September 16, 2008
Posted: 08:05 AM ET

From
McCain appeared on CNN's American Morning Tuesday.
McCain appeared on CNN's American Morning Tuesday.

(CNN) – Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain continued to back away from his assertion that the "the fundamentals of our economy are strong" during a CNN interview Tuesday.

Watch McCain on American Morning

On Monday, after taking heat from Sen. Barack Obama's campaign for his earlier statement, McCain adjusted his language to say the American worker was the strength of the economy.

Watch: McCain's economy comment hammered

On Tuesday, McCain said the U.S. economy will rebound with the help of the American worker, which he called "the fundamental strength" of the U.S. economy.

The problems with the American economy are the result of rampant government spending and poor government checks on corporations, McCain said.

"I'll restrain spending. That's the reason our economy is in trouble today," McCain said.

McCain also said the U.S. is "the victim of greed, excess and corruption on Wall Street," and the senator said he foresaw the crises with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac two years ago.

"The Fannie and Freddie thing was a very serious problem and we had to work on it," McCain recalled saying then.

The regulatory agencies charged with monitoring Wall Street, which he called outdated, have been "asleep at the switch the last few years." Those agencies should evolve to the global economy, he said.

"We have to fix this alphabet soup of regulatory agencies that's left over from the 1930s," he said.

Asked if Obama's economic plan did more for the middle class than his own, McCain flatly said no. He also said one of the greatest hindrances to the middle class is its inability to get "affordable and available" health care.

Filed under: John McCain


GINA, OHIO   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

AMERICA PLEASE!!!! CANT YOU SEE THIS MAN WILL BE A DISASTER FOR OUR COUNTRY!!! HE DOESN'T GET IT!!! AND YOU CANT TEACH AN OLD DOG A NEW TRICK EITHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Brian   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Those wrkers need to take paycuts to help the economy…. its the workers faults that we are in this mess. The Libs are the main cause.

McCain/Palin… for the rich!

Cathy   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

I loved how when McCain was "explaining" what he meant by "fundamentals of the economy are strong, " he had to read off of note cards. Basically meaning…he didn’t know what the heck he was talking about because his speech writer prepared it after his horrible statement at the previous rally.

McCain is right…HE DOESN'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT THE ECONOMY….and it's going to learn it in 2 months either!!!!

McCain would have to back track all the way to January 2008 to get away from his comments that the economy is fundamentally still strong.

Everyone knows what he said in the primaries. That people are overall better off then 8 years ago. NO WE ARE NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JohnLee   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Restrain spending – does that include the mega billions for the wars?

Come on McCain – you can't take all sides of the issue.

Baze   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

The economy will rebound with help from the American worker. That's nice, I guess they'll help from the unemployment line. This guy is simply confused, by debate day he won't know which way is up.

ONE NATION

John in KY   September 16th, 2008 10:51 am ET

The "TRUTH AIN"T IN THIS PAIR" McCain/Palen

Lee   September 16th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Carly Fiorina, one of his biggest mouths, was one of those greedy, corrupt fat cats that took a big corporation, ran it into the gound, got a big payoff, and now HP says they'll be laying off thousands of people in the next few years.

returntocommonsense   September 16th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Anytime the word deregulation comes out of a politician's mouth, it only means one thing – more money out of our pockets and into the company's coffers.

Poor checks on corporations?! How about no checks. Look at the obscene amounts of money going into the CEOs and other high ranking corporate officier's pockets while those who work in the trenches day in and day out get told that we should be "happy" with the 3% slap in the face that they call a raise.

McCain has no idea of what economic principles are let alone sound ones.

RePeat in Cville VA   September 16th, 2008 10:49 am ET

"I'll restrain spending. That's the reason our economy is in trouble today," McCain said.

This comment proved that John McCain really doesn't know anything about the economy. How on EARTH has government spending caused Merrill Lynch to be sold, AIG to be in financial straights, and Lehman Brothers to go under? It's federal deregulation, supported by Republicans, that has caused this mess, NOT government spending.

And hasn't McCain been in DC for 26 years? Didn't the Republicans have control of Congress from 1994-2006? And the White House for 20 of the last 28 years? As Joe Biden said this morning, if a doctor has been found guilty of malpractice, you don't hire him to do a second surgery! Wake up, America. It's time for a REAL change … Obama/Biden '08

Barbara - NC   September 16th, 2008 10:48 am ET

Maverick – unpredictable, reckless.

Foreign Observer   September 16th, 2008 10:47 am ET

"restrain spending" by extending the tax cuts for the rich, right? because trickle-down has worked so splendidly. Oh, I forgot, it was because the "American worker" didn't help enough….

sickening. Go Obama!

John from WA   September 16th, 2008 10:47 am ET

God, I hate these political "clarifications". And notice how carefully he was reading the new statement. My guess is that the candidate who doesn't necessarily speak for the campaign (see quote from McCain's chief economic advisor on July 24th) is going to be on a shorter leash from now on. Face it: (a) the grind of a Presidential campain and the pressure to never make a mistake are absurd, and (b) McCain ain't up to it.

katrina   September 16th, 2008 10:46 am ET

The economy will rebound "with the help of the worker" — uh-huh. I don't think it tanked because the workers weren't helping, do you? Of course, there are all those slackers who lost their jobs…. and their homes…. only to see a Republican promise to challenge their votes if their names are on foreclosure lists (this is true: google Michigan Messenger for details).

JC   September 16th, 2008 10:46 am ET

The press and the public are just beginning to note the derailment of the "Straight Talk Express". Now with Governor Palin flip-flopping on the "full cooperation" with the so-called troopergate investigation, the reality behind the rhetoric sinks in…..

Lee   September 16th, 2008 10:45 am ET

He says the reason our economy is in trouble is because of spending. Really??? This morning he said we were in trouble because of greed and corruption.

He really doesn't get it.

Toni Jones   September 16th, 2008 10:45 am ET

I totally agree with Maureen. Colin Powell would not allow himself to be a puppet in the Bush administration as he is an independent thinker. They say a leader is only as good as
the people he surrounds himself with. And we all know the kind of people that Bush has surrounded himself with. If Colin Powell had run for President I would have voted for him.

Tony in NM   September 16th, 2008 10:45 am ET

just imagine if McCain were President……

very scary.

jason,tx   September 16th, 2008 10:45 am ET

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA…. *wipes tears off face. YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME!

Catherine   September 16th, 2008 10:44 am ET

McCain would have to back all the way to January 2008 to get away from his comments that the economy is fundamentally still strong.

Everyone knows what he said in the primaries. That people are overall better off then 8 years ago. NO WE ARE NOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carol- TX   September 16th, 2008 10:44 am ET

Has McCain been a POW for 26 years .. He's certain tying to convince everyone. This is why he's out of touch

S. Boatman   September 16th, 2008 10:44 am ET

How Can The American Worker Be Strong Without A Job?

bill c.   September 16th, 2008 10:44 am ET

Am i the only one who is amazed that Carly Fiorina can still spout off about John McCain and his difference between him and George Bush on the economy. She is his chief economic advisor. Isn't she the kind of person McCain is supposed to be going after when he talks about the corporate heads taking big payoffs. Isn't she the one who got fired as head of Hewlett Packard and got over $100 million dollars in a severance package? Then yesterday she had the nerve, i an interview, to say that John McCain never said that the "fundamentals of the economy are still strong". Problem is, Carly, the interview was all over the news. Just more lying from the McCain camp.

James   September 16th, 2008 10:44 am ET

OK McSame: and where are you going to restrain spending? Pull us out of Iraq? Reduce spending on new weapons programs? Medicare? Social Security? Default on the debt?

Bush put us in the red by almost $750 billion. To come up with that kind of money you would have to disband the military and eliminate Medicare! If you think that is what it is going to take, you really are out of touch.

Pam   September 16th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Back peddle all you want, Grandpa. You've said things like this too many times for it to not be what you really believe.

gso-chris   September 16th, 2008 10:43 am ET

The problems with the American economy are the result of rampant government spending and poor government checks on corporations, McCain said.

"We have to fix this alphabet soup of regulatory agencies that's left over from the 1930s," he said.

His "fix" is MORE deregulation … look at who is economic adviser is — Phil "mental recession/whiners" Graham, who wrote most of this banking regulation to get government OUT of the markets. McCain is delusional! Obama is like Alice in Wonderland, the only one who is sane in an election where up is down … Obama is "too popular" — but Sarah is not; Obama says people "cling to their guns and religion", Graham claims we are a naiton of Whiners; Tina Fey does a spot-on impersonation of Palin — and that's SEXIST?!?!? Obama was raised by a single-mother, is interracial, and his only "fame" are a couple of best-selling books, but McCain is down to Earth, since he is learning how to use the Internet and his wife is only worth $100 million.

I can't take it, my head is going to explode. It's as if someone took a decorated war veteran, ran a two-bit drunk who skipped out on reserve duty against him and somehow made the verteran the "wimpy" of the two.

I say again … HUH!!!

applecrispbetty   September 16th, 2008 10:43 am ET

Make up your mind, John. Hard to know what you believe on any given day.

Barbara - NC   September 16th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Yep – it's a duplicate – it keeps getting CENSORED out – this guy is as bad as Sinderbrand about censoring AM\ERICANS

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every beer .."

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every earmark .."

Now he says "I'll veto the 1st earmark and make them known .."

Only the 1st one John? Which ones will you let go thru? Any for the 600,000 residents of Alaska? How about the ones for the 300 million people that live in our decaying society? No? OOPS.

But then, "We'll never have to go to war for oil AGAIN ……."

Take our country back for US – Obama/Biden '08

Mary   September 16th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Let's look at this

Who pushed to get banks deregulized uh the republicans
Where is the Senator you pushed through deregulization uh he is now John McCains chief economic stratagist
Who helped back deregulization uh John McCain
Who really thinks that lobbyist are going to reform Washington

Duh John Mc Cain

Are you people so concerned with being the best and always being right that you would watch the rest of the country go down in flames for your pride? After all do you really think that after this election McCain is going to support you after you supported him. On top of that he said he was only going to run for 1 term and then leave. This needs a long term president not just one going for a visit.

Every ones to blame   September 16th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Every one's to blam for this economic mess right now, let's not forget, the Democract's controlled congress for the last 4 years. I don't think a new goverment figure head is really going to promote that much change regardless of who gets elected.

Greg PA   September 16th, 2008 10:41 am ET

He sounds like Mrs. Obama. I said this, what I ment was this. Crap politics all arrond. I belive he ment what he said the first time. I also belive She ment what she said the first time. Spending is out of control in this country. I don't think anyone argues that. But you can't cut spending without leaving someone out in the cold.

no trickle down...   September 16th, 2008 10:41 am ET

Yerh, McCain also still stated in this interview that Palin opposed the bridge to nowhere, in answer (strangely) to the question about earmarks… and the interviewer (as always) let the LIE slide!

When will the McCain camp be held accountable for their LIES in this campaign? I can't imagine what their administration would work like!!!

Disgusting!

J. Sully, New York   September 16th, 2008 10:40 am ET

AT LEAST OBAMA KNOWS HOW MANY HOUSES HE OWNS!! MCCAIN WANTS TO GIVE MORE TO THE RICH. DOESN'T EVERYBODY GET IT? OBAMA IS ONLY TAXING THE RICH. FORGET THE TRICKLE DOWN EFFECT. GO OBAMA BIDEN 08

inga   September 16th, 2008 10:39 am ET

Fact is – McCain said the same thing at least 3 times since January:

"I still believe our fundamental underpinnings of our economy are strong."
-Sen. John McCain (1/23/08)

"I still believe the fundamentals of our economy are strong."
-Sen. John McCain (8/20/08)

"Our economy, I believe, still, the fundamentals of our economy are strong…"
-Sen. John McCain (9/15/08)

We Won't Get Fooled Again!

helen557   September 16th, 2008 10:38 am ET

Based on McCain's recent record, everything he says should be considered lie until proven otherwise.

