September 18, 2008
Posted: 12:20 PM ET

From
Spanish reporters are questioning some comments McCain made in an interview Tuesday.
Spanish reporters are questioning some comments McCain made in an interview Tuesday.

(CNN) – Spanish reporters are parsing John McCain’s Tuesday interview with the Miami station of Spanish-language radio network in which he had praise for the government of Mexico — but would not say directly whether he was willing to meet with Spain’s center-left prime minister, Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero.

"I will meet with those leaders who are our friends and who want to work with us cooperatively," said McCain, according to a translation of the interview with a station that is part of Spain's Radio Union network which has grabbed headlines in that country.

The interviewer followed up, looking for a direct response on Zapatero. "Okay, but I'm talking about Europe, the president [sic] of Spain, would you meet with him?"

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't," said McCain.

The seemingly cool reaction to Zapatero appears to represent a shift for the Republican nominee towards the leader of fellow NATO member Spain. Soon after taking office in 2004, the Spanish prime minister did order the withdrawal of the country’s troops from Iraq, drawing the ire of supporters of the war like McCain — but as recently as this April, the Arizona senator reportedly told a Spanish newspaper he would extend Zapatero an invitation.

"I would like for [Zapatero] to visit the United States. I am very interested not only in normalizing relations with Spain but in obtaining good and productive relations with the goal of addressing many issues and challenges that we have to confront together."

Randy Scheunemann said McCain had not been misinterpreted. "The questioner asked several times about Senator McCain's willingness to meet Zapatero, and ID'd him in the question so there is no doubt Senator McCain knew exactly to whom the question referred. Senator McCain refused to commit to a White House meeting with President Zapatero in this interview," he said in an e-mail.

"In this week's interview, Senator McCain did not rule in or rule out a White House meeting with President Zapatero, a NATO ally. If elected, he will meet with a wide range of allies in a wide variety of venues but is not going to spell out scheduling and meeting location specifics in advance. He also is not going to make reckless promises to meet America's adversaries. It's called keeping your options open, unlike Senator Obama who has publically committed to meeting some of the world's worst dictators unconditionally in his first year in office."

(Updated with Scheunemann statement to CNN)

Filed under: John McCain


Kelly   September 18th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

McCain and Palin have given us alot of laughs this past week. However, this is serious, the Republican ticket is dangerous for our country. The laughing should stop here.

Vote OBAMA the SANE choice.

Matt   September 18th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Who cares? Even if McCain firmly answered one way or the other with a "yes" or a "no" nobody in their right mind would trust his answer after all the lying he has done during this campaign. This is what people are failing to realize. You Republicans supporting him think it's cute and think you're pulling off some sort of mind-control on the unsuspecting public that trusts him, but the rest of the world is watching. Do you think they respect what he's doing? Do you think they will respect him and trust him as a partner in fighting for a better world for ourselves and our children? Running his campaign the way he has is a fundamental failure on his part and when the giggles and slogans and rallies are gone, you're going to find yourselves sorry.

JT   September 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

A senior moment

R.I.F.   September 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Great, now we're about to get into a war with Spain. Have no fear though because Palin can see Taco Bell from her patio so she understands everything Hispanic.

Kerri   September 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Ah, gotta love that McCain "experience" with foreign policy, eh? Maybe we can war with Spain, now!

Susan   September 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Way to go McLame. Make us more enemies by your refusal to open minded! This man will go to war with anyone, and his lap dog Palin will be right there next to mim. No McCain/No Palin!

Brain in DC   September 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Continue the policy of talking only to who agree with us or countries that we can bribe to say what we like to hear? That's called friendship or schmoozing at best, not hardcore diplomacy. We have tried that, our leader surrounding himself with his handmade bubble. Ask Jim Baker, Kissinger, or Israel what diplomacy means.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   September 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I married a spanish woman.
I buy my soap from Spain and my cologne from Spain.

I'm a Republican.

Common sense knows no national or international boundaries.

Vote McCain–not the un-cola.

kathy   September 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Gheesh…the old geezer keeps digging a bigger hole for himself and his VP has a shovel too!….she doesn't know she's in cedar rapids and he doesn't know where spain is located…..scary! I was watching the iowa speech when the USA USA chant began..i knew immediately there was a protest going on….remember the republican convention?…well every time the crowd chanted USA USA it was because the had to drowned out protestors. seems to me they should listen to these people…cuz they are sick of the war…the high prices and the tom foolery the mcain campaign is trying to cram down the throats of the american people. Maybe FIX news…oops i mean FOX news should cover the protests too.

Jill   September 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

What????????….the old geezer needs to get a grip.

AA   September 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

How sad.

I don't think I would have ever voted for him he is far too cynical, confrontational and not nearly intelligent enough, but, as a human it is sad to see someone being used as a scapegoat.

The RNC knew very well that they could not win against either HRC or Obama and threw John to to the dogs, then gave him a gopher as a running mate.

And that's how cruel they are. I mean c'mon his facilities are not all there.. and that's normal. They should not parade him around and make him look foolish. He could just been allowed run out his years in the Senate like the rest of the old timers like Thurman etc.

