPS! Well at least his speeched sound nice, right?

beevee   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Now McCain appears to be a real maverick and is throwing punches at Obama from behind the shield of another maverick liar Palin. America! Pl. don't make a mistake of electing another war monger.

Eddie   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Yawn ,I so tired of not hearing about issues that affect everyone instead of ones that affect only the rich and religious ................
Im going to bed now .

Lola   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I don't understand why the media keep letting McCain/Palin keep feeding us lies and the media are not calling them out on it amd it so worrying why his VP will not apper on CNN for interview. We want to see her do interview on CNN not ABC, I don't trust ABC news since the last debate in the primary.It is really so deaffing that the media will let theirself be bully by the RNC. I thought the media are surpose to serve we the citizen, this is so worrysome, if we can not trust the media. This is sad, what is happening in our own eye is sad. The media should stop parkaging Palin,lets here from her, I am undecided voter. My life and my childrens lifes depend on this election, I want to know where Palin stands on women and family issues.

No to McCain!   September 8th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

In recent interviews, McCain says that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac got themselves into this mess because of corruption and greed. What he does not mention is that his campaign's economic adviser, ex-Senator Phil Gramm, sat on the senate committee that helped deregulate the mortgage industry. While doing so, Gramm and his colleagues failed to put into place even the most basic safeguards to protect against failures. Republicans do not like regulations, even the necessary kind. McCain and his party need to take responsibility for the financial fiascos of the past eight years, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Bear Stearns, the list goes on....until then, they should say nothing at all about 'doublespeak'.

Ingrid   September 8th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

You did not print a rebuttable from the Obama campaign because? You certainly printed a McCain camp rebuttal to Obama's accretion that his opponent will soon release an ad containing a lie.

AA   September 8th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

My favorite...

My friends, you will always know where I stand – John McCain.

He's right. He stands with Bush 90+% of the time. Then calls himself an agent of change.

So that means he's going to change himself?

And where would that make him stand?

Hopefully in the corner of Arizona somewhere trying to figure out what he means.

Peace.

Amy   September 8th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Yeah, McCain stands on the side of the fence where his front yard is so big he can't see how his neighbors are living, struggling day to day or living check to check while copying the 'Change' term to his campaign because he knows that ignorant Americans will fall for his lies and win over some naieve women voters emotions by asking a female, who is unqualified, to be the Vice President candidate. Don't forget, she is still a republican and our country will be worse off with the two of them in office. Don't fall for it women!!!! Vote Obama!! He is the one who is here for us as Americans!!

God rest his sould, my Grandfather was a POW, and received a purple heart, but that doesn't make him qualified to be elected as President. Wake up Republicans and vote Obama/Biden!!!!

Anonymous   September 8th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

We DO need to spend billions on missile defense.
We DO need to replace our aging nuclear stockpile with new nuclear weapons.
We DO need these things and many others.

The military needs to be strong to defend this county and its allies (NATO)

Thank God the only use of nuclear weapons have been in WWII but we DO need them and need to know they would work if counted on.

Those that say we don't need or never needed nuclear weapons have a narrow view of history esp the cold war and what they truly were used for during the USSR vs USA years.

We may never need to use them but we DO NEED TO HAVE THEM for reasons that do not involve detonating them.

BJ   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

And I quote "I will slow our development of future combat systems.”

Slowing down development of these systems will, in the not to distant future, put our military at a distinct disadvantage.

NO CUTS TO MILITARY SPENDING. Just a repeat of the good old Clinton days...

Audrey Fryer   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Aren't you people concerned about Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae – you are all going to be on the hook (taxpayers) to ensure that the foreign investors (China) don't lose their stock value. That's the real reason for the take-over by Government – John McCain, how do you reason this bail-out. As for Palin and Iraq, I guess when you have George Bush's speechwriters writing your slogans and the Bush/Cheney administration advertising how great you are, the public should be very very scared. This woman is further to the right than even George Bush. Bush bulls......you people with his "experience" and "down-home good ole boy" credentials and they are laying out the same story of Palin – and it would appear in the short run, you fools are falling for it again. Do remember, George Bush didn't go to all the trouble to create havoc in the World just to let it go to the Democrats. He is slowly but surely placing all his puppets in place for the next government (which is essentially his). Next problem, solve the American economy – have another war – that will make sure that all the defense contractors will make more money and give you people the "illusion" that the economy is great once again. He has taken your country so far into debt – and you guys can't even figure that out and you think McCain is any different – he belongs to the same crowd. I am very very concerned for the rest of the global economy if this group is "elected" back in.

Concerned citizen of the World.

Pro American   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

If Obama's lips are moving he is lying!!!!!!

Jeff Lind, Camarillo, CA   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I can't understand how so many people can believe that the republicans deserve 4 more years. As an Independent voter, it baffles me that there are people out there who think the last 8 years have been good. It's like being in an abusive relationship, I guess they get bullied and intimidated, and become afraid to get out.....
8 years of this is enough.....There isn't anyone in government who wants to see the USA in a weak position, which we in fact already are, due to this wonderful war Bush has dragged us into, which has now gone on longer than WW2... Why do you think the Russians have become so emboldened....The only Republican who was any good was Ron Paul...Otherwise OUT WITH REPUBLICANS!!

Foreign observer   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

The war monger prepares the voters for a rise on millitary spendings in case he gets elected. Thats why the Republicans win so often ! They invest into weapons and not in peoples education.

Wisconsin Vet   September 8th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

How Dumb as dirt do you have to be to belive this Guy (McSame). If you cut the wasteful programs that cost hundreds of billions of dollars to the american people you can then refocuse on adding to to the army size.

The amount of one weapons program that nevers pans out could pay the wages of a thousand of soldiers for 5yrs

WOW how hard is that to understand. If you ever sat at a kitchen table to balabce your bills. You do this every month, get rid of what you don't need in your life to pay for the then you do.

McSame you have 7 kitchens pick one

Redneck for Obama   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I really want to throw up. Europeans are now smarter than americans. They know McCain is all show and another bush style candidate. Here comes WW3.

John in Ohio   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

"Obama should have picked Clinton

Oh well, Clinton 2012!!!"

Good luck, a tired old also-ran feminist against a young sexy incumbent vice president, probably president by that time.

Hillary will lose horribly.

Lola   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I don't understand why the media keep letting McCain/Palin keep feeding us lies and the media are not calling them out on it amd it so worrying why his VP with not apper on CNN for interview. We want to see her do interview on CNN not ABC, I don't trust ABC news since the last debate in the primary.It is really so deaffing that the media will let theirself be bully by the RNC. I thought the media are surpose to be serve we the citizen, this is so worrysome, if we can not trust the media. This is sad, what is happening in our own eye is sad. The media should stop parkaging Palin,lets here from her, I am undecide voter. My life and my childrens lifes depend on this election, I want to know where Palin stands on women and family issues.

Brenda   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

McCain was wrong and Obama was right. Cnn tonight LKL watch it that will be the slam on McCain face and his pitbull with lipstick... Don't missed it

santosh   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Only in a Rethiglican America is a black man who is a Constitutional Law Scholar, who served 8 yrs as State Senator and 4 yrs as US Senator and served on the Foreign Relations Committee not ever considered ready to lead but a white evangelical ultra conservative woman, with a BA in Journalism, and 19 mos as Governor of a state
which is smaller than her hair do, considered ready on day one.
BTW Barack, you are my hero for your community service and don't let trailor trash paliar tell you any different.
we have seen these McTrashes before..

Dee   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Is whether or not a candidate opposes his own party views at all relevant..what does it prove? It seems a nonsensical issue. Good grief, there are so many huge issues facing the U.S. that asking a candidate how he may oppose his own parties views now or in the future is ludicrous & a waste of time. Im sure the voters would much prefer the media asks the important issues.

Andrea   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

The original mavericks certainly do a lot of attacking! The American people deserve more. With all the lies they try and sell I'm shocked they call themselves Christians!!! Here's one for you..... Come up with an original idea!!!

Kaye- Jacksonville FL   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Can the McCain campaign get anymore disgusting???

Obama is right, again – they must think we're Stupid...!

Carl from MI   September 8th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

My friend the Arkansan For Obama! summed it up perfectly!!!!!!!

"Obama is right! We don't need Billions of Dollars of Missiles setting up in space like the so called "Star Wars System" that Bush Sr. wanted. We don't need to spend Billions in Nuclear Weapons either.

Wars are fought with Soldiers, Guns, Tanks, Ships, and Planes. That's how we have fought every war in the Modern age, and that's how we are fighting in Iraq. That's where the money should be spent!

Putting a missile defense system in space is pointless. But for some reason that's what Reagan, Bush Sr., Bush Jar, and McCain wants. Maybe they are aiming at Aliens or something lol."

Most excellent words, my friend!! I couldn't have summed it up better myself!! KUDOS!!

Has everyone noticed how Cheney is ratcheting things up over in Georgia with Russia? Trying to get our nation primed with FEAR over another war, even though Georgia was CLEARLY the aggressor and wasn't expecting Russia to deliver the smack down they did!!

Now I'm not saying the Russian smack down was a proportional response, but they clearly sent a message... if the Bush Administration is going to incite "Freedom Cleansing" of those who don't agree with their policies in Georgia, there will be repercussions. The Bush Administration convinced Georgia to go after the rebels, and Georgia suffered because they listened.