Enough is Enough, Senator.

Dylan   September 16th, 2008 10:38 am ET

WHAT on earth is he talking about? Govt. spending is the reason why there is a banking crisis the worst since the Great Depression, all-time record high gas prices, and record debt to foreign nations???

Get a clue guy.

Mike   September 16th, 2008 10:37 am ET

Senator John McCain knows nothing about the "word" or meaning of "economy".., let alone the United States "economy". Which he has freely admitted. When did "Alzheimer's disease" set in ? Mike, Montana

lil jj   September 16th, 2008 10:36 am ET

I think McCain said the economy is sound because he had no other choice but to say that. What do you expect him tosay? The economy is in terrible condition and this happened during the time my party controlled Washington. McCainis trying to win the Presidency. He is going to say what ever it takes.

La Raza   September 16th, 2008 10:36 am ET

These times are too important to entrust the country in the hands of a McCain/Pain ticket. He is senile and she is clueless.

i am not dumb...nor a whiner   September 16th, 2008 10:36 am ET

American workers are so strong ! that's the reason why we should tax them more…and cut taxes for the rich…

I mean obviously, the rich are the weak ones…

John McCain we beleive you….NOT !

Brian MacDougall   September 16th, 2008 10:35 am ET

Remember when Obama was excoriated for saying that McCain had "lost his bearings"? That was when McCain still had a shred of dignity.

Well, I think McCain has lost his bearings AND his driveshaft. The wheels are coming off, Johnny boy!

Tom   September 16th, 2008 10:35 am ET

John Mcain I think you are not going to on write way please just stop and think towice other wayice usa ti going to more and more problem please give chanice for other people

fixthebroken   September 16th, 2008 10:35 am ET

The easiest things to say to try to win an election are:

1. I will cut all taxes across the board
2. I will reduce wasteful government spending

Republicans say this all of the time. It is good to the ears. They get elected because people want to believe it.

But, guess what happens — taxes rise and spending rise anyway.

It is a great election ploy. At least Obama is being honest with the American people — he knows some taxes will have to be raised and he is going to try to cut spending where he can.

LB, VA   September 16th, 2008 10:35 am ET

Sentor McCain are you so out of your state of mind that you can not recall the lipstick on a pig comment that you called Senator Clinton healthcare reform. Truth be told, if Gov. Pailin called herself a pitbull let her defend herself. I am not buying your poor sexist comment since you have a way of insulting women too and turn it around and acuse someone else. When do you get off? You think like Bush and even have the same comments that he have said about economy. I was a Clinton supporter and I am not buying this Pailin person that all she has tell are lies for taking credits of things she has not done. If you call Gov. Pailin a reformer then we need to call all of our lawyers reformers too.

Pam - Long Beach, CA   September 16th, 2008 10:34 am ET

…and your pal Phil Gramm and his lobbyist pals are responsible for the lack of oversight.

alvino   September 16th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Did anyone explain to John that deregulation may lead to some major problems? If we are to believe that the McCain/Palin "little engine of change" can be effective when the leader is a "big oil dipstick," then we deserve what we get.

banderson   September 16th, 2008 10:34 am ET

Senator McCain knows that he got caught making a statement similar to what his economic advisor Phil Graham stated a couple of months ago that the economy is sound. I would caution the democrats to be careful because this guy is obviously adept at changing his tune without pause. I think it is called flip-flopping.

Sarah   September 16th, 2008 10:33 am ET

"Cut spending"?

This from a campaign which has been beating the drums of war against Iran and Russia almost from the get-go?! Give me a break!

allen   September 16th, 2008 10:33 am ET

Mccain is a dishonorable coward. He is too timid to stand up to the money, too afraid to stand up to his rich wife, and too cowardly to debate Obama. Mccain is a looser and if you support him so are you.

Nelson Colorado Springs Co   September 16th, 2008 10:33 am ET

I think Sen McCain wasn't thnking. If my wife had his wife money I could say that also. Go Obama/Biden

The Voice of Common Sense (Independent Voter - Charlotte, NC)   September 16th, 2008 10:31 am ET

How can the American worker be the strength of the economy, McSame, while that worker doesn't even have a job that allows them to work!!!???!!! I can't believe that so-called "educated" men and women say such nonsense!!! For McSame, maybe it has to do with him being rich and the American worker being out-of-work and poor? Out of Touch? Hmmm…I think so….

Baldwin/Castle 08!!!

Army Strong   September 16th, 2008 10:31 am ET

You know I'm so tired fo this maylay that McCain is tryig destort from he's a big lier the amercian people know that. Let us wake up the way I look at this if you want another 4 more yrs of hell vote for McCain we need a change in amercian Palin is not a change nor McCain I vote for GW IN 2000 I though he was for military people found out he bag down for he he promoised us not I'm getting ready to retired after 24 yrs Of service I been OVER THERE 4 time McCain F him tired io lies so if you want another Bush vote for him people wake up Sarah Palin is a joke she went to 5 university before she received hr BA in journalism hell I have my BA hell I'm working ON MY MASTER AS WE speak I should run for VP OBAMA please call me I will your 2nd VP I can shake up washington

The Other Campaign Strategist @ 115th St & Amsterdam   September 16th, 2008 10:31 am ET

John McCain is PRAYING for a Terrorist Attack right about now to play on his the imagery that his POW status has granted him with low information voters.

Barrack, know what you are going to do NOW … if this should happen.

Bluv   September 16th, 2008 10:31 am ET

If you saw the interview notice how he keep repeating the same key terms over in a continous loop, illustrating that he knows little about the subject but is trying to put up a hoo-rah speech to build up the American worker and how hard-working they are. You can tell when McCain knows what he is talking about (like war, abortion when he is in front of a conservative religious crowd); he gets a certain pep and doesn't double talk like he does when he responds to questions he knows little about (like the economy!)

McCain Sounding Like Herbert Hoover   September 16th, 2008 10:29 am ET

I cannot believe how out of touch McCain is. McCain saying that the economy is strong and then quoting Herbert Hoover. McCain is not only out of touch. He is out of this galaxy. The world is affected by what's happening in our economy.

Herbert Hoover-McCain ???? This is too scary !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wendy Canada   September 16th, 2008 10:29 am ET

He is backing away from this statement but not others that have been proven false, misleading & lies? Strange way to put "country first".

Pat from Cali   September 16th, 2008 10:29 am ET

Too many houses, not enough time…

Chuma C. I'Aronu   September 16th, 2008 10:28 am ET

I love John McCain. He is all over the place with confusion. He is always backtracking , flip flopping and outrightly lieing, not to talk of plagarising Obama's slogans and ideas.

McCain, please stand on your own like a man. We love the former McCain, not this new Palin's handyman.

Chuma, for McCain.

MM   September 16th, 2008 10:27 am ET

if he saw there was a problem with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac two years ago, did he do anything to alert everyone else or to do anything about it?
just wondering…………………..

KP   September 16th, 2008 10:27 am ET

McCain spin is not going to work on anybody! How can people honestly back this man that continues to say what he truly feels, gets caught saying something stupid then back out and say that he meant something else. If he wants to be the Commander in Chief you don't have the chance to say one thing to a hostile nation then just take it back. Things like that can start wars! Please America for the sake of our great nation please vote Obama. We need to get this country back on track right now.

Ann   September 16th, 2008 10:27 am ET

I would do more than back away from that statement. I would run!

SPQR753   September 16th, 2008 10:27 am ET

FLIPPING & FLOPPING & FLIPPING & FLOPPING ……..Poor OLD MAN he just DOES NOT GET IT !

Ed   September 16th, 2008 10:27 am ET

Three words: hypocrisy, lies, cover-up.

Take a nap Grandpa Simpson. NO MCCAIN!!!!!

jm for sc   September 16th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Don't back away McCain; hold on to your beliefs. The american people need to know what you are really about. McCain expects women to flock to him because of Palin, ignoring all of his positions on things that matters most. If America is fooled by this man, we will be purchasing a bridge to nowhere.

Obama/Biden 08

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   September 16th, 2008 10:26 am ET

Fool me once, shame on you. (W's 1st term)

Fool me twice, shame on me (W won again?!?!?!)

Fool me three times…not going to happen. No way, no how, no McCain, no Palin!!!

Republi-CON   September 16th, 2008 10:26 am ET

This is the first time he's mentioned the word WORKER in years..if it weren't so serious it could be funny. The repubs. are like CEO's ..killing the Goose. Our country is it's inhabitants… Why are u destroying our Nation?? "Country First" is just a slogan to you. A slogan u discarded last week..The hardships trickle up faster than profits trickle down.
McDumb said in his poorly delivered rebuttal yesterday afternoon that he was going to stop the GREED on Wall St…. HOW???????

Old Fart   September 16th, 2008 10:25 am ET

Yes, and by "economy" he meant US Olympic basketball.

Don't be so hard on McCain. He's getting up there in years. Sometimes his mind wanders.

Annie   September 16th, 2008 10:25 am ET

The media doesn't want to go there, but I will. Senator McCain is a liar, and he thinks most of us are fools. What in God's green earth are we doing here? The U.S. has become a joke, a bad one. Canada and Great Britain are aghast, Mexico has to be laughing hysterically because we not only look dumber than them, we've become more corrupt. McCain and Obama are tied. I've thought about it from every angle, and it has to be bigotry. There are few choices left. For those of you who feel this way, vote for the white half of Obama, and you'll be doing yourselves and all of us a favor.

McCain 2 Face   September 16th, 2008 10:24 am ET

Is it worth losing your job, your future, your retirement, your womans rights because your are afraid to elect a brilliant black guy?

It'll be ok, I promise.

Barbara - NC   September 16th, 2008 10:24 am ET

Hey McLaughlin – you gonna censor us like Sinderbrand does?

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every beer .."

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every earmark .."

Now he says "I'll veto the 1st earmark and make them known .."

Only the 1st one John? Which ones will you let go thru? Any for the 600,000 residents of Alaska? How about the ones for the 300 million people that live in our decaying society? No? OOPS.

But then, "We'll never have to go to war for oil AGAIN ……."

Take our country back for US – Obama/Biden '08

Allison   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

We need jobs in order to work.
HP are going to lay off 25,000 workers. Where are these strong workers going to find jobs in this doomed economy.

North Carolina   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

The American worker is the strength of the economy? Too bad none of us are working. Mccain you have no clue.

bill   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

IDIOT MCSAME WAKE UP AMERICA IF YOU LIKE LAST EIGHT YEARS THEN VOTE FOR PITBULL AND MCSAME

Paul from NYC   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

McCain read the same exact script on Fox and Friends and Scarborough this morning. These were barely 'interviews', just excuses to repeat the same lies and catapult the propaganda.

Leta   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Watergate/Iran Contral Scandal/Whitewater/Desert Storm/Iraqi War
The economy will be fine and the Economy has servived many a scandal….When CMD McDougal Realtors/McDougal Properties/Horizon Construction/ (Carloyn,Delbert,Mike, Mark/Marc teamed up with David Miller, Laura Miller, Arnold F. Mincey, Jr., Hillary Clinton, Al Gore the words from Arnold F. Mincey, Jr. They have a very good BANKER….In order to create an Empire you first have to remove the dynasty….I am sure this is built up to allow Hillary, Al or Bill to profit, embezzel, launder and hide more money retained illegally…..Now are we going to cry about it ….Just let it happen or prepare a firm foundation to build on. As I have said before when Bill was in office if you build a bridge to the 21st Century (yes Century 21) and you build it on faulty ground that bridge will not last……..Bridges are collapsing everywhere…..Thanks Bill Clinton, Hillary Rotham Clinton and Al Gore…..(Bill Clinton always had the dear in the headlight look). Don't tell me the Secret Service never allowed you to visit with Hillary and Al in Lubbock Texas while in office……IMAGINE THAT!!!!