Peace.

chelle   September 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Wow….John McCain is truly scary. What exactly is he good at? Not economics….not foreign policy….not being a maverick (that died about ohhhhhh 8 years ago)…..oh wait…he has become more socially conservative…..at least today…..

georgia independent   September 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

This is scary. He seems to be melting down mentally.

What is more scary – if he wins, it will be Palin to take over when he stumbles or "mis speaks".

If the Republicans win, can we just keep Cheney as VP?

Kenn   September 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Let's see…Obama goes to Europe and the Middle East to talk to the leaders, draws 200K in Germany, and is ready to put the US in front of the world stage as the leading nation.

McCain is rattling sabers with fellow NATO members.

What's wrong with this picture?
—Peter (CA)

And…
Republicans talks about lipstick.
Democrats talks about economy.

But people are still voting for republicans because Palin and McCain are white.
If Obama were only white, he could have been all the way out there on the poll.

Too bad, this election is about race.

Open Your 3rd Eye   September 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

HEY MCSAME!!

THERE GOES THE HISPANIC VOTE!!

L.O.L.O.L.O.L.

Roger   September 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Good grief. It just gets worse with every utterance out of his mouth. We all better pray long and hard that Obama is elected or I shudder to think of the fate of our country in the hands of this man and his lipstick princess!!!

leezee   September 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

they should post the transcript of the whole exchange- it really was a mess and hard to interpret. I think the consensus is that he ducked the question because he doesn't want to meet with Spain's PM, perpetuating Bush's childish attitude towards "allies who don't agree with us" – go eat some freedom fries McCain and keep snubbing Europe – we won't need them when Palin marches us into WWIII with Russia

Shari, NY   September 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Bayou – please get yourself out of quagmire. This government's rescue of financial institutions at the expense of taxpayers is a subtle form of socialism.

Mercedes   September 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

So let me get this right, McCain is now for helping the undocumented immigrants in the United States but doesn't even know who Zapatero is. He is so out of touch with the hispanic community that it is so ridiculous. I hope this is taken into consideration by hispanics when they go to the voting booth to vote for McCain. In order for him to help the hispanic community and their immigration problem don't he have to have knowlede of who they are and what part of the world they came from.

Sammy   September 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

The man is tired and often sticking to talking points. No big news there.

Bet On Barack !   September 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Bet on Barack. He's tired of the games and the lies.

Bet on the man who graduated from Harvard with honors. Bet on the man who didn't let his circumstances get in his way, and made something of himself. Bet on the one who actually stayed with his wife and kids. Bet on the one who made an excellent choice for VP. Bet on the man who will listen and work with all people. Bet on Barack, America, you won't be sorry.

Obama/Biden

Ted van Tol   September 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

McCain: "I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty.

O my gosh, he is forgotten to mention wars

VIRGINIA will be blue   September 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Mr. Out of Touch is at it again.

leigh   September 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

McCain sounds exactly sound like Bush, gaffe or no gaffe, they are the same. That's it; alienate yet another country, McGoof.

Pop !   September 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

POP !

That was the sound of the GOP Convention Bump. You remember the convention, the one where they did not use the word Republican or say the name George W. Bush, once. The sneaky convention where they trotted out a female candidate who had not been vetted, and said "she's with me". That convention.

Excuse me while I throw up.

Shari, NY   September 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Poor guy probably thinks that all those who speak "español" are from the same region.

TC   September 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

McCain and Palin 2008 — "Win At Any Cost!"

The closest Palin will ever get to taking that 3am call is when a moose is going through her garbage cans.

kayla   September 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

papa smurf you won't even get the chance to invite anybody to the white house , cause YOU WON'T BE IN IT. KEEP DREAMING.

beachgirl   September 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

This OLD MAN doesn't know if Paraguay is in Europe, South America or is an island! Ya, I hope Latinos are reading these comments and YES REPUBLICANS DO NOT LIKE LATINOS!! Republicans are prejudice people, get it????

chris   September 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

The choice for President is clear this year just look at the numbers. According to the non-partisan Tax Policy Center Senator Obama's health care plan would cover 34 million people. Senator Mccain's health care plan would cover 5 million people. The Tax Policy Center also says that under Senator Mccains Tax Policy the highest income households would see the the highest percentage of tax cuts. Under Senator Obama's Tax Policy the lowest income house holds would see the most tax cuts.

Sara comes to Johns rescue, lol   September 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Palin will be on the news later talking about Span unfairly attacked Senator McCain. That's even if she knows where Spain is, hope they brief her first or she may want to send the military after them.

8toolong   September 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I guess McCain can't see Spain from his backyard, like Sarah can see Russia from hers; therefore he's no expert.

Speakinmymind   September 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

"GEEZER & GIDGET BATTLE SPAIN!" This has got to be the funniest name I've seen since this whole laffapalooza got started!!

Orlando   September 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

The Double Talk Express has left the station and is at full throttle. Can I get a big Gaffe here, a big gaffe there, here a gaffe there a gaffe everywhere a gaffe gaffe. Old McGrummpy had a Gaffe.