WAKE UP, AMERICA!! VOTE SMART.... NOT SENILE!!

Linda in NC   September 8th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Is McCain grasping at straws? Voteing against the G I Bill? Denying benefits to the very people he wants to stay in Iraq and a VP that says God wanted us to go to Iraq This McCain/Palin thing is very scary. Palin and McCain sound like programmed robots repeating the same thing over and over again.Palin can't make a speech unless she is spewing venom and when she did say something about Fannie Mae and Freddie mac she got it wrong check out huffington post.I am a middle aged white women and I'm not stupid enough to believe her or MCain
Go Obama/Biden

Val from MA   September 8th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

You go Sen. McCain! YET ANOTHER "CHANGE OF HEART" FROM OBAMA. What else is new – everything he ran on during primaries is no longer relevant because he now has to appeal to the independents. And you Democrats are complaining that Palin began to oppose the "Bridge to Nowhere" only when she became a Governor of Alaska and quite frankly when she had more valuable information to her to fully form her opinion on it? Give me a break!

Viet Vet   September 8th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

May I see your tax return Mrs. Palin, Your highness? I would like to vet
you cuz no one else will

Charles Gibson will throw her some soft balls and all the repugs will swoon and stumble over themselves. Maybe she'll find a stage and give you a wave. Pretty sickening – -she's a freakin' politician

John   September 8th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Do the Repubs actually believe that this kind of lying and misrepresenting what has been said is going to work this time. After all eight straight years of complete Republican rule has brought our country to where it is at now. Wake up America we are only a heartbeat away from 1929 again and for all of you who can't grasp what I am saying get your nose out of the boob tube and study a little history.

Erik   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Hey Republicans – FACE THE FACTS. Like a good leader, Obama said he wanted to eliminate WASTEFUL SPENDING, not OVERALL SPENDING. (just like you do in your own home) What's wrong with a more efficient military. Oh, that's right, Republicans are the DEFICIT party. How much do we owe now?

Ex-PUMA for Obama   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Well, lets attack Palin on the housing crunch. This is what economic analysts say about her and her comment about Freddie and Fannie:

"You would like to think that someone who is going to be vice president and conceivable president would know what Fannie and Freddie do," said Dean Baker, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research. "These are huge institutions and they are absolutely central to our country's mortgage debt. To not have a clue what they do doesn't speak well for her, I'd say."

Added Andrew Jakabovics, an economic analysts for the progressive think tank, Center for American Progress: "It is somewhat nonsensical because up until yesterday there was sort of no public funding there. Even today they haven't drawn down any of the credit line they have given to Treasury. 'Gotten too big and too expensive' are two separate things. The too big has been a conservative mantra for a while and there is something to be said of that in that they hold about half of the mortgage guarantees that are out there. And in the last year they have been responsible for roughly 80 percent out there. The 'too expensive to tax payers,' I don't know where that comes from."

Even conservative analysts acknowledged that the statement simply did not hold true.

Dave   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Obama= flip flop for them votes.

linda n carolina   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

McCain's lips are moving...we all know what comes out ...lies lies lies.Hit em Obama and hit them day after day till Nov. This is the only thing they understand...

Joyce   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

With the choicd of Palin for VP it will be amost imopssible for me to vote for my party,
I am a 69 year old woman and have been around women who think they know it all and don't know anything. I am not sure how she has gotten as far as she has but you can bet it wasn't with honesty.

Sarah   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

What spending more than 10 billions every month in Iraq?
You and Sarah Palin are just liars...This is plain lie
Also VP Sarah lied about the bridge, jet and lobbiests
She is less than 1 week old and already have many lies more than the days since selected as VP...

Is it a requirement to lie to become a leader in the GOP party?
Bush is doing this, then McCain and now Palin...

Roger   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

here are the obamabots.....he is on tape saying he will SLOW the develoment of modern weaponary...................

Oh no....Mccaine's lying though.

You people can't be for real

Mike - Texas   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Obama is just doing his standard pandering.

Remember when he was in San Francisco?

He told them what they wanted to hear.

He told them that the people in Pennselvaina and other rural communities were "bitter Amerians, clinging to their guns and religion with antipathy towards others".

Pander pander pander.

Sammy   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

People need to remember that the various elected leaders in this country often force the military to spend billions on weapons they dont want. Back in the 90's quite a few big programs were killed and we seem to be able to attack others just fine without them.

Matt   September 8th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Obama is John Kerry without the wavy hair. Will say whatever it takes to appeal to his current audience.

McCain up by 10 in the latest Gallup poll. Deal with it.

Al   September 8th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This man is criticizing Obama on military spending. John, you have authorized the continued squandering on 10 billion a month in Iraq.
I am going to say this continually, "It's the economy stupid", quote from James Carville in 1992 and to re-iterate again, Wake Up America, don't listen to this man and don't be charmed by Palin's good looks. Remember, if you elect McCain, you are stupid. You will be denying yourselves may great things.

Tony   September 8th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Stop being so apathetic america. Get out the dictionary and look up the word maverick!

Cynthia   September 8th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

At least Senator Obama is telling you up front what he plans to do. Senator McCain's plan is the blind side you if he happens to get in office.

Obama/Biden   September 8th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

WHAT ISNT a LIE with McCAIN and PALIN??????? I cant believe anything they say!!!

Obama/Biden 08

Shari, NY   September 8th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Where is Bin Laden? How come he is not in the news?

Terry, Lakeland Florida   September 8th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This is the part that scares me

"I will slow our development of future combat systems"

The #1 reason the US military is so powerful is our tech. We have the best there is to have, however our edge isn't that great and we need to continue to develop this edge. Slowing down our development will just ensure our foes catch up to us and once that happens we are dead.

I hope Obama understands that it's not a numbers game. We will NEVER have the largest military, but we've always had the best trained and armed....not he wants to remove the best armed part....Lets see how that works out!!

Peased OFF   September 8th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I can't believe the blatant lies that McCaine is telling. He should be ashame of himself.

OBAMA is going to have to call him out in a big way. Time is the election.

Did you guys see the picture of Palin in American Flag bathing suit and a shotgun. Daughters drinking with guns.

This is not family values

McCain/Palin   September 8th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Why do you think he got such an overwhelming welcome in Europe. And didn't he call himself a citizen of the world. Maybe you need to start asking what kind of change he really wants.

lil   September 8th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

There is one thing I have noticed about the republican party is that
no matter what they stand together even if they dont agree and i know
that to be true from watching the commentators on the cable channel
they said negative things about his choice at the onset but as soon as
he intoduced her they all came to her defenseObama/Biden supporters could learn something from that.
How many republican have bad mouth bush even now with a 30%
approval rating they still dont really bad mouth him.
My reasons for saying this is we as Obama/Biden supporters need to try this and stop putting our canidates down.
In the last few days since the rep convention I have notice that we have been more together and speaking out more than ever before
this has really brought our minds together I am very proud of us
Obama/Biden supporters.

Milo Ippolito   September 8th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

How can you cut military spending AND increase the number of troops? Dick Cheney's contractor buddies won't like the answer.

FELTON a.k.a. YOUR PARENT'S COMMON SENSE   September 8th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I think Osama BinLaden is watching all this from his plushly appointed cave....LAUGHING !......think about it in 3 days from now!

Lisa   September 8th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

"My friends, you may not always agree with me, but atleast you know where I stand." John Mcfuddy you stand where the puppet master tells you to stand, that is all I know.

Liars   September 8th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I like how when Republicans flip flop people defend it as "oh well they changed their position for the better" but when Democrats do this its seen as the most terrible act of mankind

hypocrites

JB   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

What a crock.

McSame you are the ULTIMATE FLIP FLOPPER!

NO PRESIDENT PALIN!!!!

Ms. White   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

America...the republicans have lied to us for 8 long years.... and wants us to forgive, entrust, and vote for them this election year to fix the problems the republicans caused... I guess the old man and the pit bull are asking...we have been biting you for 8 times...let us bite you for 4 more years.

Sarah   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

McCain and Palin get their health insurance paid for by the government (hers in Alaska and his in Washington). Yet they oppose giving the nearly 46 million uninsured Americans the same access to affordable health care.

John McCain's kids don't have to worry about paying for college. Yet he has opposed every single education support program to help others.

McCain and Palin say they will stand up to oil companies. Yet the only energy policy they support gives millions of dollars in tax breaks to oil companies to do more drilling and he has opposed every piece of federal legislation to explore alternative fuel sources.

McCain and Palin say they will revamp how Washington does business. Yet his campaign is filled with lobbyists and she has cooperated with Sen. Ted Stevens in funneling federal money for useless projects in Alaska for years. And McCain and Palin have no solutions for Americans worrying about their jobs in a fragile economy. iReport.com: Is Palin the right choice for you?

McCain and Palin want us to leave their families alone. Yet they want to make rules for our families by eliminating our right to make our own choices over abortion, eliminate our access to family planning education or domestic partner benefits, and our freedom from discrimination.

They want to control what our kids learn in school about sex and about science. In short, through the policies they promote and the judges they support, they want the government to have more control over our private lives than at any time in history.

McCain and Palin now say their campaign is about change, too. Yet the only real change they have proposed is a change from a suit to a skirt in the vice president's office and one man fighting a misplaced war for another in the Oval Office.