Cecilia - Chattanooga, TN   September 16th, 2008 10:23 am ET

Keep on backing up Mr. McCain – here is a thought – you could move to Alaska and help Sarah run the state and keep an eye on Russia

spoton   September 16th, 2008 10:22 am ET

i am an american worker.i look to keep what i earn not share it with someone unwilling to make the same sacrifices i did in school,eating balogne sandwiches every meal for 5 years thru school,working 60 hour weeks for 10 years.i dont expect someone better off than me to reach back and give me some of their wealth either.i expect every american worker to pay something in taxes to our government.its called having a vested interest.i do not expect to be taxed to pay for someone elses healthcare,i expect border security to keep out illegal workers that are driving down our wages and benefits.i do not expect govt to bail out irresponsible companies on wall street.i expect people to pay for their houses.i dont expect the govt to rush to every natural disaster.what beauracrat gets to decide how big the event is to be a disaster or whose district its in before aid is sent.i expect the iraq war to end soon resolution or not.i dont expect any war savings to be used on new programs as its all borrowed money.i expect honest dialogue face to face between candidates not spin thru their campaigns.every one should stop responding for these campaigns except the candidates themselves.dueling betweeen political candidates should be legalized.this would greatly diminish unsubstaniated reports against both candidates put out by both campaigns.

Susan from Scotts Valley, CA   September 16th, 2008 10:22 am ET

After he made the first remark, I bet they all went into a panic to figure out how to fix it.. And what they came up with was: What I meant was "the American worker"? Is Obama disrespecting the American worker? How stupid do they think we are?

Republicans can't fix what they broke. Recent history – think about how strong the economy was during the Clinton history. More history – look to the fact that the economy is always better during years of a Democratic president and look at when Reagan and the first Bush tried to fix the economy they eventually had to tax the rich. McCain is just wrong.

Frank Chase Jr,   September 16th, 2008 10:22 am ET

John McCain is out ot touch and lives in another century. The straight talk express not only lost it's wheels but the engine has dropped out, too. As it stands, the McCain team is full of hot air, empty promises, hyperberly, and false statments to obscure that the America is broke and in a true drepression. When all the Execs, and money makers start jumping out of high rise building, maybe McCain will get it. McCain just does not get it.

Brian   September 16th, 2008 10:22 am ET

RobinLC, allow me to answer your question:

MCain is crazy, stupid AND lying.

D from MI   September 16th, 2008 10:22 am ET

Sarah Palin is nothing more than a parrot … And John McCain is nothing but a baked potato that someone tried to heat up and fry …

Ron L   September 16th, 2008 10:21 am ET

THIS IS PURE..OOPS…I BLEW IT…TIME FOR DAMAGE CONTROL!! reaction.
He MEANT what he originally said, and it had NOTHING to do with the American workforce…
DO NOT BE FOOLED!!!! This man does not understand just HOW BAD it has gotten for MILLIONS of us…HE JUST DOESN"T!!
He may maybe a good Senator, he will make a POOR President.

Barbara - NC   September 16th, 2008 10:21 am ET

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every beer .."

What ever happened to the McCain that said "I'll veto every earmark .."

Now he says "I'll veto the 1st earmark and make them known .."

Only the 1st one John? Which ones will you let go thru? Any for the 600,000 residents of Alaska? How about the ones for the 300 million people that live in our decaying society? No? OOPS.

But then, "We'll never have to go to war for oil AGAIN ……."

Take our country back for US – Obama/Biden '08

Ted van Tol   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

It is obvius that McCain is not on control in his own campaign.
His campaignleaders who are pushing the toughtalks of Palin and avoiding the real issues.
Why McCain aprove the nasty ads towards Barack Obama?
McCain is happy to have Palin next to him but he realy shows weak.
Palin is taking over the campaign and that looks very scary to me.
It is still about the next President of the USA and not about the VP.

What Barack Obama needs to do to win this election:

Use his insparationforce on every speech!
Stick to the issues that are importaint for all Americans
Ask the Americans what they want about the war: Stay in
the middle of 2 and provote to start another 2 or, end fhe wars and
talk with the enemy and provide another war.
He must tell his supporers that, if they realy want change, they have
to go out to family, frends, neighbours and people everywhere
and tel them that they have to vote for change and Barack Obama.
Blow on that wind of change and make it a storm for the better.

When he does, he will win this election and make this world a better place for everyone.

White Mother for Obama!!   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

LOL, McCain… you sure back away from alot of things.. Give it up!

Lima   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

Dear Senator McCain't :

The strong american work force that you are speaking off has no job to go to. Over 600K and still counting are sitting home with their strong work ethics. They are actually wainting for your plans to fix the economy so that they can go back to work and not the other way around.

Kim, Charlotte NC   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

McCain wants to win soooooooooooo bad, he can taste it. Can't you see him drooling at the mouth win he lies?

This is only his 3rd try at becoming president. Has anyone ever wondered why Bush never picked him as his VP since he had so much experience?

So sad……………

RICK   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

MCCAIN LIE LIE LIAR DOW 504 points down

The Money map don`t look the same!!!

When Pres. Bush took office in 2001 compared to now!!
BUSH = MCCAIN
Figures don`t lie but liars sure do figure!!

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE 2001 = 4.2%
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE NOW = 6.1%

BUDGET 2001 = $281 BILLION SURPLUS
BUDGET NOW = $357 BILLION DEFICIT

NATIONAL DEBT 2001 = $5.7 TRILLION
NATIONAL DEBT NOW = $9.7 TRILLION

NET RESULT TODAY UNDER BUSH
DOW DROPS 504 POINTS
26,000 JOBS LOST

VOTE REPUBLICAN!
THE FISCAL CONSERVATIVES!
VOTE McSame/Moose Slayer!!

4 MORE YEARS!!

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Barbara Chicago, IL   September 16th, 2008 10:20 am ET

HOW WHEN YOU WANT TO CONTINUE THE WAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mccain is Bush   September 16th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Mccain is a Liar and he is Wrong for Americia let me give you a Few Reasons: He left his wife after she had a bad Car crash and start having a Affair with Cindy who is 20 years his Senior.2 He voted against raising the Minimum wage from 5.15 to 6.50. 3 He voted to Cut funding to Schools and After School Programs for Kids.4 He voted aginst {REFORMING) the healthcare system.5 He Voted aginst expanding Natural gas, Wind, and Biodiesel. Is this Really the Guy You want in the White House for 4 More Years? If You can, Can your Chlidren really afford 4 to 8 More years of American Schools?

NoMoreEvil   September 16th, 2008 10:19 am ET

Can Obama sue Mccain for spreading lies and rumors, distorting his ideas and copying their campain message?? Someone needs to stop Mcliar from this distortions. He will do anything to win, he has no morals, no ethics, no shame, what is he?? Human? I don't think so. It is really really scary. He still talks about stupid earmarks, that do not mean anything compared to the National deficit we have and foreclosures and wall street …etc.
He supports that stupid missrepresentation about the bridge to no where.. It is so irrelevant. I have no idea how is that message going to make changes we need. He keeps repeating the sentences over and over like a total jerk, his words are empty. I think he really thinks the American people are stupid and he wants to make sure they remain stupid because he has not talked about education. Why should we make Americans smarter (God forbid) they might realize the truth and we dont want that ..
Wake up People. These guys want wars. Large companies benefit from wars. Weapons manufacturers, construction companies…etc. Those are the only people that will benefit from the Republican adminstration.
Those of you who cannot see beyond skin color…well I hope you rethink this because the Creator or God that made white people is the same Creator or God that created Black people and therefore, "we created man equal"
Look at yourself and look at your family are you really happy with what is going on with this Bush adminstration? Mccain is Bush.

Obama08

VON BISMARK,Vienna.   September 16th, 2008 10:19 am ET

I just can't understand.Since when in the world does the word "fundamentals" means workers? This can only be possible in the RULS(Rovian University of Lies and Smears) from where McCain graduated fourth from the bottom.
This also qualifies him to tell lies with a straight face with the lame excuse that Obama would not participate in town halls with him.McCain doesn't dictate the pace of the campaign.
THIS IS A SCARY SIGNAL TO THE REST OF THE WORLD! He will lie as President to declare many more senseless wars.

KJAB   September 16th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Oh my god. Please tell me the American worker will not fall behind this total b.s. McCain is a lying sell-out.

Roland   September 16th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Come on McLame, don't forget what you learned in the Rovian school of politics . . . keep telling your lies over and over again until people start to believe you.

(Just for clarification, the 'don't forget' had nothing to do with your age … I think since this is supposed to be a once-in-a-century financial crisis we need someone like McLame who remembers last century's crisis.)

haas   September 16th, 2008 10:18 am ET

Has America woken up yet? McCain-Palin will continue the past 8 years. They are bad for the economy, our standing in the world and for this country. No way, No how, No McPalin!!!

MurphyMorseJohnson   September 16th, 2008 10:18 am ET

How dumb and insensitive can a Republican get? Apparently, McCain doesn't really listen. If he did, he would see television ads for foreign cars outnumber U.S. car manufacturers' ads 4-1. This is the result of Republican job outsourcing due to Republican lobbyists and Republican greed. McCain has supported Bush/ Republican economic policy 90% of the time. The only real change will come from a Democrat, not McCain.

Tony   September 16th, 2008 10:16 am ET

McCain is absurd.

He understands and can relate to the average man or woman about as much as a millionaire can to a homeless person living on the street.

WAKE UP PEOPLE!

John   September 16th, 2008 10:15 am ET

McCain thinks with a wave of his hand and some pandering rhetoric we will forget his actions during the past 26 years he's been in government – how he has steadfastly supported his party throughout years of misguided policies that are resulting in the mess we have now.

Yet all of a sudden, once he's elected, somehow all that will change – he'll be reborn as a new man!

Are Americans really this gullible?

blaising   September 16th, 2008 10:15 am ET

McCain at Columbia University during a service forum featuring both candidates:

"It's easy for me to go to Washington," said McCain, "and frankly, be somewhat divorced from the day-to-day challenges people have."

Nuff Said…

facts are facts   September 16th, 2008 10:14 am ET

There is no animal in this world easier to skin than the average Joe regardless of what country they live in. McCain and the GOP have this figured out and have it down to a science on how to manipulate the bulkk of the population.

Fred Thompson state at the GOP convention Sara Palin can skin a moose. Although that likely makes her more qualified to be President than John McCain the Republicans still more work to do with her before she can skin the public but they'll get it done in time.

Susie   September 16th, 2008 10:14 am ET

I think McCain thought the economy must not be too bad if Obama supporters are willing to pay $28,500 a plate for an Obama fundraiser hosted by "Bab's".

So much money — does the average "Joe" understand that?

Dem for unity   September 16th, 2008 10:14 am ET

MCcain is so out of touch. At this point he is a joke. Mr. The Economy fundementals Are Strong(TEFAS). Lies and more lies. Thank you Mr. Hero. Thank you but no Thank you. No Way. No How. No MCcain.

PT   September 16th, 2008 10:13 am ET

He want's an Economic Commission…LOL

Scott NYC Independent   September 16th, 2008 10:13 am ET

These are the first 5 areas of economic fundamentals and none of them sound like poeple to me.