Maritza   September 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

McCains record of reaching across party lines is proof he means what he says , he has the action to match his words, he is sincere and accomplished at any level of service to make a substancial difference when it comes to meeting with leaders that promote liberty, democracy and freedom, to all of the politically naive and blinded zoombies of Obama your messiah has no proof of action behind his phony rhetoric and that is documented fact, he is at best an oportunist , he distorts the truth and laughs in the face of all of those who buy into false message of "change" read up on him, follow his Chicago south side rise to the Senate, did he work hard ? did he "Change" or improve a large number of people's lives? this man has been shoved to the forefront , the red carpet rolled out with little significant record of accomplishment , again that is a fact, the Obama Zoombies are being taken for a ride, he could care less about you or America, always look at a persons service, action, and dedication to improving the way of life and our country, Obama has nothing to show, just ask his poor ol brother George Obama living in a shak, living on 1 dollar a month , there is proof your guy is all talk.

Maritza

A New America   September 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I hope Latinos will vote for Barack, just as someday we will vote for a Latino in the highest office. But don't vote for Barack because he's black, vote for him because he's the best choice.

Obama/Biden 08

Carl   September 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McCain is rattled again.

Dr. Vincent J. Petrosino   September 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McCain will not meet with Presidente Zapatero of Spain because he withdrew his country's troops from Iraq and McCain supported this misguided war and still does. Is it no wonder that 88% of all Europeans hope we Americans are smart enough and wise-enough to elect Barack Obama for president? No man is an island and no country is an"island" either. WE NEED OUR ALLIES BACK!

S. Boatman   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

If Mccain Doesnt Know Who Our Allies Are Then He Doesnt Know Who Our Enemies Are Either! Mccain Will Put Us All In Grave Danger! He Will Even Alienate Our Allies So No One Will Help Us At All! They Would Sit By And Watch This Country Burn! Elect Mccain And We Will Fall Like The Roman Empire!

FL4OB   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I have real concerns that McCain/Palin would be a foreign policy mistake.

Voting for smart & strong diplomacy. Obama/Biden '08

iSi se puede!

Zander   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

When will this comedy of errors stop?…..it's becoming dangerous.
OBAMA/BIDEN

Anonymous   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

This better be on the news sometime today !!!!! And not with a bunch of excuses for him….I listened to the original interview 4 times…the ol man is thinkin spain is in latin america and is a rogue country at that !!! GOOD LORD help us

John in Binghamton NY   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

So we are going to war with Iran, Russia, Cuba, and now Spain????

The draft will not be enough. Looks like McCain will have to get back into the fighter suit. Can we just offer him up as a peace offering???

Peggy   September 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I watched the look on my mother's face when she first was diagnosed with Alzheimers…..and I see the same look in McCain's face. That confused …dazed look. His mistakes and ability to think and speak clearly will only get worse…they already have. He and his family have great issues ahead of them and so may this Country if he is elected.

sandee in Portland   September 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

This just shows that McCain is in step with the current administration. We'll do it my way or no way. America needs allies, not enemies. Just because a they don't have the same principals, etc. that McCain does, doesn't mean we should confront them. But, of course, the republicans have always been for war…the problem being that American cannot finance anything right now, especially another war. Good lord, even Pakistan, who was our ally, now hates the Americans. Spain, who's been our ally for years, dislikes us. All the Republicans have done is alienate our allies and they will continue to do so if McCain get in office. He just said, he will "confront them" if they don't believe in the same things as he does. What an angry old man. He's always wanted to be President, he feels it may not happen and he's mad!

maurice   September 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Go McCain!

Lexis   September 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Have you noticed that McCain is looking more and more confused?!!?

Fabian   September 18th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

McCain/Palin! The best choice considering what we have to choose from.

worried   September 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I wish McCain had picked Romney. Romney would be able to handle himself and go to Florida as a surrogate to address these people's concerns. Palin was good for a boost, but that is wearing off… Romney would have had some substance…

November 4th And Beyond   September 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

This election is simple for me. I'm voting for the candidates that I believe. I believe Barack and Joe, and I don't believe John and Sarah.

End of story, see you in November.

anthony   September 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Oh great, McCain is not yet president and he is already losing allies for the United States.

Obama/Biden 08

maurice   September 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Hillary 12

Observer   September 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

So, McCain isn't going to meet with people he doesn't agree with? Hmmm…so how would he even begin to bridge the divide in Congress, let alone around the world, if he can't meet somone and at least agree that they disagree? Who knows–maybe you could win them over to your side. It's called negotiating. It's a sign of weakness when you won't meet with those who disagree with you.

maurice   September 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Somebody should have chosen Hillary,but you blew it!

Kathy,   September 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Give the poor old man a break, he probably does not remember that Spain is actually in Europe. Perhaps he has it mixed up with some nation in South America. Where is Joe L. to whisper in his ear?

Chris   September 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

God help the world if McCain wins. Luckily that will never happen, polls are up for Obama, Delegates are up for Obama, and polls don't even count people who never have voted before. There is going to be the biggest young voter turnout in history! Something that I am proudly going to be apart of.

Frank   September 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Why don´t you snub all of europe and remaining allies in the rest of the world.