That seems to me to be the right reason to oppose them in November. It's not the process or the people, it's what they represent. This unconventional choice of a vice presidential nominee by John McCain won't result in a win in November, because McCain and Palin are the wrong choice for the country.

by Hilary Rosen

John in Ohio   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

The "extreme left" doesn't want a weak military, we want a strong military that is only used when needed.

When needed.

When needed.

Not because some crazy old warhorse wants to re-fight the Cold War.

Gerry in Virginia   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I worked for the military for 20 years at an army base in the California desert... Believe me, after witnessing the waste that went on at that place, you bet Senator Obama can cut out a lot from the military budget and put the money to better military use. I worked at an Air Force base in Sacramento California and there was again huge amounts of moneys wasted that could have been better used. If Senator Obama can cut out the waste and ole john boy has a problem with that, then its time he turned in his and sarah's time sheet and went home.... HA....LIKE THEY HAVE A TIME SHEET .....

whiteboy for obama   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

i cant wait until the vp debates ,when sarah mistakenly starts speaking in tongues.

heartlight 3, Maui, HI   September 8th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I'm sorry but this is another lie. Obama has always said he wants to increase the size of the military so we don't get caught short-handed like we are now. He has also always said he wants to cut wasteful spending in the military. I still don't understand how these people can just make stuff up and the press reports it as if it is fact. Then the liars cry foul that the media is biased and everyone believes it. What's wrong with this picture? What's wrong with the American people?

Tony   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Is this clown for real?

These republicans lie as easily as they breathe. SPOOKY!

The more that comes out about Palin's family the easier it is to understand why she is hiding from the news media. I wouldn't want to have to explain a lot that sordid stuff either.

Dean   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

"I will decrease wasteful spending", "I will increase the size of the military". McCain suggests that these are mutually exclusive statements, but they are not.

Beware, America – politicians are feeding you irrational arguments and you are ignorant enough to accept them.

Not Leadership Material   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

John -

I don't agree with you on fighting a war with Iran and Russian while maintaining a military presence in Korea, Europe, Afghanistan and Iraq.

I don't agree with you on strategy & vision because you haven't presented one and in fact, you are INCAPABLE of doing anything but reacting to what others do ... you've not had a original thought. You can't be a leader with out VISION ... the vision says where we are going as a country and why ... you don't have one.

You seem to think we "owe you your shot at being President" because you were a POW. You seem to think we owe Palin the Vice Presidency because she never had an abortion.

You seem to think that both of you being rough around the edges and obnoxious is what we want in an Administration

I'm a defense industry executive and I won't be voting for you.

Val from MA   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Obama has run his entire campain on lies and deceit from the very beginning of his campaign and you never complained.

"Bridge to Nowhere" is not a lie – Palin did stop it (didn't she?) when as governor she learned more valuable information and facts about it and became a critic of the bridge.

Just admit it, Democrats, YOU ARE SCARED, that you may just lose this very election. But you know what, Obama will be the only cause of your defeat. He should have swaollowed his pride and pick Hilary as his running mate. The whole thing would have been over by now if Hilary was on your his ticket.

McCain/Palin it is!

Silence Dogood   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Arkansas: "Obama is right! " Which Obama are you talking about? The more military or the less military one?

He wants more in Afghanistan (supposedly), supports Israel (supposedly), is ready to take on Iran (supposedly). you realize that version of him is with McCain right? Unless you listen to him the next day when he has no opinion on the matter.

J UAN CARLOS   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

T H I S--–NO T---N E W S----W E----A L R E A DY----

K N O W--–O B A M A--W E A K--O N--M I L I T A R Y--–

T H OU G H---H E---T H O U G H T--A B O U T-J O I N IN G--

W H A T----A -----C-----R----–O----–C---K

FELTON a.k.a. YOUR PARENT'S COMMON SENSE   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I THINK OSAMA BIN LADEN IS WATCHING ALLTHIS ON SATTELITE IN HIS PLUSHLY APPOINTED CAVE ...........LAUGHING

Eddie   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

If Everyone is lying in politics .why are there no slander and defamation of character suits in court .Im sure that would stop this petty non-sense.
Fed up and not voting !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11

Steve   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

McWar has NOTHING to say. His vetting of Palin was to tell her to turn around. After getting one look at her DERRIER he was sold and made her the VP so that if he gets elected (GOD FORBID) he would spend his days in the White House looking at her going in and out of his office while doing the same as BUSH and IGNORING what matters like the latest TERRORIST PLANS TO ATTACK AMERICA AND AMERICANS. THE ECONOMY, IMMIGRATION, GETTING OUT OF IRAQ, BUDGET, which he know NOTHING about since he has never had to do one.

Neo   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Evrybody wish real hard now and maybe it will just go away.

MarkieBee   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

key word John McPain "wasteful." The amount of money that President Obama cuts from the budget that doesn't find its way into your defense industry buddies' pockets can be reinvested into a better, even more effective military. WASTEFUL John, WASTEFUL. Way to cloud the issue in an attempt to confuse even more low-info voters out there. Repugnantcan strategy 101. Dumb it down and lie, the people will follow.

W Spivey   September 8th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

McSame it's time for you to go and take the Lipstick and your little pink skirt with you. You are a lying sleaze ball.

Pops   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

This is absolutely ridiculous. He never said he would reduce the size of the military... He said he would reduce spending. Those are two very different things, and someone with as much experience as McCain should know that.

DWoods   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

When our young people go to war they return to a Military Hospital where the rooms are infested with roaches, rats and other pests. And of course, Bush claimed he had no knowledge of this. Prior to this, it was determined that the troops had inadequate armor and other tools for efficiently fighting the war. What are the politicians in power doing with all this money? Last, but most important, you allow our troops to return home to a fight against their own government for physical, mental and monetary benefits rightfully entitle to them. And you wonder why so many are against the war.

Alex   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

The problem is what the definition of "wasteful spending" is. A bunch of military projects might not come to completion until 15 years from now, but might be useful 15 years in the future. Future defense systems might not seem so wasteful if we actually need them 15-20 years from now.

Annie   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

The GOP/Rove lying machine is up and running and they don't play nice, they play to win at all costs. Did they ever consider that they may ruin Palin by using her so they could have their own celebrity on the ticket? No! And why is she in hiding? Is she working out the script that Charlie Gibson has to follow to interview her over 2 days?

MN2000   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

This accusation coming from the same man who has repeatedly voted against funding for our troops and veterans?

How did he refer to an upset veteran's complaint? Static.

And yes, when we're ordering water warcraft machines worth billions of dollars each to fight a war in a landlocked country... that is wasteful spending for our defense.

Secondly, the truth is we WON'T always know where he stands... He has changed his position on nearly every issue since he ran in 2000. If McCain would have received his party's nomination in 2000, I would have voted for him. However, he's not the same man who ran 8 years ago... His policies and views are entirely different.

Ted van Tol   September 8th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Again fear wil rule the USA!
Again the Americans wil elect the wrong candidate!
Again America wil lose support of foreign countrys!
Again no healt ensurence for everyone!
Again a new war to come and two others to end!
Again four years economic disaster
America, America, where is your dream?
The land of the free wil become the land
of an old tired man and his pitbull.
What a shame!

CNN post this please!

Lesley   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Obama has not changed his position. He is against wasteful spending by the military, not against fortifying the military to meet our national security needs. McCain is doing more blustering and it's up to Obama to set the record straight. It's unfortunate that most people seem to think that because of McCain's military background that he is the only person skilled enough to keep our country safe. But it takes more than military experience to make the proper decisions when to use the military and balance that with the global issues involved in military conflict. We need someone at the helm who can work with allies to enforce global diplomatic efforts and not just somebody who "knows how to win wars." War is different now than it was 40 years ago when McCain was a POW. It requires skillful negotiation among allies and an understanding of the big picture, the consequences of sending troops into battle, knowing your enemy and the different factions at work in a country such as Iraq or Pakistan for instance. McCain only knows how to use military force. And now Palin is going around telling Christian groups that our soldiers are fighting God's war in Iraq! Why hasn't the media completely vetted this remark? Why hasn't the media questioned this position on use of military force? I didn't know that the US engaged in religious wars. Given the opportunity, who knows how many more holy wars McCain and Palin will get this country into. Wake up America! These are new times that require new thinking, not the same old foreign politics of the past.

GIGI IN LA   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

T R I V I A-–R E W A R D:::::

N AM E--- A N--–I S S U E----O N---W H I C H--–

O B A M A--–I S --–N O T--–O N ---B O T H--–S I D E S-

O F --–I T----R E W A R D S--–P A I D--I N-–V O T E S

Beth   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Lies have a life of their own. After a while you can't really remember the lie you started out with. Add to that a large amount of senility for John McCain and a huge amount of dumbness for Palin and you have got the kind of lies they are spewing to the American People.
WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!
I would love to see an interview with most of the world leaders and ask them about who do they think is better qualified to lead the US after George Bush!

Ms. Reality   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

What ?????????????? You want to spend more on defense so that you can go over another dumb war in the name of Security!!!!

NONE of the educated ones are falling for this now – look where we are and how much of OUR money is wasted on this war!!!

Mccain – You are too old styled (am NOT talking about his age but his intellectual thinking) and he cannot run such a globalized environment. C'mon there is NOTHING to boast about this stupid war in Iraq that cost us all billions – simply NOTHING. And we should TRULY work on improving our image in the Globe – it is VERY VERY important. He just doesn't consider these as priorities!!!