What do we mean by wealth; and what determines economic growth?
Factors affecting performance in the industrial economies.
Factors affecting economic and social development elsewhere.
Employment, engagement and exclusion.
Funding the state: sources of income, drivers of expenditure.

McCain for Pres.   September 16th, 2008 10:13 am ET

While there are a lot of people hurting in our country, there are still a lot of people making a lot of money. If the FUNDAMENTALS OF OUR ECONOMY WERE NOT STRONG THIS WOULDN"T BE THE CASE.

sandy   September 16th, 2008 10:13 am ET

I guess the straight talk express is flat out of tyres at this point!

Gerry   September 16th, 2008 10:12 am ET

McCain has not been and is not a friend of workers. He has voted for corporate welfare and against raising the mininmum wage repeatedly. Yet, he invokes the worker to cover a gaffe about the economy. Clearly, McCain has little understanding of the economy. We know he was reading material prepared for him by Bush aides because he made the same statement Bush had used many times before and just a few days earlier. We know he has little understanding of what he was discussing because he repeatedly emphasized the wrong words in making his points. When he made emphatic gestures, he spoke the wrong word. We don't make such mistakes when we speak with knowledge and conviction. McCain has said that he knows little about the economy; and it is showing.

Educate yourselves   September 16th, 2008 10:12 am ET

Go read a book people! Did anybody listen to Joe Biden on the Today Show? He is absolutely correct. It was the Republicans that allowed the de-regulation of Wall Street that caused this mess! Since John McCain agrees with GWB 90% of the time, it is fair to say that he would continue the same failed economic policies. Less government does not work! When we give these big companies tax breaks they pocket the money. Even John McCain is saying that now he is for stricter regulation when he called himself a "de-regulator" a couple of months ago.

PS Did anybody notice that oil is the lowest its been in months but gas prices are soaring? Here's a clue for all the "drill baby drill" sheep. Oil does not equal gas!!!!

DebM, Allentown, PA   September 16th, 2008 10:11 am ET

Senator McCain, it's too late. You let the cat out of the bag yesterday with your comments. And backtracking to say that you really meant American workers and American ingenuity are strong doesn't work for those of us who realize that you misspoke.

Combine this with the fact that Phil Gramm – he of the "nation of whiners" and "mental recessions" – is still your chief economic advisor and may be your Secretary of the Treasury should cause all of us who care about our economic survival to run screaming away from your ticket.

Vote smart!!

drone   September 16th, 2008 10:11 am ET

McCain, I hate you…. You are the lowest of the low.. Why isnt anyone talking about those provacative photos floating around the inernet of Palin.. Thas probly why her 17 year old daughter has a baby.. THE APPLE DOESN'T FALL FAR FROM THE TREE.. If Palin ends up in the white house, we are DOOMED.

si mwen te konen tou jou deye   September 16th, 2008 10:10 am ET

IS anyone else watching or is it just me. i mean this is no smear this is really ignorance by a potential candidate. what does he mean the fundemental of the american worker is strong. two words senator GLOBAL ECONOMY. the fundamental of the american worker can't be strong when china, bangladesh and dozens of other country are providing the same job we are doing over here for a quater of what we are paying over here. things will get worst if we put his man in the white house. people on wall street and people like senator mcprofit only care about themself and they'll do anything to keep the profit coming. we the so call fundamentally strong workers of this economy will keep on losing job while these big politician and greedy execs tripple up their profit by making good over see and selling them here. Nike cost 10 cents to make and it sold here for $100 on average. this is what we the fundamentally strong american workers are up against.

RobinLC   September 16th, 2008 10:10 am ET

John McCain are you crazy, stupid, or lying? My choice is all of the above but then you would have choice stripped away by the supreme court wouldn't you?

Typical White Person   September 16th, 2008 10:10 am ET

Obama wants a panic on Wall Street because he thinks it will help him win the election. Just like he wants American soldiers to keep being killed in Iraq because he thinks it will help him win the election.

Obama pressured the Iraqis to NOT negotiate a pullout of forces from Iraq until after the election. That is a fact. Google it for independent confirmation 'cause you ain't likely to see it here.

America the Stupid   September 16th, 2008 10:09 am ET

Either your completely stupid or a complete racist to sit there and back a complete fool like McSame. Which one are you?

ChrisP   September 16th, 2008 10:09 am ET

If he "doesn't get it" … he just doesn't … there's not enough backing up!!! It's our economy … he's from the old school – we need a 21st century president … just look at how professionally and within budget Obama's campaign was run … and he also "changed" campaign financing just by giving his campaign truly back to the people!!!

4 more years? Sorry, not this time!!

Obama/Biden '08/12

ran   September 16th, 2008 10:08 am ET

The solution to the economy problems and to our other problems is simple: Vote for Obama/Biden and other Democrats. The work will not be easy; but would you rather have a proven community organizer working for and with you or a pseudo-CEO type?(i.e. Fannie-maie/mack/Enron/Halliburton etc.)

My pick is easy and hopefully yours will be too. People we can not get this wrong this time and we can not let the courts decide for us ever again.

welches, oregon   September 16th, 2008 10:08 am ET

What a flip-flopper. What a liar. No Way No How No McCain.

Bob Stephens   September 16th, 2008 10:08 am ET

Another Senior Moment from the Double Talk Express…..

Scott NYC Independent   September 16th, 2008 10:08 am ET

Either he thinks we are stupid or he is ignorant of the economy and its current crisis. Anyone knows from eco 101 that when discussing economic fundamentals one is addressing the basic foundations of economic theory, not people. Things like M1, M2 and M3, loan rate, fed rates and the effects. Most of the country may not know those details but guess what – we all know that people are not fundamentals. So either we're stupid and he's talking down to us or he's ignorant and trying to deceive us into thinking he is knowledgeable.

Tired of W, OH   September 16th, 2008 10:08 am ET

If anyone believes that McCain was talking about the American worker when he said the economy's fundamentals are strong, they're lying to themselves. The American worker is only strong if they have WORK. McCain will keep encouraging corporations to out-source and put more workers out of work, like he did here in Ohio with his DHL deal.

Someone needs to put training wheels on the straight-talk express. It's not designed to do all this back-pedaling.

WHAT THE HELL, CNN? AM I BLACK-LISTED? POST THIS!

Celeste   September 16th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Senator McCain: I have completely lost respect for you as a politician but more so as a person. The way you have allowed others to manipulate your campaign and do to Senator Obama what those same people you have hired from George Bush's lot have done to you in the past. It is really shameful and downright dishonorable. It's really, really sad, I almost feel sorry for you – that you would do anything to be elected. May God have mercy on you all.

Moderate Republican for Obama   September 16th, 2008 10:07 am ET

I must be psychologically disturbed and fundamentally seeing things when I went to fill my gas tank up (mid-size sedan) at $4.19 a gallon for regular. I must also be fundamentally wrong when I saw that my stock investment fell a few hundred dollars! I must also be out of my mind when the money I used to fill my gas tank was money I wanted to use to by a few groceries on my way home from work.

Stacy from Loudoun County VA   September 16th, 2008 10:07 am ET

Senator McCain, the workers in America are the best in the world, it is just the management team that is the most incompetent group in the world. For instance, one of your campaign’s most influential people is Carly Fiorina who took a healthy company such as HP and totally decimated it. During her tenure, HP lost half of its value and incurred heavy job losses. She also said, “There is no job that is America's God-given right anymore.” She believes in sending jobs overseas to enhance a corporation’s bottom line.

CRAZY   September 16th, 2008 10:06 am ET

ANYONE OUT THERE CARE TO DEFEND MCCAIN ON THIS ONE . AND IF YOU EVEN TRIED YOU WOULD BE A MORON. AND IF YOU VOTE FOR HIM YOU ARE A MORON .

OBAMA…..08

Joe Green   September 16th, 2008 10:05 am ET

Restrain spending? What like Bush did? Or Sarah Palin, who left her city $22 million in debt and took every earmark she could for Alaska (the most $$ per capita of ANY State) INCLUDING THE BRIDGE TO NOWHERE?

I guess if you just SAY you are going to change things, that is more important than your actual DEEDS.

DEEDS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN WORDS!

martin   September 16th, 2008 10:04 am ET

John tell us again that the government needs to get out of the way. Also tell us about your afvisers who deregulated wall street. Reformer? God yes. You just hide the adviser.

Vote4Obama08   September 16th, 2008 10:04 am ET

Did he really say the U.S. is "the victim of greed, excess and corruption on Wall Street"??? Him and his whining wife own 7 houses and we're the victims of greed? I think him and his wife's eyes were bigger than their stomachs because they definitely consumed more than they could handle. If he really saw this crisis coming…he should have warned his best pal BUSH to pay closer attention to avoid this crap. McCain and Palin make me want to vomit all over their campaign.

MikeH   September 16th, 2008 10:04 am ET

As was pointed out by Paul Krugman, McCain is talking like Herbert Hoover, the Republican President who's ignorance and corruption helped drive the US into the Great Depression.

Of the all the people most responsible for the economic mess we are in, one of the top two is Phil "Nation of Whiners" Graham, McCains buddy and covert economic adviser.

If anyone could push this country into a Third-World type exploitative Plutocracy, it is Mr Graham.

America, if you are ignorant enough to put this man into power, you deserve what you get.

Beth in TN   September 16th, 2008 10:03 am ET

McCain is a BIG JOKE! We are smarter than this, America. He will make all of us look like clowns! He insults us all with his "mumbo jumbo" -

Joe the Bartender   September 16th, 2008 10:03 am ET

This just in. McCain's been backing up so much and so fast that he's developed a case of "knobaphobia". What's that? The fear of backing into a cold door know.

It's the economy, stupid and it's fundamentally unsound. This guy is clueless

Sandra   September 16th, 2008 10:02 am ET

The republicans had 7 years to screw up our country and they've done an a great job.Four more years of the same will finish us off.We all know that this mess has been created by pure greed and put in place by 6 years of a Republican Congress.Enough is enough.Throw the bums out..a real change is a clean sweep of both Houses and the White House.These folks were never supposed to be in their positions for 20-30 years.We need to have term limits for a starter.

Paul Dobro   September 16th, 2008 10:02 am ET

You can twist like a Chinesse gymnist, but your still 14 years old.

To think The View can through off a presidential canidate shows how un-prepared he is for this job. While Obama has challanged himself by going onto Fox for interviews (and actually getting some good coverage from fox!), McCain-Palin RUN FROM THE MEDIA.

You can only run so far before you run off the cliff.

BTW – Remember when McCain said you need a sense of humor refering to his Celebrity ads in August? Now, his campaign has lost it's sense of humor and can't laugh at SNL!!!!!!! Does he know the differnce between parody and reality????

Gary Chandler in Canada   September 16th, 2008 10:02 am ET

another 'he never said it' he never meant it that way" another and another,,, how could he deal with China, Iran, Russia?
And people keep saying Biden goes off topic!!!???

Democracynow2008   September 16th, 2008 10:01 am ET

Senator Mccain is out of touch with the American Worker.
He can change his words but that does not change what he really thinks.
Say anything to get a vote hey Senator Mccain.
Flip Flopping all the way to November .
Obama/Biden 08

Oh! The Irony   September 16th, 2008 10:01 am ET

This guy is a fundamental liar. I heard his speech and he was not talking about the American worker. This war hero packages lies in a nice shiny box for the average misinformed American to open with pleasure.

Monica, Texas   September 16th, 2008 10:00 am ET

McCain was "angry" on MSNBC Morning Joe and Good Morning America….What's up with that? He did present himself as the old grumpy guy yelling at the kids to get off his lawn. Besides still saying if Obama had agreed to townhall meetings he would have used such slanderous ads….His temperment really needs an adjustment.