Obama is REAL Change   September 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Didn't McCain talk negatively about Obama when he said he would meet with world leaders and talk before sending more people to war?

Wasn't McCain the worst critic of Obama's solution to talk to other world leaders?

Say it isn't so…..now McCain dodges a question from a reporter……..doesn't that remind you of someone on his ticket?….same old same old.

FL4OB   September 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

McCain/Palin would be a foreign policy disaster worse than the last eight years.

Vote for smart, strong & pragmatic diplomacy for a POSITIVE change.

Obama/Biden
iSi se puede!

maurice   September 18th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Somebody should have chosen Hillary,but you blew it.

Pat, Westminster, Maryland   September 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Forget Sarah Palin's foreign policy experience. It's time to examine John McCain's.

Dr. Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   September 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

LATINOS GIVE IT UP.

MCSHAME IS A DOCUMENTED BIGOT.

HE HAS NO USE FOR NO ONE OTHER THAN

WHITE SENILE OLD RICH MEN. HE LOVES

TO GIVE US SOME KIND OF LIP SERVICE SO WE

CAN HURRY UP & WORK IN THE FIELDS, BUT

GOD FORBID ANY KIND OF SUPPORT FOR PRESCHOOL

OR MEDICAL INSURANCE FOR OUR CHILDREN OR ANY ONE.

THAT WOULD LEAD TO SELF SUFFICIENCY, NOT ONE OF HIS

GOALS FOR ANY GROUP IN THIS COUNTRY. BUT WE PAY FOR

HIS INSURANCE & PROBABLY IN SOME WAY HIS 12 HOUSES.

talk talk   September 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

I do not like McCain. But Obama's past and his hang-around buddies have shadows on him. I don't trust him. Biden is even worse.

I decided to switch my vote to McCain. I don't care about the polls.

Yesterday I got a picure of Obama and Biden from mail. THEY send my the picture and asked for my donation. Well, I donated $800 to Hillary. But I don't want to spend a penny on the pair I DON'T TRUST.

Tom   September 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

When you listen to the interview, it's clear that McCain didn't realize who he was talking about…he put Spain in the same bucket as Venezuela.

greedyboy   September 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Can either one of them answer a question completely and honestly?

Bayou Joe   September 18th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

maybe the Socialist candidate Barack Obama would be more willing to meet with his counterpart in Spain.

Obamacan   September 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

CNN will not put this comment but I am putting it here. I hate that racist bigot Rush Limbau. He is a shame on 21st century America.

show respect to I-was-POW-mcshaless   September 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

POW POW POW POW POW!

No more McPalin   September 18th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

God help us all if McCain becomes president. His ideas are outdated and if if up to him, we will definitely see a MILITARY DRAFT in our future.

Debby   September 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

McCain is only speaking the truth he will meet with him if he they both share the same views. Obama will meet with anyone under no pre-conditions and that was very scary till he did one of his many flips and changed his tune.

Frank   September 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

John McCain is a pricipled man! Go John McCain! Make America a proud nation once again! Don't let the lunatic left wing fringe take our country!!

Joe   September 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Ask McCain about the Spain-Pakistan border, he will surely say that we need to secure it.

What Does This Button Do?   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I can see a mushroom cloud from MY house . . .

Mike, FL   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Can someone please explain me why would anyone vote for 4more years of Republican administration???

McCain is planning on continuing the same old policy that led us to this economic crises in the first place!!

Nikki   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

You mean McCain flip-flopped?? NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Terry, Butte, Mt   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't," said McCain.

So, if a country disagrees with McCain's idiology, then we are going to attack them?

Enough with banging the war drums!!!!

samantha   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

what an idiot

Just an Old White Lady for Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I really think JOHN MC CAIN has lost it… His mind that is. What the hell is he thinking about? If he is suppose to be such a whiz on foriegn policy, does he want to turn Spains government into an enemy ? I guess all these folks who are still wanting to have McCain/Palin run this country must be as hateful as he is and as poor on the economy as he is.. And approve of all the lies he and Ms Palin tell.. Other wise how could they still want to vote for him..

Please! Citizens of the country of Spain, Mr McCain does NOT speak for the rest of the country AND he IS NOT our president NOR WILL HE EVER BE…. So just ignore his remarks, contribute them to his OLD AGE AND SENILIT and the fact that HE IS MEAN SPIRITED.

J from DC   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I am not voting for the odd couple. The McCain Palin ticket looks like a bad arranged marriage.

George Bush   September 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Who needs Europe? (bunch of socialists, anyway) We've got China!

Lesley   September 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I hope the Latino community is taking note of this development. An earlier post here attempts to draw attention to an Obama ad denouncing McCain's record on immigration and McCain's own legislation. McCain voted for it before he was against it!

anon   September 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't,"

Isn't that straight out of The Project for the New American Century playbook?