WAKE UP AMERICA !!! GROW UP AMERICA!!!

DENICE RICE   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I can't believe a word that comr out of McCains mouth

Female Voter   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

And what did he offer up on "military spending"? Oh I forgot, McCain was against the new GI bill before he was for it. LIAR!

Single Mom Virginia   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I believe that change can happen! John McCain in no way can relate to the American people, or even understand what anyone of us has been through. During his speech he said he realized the "people" were struggling not "us". Where was he included in there? How can a Clinton supporter/democrat change their minds just because she's not on the ticket, are you really supporting your party or being sexiest/racist!

Mary, Kansas City, Missouri   September 8th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

If you can't win on your own merits, Lie, Lie, Lie. John McCain is hustling the American people by lying. What is so terribly sad Palin thinks like McCain, and McCain thinks like Bush. Some would rather vote for a party than to break from failed policies that's causing so many little people's pain. Those that want to vote for McCain should honestly search for the reasons why. If you are a die hard Republican, more power to you. If you are someone who use to vote republican but now you are not sure because they are using Palin as a Pawn, you may want to read, read, and read. if something happens to McCain Palin does 'Not' have the experience to lead this country. America had better not get suckered the third time or it will be devastating. This is not a 'GAME'. Just be advised that other countries are waiting like vultures, China is #1. At least hold McCain accountable for the "Truth". That's something easy for an honorable POW. Right? He's a liar.

suzyku   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Anything mcsame and his cohorts say are lies! Now they are lying to get themselves elected at all costs! They are putting their right wing agenda's as well as his "ambitions" to continue the bush/cheney policies ahead of this country and IF the people of this country fall for this garbage again they will deserve what "they' get however they will drag the rest of us down with them!

Connie   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I believe McSenile likes the 700 dollar toilet seats at the pentagon, or was it hammers ? OBAMA/BIDEN
Connie from Indiana

spiderweb   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

"Obama will do and say anything the DNC wants him to say.," quoted by Williy Brown, poster. McCain will do and say anything to win this election. Forget about integrity which is one of Obama's greatest attributes. Brown, I'm sure you voted for Bush both times....and look where we are today. McCain is in a box and that's why he had to call in Palin, plus she's also in a box. the only thing he can definitely attet to is that he's a military man (no offcense) but that's all he has going for him as a ma-vo-wreck!!!!!

April in Texas   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

What about you McCain voting AGAINST vet rights? Two can play this game and as an independant you have yet to sway me in the least. I am a woman who is smart enough to do research and with all the lies your campaign keeps attempting to put out there only turns me away even more.

Smart people will look at both canidates and compare the issues which will effect them personally. I for one cant afford 4 more years of the last 8 years. My pocketbook can not handle it and look for to paying less taxes with the Obama plan rather than MORE taxes with your plan..

Obama/Biden 08

Tim   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I look forward to the day when the networks hook politicians up to polygraph machines before they speak... that way we will know if they really believe what they are saying!

prairieguy   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Quit closng post for comments so quicly like the one you posted just 20 minutes ago about McCain Ad is a lie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sooze Hawaii   September 8th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

If John wants to stop the pork barrel spending he might start with his running mate. She wanted and then didn't want the bridge to no where but she FAILED TO RETURN 335 Million DOLLARS for the bridge. SHE KEPT IT FOR HER STATE!
Oink Oink!!!! Go to it Johnny....

Sarah Palin implemented windfall oil profit tax in Alaska   September 8th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

THE DRAFT PEOPLE – THE DRAFT – THE DRAFT – THE DRAFT

JOHN MCCAIN = 4 more years of the same PLUS an extra war or two. JOHN MCCAIN ANTAGONIZED PUTIN AND NOW RUSSIA IS FLEXING THEIR MUSCLES. TWO STUBBORN WAR MONGERERS THAT THE AMERICAN PEOPLE CANNOT ALLOW TO GO HEAD TO HEAD.

JOHN MCCAIN'S stubborness and temperment combined with the world galvanizing against the USA should Obama not be elected is a recipe for doom. Add to that the Republican way of Economics and you have FOREIGN AND ECONOMIC DOOM AND THE RETURN OF THE DRAFT.

soy   September 8th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

if people are too stupid to understand the difference between reducing wasteful military spending and increasing the size of the military then i seriously think this nation is in more danger than I thought. It's a testament of the poor state of education in this country when reading, writing and comprehension is too much to ask from the average person.

Marina CA   September 8th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Barack,
It's time to really fight back. Forget your long and thoughtful responses to questions. Go with one-liners! Hit them fast and strong. People who are on the fence will like it... We all know your views at this point. Go disarm those liars with their own weapon. Attack first! PLEASE! You might lose the election. Stop being the nice guy.

RDS   September 8th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

He has been saying this for month...goodness this election is getting so ridiculous!

J. McCaskill, Mississippi   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Obama was aginst expanding the military before he was against it. Two can play at this game. The fact of the matter is that the Dems should have nominated Hillary Clinton. The race is tight with a sitting unpopular Republican president. Why? because Obama is nothing but hot air and a empty suit. No specifics, no substance. Where is the beef? There is no need for the Deomcrats and the liberal press to attack Sarah Palin because the Obama?Biden ticket cannot deliver. A independent Hillary Supporter for John McCain.

McCain/Palin 08

Clinton/Bayah 12'

Joe, from NY   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

McSame is a liar...plain and simple.

To Rollins–you think Joe Biden is worried about debating McPalin because of her wonderfully CANNED campaign speech with NO substance.

Ask McPalin the difference between Sunni, Shia and Kurd Iraqis and the debate is over.

Obama/Biden

Ken   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

“My friends, you may not always agree with me but you will always know where I stand.” J. McCain

Well, actually Sen., it is somewhat difficult to determine just where you stand on many issues. You've flip-flopped quite a bit over the last 8 years, and most of it has been a pandering flop over to the far [R]ight. And the most recent flop was the FLOP of a VP candidate you chose. So, based on the recent eveidence, I'd say that you stand arm-in-arm with the extreme neo-wing of the [R] party. You FLOPPED, and they voted for you.

And to that, I say "no thank you". You see I like to use my brain. I've seen what's happened over the past 8 years, and it has been a pathetic failure, especially when compared to the success of the next previous 8 years in the 1990s.

So yes Sen., I've come to realize where you stand. You are no longer a conservative, but are instead just another reactionary neo-winger who'd like to prolong the Bush legacy. I DO NOT STAND WITH YOU. I will give the Obama/Biden ticket their shot at getting this country back in order - I hear more truely conservative ideas coming out of any single speech of theirs than I've heard out of all your campaign speeches put together.

Doris,Memphis, TN   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

McCain and Palin think they are a surge, but whole on a change
is coming.

J UAN CARLOS   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

O B A M A,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,W E A K,,,,,,,,,,,A N D,,,,,,,,,,,,,,W E A K E N I N G

Ken in Dallas   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Of course you know where McCain stands. He stands with K Street.

A CANUCK   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I hope you Americans aren't being taken in by the McCain/Palen "dog and pony show" !!!!!!!!!!???????????

We're NOT "your friends"!!!   September 8th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

“But during the primary he told a liberal advocacy group that he’d cut defense spending by tens of billions of dollars". Yes he will be ENDING THE WAR IN IRAQ!!! Try to keep up old man.

Obama/Biden '08

Anonymous   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Putting a missle defense system in space is pointless. But for some reason that's what Reagan, Bush Sr, Bush Jr, and McCain wants. Maybe they are aiming at Aliens or something lol.
-------------

Or maybe it's just possible that they (Republicans) are in the pocket of multibillion dollar defense contractors. I mean, anything is possible.

Nah, that's crazy talk.

ts   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

McCain is the biggest panderer of them all!!! McCain has flip flopped so many times on so many issues. What isn't CNN calling him out on it???

Lynn   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

We , the public gave money for McShame's campaign and this McIdiot is spending on thes stupid ads.

Trollmaster   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

I'm seeing all these McCain signs that say Country First. But what country is McCain putting first Iraq or China?

Independent-Latina-for-OBAMA   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

WHAT'S NEW.............ALL THE GOP HAVE IS ATTACK......... THEY HAVE NOTHING TO OFFER BUT MORE NATIONAL DEBT ..........MORE WAR..........AND WITH MCCAIN OUR CHILDREN........WILL.......BE..........DRAFTED. GOD HELP US!

McSame/Pathetic 08   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Coming from someone who doesn't know how many homes he has, I doubt you EVER know where you stand, McBush.

Connie   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

ALL I HAVE TO SAY IS THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE STUPID,IDIOTS AND SO AFRAID TO VOTE FOR A BLACK MAN. YOU ALL DESERVE WHAT YOU GET IF YOU VOTE FOR MCSENILE, BUT OUR YOUNG PEOPLE DO NOT.AS A 64 YEAR OLD WHITE WOMAN MY DAYS ARE COMING TO THE END. WE NEED THE YOUTH TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR AMERICA. VOTE OBAMA?BIDEN 08
Connie from Indiana

Voter   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

McCain is a liar. Obama campaign need to fight back hard its the only way with these idiots.