Misha   September 16th, 2008 10:00 am ET

I don't know what is wrong with Journalists these days, even CNN,msnbc,foxnews.. journalists and reporters. What happened to the time when we used to get facts from all reporters and journalists. now all media is letting US decide. we always hear two sides of a story.well..cnn what is the truth? Do you expect we, the citizens to do OUR OWN investigation? geez..all Journalists and reporters are OBLIGATED to tell us how THEY feel. stop giving us two sides of a story " "they said this and that but…their opponents said this and that" that's all you tell us.how about what's on your mind? how about some investigation for Truth. The news media cannot be trusted anymore.what a shame.

Funny   September 16th, 2008 10:00 am ET

John could always go hide in one of his many homes.

LOL, when he says "the fundamentals of our economy are strong", there's a guy sitting behind him who turns his head to look at John. It's as if the guy is saying "Are you crazy".

Watch the tape, it's too funny.

Obama/Biden 08

Anonymous   September 16th, 2008 10:00 am ET

If McCain seen our countries collapsing situation some time back he did NOTHING to abate it. We can expect the same of him if Palin gets him to the white house. His words are full of bull and presently searching for methodology to justify his failures. His claims of success need to be challenged in the debates. As well as Palin's. The color of her lipstick should also be questioned.

It's not going to happen, he should bail out and let Palin take his place.

linda n carolina   September 16th, 2008 9:59 am ET

The trickle down theory…..trickle this……I'm tired of getting peed on!

Bulldog   September 16th, 2008 9:59 am ET

McCain was all for his top economic advisor, Phil Gramm, who was the major pusher for deregulation. McCain voted for Gramms deregulation bills and now all of a sudden he says we need more regulation. What a liar.

RealityKing   September 16th, 2008 9:59 am ET

Yesterday, the dollar was up against the euro, and other foreign currency, even as our market drop 5+ percent..

Just a Mom   September 16th, 2008 9:58 am ET

As I watched his interview this morning, I was not impressed with his evasive answers about the economy. Does it even make sense to say American workers are strong when there is no work to be found? Also, he was still talking about Palin's "Bridge to Nowhere" – I don't know why.

Barbara GA   September 16th, 2008 9:58 am ET

I found it very destrubing watching John McCain on one of the cable channel this morning. This man has a bad temper. He was asked about his statement concering the economy. This man lit into the host of the show ( MEKA) as a new voter I was outragaged. I will never vote for someone out of control as he is.

Get some help Mr. McCain ANGER MANAGEMENT!

Tejash   September 16th, 2008 9:57 am ET

McCain has no idea of where our economy stands. I think Geroge gave him that quote to make him look like he cares.

tigerakabj   September 16th, 2008 9:57 am ET

Nice try McCain. This isn't the first time you've said that "the fundamentals of the economy are strong." You even said you don't know as much about the economy as you should back in Dec. 2007.

Everybody, vote for Obama.

Obama/Biden 2008/2012.

J roll   September 16th, 2008 9:57 am ET

This coming from a guy who says he's not good with economics saw the fannie/feddy collaspe coming two years ago? Please, does he really think were stupid. I also notice he not usng his fundamentals line anymore. The fact of the matter is mccain had 6 of Bush's and the republican congress' 8 years in which do something and our economy has been sliding the past five years. Now all of a sudden he sees it all brokemn and he can fix it. Again why trust a guy who says the economy is not his strong suit. If he didn't mean it why did he say it.why did he concede to fit his party's base. Some maverick he is .

mark from england   September 16th, 2008 9:56 am ET

maccain is a moron

Sue   September 16th, 2008 9:56 am ET

Spin, baby, spin. It's no wonder McCain can't make a sensible statement. he's backing away and spinning at the same time. That would make anyone dizzy, let alone a senior citizen who's also trying to defend the blatant lies of his CHOICE for VP. He made his own (tanning) bed, now he doesn't want to lie in it.

John in Ohio   September 16th, 2008 9:56 am ET

McCain: backtracking, misspeaking, distorting, lying, flip-flopping, waffling, misleading.

John McCain, more of the same.

SGJ   September 16th, 2008 9:55 am ET

This guy has no honor.

The past few weeks – with his sex ed for kindergarteners add – he has shown he is the one with the blind singular ambition to be president at any cost.

McCain Is Shocked...   September 16th, 2008 9:55 am ET

"Oh God, the people aren't listening to my lies anymore. Let's bring out Sarah Pigs and Lipstick. That will distract them."

larry   September 16th, 2008 9:55 am ET

The only thing McBush has said that I agree with is his comment on economics not being one of his strong suits. Yeah, I'll say…..he hasn't a clue.

Kaye- Jacksonville FL   September 16th, 2008 9:54 am ET

Oh dear – poor John just gets more confused everyday. Can't figure out what he thinks, what he'll do, what he should say to win. I'm dizzy just listening to him spin his useless positions and old proposals. Good thing he's got Caribou Barbie popping up in all the key states to keep the right excited about the "Palin-McCain" ticket…too bad that bubble is about to burst with all that's coming about Ms Sarah….she is same old, same old republican politics…just like him!

BigTallMatt   September 16th, 2008 9:54 am ET

Although rampant government spending UNDER A REPUBLICAN DOMINATED FEDERAL GOVERNMENT is part of the problem, McCain neglects to mention Phil Gramm, who drafted McCain's economic proposal, and the many lobbyists working for his campaign who drove legislation through a Republican controlled Congress that deregulated the financial industry and set up the current economic crisis. He's trying to defer blame for the mess that he himself helped this country get in, and it won't work.

Obama/Biden – The change we deserve.

McCain/Palin – Thanks, but no thanks.

Rob   September 16th, 2008 9:54 am ET

Many people I talk to who typically vote Republican claim that repubs are for small government and privatization of corporate America. I don't see it though. John McCain and the GOP want more military, and now apparently more financial regulation. I guess by small government, they don't want the federal gov't to provide health care or other social initiatives.

Dave   September 16th, 2008 9:54 am ET

Lie, Lie, Lie…. Deny, Deny, Deny…. That's all the republicans ever do! Oh, that's not what I meant! Sure it wasn't John…. and your running mate didn't attempt to abuse her power either!

Obama/ Biden!!!

Susan, IN   September 16th, 2008 9:53 am ET

Wouldn't you back away from such an idiotic statement. McCain can run, but he can't hide. The chickens are coming home to roost. i heard that Phil Gramm had a huge part in the de-regulations and wrote the legislation for Congress.

Obama/Biden 08

Will-South Dakota   September 16th, 2008 9:50 am ET

When wa s the last time McBush fed his family on $120 and had to make that last for 2 weeks, when was the last time he stretched out his paycheck to make it to the end of the month…when was the last time McBush told his kids no, I don't have the money for that or thats to expensive right now…….Oh Wait he spent it all on his $500 loafers!!

John   September 16th, 2008 9:50 am ET

If the American worker is the fundamental strength of our economy, why are so many jobs being sent overseas? I don't think McCain, Obama or any of the folks in Washington get it yet. I personally plan to vote AGAINST every incumbent I can.

JusLaugh   September 16th, 2008 9:50 am ET

What???? McCain ot taking responsiblility???? Shocker!

It seems his true colors are starting to show through the smoke screen. He only cares about other rich guys, he could care less about the rest of us.

Mb   September 16th, 2008 9:49 am ET

American workers, as strong as we are, can only do so much. We work hard but this administration has ignored us. The policies they enacted hurt not helped us now they want us to give them 4 more years to stick it to us again – NO WAY, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

Keisha - Atlanta   September 16th, 2008 9:49 am ET

Lies, lies, more lies… He'll be singing a different song next week..

Accountability   September 16th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Just like he backed away from confusing Shia and Sunni….just like he backed away from "America as a country of whiners"…just like he backed away from how many houses he owns….

Does this sound familiar America? It's what we have become accustomed to in the last eight years of the George Bush/Karl Rove Republican White House. Some Maverick huh?

Want more of the same…vote McCain

Tony Z-MD   September 16th, 2008 9:48 am ET

Stop the Spin. McCain is not ready to lead.

Open Your 3rd Eye   September 16th, 2008 9:48 am ET

SORRY MCIDIOT.

SPENDING IS NOT THE SOLE REASON:

FREE TRADE
SUBPRIME MORTGAGE MELTDOWN
LACK OF GOV. OVERSEEING & MANAGEMENT
IRAQ WAR
JOBS DISAPPEARING
HIGH PRICED OIL
EARMARKS
CREDIT CRUNCH
ETC. ETC,

THE LIST GOES ON SIR. AND YOUR PARTY IS RESPONSIBLE.

PERIOD-POINT BLANK-END OF STORY-FULLSTOP

tornado1972   September 16th, 2008 9:48 am ET

This is not the first time for such a statement, we know what McCain is all about and his party know they are on the wrong side but just don't care. How can they say country first, it's just a shame where this contest has gone

I love Obama   September 16th, 2008 9:48 am ET

This man really makes me want to throw up.

Arielle Yanaba   September 16th, 2008 9:47 am ET

John McCain…you are a joke, I'm sorry. I once had respect for you but that is all out the window now!

nader   September 16th, 2008 9:47 am ET

NOW HE IS TRYING TO GIVE SPIN TO IT. TO WHOM HE IS GOING TO FOOL. WE KNOW WELL THAT HE DOES NOT UNDERSTAND THE PAIN OF THE REGULAR JOE.

Walt   September 16th, 2008 9:47 am ET

You know thsi would almost be funny, but for the fact that there are many millions that support this man. Wall Street crumbles. The housing market crumbles. Unemployment rises, and he says things are fundamentally sound.

Do we need a Depression and the Stock Market to completely crash before the republicans and their ardent supporters realize that the last thing in the world we need is a republican in the white house?

Jerry   September 16th, 2008 9:46 am ET

John McCain -

"Please ignore the fact that I was part of the ruling party that created and oversaw this mess. Please ignore the fact that I and my party laid the foundations for this crisis by removing market regulations.

Please ignore all that and believe that I am going to change everything by appointing my lobbyist friends and former Bush administrtion officials to key posts."

As Obama said – If you believe that, I have a bridge in Alaska you might be interested in.

Irma in North Carolina   September 16th, 2008 9:46 am ET

John to bad you lost it by saying that, the american people arent going to believe what you say. God will perform another task as Sarah said he did for the Iraq war. His task now will be to take you and Sarah out of this election. America dont need the likes of you two.

james   September 16th, 2008 9:46 am ET

" The American worker is the strength of our economy." ( unquote) The American workers here are losing their jobs by the thousands !!!?? That`s our strength ?????? That doesn`t make sense !!!! How many times have you delt with someone in another country via phone ??????

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 16th, 2008 9:46 am ET

PALINODE: A formal statement of retraction.

(dictionary.com)

JDM   September 16th, 2008 9:45 am ET

Mcain seems to prove the point against himself. GOV spending ( war)and less regulations did this. Cheaper over seas labor- tax breaks for the same company that use the cheap labor- lower triaff for the product to come back here in bulk-sell the product to the same person you fire at a higher cost.
Eco 101, Nothing from nothing leaves nothing!

WOW - CONCERNED WOMEN   September 16th, 2008 9:45 am ET

TO LATE…………………………

WE HEARD YOU LOUD AND CLEAR ……………………………………

DON'T TRY TO CLEAN UP WITH ANOTHER LIE ……………………….

PLEASE GIVE US A LITTLE RESPECT MCSHAME…………………………..

WHY THIS RACE IS TIED REALLY LOOKS AT THE CORE OF AMERICAN RACISM. (SHAMEFUL)……………………………………………………..