One of their "Fundamental Propositions" is:
• we need to strengthen our ties to democratic allies and to challenge regimes hostile to our interests and values

SCM DC   September 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

God help us all if this man gets elected. He seems to be suffering from a dangerous comibnation of dementia and aggressive behavior. Just looking back at his statements from the past couple of days on the economy (strong, not strong, strong fundamentals, umm, no, strong work force), on how the tone of the campaign would change if only Obama would agree to town hall meetings (whaaa??? so, he admits that his campaign is based on lies and he suggests that he would stop lying if only Obama agreed to participate in town hall meetings with him), Spain (Spain?? Really?? So are they now also a member of the "axis of evil"?), etc. etc. etc. The man is crazy and so is Sarah "Thanks but no thanks" Palin. Think, Americans, before you cast your vote in November!

THIS INTERVIEW IS SCARY1   September 18th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Not only is the man clueless, he has lost the entire playbook.

He will only talk to democratic countries that share our views?

Glad to know that while he is negiotiating with France, hopefully, Russia will get the memo.

This man is in serious mental decline! Very disturbing!

Lifelong Republican supporting Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

I believe strong diplomacy should be the foundation for ANY foreign policy: " 'I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't,' said McCain." Is this a way to begin healing America's erroded influence around the world—we will only talk and make peace with those who think and act like us. McCain philosophy is the height of pride and ignorance, and it is why he would be an even WORSE president than G.W. Bush.

pam Eugene OR   September 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

McCain will NEVER be in the position to offer anyone a White House invitation.

Double Talk Express   September 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

"Lieberman, can you whisper the right answer in my ear here please…throw me a lifeline Joe. Are we gonna talk tough to these guys or are they…what do those young people call it….are they our BFF's??? Joe???

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

They call him FLIPPER, FLIPPER, FLIPPER…

INS   September 18th, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I think it's time to add Spain to the axis of evil.

benito   September 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

and he touts his foreign experience and how he has knowledge of the world. Spain (not a small country) and he doesn't know who the president is? I guess he is so clueless that perhaps he thinks Spain is in the middle east and we don't talk with the middle east. er uh er uh i have to check and see with my campaign if i can speak for myself on this one. hang on a sec.

Nate- Minneapolis   September 18th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

McCain is a lot more like Palin on foriegn policy that we think. His generic answer to the question is scripted by someone else. When pressed for his stance on a particular country he doesn't know how to answer. This is just like the when he was on the View last week. They asked him about what he was going to reform- since he's now a change candidate too- he couldn't name one specific thing he was going to change. Lately it's a lot of rhetoric not much in terms of policy or answers.

La Raza   September 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Did he just say, "I will confront those who don't share the same philosophy as we do?" MY GOD!!

Ratgurl   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I really think McCain has forgotten which countries are our allies, & which are our enemies. This is NOT the person that should be anywhere near the office of the presidency.

AVEE capitalcityVA   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

So McWar only philosophy is my way or alienate. I am sure going to war with Spain is in the back of his mind too, because they have smarter leadership than we do. Take took their troops out. Why is it so hard for us to do.

Our longest basic training is 16 weeks. Even with MOS training, it does not take 7 years to train a police force. I have trained with the Army, the Secret Service and Nuclear Power Plant Security and it didn't take 7 years. Spain is smart, and McWar got upset.

America think for you   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

The reason why our economy is crashing is because of Iraq all the money that was supposed to refuel the economy are been sent to Iraq while the economy is let alone to die. The consumers have no confidence in the market that is mean they will not spend and again the economy will struggle. John McCain does not understand that simple economics formula and stated that the economy is strong. I know that McCain pocket is strong because he is a rich man. But, our economy is not strong.

Lynn   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

McCain is a scary man. I do not think he would be a very diplomatic president, and would probably cause more friction in this world.

Jesse from Berlin   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

As the saying goes…… to make new friends, you have to talk to your enemies… mcsame should know that if he´s elected president he has to start making his own friends… not Bush`s….. Donald Rumsfeld saying… if you´re not with us you´re against us policy didn´t work,,,
See! there´s a big difference between Experience and Judgment…

Heather   September 18th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

You forgot to mention that he thought she was talking about Latin America.

Stevo   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

WOW!!!! Beware this guy is dangerous, did he not have his script this time? Bush Advisers shame on you!!!!! for allowing him to speak without your permission.

Jeff Brown   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Grandpa Munster thinks Franco is still in charge of Spain!

Blue Collar Workers for Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

He will take us back to the cold war people. He is for WAR. Haven't we spent enough on a war. $10 billion every month. $1 Trillion total so far.

This is not John and Cindy's money but the taxpayers money.

Obama / Biden '08

EX -Democrat now for McCain   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Were so sick of Obama we could Puke!!!! were for McCain all the way!!

David, Silver Spring, MD   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

I'm surprised he didn't say, "I don't answer hypotheticals."

Victor   September 18th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

This guy is rapidly becoming dangerous.

jfs Memhis, Tn   September 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

To quote our Republican brothern when Obama made his splash in Europe………….Maybe he can go and run for President there………….Please.

FactCheck   September 18th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Boy, McCain's immigration policy is REALLY getting out of hand.

rice, bryan   September 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

when the two dim wits go to a scripted town hall meeting, it's obvious. when she it whinning, his lips are moving. now that is either he is reading the same script or he is on the verge of tears. p.s. stop staring at her butt, your a grandfather for pete's sake.