AA   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Read it again you illiterates. Wasteful spending. That means star wars. That means over a billion a week in Iraq.

What does Johnny boy plan on doing, have not heard a peep of a plan yet. Not for the military, not for domestic, not for nothing.

And that is what the GOP does for average americans... nothing. Scare you then take advantage for their personal gain.

Not this time.

Peace.

Tired of W, OH   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

“I will cut tens of billions of dollars in wasteful spending,” Obama said in the video. “I will cut investments in unproven missile defense systems. I will not weaponize space. I will slow our development of future combat systems.”

So, what's wrong with what Obama said? Now McCain supports wasteful spending in the military? But he's against wasteful earmarks? Like the kind of earmarks that his VP Palin lobbied for in Alaska (she decided she didn't want the bridge to nowhere anymore, but she gladly accepted the money for it)?

What's wrong with cutting out the wasteful military spending and using the money where it's needed the most in the military, like increasing its size? Go ahead, "conservatives". Go to your trough and get your daily talking points from Farmer Rush.

DWoods   September 8th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

The United States was wrong for butting in where they are always wrong. This war was wrong, Sadaam Hussein was not the real threat–Osama Bin Laden was and still is. Numerous human beings have lost their lives, because Bush wants to stick his chest out and be an arrogant nobody.

And if John McCain was so much for change, why did he carbon copy Obama months later. McCain was running on experience now he is running on Obama's "Change". We see the true you–McCain on the McSame experience.

Election Watcher   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

"O"bama
"O" = zero

WOW---WOW----WOW   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I F,,,,,,,,,,,,O B A M A,,,,,,,,,,,W AN T S,,,,,,,T O ,,,,,,,,,C U T,,,,,,,,B I L L I ON S,,,,

I N,,,,,,,,,,W A S T E,,,,,,,,,,W HA T,,,,,,,,,P RO P O S AL S,,,,,,,,,H AS,,,,,,H E,,,

P U T,,,,,,,,,F O R W A R D,,,,,,,,,,I N,,,,,,,,,H I S,,,,,,,,P U B LI C,,,,,,C A R E E R

,,,,,,,,,,W H I C H,,,,,,,,,,S U P P O R T,,,,,,,,,,T H I S ? ??

txgop   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Oprah says Obama for president "Obama/Biden", somewhere along those lines. I would feel badly to disagree with her; if you watch her or not. I love Oprah and am waiting to see what she will be sporting on the Obama inauguration speech!!! CHEESE!!!

LS   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Well, McCain got a couple of things right, just two things. I will NEVER agree with him, and I definately know where he stands. That's why I voting for Obama.

I wouldn't trust or believe anything McWar has to say, no way.

nerakami   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

John McSame has voted AGAINST or not voted at all for the Veterans' Bill. On the night of his convention sppech, chants of USA drowned out a Iraqi vet who was screaming at the top of his lungs that McSame is lying about his support of vets.

There ought to be a law against candidates LYING about their position on issues. This is to protect the American people from false information. Am I the only who sees this as vital?

Rudy NYC   September 8th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

My friends, this election needs to be decided on the merits of what each candidate will bring to the future of America.

My friends, we as a nation need to decide if we wish to live in a civilized world of peace, or violent world of war.

My friends, I promise to lead you to the life that we dream of for our children and grandchildren.

My friends, get out to vote.

karen-phoenix   September 8th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obama is right!!!! Will this old man please keep his mouth shut!!! We are not stupid Americans!!! I've been a republican for over 40 years!!! I'm soooo sick of his lies and now this "thing" from Alaska that claims God has sent her to blowup the world so Jesus comes back!!! That is a christian "gihad" and its almost worse than what the Islams have done. We killed 4000 Amricans and a million Iraqis!!! AND she wants to wipe out the rest of the world except Alaska. GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!
THis republican is voting for Obama/Biden!!!

WHERE IS OBAMA?   September 8th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

WHY ARE YOU NOT OUT THERE DEFENDING YOUR RECORD?
COME ON!!!!!!!!

KW, Vail AZ   September 8th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Another lie but the Republican faithful don't care about the truth, they only care about winning. For six years McCain had the most favorable conditions to effect change; a Republican majority in both the Congress and the Senate, A Republican in the White House, and a Republican majority on the Supreme Court. What makes anyone think that, if elected, he's going to change anything but his address. No, it will be more of the same.

Dana   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Whatever- twisting words as usual- one he was talking about wasteful spending on unecessary weapons programs- not the whole thing itself!
ANd John McCain since you want to discuss the Military- why do you keep denying increased benefits to Veterans??
All for having a war- but not caring for the men and women once they are done fighting YOUR war! Give me a break!

Roman   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Regardles of what all candidates say or do, the are nothing else but puppets who serve the interest of powerful people who use a country to increase their wealth and to protect their interests. So, whoever wins our presidency, we just need to focus in working hard and educating to be able to support our families; the rest is just POLITICS!!

Sarah Bell   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

The way McCain is dividing the country right now with his "us versus them, small town versus urban, white versus everyone else" is the same way he will divide the world. He will tell all of our allies to chose a side, and he will force anyone who disagrees with us to ally with eachother for one final World War. This is what it looks like on paper: The U.S., the E.U. and Israel vs. Russia, China, N. Korea, Iran, Syria, Pakistan, most of South America, North Africa.

McBush/Dick Palin '08!!!

Jean   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Is McCain being called on his twisting of the truth. He looks into the camra and shouts change and the crowd cheers.

Cutting wasteful speanding is responsible.

Does he think the public is stupid?????

Pushie female pundits keeps repeating these one liners.
DISGUSTING

Sen. Barack Obama   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Where does John McCain stand?
Apparently, head and shoulders above me. :-(

DeMj   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

You cannot expect America to change if you are afraid to change. Republicans had their years to right the ship and it's not and will not work. If you look back for the last 20 years, you will notice that Democrat outperform Republicans with the economy.

Tired of the Lies   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

The main problem in our military is not that it's lacking in technology, but rather that it's lacking in warm bodies. We are spread too thin.

If Obama reduces military research and development by $20 billion but increases manpower spending by $5 billion, he will have increased the size of the military while reducing spending–exactly what we need.

McCain lies about Obama's policies the way Bush lies about WMD's and Palin lies about selling planes on eBay.

Nia Hussein- Phoenix, AZ   September 8th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

"My Friends, I was agaisnt the war before I was for it"
My Friends, I've made sure to cut funding for better care for our veterans but don't question my priority to them"
"My friends, the surge is working and we won, even though our troops still have to be there and there is still violence"
"My friends, I know how to win wars and find Bin laden, but I have yet to tell Bush"
"My Friends....

Ben - Portland, Or   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Spending more on the military doesn't necessarily mean it will be better. Smart spending makes it better. Our country's safety will also be served by investment in alternative energy, overhauling or throwing out No Child Left Behind, providing healthcare to our citizens.

Does anyone besides me remember the Cold War? Russia had a big, strong army, and they were feared, but not respected. No one wanted to run away to opportunity in the Soviet Union.

In short, if we have a strong country at home, we'll have more safety in the world. With better education, smarter energy choices, and a healthy population, in addition to our amazingly wonderful freedom, we'll be more respected and admired than if we just run around with a big army.

The McCain camp will start the traditional Republican tactic of lying and repeating the same lie again and again and again because they think we're stupid enough to believe it if they keep saying it... don't take the bait, folks. If you're a conservative voter, look at the Libertarian candidate. McCain is just another liar. Palin is also a liar. She's got a chance here to be a vice president, so she'll say anything she's told to say. If you're philosophically opposed to Obama, at least listen to Barr. He'll at least give you a straight answer.

Jason, Los Angeles   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Obama wants to reduce WASTEFUL military spending. His voting record and his campaigning shows that Obama is committed to spending federal dollars on the troops and on the military. Even in his convention speech, Obama explained that his plan was to rebuild the US Military after the terrible depletions of recent years.

McCain's record on defense spending is a little less noble if you ask me. McCain has either not voted or voted against all of the following bills that would have given money to troops and veterans: HR4156, S2340, HR4986, S AMDT 4817, and HR 2642. Altogether, these bills would have provided $560billion for troops and veterans, including $180B for veteran education (GI Bill), and one bill that would have put a cap on excessive military spending (which might well have had a positive effect on our economy).

I'll put it out there: without talking about his being a veteran, which is irrelevant, what has McCain done recently with his position to help troops or veterans?

Julia   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Sen. McCain, we are not your friends, we are voters who see through your tactics. P.S. the media is not sexist toward Palin, you are sexist for selecting her for the simple fact she is a woman.

Julie   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

But remember John McCain Obama voted against this war and wanted to finish the war in Afganistan with our real enemy at the time, Bin Laden.
He has said he will do everything he has to to help the troops and get them home. He said it during the Primary also.
John McCain you scare me with the way you always talks about fight, fight, fight…..all you talk about is that you were a POW…admirable but being a POW does not make the Presidency a given. Start talking on other issues besides war as that seems to be the only thing you know are well versed in. What else do you know about regarding getting this counrty back on it's feet?

Get Real   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

HOW COME ALL THE COMMENTS ARE IN FAVOR OF OBAMA, BUT THE POLLS AND MEDI COMMENT FAVOR MCCAIN.

COULD IT BE THAT THE MEDIA IS SCARED OF THE REPUBLICANS AND ARE IN THEIR BACK POCKETS.