CLEARLY YOU CAN'T COMPARE MCCAIN/PALIN TO OBAMA/BIDEN TICKET AMERICA………………………CAN YOU?………………………………………..

THATS WHY GLOBALLY WE ARE NOT RESPECTED ……..SMALL MINDED PEOPLE. SHOULD WE REALLY ALLOW SMALL TOWN USA TO RUN THIS COUNTRY WITH THEIR BACKWARD THINKING ?…..(SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD)

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

jake, San Francisco, CA   September 16th, 2008 9:45 am ET

I am sure McCain will say tomorrow that he doesn't remember saying 'the fundamentals of the economy are strong'

Obama said 'change', McCain copied and said 'change'. Obama said 'enough is enough' McCain said 'enough is enough.'

Frankly, does McCain know what he's saying, does he know what side of the argument he's on?

It's terribly hard to fight against someone who's on both sides of the argument…terrible, very sadening!

Boston   September 16th, 2008 9:45 am ET

McCain must be tired of jumping over the fence every time he opens his mouth. Will he ever be able to say I made a Mistatement? lol

Dana   September 16th, 2008 9:44 am ET

Too late Mccain,

You said what you truly meant!! You and your cronies really do believe the economy is fundamentally strong. You believe this because you don't have to worry how your mortgage is getting paid, how food for your children are on the table or how you are going to put gas in your tank!! Obama was exactly right!! You are out of touch and you donot share the same social affairs as the every day joe blow!!

Serving your country and being a hockey mom is not going to pay my bills or put food on my table!! We need jobs created. This economy is broken and you Mccain/Palin can't fix it!!

Never let them see you sweat....   September 16th, 2008 9:44 am ET

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH…
WITH ALL THE PREJUDICES IN AMERICAN, I AM NOT SURPRISED THAT PEOPLE STILL HAVE FAITH IN THE REPUBLICAN PARTY! MCCAIN CAMP HAS BEEN ALLOWED TO CONTINUE TO TELL HALF TRUTHS OR OUT & OUT LIES. ENOUGH.
AMERICANS SHOULD NOT ALLOW THEIR PREJUDICES OR HATES TO COST US ANOTHER 4 MORE YEARS OF PAIN AND SUFFERING.

brian   September 16th, 2008 9:44 am ET

When is McCain going to realize that spending, taxes and gas prices have nothing to do with the bank failure and housing crisis??

Mark Felton   September 16th, 2008 9:43 am ET

Say what you mean or mean what you say!

Andrew   September 16th, 2008 9:43 am ET

Here goes McCain lying again. First he says one thing then realizes this is not where the public is then does a 180 just like he always does. The man has no integrity and puts himself above the country. Obama has some big expectations to fulfill.

Judy from NC   September 16th, 2008 9:42 am ET

He said the same thing before and he said it again yesterday. McCain just doesn't get it!

mitchell   September 16th, 2008 9:42 am ET

no he's not. i heard him on your show this maorning and he still said the same thing. dont lie for him ,cnn!

Helen   September 16th, 2008 9:40 am ET

How is it going to rebound with the American Worker when so many people do not have jobs. What kind of plan does he have to jump start the economy. WE NEED JOBS MCSAME. PEOPLE ARE HURTING AND THEY DON'T HAVE SEVEN HOMES LIKE YOU.

OBAMA/BIDEN 2008

DrKooler   September 16th, 2008 9:40 am ET

Senator McCain, I am terribly disappointed with the recent turn of events in your campaign. My heart bleeds for you at the way the extremists and hypocrites in the GOP have hijacked the process from you. I ask you a question, can you look at yourself in the mirror and honestly not be ashamed? IT IS INDEED VERY SAD. Please take the path of honor and take responsibility today, it is not too late for you to lose with your honor still intact. A word is enough for the wise!

Tom in Delaware   September 16th, 2008 9:40 am ET

Didn't seem to stop the 'Bots from donating 66 million dollars now did it???

JOHN   September 16th, 2008 9:39 am ET

Of course he's backing away. He was wrong. He is wrong. Just a shame that he has to learn that he was wrong by listening to a statement from the Obama campaign. I guess the economy seems pretty sound if you're a Bloomberg billionaire or if you own 10 McCain homes.

Even Warren Buffet thinks McCain is wrong.

Helene   September 16th, 2008 9:38 am ET

Old McCain does not have a clue about the economy. Nor on anything else.

Spencer from VA   September 16th, 2008 9:38 am ET

And did he even mention that Hewlett Packard is laying off workers as well. Isn't one of his economic advisers the former CEO of HP. I see where McSame's special interest are.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

bill from michigan   September 16th, 2008 9:38 am ET

Old guy keeps slipping. Quick get Sarah back here to save him with another distraction. That's the trouble with gettin' old you tell people what you really think. In other words screw the working person. I got my 100 million and 9 houses.

McCain for Pres.   September 16th, 2008 9:38 am ET

He is explaining his statement not backing away from it. BIG DIFFERENCE>

People Like Fannie And Freddie?   September 16th, 2008 9:37 am ET

John just said, "We've got to make sure that people like Fannie and Freddie". He then corrected himself to call Fannie and Freddie organizations. What a moron.

marta   September 16th, 2008 9:37 am ET

He was so transparently using scripted talking points . You could see after every sentence he breathed a sigh of relief that he actually said what his campaign told him to say. Then he gave that silly smirk. He is not what we need as a leader.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 16th, 2008 9:37 am ET

Gosh, I sure hope one of the main architects of the Iraq War and torture boy supreme, Don Rummy Rumsfeld comes out for Johnny Mac! What a shot in the arm that would be…

Anonymous   September 16th, 2008 9:36 am ET

Anyone buying this? Anyone?

pat C.   September 16th, 2008 9:36 am ET

just shows this jerk knows nothing about the economy and makes a fool of himself and then gets whispers in his ear as to what he said wrong and made to get back out there and fix his oops!
is his speech writer going to run the government for him if he is elected? if so then why didn't his speech writer just run for president? he seems to know more of whats going on than old john boy!

Spencer from VA   September 16th, 2008 9:36 am ET

Because he is out of touch. Same Washington ideas.

Irene   September 16th, 2008 9:35 am ET

again, my comments are not going up……….WHY?

quent97   September 16th, 2008 9:34 am ET

And again I say that if the American Worker is the strength of the American Economy and the American Economy is so weak, what does that say about the American Worker? Not trying to paint a negative pix of the American Worker, because after all how can the American Worker be strong if he/she can't work? The Lehman disaster is going to put thousand more American Workers out of work, so what does John have to say about that? How is he going to create more jobs for those who need them? He is really out of touch with reality.

This is the second time he has stated that the Economy is strong and once again the Economy has proven him wrong. These companies have been allowed to run amuck for too long and the Bush administration needs to take responsibility for this tripe. This is proof that we need more Gov't involvment. Not a take over but some watch dogs that will actually WATCH.

Cynthia   September 16th, 2008 9:34 am ET

He said what he meant the first time that he thinks the economy is fundamentally sound. It is for rich people like him but not for your everday average citizen who is struggling from paycheck to paycheck, losing jobs, losing their homes.

Me-Ohio   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

I still fail to understand why Americans love those that lie, don't understand what the average American is going through, and can't see that the party is the same as the one in office for the past 8 years and they are running on nearly the same policies. I guess I will never understand the voter who throws their vote to the person that has the same hobbies as them but not with the person they know and agree with (policy wise).

Jaki Maryland   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

I wholeheartedly agree with you Maureen. McCain scares the daylights out of me and I wonder what kind of world we will leave for my grandsons when he can't see the forest for the trees. People are hurting badly — I hope America won't be dumb again and vote for this insane ticket of McCain/Palin.

I don't understand people who won't cooperate with the law and who simply can't recognize truth when they see it. If McCain/Palin get in, then America deserves what it gets. This is a very scaring time.

MORE OF THE SAME   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

My Friends,

I have no plan, but if I smile and lie you won't vote for the black guy!

John, Brooklyn, NY   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

What do you call this one…a flip flop, a waffle, more "truthiness"?

Nope…this one, Mr. McCain, was just simply a big fat blunder – and it demonstrates your clear lack of understanding about the economy and your inability to understand its immediate impact on the American people.

Henry   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

OH McMadfellow. You are a Mcmoose. Mcpig.
Any idiot who votes for you in this election is as stupid as you are.
God save America

Rave   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

McPain is Bogus with his cock and bull war stories.
Thousands like him served in the army and many didn't make it back to home? What is so special about this idiot? He is a total nut case, who left his wife to marry a richer women, doesn't remember how many houses he owns, he thinks American Economy is fine, Americans are just whiners, He wishes for an other terrorist attack to boost his points in this election
This guy belongs to a MENTAL INSTITUTION. Send him there, not to the WHITE HOUSE. We had enough circus for last 8 years
OBAMA (2008 -16)

The Crisis Behind The Curtain   September 16th, 2008 9:33 am ET

This was a "mission accomplished" moment for John McCain. Once again he got it wrong.

John is basically telling us to "pay no attention to the economic crisis behind the curtain".

Obama/Biden

JDOD   September 16th, 2008 9:32 am ET

McFinance-OUT of TOUCH for sure.

Independent   September 16th, 2008 9:32 am ET

The American Worker is the fundamental strength!!!! Then please tell me Senator why were you and some of your five aides, including former finance chair and your finance director were registered lobbyists for EADS who were behind the bad tanker deal….It was stated that you Senator was trying to jam and bully the Pentagon to make sure there was competition by giving EADS an advantage….If you are so interested in the American worker, why were you backing this project to go Airbus instead of Boeing??? The contract would of meant 44,000 new and existing US jobs….

Please answer that Senator….oh, I'm sure you will deny all of this…but, it is fact….

RB from NH   September 16th, 2008 9:32 am ET

McCain make Rove look like a saint.

My Friends, he has no plan, no clue.

It's ok to vote for the black guy. Really! He's only half black. He's got a plan to help the country.

Is your prejudice worth losing your job, your retirement, your womans rights?

Case   September 16th, 2008 9:31 am ET

What a joke McCain is. He said yesterday that the fundamentals of the economy are strong while major investment firm in the U.S were taking severe hits, from bankruptcy to being sold. Everyone heard it!!! I am convince he is worst than Bush. Now he’s trying to back peddle from his comments because we all realize how out of touch he is. His VP choice will not take any questions from the media. What kind of campaign joke is McCain running and what are they hiding.

caron   September 16th, 2008 9:31 am ET

He said it because it was a talking point for so long that it just came out — at exactly the wrong time! That's what happens when you're talking from what someone else tells you and not from what you really feel – But then again, maybe he really does feel that way.

Either way – OUCH!

The Bottom Fell Yesterday   September 16th, 2008 9:30 am ET

Greed.

It's the economy stupid. Something John McCain knows nothing about.

Donna   September 16th, 2008 9:30 am ET

McCain is not very bright…

Orlando   September 16th, 2008 9:30 am ET

John. Are we in a ditch? Are is it to deep for you to know becuase you have been riding in the front seat for so long you wouldn't know either way?

lindsey   September 16th, 2008 9:29 am ET

of course the fundamentals of our encomony are strong. we wouldn't be a westernized country if they weren't. go to zimbabwe or myanmar and check on their economic fundementals. obama wants people to think they're really suffering because they don't have money to put gas in their car. those "poverty stricken" americans obama talks about still have indoor plumbing and a refrigerator. maybe we should ask the other 85% of the world if the average american lives in poverty.

We love Sarah   September 16th, 2008 9:29 am ET

Mr. McCain,

It is not government spending that got us into trouble, it corporate spending!!!