Obama/Biden 08!   September 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

I vote for gaging this idiot and his side kick for the duration of the election! If they're allowed to continue speaking he and his side kick will start WW III before they get into office.

joe   September 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

If you don't like me I won't talk to you? What is this the schoolyard?
So it's conform to our philosphy or be confronted? This is the arrogance that hurts our international relations. It is not our world to mold to the American Way, and to dare imply that the Amercian way is synonymous with a Christian way is hypocrisy if not heresy.
1)We rely upon and owe money to countries that don't agree with us philosphically so with what leverage do we confront them?
2)If we do not meet with mutual respect and civility, how can we expect to influence the philosphies and positions of other nations (and exactly how defined is our "philisophy"?). Dialogue, no matter how naive it seems, will be much more fruitful than confrontation.

JC   September 18th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Q: So you have to wait and see if he is willing to meet with you, will you be able to do it in the White House?
McCain: Well, again, I don't. All I can tell you is that I have a clear record of working with leaders in the hemisphere that are friends with us and standing up to those who are not. And that's judged on the basis of the importance of our relationship with Latin America and the entire region.
Q: Okay, what about you? I'm talking about the President of Spain.
McCain: What about me what?
Q: Okay, are you willing to meet with him if you are elected president?
McCain: I am willing to meet with any leader who is dedicated to the same principles and philosophy that we are for human rights, democracy, and freedom. And I will stand up to those that do not.

TOM-E   September 18th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Make up your mind already Mccain. enough flip flopping.
OBAMA 08

Luke   September 18th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

Just what we need, another Republican politician kicking our European allies in the teeth and insulting them. Way to go McShame!
And you want to send Palin to the UN to make friends???Please, NO!

Emma   September 18th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

It's not enough to flip-flop on American politics, now McCain is moving into Europe.

Is there no end to this mania?

Jeff G   September 18th, 2008 2:15 pm ET

In fact the issue is mccain didn't even know who Zapatero was so he tried to cover up with a non-answer answer.

Fort Collins, CO   September 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Is McCain going for the trifecta in alienating diplomatic ties with the rest of the world? First Asia, then the Middle East, now Europe? I guess the neo-cons have big designs on world domination.

America the Stupid   September 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

McCain is the one trick pony…….He has only a couple lines to say and everything after that crashes that Apple IIe brain of his…..

"I will answer your question with an agreement of your question…."

I am John McCain and I can't think for myself….

Tired   September 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

The man is tired, what do you expect, and he's older. Obama is 40 something, and it takes its' toll on him. McCain is much older. They should give him more frequent breaks from the campaign trail.

barbara   September 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

This campaign gets more frightening every time McCain/Palin open their mouths.

John from PIttsburgh   September 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Did you expect anything different? just wait for after the interview interview. He continually confuses Shiites/Sunnis. Iran/Iraq and Afghanistan.

mac attack   September 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

There, he said it!! He'll be confronting russa, china, the middle east and Alaska. Enough war for everyone to enjoy. Too bad it won't last long, nukes do quick work. Ship this geezer to Siberia

M.Serafin   September 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Do any one smell danger in this ?? And He will be controlling the most nuclear weapons on the world…

LYNETTE IN CA   September 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Are we certain that John McSame knows who Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero is? I suspect not!

economist   September 18th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

Wait a minute… I was spending too much time panicking about the potential failure of the banking system. Are we now at war with Spain? Because, as a NATO signatory, I think that means we'd need to defend the US against the US.

This is truly idiotic. Admit the mistake and move on instead of further running our nation's reputation into the dirt.

Matt   September 18th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

We need more NObama, more taxes, more spending, more bailouts, more socialization of debt. Buyers remorse for Dems, should have nominated Hillary!

w.l. jones   September 18th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

When people going to start praising our present government and economic policy over the last eight years. As for taxes if it werent for our government taxing us we would still traveling from place to place through trail in the woods and crossing rivers on log.. Bless our government for the fore-sight for using we the people money for the better ment of us all.

Dan , TX   September 18th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

That response from McCain was not the response of a conscious mind….

Anonymous   September 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

McCain had no idea who Zapatera is. He heard the name and immediately began speaking about Mexico and Latin America. They had just been speaking about Chavez and Castro, and he hear a Spanish name and launched into a canned Latin America response.

Three possibilities:

1) He is trying to alienate Spain, an ally and NATO member

2) He didn't know who the political leader of Spain is

3) He wasn't listening to the question and gave an extremely inflammatory response.

Which do you prefer?

roger   September 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

This is an example of why we call him McBush…you either see it our way or the highway….there is no talking with republicans they have tunnel vision it is either their way or no way…vote Obama 08

Bic   September 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

OLD MAN YELLS AT CLOUD

john   September 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

poor guy what are you talking about

ct voter   September 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

See they won't let the republican trash get away with lies over there and will question it right away! Well done! CNN is trying the same thing lately which is great! I wish any lies of any campaign would be all over the news, they shouldn't be allowed to get away with it in this day and age!

Anonymous   September 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

Palin`s speech in IOWA

First introduction – my Husband

Second introduction- Palin/Mccain Administration

Third introduction- My baby boy Trig 4 month old =Wrong

If the child was born on April18/2008 the child is exactly 5 month old

This women is not fit to shine my shoes.