THE EMEDIA IS OWNED BY BIG BUSINESS. THEY ARE REALLY SCARED OF THE REPUBLICANS PULLING THEIR MONEY.

I HATE REPUBLICANS AND THE MEDIA IS ONLY LYING TO BUILD-UP THE REPUBLICAN PLATFORM. WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO COUNTRY FIRST.

Richard   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Know where McCain stands?? He has flipped FOUR times about the single issue of whether he will have no new taxes or not. We know where he stands when it comes to honesty when he told two lies in only one sentence when saying that Sarah Palin sold a plane on eBay at a profit.

Dan , TX   September 8th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCain and the republican party are liars.

Everything will be ok once we get the liberals out of Washington? Are you insane! The conservatives have controlled Washington since 2000!

The Conservatives took budget surpluses and turned them into huge deficits...Decreasing taxes on the rich and powerful as we fell further in debt to China. NOW McCAIN wants to borrow more money and give bigger tax breaks to the rich and powerful.

Obama will spend LESS than McCain. That is a fact – google it. Don't let them fool you again!

mollygonz   September 8th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

McCain you are such a liar...you and Palin both. Today you are blasting Obama for earmarks when the AP reports that he has not asked for any earmarks for the last two years. Also, when he did, it was 311 million worth while Palin requested nearly 750 million so QUIT THE LYING!!!!!!!!!!!! LIKE OBAMA SAID, YOU MUST THINK WE ARE STUPID!!!Do you think we don't pay attention to the news and the facts. You are outrageous and people will get wind of this if they are smart enough!

robert   September 8th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

you should attack your buddy Bush not Obama. You and your frind destroyed this country

ATLian   September 8th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Is McCain so senile he doesn't see the word "wasteful" in there?

Marty Pacino Chicago Il   September 8th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

We don't even need to talk anymore. We won this election when we let a woman rise to the top and Obama's bots destroyed the best woman their party has ever seen. Thanks Democrats for another complete collapse. I really thought you might have us this time, but as time has proven over and over again... only the republican party has the intelligence and wit to run this country. A democrat when given power will self implode.

McCain/Palin 08

Gerry in Virginia   September 8th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

We all know how John McWar will spend the military budget. It certainly won't go to the soldiers who need medical care or decent housing or good weapons or good armor or newer military vehicles...
This old geezer will say anything to get elected including lieing about what he "plans" to do... Everything out of his mouth has been proposed by Senator Obama already in his platform...
JOHN MCMOUTH.... WHEN ARE YOU GONNA HAVE AN HONEST IDEA OF YOUR OWN....

**** ATTENTION CNN.... AM I ON YOUR COMMENT BAD LIST OR SOMETHING? WHY DON'T YOU EVER PUBLISH MY COMMENTS?

ReverendZ   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Why doesn't anyone pay attenttion to the actual words that anyone says?
Obama stated that he want to cut "wasteful" spending – and to reduce costs of "unproven" weapons systems. This is far different than pandering – it's actually an explanation, something the McCain campaing falls far short on – explanation.
Next time you get to ask McCain a question, how about asking why – on his own website – he states that he wants to cut all non-military, non-discretionary funding for a full year. That means no new money for schools, roads, or health-care – and is stated fairly point-blank on McCains official website.
People on all sides, and in all parties, need to start paying attention to what is actually being said – as opposed to grabbing whatever sound bite seems to take a bigger jab at your opponent.

American   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McMoron, there is a difference between Wasteful spending and Useful spending, as in tax payers dollars being wasted in an unjust war in Iraq..... or wisely going after our real enemies in Afghanistan and protecting the U.S.

As Americans get to know more about McBush and Gov. Pain lin the more people will choose what is best for this country.

Obama/Biden '08/12!

Tim   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Yeah cause McCain never flip flops....gimmee a break!

Angelina   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

It seems that Americans love liars. Good for you. One day, you will open your eyes and... TOO LATE.

Debby   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

What about Obama's tax cuts. Small business that make over 250. and under a million will see a payroll and corporate tax increase. How is this creating new jobs if they go belly up? Its funny factcheck.org didn't say that in their analasyis about the "bridge to nowhere" article discretiting Palin.

Dan in NJ   September 8th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Why is this an issue? He said he wants to "slow our development of future combat systems" and then he said we need to increase the size of our military. These two statements are not at odds with each other. The fact that John McCain sees "I will cut tens of billions of dollars in wasteful spending...I will cut investments in unproven missile defense systems" as counter to improving our military says a lot about him.

Obama 08

Jerry---Illinois   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

There are a lot of dumb people in this country, didn't
they vote for George Bush twice.

facts are facts   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Just sitting back and analysing what is happening I kind of compared the Middle East with America.

The Middle East problems all seem to come from religous fanatics that keep their culture back like what existed in the Middle Ages. An example would be how women are treated and regarded by their society.

America now seems like about a third of it's population could be categorized in the same manner as religous fanatics.This is segment of society that constantly grows through reproduction and in the eyes of many can almost be termed child abuse by indoctrination.

It seems fairly accurate to compare how the religous fanatics in both countries only have one dominate concern which is to see the entire country or it's population conform strictly to it's religous beliefs and fashion laws to conform to their thinking.

After reviewing and giving the latter lots of thought I feel very fortunate to live in a country that almost unanimously demonstrates a penchant for keeping religion out of politics allowing our politicians to deal with problems that affect their citizens not their religous beliefs.

NC Man   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Cut wasteful GVT spending and wasteful "so call" social programs!! Obama is a joke!

Maggie VT   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I heard and believe John McCain , the Maverick voted against it and never showed for the last vote. He voted against the funding for the troops and never showed up for the final vote. And Obama's programs are 2 trillion and McCain's programs are 3 trillion. check the facts

Biscuit   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Barack Obama from the very begining in the primaries had in increase in the size of the military listed in his plans. This is flat lies and spin from the McCain campaign and is of course to be expected.

Len in Washington   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

There's no problem in getting rid of wasteful spending in the military.
There IS a problem in supporting ANYTHING military just to get elected.

Brian Rich   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Um, McCain is a vet and he votes against the vets 100 percent of the time. Who has a problem with military spending?

not surprise   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

HE REALLY DON'T WANNA GO THERE, LAST TIME I CHECKED HIS VP PITBULL IS BARKING OUT SOME LIES,,,SO IF I WERE MCMAN,,I WOULD STOP BEFORE IT COMES BACK TO BITE HIM,,OH I'LL LEAVE THAT TO HIS PITBULL WITH LIPSTICK...

ChicagoJosh   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Dear John, he did not flip on this issue. I'm sorry, but you might have to use your brain as you read the article. He told George S. that he wanted to raise military spending. He told the lib group that he was going to cut CERTAIN areas of military spending. If you've ever looked at a budget, its pretty simple logic.

Instead John, you should of asked him where he will increase military spending. If your going to call him out, at least do an honest job of it.

m   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Give me a break, John.

Call me naive, but I think we can increase the size of the military without wasting money on weaponizing space.

It is sickening, although expected, how the republicans are creating issues like this.

Tell me Mr. McCain, when will we here about your plans for moving the country forward?

Tim   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

McCain and Palin the original mavericks?
heheheh....more like granpop and his nurse.
This country doesn't need another dinosaur running it into the ground. And Palin was a ploy to attract women voters because that's McCain's opinion of women. He's stuck in the 50's where you gave women a pretty flower and they did what they were told. Please don't elect this baffoon and his token to the oval office.

Clinton supporter for McCain/Palin   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Our only hope is to have divided government. The democrats in congress were just as bad as the republicans when they were in power before. It will never be any different. We cannot afford to have one party control congress and the white house.

Michael in Houston   September 8th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Uh Tony, Obama did not say that, someone on his staff said that without his knowledge, Tony are you really John McCain on here posing as a someone else? You sure know how to slice and slant what someone else has said. Don't worry John errr I mean Tony, you errrr I mean McCain will lose in November so who cares what you errr I mean John McCain has to say.

Oh boy....   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

mccain=bush
enough is enough.... it is now starting to become the he said/she said.
i am ready for change and change will come with a new party not a different candidate.

milo   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Enough with the nonsense about "present" votes. In the Illinois senate, a "present" vote is the exact same thing as a "no" vote. Way to make a mountain out of a molehill.

RuthieM   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Obama has always said, since early in the primaries, that he would increase the size of the military, he said it was absolutely necessary. So this is typical of McCain/McPalin lying about Obama's stance on this issue, or perhaps it's just McCain's typical lack of hearing again. I believe it's the second thing to go... I do think Palin or someone should give him a hearing aid while on the campaign trail at least, or tell him to pay attention, or to just stop lying. He probably also doesn't even know he has been following Obama every step of the way ever since the primaries, grabbing onto Obama's 'change' message, like Romney did too, and Hillary and the others. He saw his do nothing say nothing campaign was in the dumps so he grabbed Obama's 'change' mantel and decided to try and run with it. Only now he really doesn't know what to do with it. But doesn't he know the American people are not stupid - this time - and can see what he is doing for political expediency only, just like when picking his vice presidential nominee - political expediency - not 'country first'. Go Obama/Biden '08-2012!!!