Why punish the people for what greedy corporations did????

Paul C. Palmetto Bay, FL   September 16th, 2008 9:28 am ET

With 7 homes and $100 million in the bank I can understand how he would think everything is fine.

Kevin, TN   September 16th, 2008 9:28 am ET

Biden's right, the ship has run aground, and the captain in charge is at fault. The Rethugs are running like rats, but they caused this disaster, and John wants to continue the same policies.

Wake up America—vote smart.

The party for the Republicans is finally over.

Tony   September 16th, 2008 9:28 am ET

When you own 9 homes, have a wife who is worth well over $100 million dollars, are wealthy in your own right, and want for nothing, does McCainr eally expect anyone to believe that he understands what the average, hard-working man or woman goes through?

If you believe that, I have a bridge to sell you in Alaska and all the Kool-Aid you can drink. Seems that a large majority of white women across the country are asking for refills.

Country Club First!   September 16th, 2008 9:27 am ET

Back…back…back, it up!

Obama 08

Nurse Ratchet   September 16th, 2008 9:27 am ET

Not even a coherent thought from McCain:

"I'll restrain spending. That's the reason our economy is in trouble today," McCain said.

The reason our economy is in trouble is because he'll restrain spending? Get him his meds!

McCain for Pres.   September 16th, 2008 9:26 am ET

He is explaining his statement, not backing away from it. You know the difference CNN.

TyWebb   September 16th, 2008 9:26 am ET

"The fundamentals of troopergate …errr…the economy are strong."

TheOtherSide   September 16th, 2008 9:25 am ET

IF someone votes for this economic idiot, then American empire is dead. if fielding dressing a moose makes one qualified, then i can bite hyenas nose and therefore a more qualified.

Abby   September 16th, 2008 9:25 am ET

McCain would send this country into the great depression 2…WE WILL NOT ALLOW THAT!!! OBAMA WILL WIN!!!

Kevin, TN   September 16th, 2008 9:25 am ET

God doesn't like ugly. Whether you believe in God or not, there's a reason the bottom is falling out now. It really is the economy.

John's henchmen are talking on tv now, trying to cover up his huge gaffe that the "fundamentals of the economy are strong". I love it, they are so frightened that his mistake will come back to bite him. I hope it does because he is lying to the American people.

Now the Rethugs will come out with another shiny metal object to distract Americans. What will it be today, lipstick, sexism? Let's wait and see.

Don't buy it America, stay focussed.

Obama/Biden 08

Go Sarah!   September 16th, 2008 9:25 am ET

Bloomberg said YESTERDAY the fundamentals of the economy are strong. Is Bloomberg wrong? Don't think so. The do-NOTHING democratic controlled Congress holds the purse-strings to the American Economy. McCain warned of Fannie and Freddie OVER A YEAR AGO. The dems did NOTHING! Oh, wait Pelosi and her 18% approval rating, blames everyone else but them. Let these Greedy, Corrupt banks fail! Let the stronger banks that didn't get into the subprime mess come in and take over and rebuild the banking industry!

Phil in KC   September 16th, 2008 9:25 am ET

For an old man, he back-pedals pretty good.
Personally, I don't think it's enough, though.

Bob from Richmond VA   September 16th, 2008 9:24 am ET

When is McCain going to stop regurgitating RNC talking points and show us he can think for himself? Oh yeah, the economy is not a strong point for Johnny.

Independent Dave, Iowa   September 16th, 2008 9:24 am ET

Backpedaling is a waste of time and resources.

Poor economic decision.

Gary   September 16th, 2008 9:24 am ET

Gee… I wonder why he would back away from something like that.

Concerned Republican   September 16th, 2008 9:22 am ET

Hey retard, great american workers without jobs equals weak fundamentals. Do you even know what the economy is built on? What a moron, no wonder I voted for Bush in 2000.

ever   September 16th, 2008 9:22 am ET

double talk my friend! double talk!

Ed, Santa Fe NM   September 16th, 2008 9:22 am ET

OLD and CLUELESS….. and how many houses???

Barbara - NC   September 16th, 2008 9:21 am ET

Another shady person with no transparency whatsoever – McCain now seeks to take those traits right into our White House. After Bush/Cheney, I say NO NO NO NO NO.

We need honesty, integrity, HONOR, and the Palin/McCain ticket just doesn't cut it. They're selling their soul to the devil for this election.

Take our country back for US – Obama/Biden '08

Maureen   September 16th, 2008 9:20 am ET

If even Colin Powell, who was not only the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff under George Bush Sr, but the Secretary of State under George W. Bush, can't "find a reason" to vote for McCain, why should I? Colin Powell left the Bush administration as Sec. State when he was no longer in agreement with the policies. SO, if he's smart enough to know when the GOP was getting too gung-ho and heading for disaster, then I trust the judgement of this wise man and will wait to see what he has to say on Saturday night. I know that he will allow neither race nor partisanship to influence his decision.

Bud   September 16th, 2008 9:19 am ET

McCain continues backtracking and flip-flopping on EVERYTHING he says and does. Obama is jerking him around like a puppet on a string. If you believe something and state it publicly, McCain, at least have the spine to stand behind it! We're not buying the explanation that you were actually referring to the American worker. More lies and spin from McCain!

Chris   September 16th, 2008 9:19 am ET

I really wonder how the American Worker is going to help the economy if they don't have a JOB? The GOP is so out of touch with this trickle down theory on the economy. If you have a substantial amount of cash one would only think you will have an Accountant that will find the loop holes in the tax code so that, you keep most of that money. Therefore why is everyone thinking that Obama plans to tax folks making over 250K is not a break for the little folks? It's stupid McCain will just let everything be in a status quo and we see what that is causing. He is not going to tax any of the big business and for some crazy reason he is on this small business trip? Look I work for a large coporation not a little company so, if some one is going to give my company an incentive to help me keep my job then I think I will go with their plan. Like I said I don't work for a small company I work for a large one that has just merged and is screwing us around with layoffs. While the CEO's and the Board members made off like a fat cat with their buyouts!!! So you tell me how is McCain plan going to help me?

Mr. Aiken   September 16th, 2008 9:19 am ET

It doesn't matter he was a POW It doesn't matter he was a POW It doesn't matter he was a POW It doesn't matter he was a POW. He to rich to care in the first place.

Trent   September 16th, 2008 9:19 am ET

Actually…restrain spending??? Really??? Really John McCain. BUT YOU VOTED FOR A WAR THAT WE SHOULDNT HAVE WAGED. I dont care about your judgement how to get us out. YOU VOTED TO GET US IN!! Talk about wasteful spending!!

John Is An Idiot   September 16th, 2008 9:18 am ET

The economy is in trouble because of de-regulation. A practice the Republicans love.

John is backing away from his statement because the statement was stupid. I'd back away from it, too. It was a stupid statement.

The fundamentals are NOT STRONG. Once again, John was wrong.

Obama/Biden 08

Obama '08   September 16th, 2008 9:18 am ET

After hearing Senator McCain's, "the economy is strong" remarks yesterday, it fired me up to donate more money to Senator Obama's campaign. I do not understand why the polls are still tied. McCain and Palin are deceiving this nation, and I hope this ad will get the message out there.

Phil, Ashburn, VA   September 16th, 2008 9:18 am ET

Double talk express. Voted for deregulation all these years and now wants more. This guy will run the country to the ground. People, please wake up and vote on issues. For once.

D&D   September 16th, 2008 9:17 am ET

It's a little bit too late to get away from that statement…you will have to leave with that McCain!

J   September 16th, 2008 9:17 am ET

More back peddling from the double talk express.

John   September 16th, 2008 9:17 am ET

He is not backing away from his comment. His meaning was always the same! CNN has the McLame syndrome. They can't see the truth when it is right in front of them. They prefer to offer spin. Shame on you!

Foreign observer   September 16th, 2008 9:16 am ET

Who earns more than 250 000 a year can vote McCain. The others will have a better deal with Obama.

Republican NOT voting for McCain/Palin   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

McCain is lost and his VP is a dictator. The American People don't need either one.

Obama/Biden for real change for America in these troubling times.

Zia   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

You put him right in the corner so a little more effort and he will give in and this is his fate – incompetant and does not understand economics!

Undecided   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

If I were McCain, I would be making commercials and making statements to the effect that He crossed the asile many times against Republican wishes to work on and with legislation under President Clinton and thats what got that economic mess cleared up and the prosperity that it brought to all economic levels of the American People after the 1st Bush administration that would show bi-partisan abilities and then emphasis on Obama's 100% Democratic Liberal voting record nothing like bi-partisian track record.

mayah   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

flip, flopper, STUCK ON CLUELESS..

Not a fan of the 'Cuda   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

McCain is "always against regulation" as late as 2007, has an econ plan written by Phil Gramm, Dr. Deregulation, and has a Creationist side-kick for VP, and has the chutzpah to say he wants agencies to "evolve" to meet new challenges? How – by going extinct?

I WRITE LIKE THIS   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

ON…..MY….BIKE…..BACK…..PEDDLING……DOESN'T…….GET…….YOU…..ANY WHERE.

Rudy NYC   September 16th, 2008 9:15 am ET

John McCain would rather win an election than tell the truth.

Poor Comsumer S.C.   September 16th, 2008 9:14 am ET

Flip Flop….Flip Flop….
McCain/Palin…McCain/Palin….
Liar/Liar….Liar/Liar….
Only a fool can't see the truth through the smoke
and there's plenty in the air these days

Bellamy   September 16th, 2008 9:13 am ET

"I'll restrain spending. That's the reason our economy is in trouble today," McCain said.

you mean like the 10billion a month in Iraq war spending you think so highly of there John?

and what's this with the VP nominee "refusing to cooperate" with the elected legislature and their investigation in her own state? For regular folks, if we do that we go to jail on contempt charges. She thinks she can flount the law in her own state and she will no doubt try it in Washington (if by some disaster we are actually stupid enough to send her there)

Wonder where she got the idea that ignoring investigations by the elected legislative branch was acceptable or tolerated? oops… GW Bush perhaps….. Rove, Gonzalez, Myers, Cheney etc…. Wonder if McCain considers that "working across the aisle for bipartisanship"….

I call it something we don't need to see anymore of after the last 8 years of the GW Bush refusing to obey the law and elected lawmakers of this nation. We don't need more of the same so lets send McCain and Palin home to Arizona and Alaska and put Barack Obama and Joe Biden in the White House so we will have an executive branch that is willing to be accountable to the people who elected them.

John, PA   September 16th, 2008 9:13 am ET

He just don't get it. smh!

America the Stupid   September 16th, 2008 9:13 am ET

The true McSame came out, HE HAS NO CLUE PEOPLE!!

Then his staff hears this, probably shakes their head and pulls him aside later in the day to alert the idiot of his screw up.

I bet McShame then asks what he should say next, which they had a meeting about it and probably came up with blame Obama.

Man, America's are stupid to lap this crap up!! They are playing you for fools!! Wake up and be AMERICAN once in your life and vote to stop our country from falling apart. No more EMPIRE!

BRING BACK THE REPUBLIC!!

Obama/Biden

proud army and navy mom   September 16th, 2008 9:12 am ET

I love it when Obama asks mccain, "what economy are you talking about, when mcsenile says that the economy is sound.

The old man and his pitbull needs to stop lying and denying.