Enough !!!   September 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

McSame would be a great threat to the security of our country and world peace. Not only does he promote unilateralism, he also wants to maintain the Bush policy that results into isolationism. Just because McSame has been in DC forever doesn't translate into him having a good grasp of foreign policy. He needs to be reminded that, as advocated by Obama, a Head of State does not alienate rogue regimes. They should be willing to sit with their "enemies" as well as their allies. And, by the way we still have "normal relations" with the Kingdom of Spain.

roger   September 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

This is an example of why we call him McBush…you either see it our way or the highway….there is no talking with republicans they tunnel vision it is either their way or no way…vote Obama 08

Rudy NYC   September 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

"When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail"

Emily   September 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

We need someone willing to meet with other leaders. We need to
be a part of the world community again, not some big bully always
waving a stick in peoples faces. McCain is arrogant and provocative
at the expense of world peace and ultimately, at the expense of the
people of the US.

GOBAMA!!   September 18th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Yea but he won't meet with anyone who has differing views. What a joke! McCain has no clue….experience…right…he has plenty experience with screwing things up!

Sarah Palin and African Americans in Alaska   September 18th, 2008 2:08 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't," said McCain.

Maybe that's why there are no minorities on his or Palin's staff. Their principles and philosophy aren'e considered the same. Only work with those that are just like you. What would this would be like is everyone in it was little John and Sarah running around? Boring.

suzyku   September 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

mcsame proves on a daily, if not hourly basis just how old, senile and completely unfit he is! His judgment if (to be kind) flawed, he chooses palin, a right wing wacko with radical religious and political beliefs, not too bright, no foreign policy experience except that she can "see Russia" from Alaska to run this country when it is a real possibility that because of his age and health history and apparent senility, it is a good possibility that she, palin could end up running this country! He professes to "love" this country but his actions say differently. What he "loves" is his own selfish ambitions. NO WAY, NO HOW, NO MCSAME,NO CHENEY CLONE (PALIN)! NO, NO, NO! WE CANNOT AFFORD THIS CLOWN DUO!

Maggie   September 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

McCain just don't get it! I'm starting to feel sorry for him, NOT!

Carole   September 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Why would anyone even write a comment to CNN – they are so biased. I know other people are not having their comments put in either – I think no one should enter a comment into the ticker and let it dry up.

john   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

liar liar liar liar liar liar liar liar thats all you do lie Mcdrill

Brian in VA   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

This story needs to be HEADLINE news. The future leader of the free world hears "spanish sounding" names and just concludes that they are talking about someone in South or central America, Columbia or Venezuela even. If you vote for this guy, you only care about yourself, not COUNTRY FIRST.

Chris (CT)   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

What's his problem with Spain?

Raymond Duke   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

As a twenty year veteran I love to hear you liberals squall. I think we ought to start the draft and have no exceptions. Maybe then you people would get some guts and stand up for your country instead of knowing you are protectd tp run around and act like that loser you are backing. If you do not want to listen to a speaker , do not go. If you go and start the crap then I think they should take a club and bust your head and then take you right to jail and give you hard labor for a year. If you want to demonstrate do it outside the place.

M.Serafin   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Just like the white house saying Russia is putting itself in inrelevance, so are we with Bush 1 2 3….

Nom Deplume   September 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

If this isn't the biggest spin job of the year, I don't know what is. McCain provided a tautological response to an inocuous question, which in the sum of things, said nothing, and the media takes it and twists it into this.

It is the equivalent of calling someone a racist because they say they don't like dark chocolate.

I am truly convinced that the left has gone so hard core socialist and loony that there is no living with them. Truly, I don't think you are from the same planet. The sooner we declare all out war on one another and "get thee separate" the better. Or you can save us all a lot of trouble by moving to a contiguous group of states and declaring it the New Venezuela. Then we would be rid of one another.

By the way, you can't have the states with the food and fuel. Those are ours.

max   September 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

this is the kind of foreign policy approach of mclame and his idiot GOP cohorts … this is what the red sheep want … repugs are looking like bigger idiots by the minute

Samuel Yabram   September 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

A true war monger, who lost his sanity in captivity

RyanD.   September 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

Listen to it, McCain had no idea Spain was in EUROPE.

Seriously, this needs to be a bigger story than "headlines in Spain"…this man, running on foreign policy experience…doesn't know WHERE spain is or WHO runs their country.

WOW.

Corey   September 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

This story is way distorted. The reporter had to ask McCain the same question about Zapatero multiple times because he shot off into tangents about LATIN AMERICA!!! The man didn't even know what country the prime minister was from, let alone where Spain is, until the reporter said "I'm talking about Europe, Senator."

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 18th, 2008 2:05 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't," said McCain.

Grumpy old man yells at clouds and reminds people of Dr. Strangelove….

Dameun Strange   September 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

McCain intends to continue Bush/Cheney foreign policy of alienating our NATO Allies which makes us much weaker from the stand point national security. Allowing conflicts that we cannot control (see Georgia/Russia).