Bruce   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

McCain is really reaching too deep into the LIE BOX Obama has supported the U S Military much more than McCain. Oh the old man must have forgotten how he voted against the GI Bill to give service members a chance to get an education. and how he voted againt the VA reform that is needed to provide the health care needed by those military heros tht return home suffering from the WAR he voted for.

Dennis   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Sounds like Senator McCain was describing Governor Palin and her stance on the Bridge to Nowhere.

not surprised   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Ugly posts full of hate, ridicule, and name calling. Your arguements and attitudes are counter productive if you're trying to win over votes

Rick in NC   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

God help us. When the politicians start yelling Liar, Liar, there is no hope for any constructive discourse. Whatever happened to the issues. Are they the first casualty of this process. The state of politics in this country is going down faster than a DC-0.

Nick - Arlington, VA   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Someone ask McCain why he didnt vote for the GI Bill.

Donna A. Reuter, Bremerton, WA   September 8th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

I want everyone to think how important this election is the children of those who are serving in the military. This is no exaggeration, this is the plain truth:

If you want their father/mother to live, vote for Obama.
If you want to see their parent come home severely injured or in a coffin, vote for McCain.

The electorate is just as responsible, even more so for these children and their parent's future, just as those who are in an elected position, by casting their votes and who they vote for.

whiteboy for obama   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

obama supported the 'original bill,but, BUSH vetoed it! if the dems ,in congress could have over-ridden it ,it would have been the only way to force bush into a withdrawal from iraq,with a timetable, with conditions on the ground. a 'compromise' that mccain nor bush supported . now, bush is negotiating a long-term agreement with iraq that will have us man 50 bases in iraq.they have no intention of pulling out folks, because they are going after iran, next. if not before the election, and if not ,then after if mccain wins. the only way to stop it ,and restore some sanity to the world is to elect real change with obama/biden.

Moon Maiden from Lake Michigan   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

ANOTHER LIE!

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Yo, McSame! Cutting out billions of dollars in wasteful spending and out-dated weapons systems may be bad for your pals, the war-profiteers with no-bid contracts, but it is good for the economy and good for America.

Let's have a good hard look at how you "honor" the veterans but voting against them every chance you get!

Phil Newton from Murphy, Oregon   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

My friends, you may not always agree with me but you will always know where I stand.”

Yes, we do. One of the worst Senate records for vets. Did NOT support the GI Bill. Ignored the needs of disabled vets.

Not everyone can marry $300 million, my friend. What about the rest of us?

Fed up   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Where are all of you dems? if this was a story on McCain you would all be here commenting on his flip-flopping.

Chris in Nebraska   September 8th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Not sure how expanding the military and cutting wasteful military spending are mutually exclusive?

In fact, I find it promising that Obama will put the money where it is most needed, and into systems that actually work.

John   September 8th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Words are important, and McCain is twisting Obama's. The operative word in Obama's speech is "wasteful." Cutting wasteful military spending is not the same thing as reducing the size of the military. Cutting military programs that are unproductive allows you to be economical with the money that does go into the "proven" military projects, and could also allow you to grow the military in a fiscally conservative way. All Obama is saying here is that he is going to take an economical approach to military spending, and as a self-proclaimed fiscal conservative, McCain should be in line with it. McCain is betting that the American people aren't smart enough to punch holes in his argument. I hope he's not right.

SLM   September 8th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

"McCain, who claimed in his remarks that the world is simply too dangerous to reduce military spending, said Obama is guilty of general election pandering."

I've got news for Senator McCain ... they're all guilty of that ... including him. He really should get off his high horse.

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   September 8th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Sorry John, but you're comparing apples with oranges. He did not say he would cut the military - he said he would cut wasteful defense spending. Not the same thing at all, and there is plenty of wasteful defense spending to be cut, some of which could easily be used to fund a larger military, which we also need.

Debbie   September 8th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I think anyone would want to cut wasteful spending. What's so controversial about that?

Allan dallas   September 8th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

I love the polls. Finally American wake up. I told you Obama is rock star. HIs convention was like coronation of king Obama Husein . Obama offer play in movie " The rock star go home" THANKS people of America,

TexasVet   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

As and Retired Air Force Member who worked in Military Finance and wife of an Active Duty Aquisitions Officer trust me, there is plenty of wasteful govt spending. The military continues to employ crooked contractors who promise us the world at a low cost and ultimately NEVER deliver. Sound familiar? Obama is right! The military has been drawn down and replaced with lazy contractors.
Vote to put your tax dollars to work and rebuild our military.

Obama 08!

CNN I HOPE YOU POST THIS

Independent but Leaning   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

This is a good example of why I'm leaning McCain. Obama is developing a track record of saying whatever the audience of the day wants to hear. Empty promises.

At least McCain has substance and experience.

Steve, Madison WI   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Increasing the military (i.e. personnel & conventional weapons) vs. Star Wars, etc. Pretty clear to me.

Everything isn't black or white, yes or no ....... unfortunately that's how a republican mind works – it can't see nuances of reality.

T.O, New York, NY   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I guess McCain doesn't know the difference between someone saying he'd "cut WASTEFUL military spending" VS "defense spending that's fueled by protecting the American people"......Oh i forgot; the Repubs are spin masters.

America wake up! The world is watching.

Sheryl   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

McShame you sir are a bold face liar!!!!!

KG   September 8th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Obama's lack of knowledge about national security matters alone is enough not to vote for him. The world we live in is not Utopia. The world does not sit around singing Kumbaya. There are countries and ethnicities out there that hate it each other and hate us. We can't just turn a blind eye and we've got to be prepared because I'll guarantee you, they are getting prepared.

a real person   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

From what i've seen and heard from Mr. Obama, is that he will military spending by Billions, by bringing home the troops and ending the war in Iraq that is the "wasteful spending". That's how you cut the budget by billions, but increasing the size of the military will not cost the $10 billion a month that we are presently spending.

Michael in Houston   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Wow McTwist, you are reaching deep on this one. He said he would cut WASTEFUL spending, he said he will increase the size in PERSONELL in the military. You are an idiot McCain and do you actually think that we cannot see right through you. Nice play on words but only you uneducated followers will listen to your play on words. I know you have a group of flunkies that write down KEY words for your ads McTwist but even the dumbest person can see you twisting what Obama said. You and Paliar disgust me. You will never be my President McCain!

COUNTRY FIRST McCAIN/PALIN   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Obama is a LIAR. He has lied to the American people since he first arrived in Chicago years ago.
This dangerous liar needs to go back to Chicago where he belongs.

COUNTRY FIRST McCAIN / PALIN 2008

Obama get used to it...............SARAH PALIN will be President of the United States after John McCain leaves office in 8 years.

Arkansan For Obama!   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Obama is right! We don't need Billions of Dollars of Missiles setting up in space like the so called "Star Wars System" that Bush Sr wanted. We don't need to spend Billions in Nuclear Weapons either.

Wars are fought with Soldiers, Guns, Tanks, Ships, and Planes. That's how we have fought every war in the Modern age, and that's how we are fighting in Iraq. That's where the money should be spent!

Putting a missle defense system in space is pointless. But for some reason that's what Reagan, Bush Sr, Bush Jr, and McCain wants. Maybe they are aiming at Aliens or something lol.

Foo Man Jew   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

drilling against then for
taxes for rich repeal then keep
honorable campaign before he was getting trounced
against more troops in afghanistan before, now he likes it

I want to know, dod he pull out his vetoin' pen? Obama should pull out his blackberry and email mccain that earmarks are transparent now and cincy should go google them if she can stand the carpal tunnel pain

McCain used to be cool, now he's 0.9Bush
Palin is Bushette

McCain + Sarah = empty suits   September 8th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Old man, don't have a stroke.
You look like you're loosing it.

Candy West Virginia   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

To reduce wasteful spending yet keep a strong military is called sound judgment mcliar, something you have yet to show us. By the way mcsurge where is the 'gas tax holiday you promised???? You consistently lie and pandar to voters, but where do you stand on anything because it changes like the wind? People should search Huffington Post for 'John Mccain pushes lady in wheelchair' to get an example of his violent temper.

E.C.Coleman   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Senator McCain is absolutely correct..........Obama has blatantly Lied about what he said in the Primaries, and also changed the ''so called ideals" of his entire platform. Obama is the most unqualified and inexperienced candidate that this country has ever seen, and it is only because of Oprah and the Kennedys that he's running. If Obama cared about the "good of the country"............he would withdraw from the race. Obama has NO BUSINESS being in this Presidential Campaign, for he is a Radical Liberal and the country doesn't need this mindset from a President. Obama has been stunned that he is facing a female VP, and IF Obama had been as smart as he thinks he has told this country, he would have chosen Hillary Clinton. This country is sick of 'LIES" and 'LYING CANDIDATES LIKE OBAMA! '

Benjamin Mazyck   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

This is really dumb, because the McCain campaign is just trying to fire back because they were caught in the lie with Sara Barracuda's EARMARKED FILLED bridge to nowhere. Wake up America before we are dumbfounded why bush was elected again. These are distracting tactics that the McBush campaign are trying to deploy to take your attention away from the issues at hands. HEALTH CARE, EDUCATIONS, TAXES, you know the American Dream they promised so much of for the last 8 years. WAKE UP BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.

Clinton supporter for McCain/Palin   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

We need to be able to hear the truth from our candidates. There is no way we can afford the programs Obama is promising to us. This country is broke and took another big hit today with the takeover of freddie and fannie. It's time we woke up and realized this country is broke, and we need government programs cut, not inflated, or we are all going to be paying more than half the money we make to washington.