Concerned Voter   September 16th, 2008 9:11 am ET

McCain has backed away from almost every stupid statement he's ever made. He has also tried to flip-flop and all of sudden become the change agent…stupid. He's so wishy-washy and clearly desperate to win office. I would not even hire McCain to work for my company, let alone run the country. He really is out of touch…doesn't he need to be in a nursing home or something? For crying out loud, he doesn't even know how many houses he owns. I guess if that was my biggest problem, I would think the fundamentals of our economy are strong, too…BUT I'm just a small business owner trying to make ends meet…McCain KNOWS NOTHING about that! Hillary said it best: NO WAY! NO HOW! NO MCCAIN! AND FOR THE LOVE OF GOD – NO PALIN!

brian   September 16th, 2008 9:11 am ET

If he foresaw about Fannie and Freddie two years ago why didn't he do anything? He was a senator, he had the power to do something he knew was wrong yet he didn't. now he's all about change when its convenient for him……

Michigan Voter   September 16th, 2008 9:11 am ET

This man is a joke!
First while in Jacksonville on Monday he says (again) that the economy is strong. I guess since McCain does not use a computer he missed the news about Washington Mutual, AIG, Lehman Bros and Merril Lynch. Yeah those companies are realy strong!
Then later that day in Orlando, after he was told his comments were stupid, he flip-flopped and said, no no it the people that are strong.
Wake up America, this man is nuts. And what the heck is he looking at on the floor all the time. Eye Contact tells you a lot about someone. He cannot relate to the everyday man and is not in this for the everyday man.
He also said that Washington was asleep. Hasn't he been a part of Washington for the past 26 years? Sounds like he has been asleep.

Ron from Baltimore   September 16th, 2008 9:11 am ET

A monstrous problem for McCain is that it was his most recent (and future?) economic adviser, Phil Graham, who authored the deregulation of Wall Street. The deregulation policies are indeed the "economic fundamentals" of today, the same ones McCain now claims are "sound."

Graham who said Americans (or maybe he was only referring to a select few thousand economic elitists?) were economic whiners, that they had a mental recession problem.

For Sen. McCain, that was and apparently is where your wellspring o economic advice originated and still originates. Trickle down. "Voodoo economics," a famous presidential father once called it (you remember, right? Bush 41 used it to describe trickle-down econ as voodoo econ?).

ANGIE   September 16th, 2008 9:10 am ET

No turning back now Mr flip flopper i find it amazing someone would want to vote for a man who admits he doesnt understand the economy. thinks our economy is still strong when we are in the middle of a wall street melt down wants, to continue the same failed policies that has led us to this mess all because some refuse to vote for a black man and you know its true SAD VERY SAD so lets go down the road to hell with mccain and the republicans because barack obama is not all white TRULY AMAZING!

ully   September 16th, 2008 9:10 am ET

i trust to mc cain,he is honest,humble and hero !!

Trish   September 16th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Quote: "the U.S. economy will rebound with the help of the American worker, which he called "the fundamental strength" of the U.S. economy." Where is this man's mind??? The American Worker the fundamental Strength of the US economy? WHERE ARE THE JOBS FOR THE AMERICAN WORKERS JOHN? And just how are you going to create jobs in the current RECESSION brought on by your PARTY'S Egregious Mismanagement and Abundant Charity to the Iraq Government! And might I add, an abundant charity whilst Americans suffered through depression with not ONE Government Program to Aid Americans through these disastrous eight years of economic disaster! OH WHY AM I bothering to waste my valuable time – this party is BRAIN DEAD and needs to GO NOW!

Matt   September 16th, 2008 9:08 am ET

The real question is, will he back off all the other pucky he's been shoveling…

bill for barack   September 16th, 2008 9:08 am ET

Why does McLiar always have to run from his own words ?
Is it because he wouldn't know the truth if it hit him over the head with a 2 X 4 ?????

Joe ' Bama   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Dems, add this to your talking points. Repeat it loud. Repeat it long. MCCAIN IS A LIAR. No matter what, no matter who…MCCAIN IS A LIAR. McCain said this…. Reply: MCCAIN IS A LIAR. This should be the new tag line for Democrats.

Muz   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

lets see if the american people are stupid enough to fall for that one

Michael, watching from Canada   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

What happened to the "straight talk" express?

So McCain should not insult the voters by saying "the fundamentals of the economy are strong" and then try to redefine a statement that is so obvious in its meaning!!

Twist the truth……anything to get elected…..so much for integrity.

Tracy   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

He can back away all he wants but come November it is this comment that people will be citing when explaining his loss. Very few people in America will be able to forget this horrible remark.

And no, my Republican bloggers, I am NOT whining. I happen to live in the real world and am experiencing real world problems like the other 95% of the population.

John in Ohio   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Senior moment.

Won't it be fun to have a president for whom every day is a sequence of senior moments?

Jake145   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

He said it.
I saw it LIVE!!!
This man does not tell the truth. I heard his speach…and he's flat out denying this!!
It's a darn shame that this man has no shame!!

Chris in Nebraska   September 16th, 2008 9:07 am ET

Of course he's running away from that statement, who wouldn't be? McCain's new slogans involve "Change," but whereas Obama is fighting to change the direction of the nation, McCain/Palin are fighting to change their stories.

George   September 16th, 2008 9:06 am ET

This guy is so out of touch its not funny….and this country is doing everything in its power not to elect a black man. This is not a news shocker its obvious and I hope thsi nation gets called out on this…its not a Dem vs Rep issues at all. If Obma were white with a name like John Smith this race would be over! Even GOP voters would agree because they know their candidate has no clear change policy in mind. I can't believe we are going to vote Bush a 3rd term in office….simply amazing….all because white males are entranced by this soccer mom! Wake up people! Can you picture her in the Whitehouse? She cant even filed interviews let alone run anything….refuses to cooperate with authorities..whats she hiding?

Veterans for Obama

j.h   September 16th, 2008 9:06 am ET

Is he serious? How can you be in touch with America's economic problems if he believes that in these difficult economic times the economy is sound. PLEASE SPARE US.

TREY   September 16th, 2008 9:05 am ET

what an idiot

politicjock   September 16th, 2008 9:05 am ET

Why does a so called "maverick" like John McCain need to embrace the tactics of distortion, of outright lies in the current political race that looks as if it has become as down and dirty as any election in recent years? Doesn't a maverick refuse to join the herd, to march to a different drummer? If John McCain has already employed the tactics of the last eight years of the Bush administration (lies and deceit as in Iraq's WMD or that Iraq was responsible for 9/11), hasn't McCain already shown that his administration (should he win the election) will simply be a continuation of the untruths and distortions that are a hallmark of George Bush and Company?

Linda from Prescott AZ   September 16th, 2008 9:05 am ET

McCain has no health care plan.

Freedom Lovin Patriot   September 16th, 2008 9:05 am ET

McCain's mistake is sexist.

Carl from MI   September 16th, 2008 9:04 am ET

I bet he can't back away fast enough!! Why in the world would he make a statement like that in the middle of such an extreme economic crisis such as the one our NATION IS CURRENTLY IN THE MIDDLE OF?? HELLO??? McFLY????????

Maybe because he and Graham just don't have a clue what's going on in the world of the rest of us that don't live in the world of the RICH AND WEALTHY!! REMEMBER…. WE'RE A NATION OF WHINERS???

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

Tired of W, OH   September 16th, 2008 9:04 am ET

If anyone believes that McCain was talking about the American worker when he said the economy's fundamentals are strong, they're lying to themselves. You see, the American worker is only strong if they have WORK. McCain will keep encouraging corporations to out-source and put more workers out of work, like he did here in Ohio with his DHL deal.

Someone needs to put training wheels on the straight-talk express. It's not designed to do all this back-pedaling.

Ron was a REP now a DEM   September 16th, 2008 9:04 am ET

Not another non-flip-flop for the GOP .

Country first

Deb, Allentown, PA   September 16th, 2008 9:04 am ET

I'm sorry, Senator McCain, but you let the cat out of the bag yesterday. You can backtrack all you want, but we all know that you were not originally referring to American workers and American ingenuity as the fundamentals of the economy. Couple that with the fact that Phil Gramm – he of the "nation of whiners" and "mental recession" comments – is still advising you and will more than likely be your Secretary of the Treasury and anyone who cares about their economic situation should run screaming away from your ticket.

You want to privatize Social Security. Can you imagine the elderly dealing with a precipitous drop in their income-producing portfolios of the type we've seen over the last two months? My husband and I have lost 25% in that time. It represents at least two years of retirement income. We have the time and income to make it up, but I would guess we're in the minority.

mitchell   September 16th, 2008 9:03 am ET

he doesnt have a clue. all he did was lie about the bridge and make false claims that obama wants to raise taxes. even when told that independent experts found his claims untrue, he maintained his lie. he has become a dishonest man , and lost his honor.

Lost in CNN Moderation AGAIN   September 16th, 2008 9:02 am ET

Now McCain is picking up on what Obama has been saying for 19 months when he is now saying that it's the American workers who keep our economy strong. There's only one problem. McCain has zero policies to help American workers. All this man does is lie. On CNN this morning he said,once again, that Obama would raise taxes on people making as little as $42,000 a year. THIS IS A LIE. CNN and every independent analysis has said this is a lie. There is absolutely no difference between McCain's policies and Bush's policies. NONE.

Please people, stop believing McCain's lies.

Norcal   September 16th, 2008 9:02 am ET

Tell us again uncle John how far did you have to walk in the snow uphill both ways when you were a child and that we should stop whinning about our mental recession. I guess those failure on wall street are humdingers of a mental lapse.

White Mother for Obama!!   September 16th, 2008 9:01 am ET

Does it seem like Palin is wearing the same outfit day in and day out or is CNN using same pictures from same speech?? Maybe she is repeating her outfit just like she is her speeches LOL.

And her deal about not working with the investigation into her abuse of power in the firings… that is just a cop out!! Trying the blame game now. She should have to do just what everyone else does!! She is not like normal everyday people. IF I were to not work with authorities into an investigation… I would probably be put in jail!!! Since she is running for VP and playing the blame game she gets off on it?? She should have to deal just like everyone else would if it was them. She is not normal she uses her powers to benefit herself. Its been proven a fact!!

Obama/Biden 08

Bruce   September 16th, 2008 9:01 am ET

He does not ahve a clue. His interview on the Today show this morning showed how he is no ideas. All he did was repaet the old thire lines he has been, and claim that the "american worker is the fundamental of the economy"….he has no ideas, no clue.
Now they are doing the usual thing that the repubs have done and are blocking the investigation of Palin in troopergate….this is not transparency….especially when the panel who voted was bipartisan and one of the voters for this was a repub…what are they hiding?

John in PA   September 16th, 2008 9:00 am ET

He's been in the Senate for over 20 years. How is he not part of the problem?

Candy West Virginia   September 16th, 2008 8:59 am ET

Alan Greenspan said that Mccain's economic plan would further plunge this country into an economic disaster and essentially destroy it. Need I say more.

Mccain/Palin = proven pathological liars

carlo   September 16th, 2008 8:58 am ET

Let's also add how he ripped poor Mika into shreds on Morning Joe. I actually felt sorry for her.

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 16th, 2008 8:58 am ET

IT'S THE DEREGULATION, STUPID!

Seth in Jacksonville   September 16th, 2008 8:57 am ET

I hope voters who are concerned with the economy are taking note. John McCain might be good with certain things, but the economy isn't one of them. I work hard and would like to see things improve, and I don't think they will if McCain is running the show. Obama has my vote.

Republicans Hate America   September 16th, 2008 8:57 am ET

Please McCain if you love American like you say you do do not be president to ruin it.

joey from nc   September 16th, 2008 8:55 am ET

John Mccain missed the civil rights movement due to him being a POW.
John Mccain missed the civil rights movement due to him being a POW.
John Mccain missed the civil rights movement due to him being a POW.
John Mccain missed the civil rights movement due to him being a POW.

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