Laura   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Have we ever known where John McCain stands?

Sen. Barack Obama   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Change You Can Believe In. Or Not.

question   September 8th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

in one word..........draft

Zed   September 8th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I am really confused with the results of the Election Polls. Every time I read users' reaction/comments on every news report on CNN, N.Y. Times, USA Today and other online news sites, I always notice
that comments are in favor of Obama 70% of the time. How could the recent polls show that the battle is deadlock? Does this mean McCain supporters don't read news at all? No wonder why they don't know what's happening in USA nowadays. It's probably not because they don't care, they just don't get it
.

ruffdeezy   September 8th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

“My friends, you may not always agree with me but you will always know where I stand.”

Sounds like the George Bush line of 2004. McSame has no ideas or plans. Your negative attacks are old and boring. Try convince people to vote for you with a good idea or two. Since I haven't heard a single one from you, I am not considering voting for you.

Kathy   September 8th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

McCain has NOTHING but lies to run on!! His VP reads a speach written by some one else, full of lies (bridge to nowhere) and the GOP all faint! Gee, lets see if the woman who attended 5 different colleges to get only a BA in Journalism can write her own speeches!!!!

NO WAY, NO HOW, NO MCCAIN!   September 8th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

McCain responded in Missouri. “My friends, you may not always agree with me but you will always know where I stand.”

LOL! With Kerry as his hopeful VP....

Then with Bush as his buddy so the Republicans take the White House last time.

McCain – Who Do You Want to Be Today?

Gene DiGilio   September 8th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Everything Obama says is a lie!

Terry from GA   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I have one question for John McCain. Why didn't he support the last GI Bill? That said more about his lack of support for the troops than anything he has ever said or done. This also explains why more people in the armed services are donating to Barack than McCain. If Bush and McCain has addressed the situation in Afghanistan, Barack wouldn't have to request more troops for that area.

Anonymous   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Lie, lie, distort, distort.

I'm John McCain, and Sarah Palin said I should approve this message.

Brian   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Cutting wasteful spending and increasing the size or our military are not mutually exclusive. You could easily save 10 billion dollars just by overhauling the procurement system used by the pentagon.

gary   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

IF IT WASN'T FOR MCCAIN ,OB. WOULD OF HAD THE WAR IN OUR BACKYARD. SHOW O.B. MCCAIN FOR THE CON MAN HE REALLY IS. CHECK OUT THE FACTS AND SEE HOW THE MUSLIMS WILL LET YOU KNOW O.B. IS ONE AND THEY HELPED HIM THROUGH COLLEGE. THE YOUNG NAIVE MORONS JUST DONT GET IT.

Mccain=Bush=the draft   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

McWar is desperate, and losing his bearings.

Boye   September 8th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I personally don't think you have to be a rocket scientist to realize the difference in increasing our military (personnel or infrastructure) and increasing military spending. You can increase overall military spending but still reduce overall wasteful spending. Well, I might not be too intelligent but what does "the size of our military" mean?

baker   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Once again, Obama flip flopping. He is just like every other politician. At least McCain uses Obama's own video as evidence unlike Obama making unsubstanciated retoric as ussual.

BTW, liberals, I had a great laugh this weekend reading you all's rediculous, idiotic remarks. Keep it up! It is a great source of entertainment!!

NOBAMA 08.

chelle   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Hey John...stop calling everyone your friends....we're not. And stop pointing out changes in position like they are a bad thing. Shouldn't a President be able to change his mind? I mean George Bush got something in his mind and wouldn't change it no matter what the facts said......how's that working out for the US??? I think a change in position is just fine thanks. Better that than the stubborn ability to ignore reality .......

Alice in Florida   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Obama always says what he thinks people want to hear!

That's why he's behind in the polls – and Gallup calls cell phones! Check their website – they DO call cell phones, and Obama is behind!

McCain/Palin '08
Hillary '12

Veterans 4 Obama   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

This makes me sick! Lets talk about your record on Veterans issues John. I wonder why you did NOT mention this at the RNC, oh thats right...your ashamed of your record! As well you should be, at least we do know that Barack Obama does care about these issues.

Anonymous   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

So McCain is in favor or WASTEFUL military spending?

Belle   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Let's see, Obama says his remarks about abortion were "Flippant" and Biden says life begins at the "Moment of Conception".
Obama says he will CUT Military spending and NOW says he will increase it?
Obama says he will filibuster FISA and then votes for it?

If they go any more right, they will become Republicans.............

george   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

obama is on both sides of every issue. that way nobody is allowed to ask him any questions.

facts are facts   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

McCain and Palin and the entire GOP have done nothing but lie and distort but because the news medias are in the pockets of the corporate elite nothing is done to highlight these to the public.

Steve, IA   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Terrorists will get you in your small towns if you don't vote Republican!!!

Get the Commies too!!

Jon   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

The world is too dangerous, that's for sure. Too dangerous for a pandering, untruthful presidential candidate like McCain and his unqualified, PTA running mate.

Nick   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Isn't it great that McCain believes increasing the size of the military and wasteful military spending are the same thing?

Farrell, Houston, Tx   September 8th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

John McCain needs to be talking about the FDIC and taxpayers picking up the tab for failed Silver Bank's mortgage investments and land developments. Let's hear the real truth from John McCain if in fact he is the "Straight Talk Express". Tell the truth and nothing but the truth McCain.

fernando   September 8th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

this is just another one of OBAMA's flip-flop. so who should be voted as the 'KING OF FLIP-FLOP," who else but OBAMA..........

cmoore   September 8th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Typical Obama trying to play both ends. America is not stupid enough to buy into his double talk.

USMC Mike   September 8th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Ummm..

We spend more THAN ALL OTHER NATIONS COMBINED ON MILITARY EXPENDITURES....

SO what's wrong with cutting wasteful projects and how on earth can you say that because Obama wants to reduce military spending that only boils down to reducing the "manpower" of the military...

Wher is the Medai and when are they going to start holding McCain accountable for the lies and misrepresentations he is spreading?

Thank god after the next two months, we'll get to stop hearing this windbag speak his wacky mind on the TV

Good lord ...

Mike in Chicago   September 8th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

OK maybe its just me but isn't it possible to grow the military and cut overall spending at the same time? For instance, if you budget $100 billion for space missle systems but instead only spend $40 billion on a larger army you could do both. Getting out of Iraq will cut our military spending a lot as well.

Single Mom   September 8th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

McCain is an unfortunate political handicap, he is in my prayers. Obama/Biden are in my prayers also, the part of the prayer that is giving thanks!

Rebecca   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

MCCAIN AND PALIN ARE BOTH FRAUDS

PLAIN AND SIMPLE

LIES AND MORE LIES

ATTACKS AND MORE ATTACKS

NO SOLUTIONS

DebM, Allentown, PA   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Pandering??? McCain is accusing Obama of pandering?

Pot, meet kettle.

Tony   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Flippity-flop! We'll see ultra-liberal Obama get exposed for this a lot during the next few weeks.

This sounds exactly like when Obama told the public that he'd repeal NAFTA, and then basically got caught saying to Canadian officials "I was just lying to them to get votes, NAFTA's not going anywhere".

Get Real   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Please Mr. mCDraft shut up.

Obama you had better start gettign out there and countering all of these lies or your but is toast.

McCain/Palin equal bush lies,.

No Way, No How, NObama   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

How many "PRESENT" votes = "CHANGE?"

Sean   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

He never said he'd cut military spending overall. He will cut wasteful spending! There is a huge difference. Try again mcCain!

texas DEM   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Obama should have picked Clinton

Oh well, Clinton 2012!!!

Latina for Obama...NJ   September 8th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

GO TO YOUTUBE AND CHECK OUGT..SARAH PALIN AND THE ALASKAN INDEPENDENCE PARTY VIDEO...AIP

Anonymous   September 8th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

OH STOP WITH THE FINGER POINTING REPUBLICANS! OBAMA SAID HE WILL REDUCE "WASTEFUL SPENDING." WHAT PART DIDN'T YOU HEAR? "WASTEFUL SPENDING." STOP GRASPING AT STRAWS AND RUN THE RACE!

Eight Is Truly Enough   September 8th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McCain's joking right?

Latina for Obama...NJ   September 8th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

go to youtube and check out "SARAH PALIN AND THE ALASKAN INDEPENDENCE PARTY...(AIP).

Kuilor2k   September 8th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Obama doesn't want a military. he wasn't wiretapping. he even voted for it after campainging against it over and over. And he called it a 'compromise bill'. More like he compromised his supporters rights to get something he wants to use later IF he gets elected. That sort of flip-flopping scares the heck out of me!

Central Scruitinizer   September 8th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

wow i think ive been blacklisted

J from DC   September 8th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

We went to Iraq to disarm their government from WMD's
If the serge did not find the WMD's,
How is it a success???
Oil and War is all I hear form he republicans.
Housing Market Breakdown.
And the same administration that ignored this problem is taking it over. I guess more government intervention is the right answer after all.
Can someone say hypocrites

Willy Brown   September 8th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Obama will do and say anything the DNC wants him to say.

Jeff Brown   September 8th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Ho Hum...Another Republican attack ad... Yawn...

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