Becky   September 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Hey, McCain, just have Sarah Palin talk to Zapatero if you don't want to. Oh, yeah, that's right you didn't choose Sarah Palin to actually DO anything except try and get Hillary-Supporters to vote for you. Then, what IS Sarah Palin if you, God forbid, were elected?

Kevin, NC   September 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

More of the same with McCain, and America we can not afford it!!

tom   September 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

Obama is well loved amongst world leaders, If McCain continued with this tone we will not be able to go anywhere outside the US. Can we really take a chance and put this guy in with these reckless remarks.

John McCain is acting like American is the only country in the world? that is why we are along in this war in Iraq because of the way our leaders treats other countries

Ralph   September 18th, 2008 2:04 pm ET

If McCain and Palin are so willing to lie, manipulate facts, and withhold information now, how do we trust them as our leaders?

Perhaps it is time to demand more out of leaders than just opposing abortion. So long as they do that, it seems they can get away with murder.

tiffany in ohio   September 18th, 2008 2:03 pm ET

so much for reaching across lines. its not just about party its about reaching out to all americans no matter what their views or religions are an inspiring the world to do the same

LIZ   September 18th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Just to make a note on other comments before mine. We should not extend a hand to foreign prime ministers who are totally against what we stand for!!!!!!
We don't give in to terrorist and we do not give in to any foreign country leaders that do not want to make ends meet!!!! Thats it!

The Obama supporters are so clueless on this!!!

onedayatatime   September 18th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Where was Lieberman?

Ex-Republican for Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Now he wants to go to war with Spain as well.

This old man needs to be put in a home, not the white house.

Washington Women for Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

McCain, who who was involved in the first huge financial scandal of the 80s continues to stand for the same Washingtonian who continue to make financial scandals!!!

OBAMA-BIDEN '08

Jadie   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Have you noticed, McCain is looking more and more confused?

Interesting   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Obama will help us to get the respect we should have from other countries all over the world. They're looking to us for change so they can change.

McCain and Palin are truly a bridge to nowhere.

Brenda of Saginaw ,Michigan   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

McCain wants a war with the world. BOMB,BOMB,BOMB, Zapatero .McCain stated that he will have relationships with only the ones that supports him. Well I have news for you McCain , if you win there will be a riot in America if you lose then you can move to Alaska.

Which Way America?   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Obama's America–coming together and fighting the forces of evil with our allies.

McCain's America–fighting World War III for 100 years.

Obama/Biden 08

LS   September 18th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

Someone needs to tell McCain and Palin to keep their mouths shut when they are questioned about other world leaders.

We are already hated enough around the world – why add on? How embarrasing.

Just think of the consequences if these two air-heads are elected.

Mario   September 18th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Spain is a USA friend!!!! What his talking about???

Republican for Obama   September 18th, 2008 2:00 pm ET

Well he is following in the foot steps of Bush. Only speaks with people who agree with us.

Sarah.....and my last name isn't Palin!   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

McCain is not good for national security.

jerry   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Americans as you can see this is why we are getting so much enemies and we don't even notice. Is this the kind of leader that we want, are you telling me with this kind of tone we will not be able to travel to these countries without being watched.

He has this kind of tone and he is not even the president yet, MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP US.

Obama/Biden08

Annette, Washington, DC   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Here you go. War, War no peace with McCain. Vengeance, enemies…that's all he represent. He is sending the wrong message abroad already and he is just a presidential nominee?

LANDON   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

I'll be voting for OBAMA ….the SANE choice.

Nightmare Almost Over   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

LOL, the sky is falling or should I say failin on the GOP side, and I love it. It's not unlike Wall Street falling.

Wake up America and do something. Anything, but don't let those bums keep the White House. Throw them out on November 4th.

Mark Webb   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Hurrah!!
So let's now get ready to attack Spain???
Once a good soldier, now an awesome strategist.
Out of touch on the economy and on foreign affairs.

Mickie in PA   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Let's see: McCain isn't sure where Spain is and Palin was sure she was in Grand Rapids instead of Cedar Rapids (another foreign city to her) and they are saying they are better qualified to lead. I think they are well suited for each other but not for America. Please just retire McCain and put Palin out to pasture with the rest of the wild life in Alaska.

Elijah   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do", McCain is reported to say. Wow! I thought a good leader should be open-minded and respectful to all principles and philosophies. Is this guy for real?

Terry, Butte, Mt   September 18th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

Why does the USA have to be so hostile. The "if you are not with us, you are against us," attitude of the Bush administration, which has caused conflict and bad relations around the world, now seems to be rubbing off on McCain.

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do: human rights, democracy, and liberty. And I will confront those that don't," said McCain.

So, if a country disagrees with McCain's idiology, then we are going to attack them?

Enough with banging the war drums!!!!

RYAN kr Jr   September 18th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

"Nation of Whiners… we 're in mental recession" "The fundamental of our economy 're strong" says McLame and his ecomomic expert.

You sure about that?   September 18th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

I wouldn't trust the king of spain either.
He pretty much said "screw you guys" and pulled troops out of iraq after promising to support us. Some allies they made.
Actions speak louder than words.. Isn't it interesting that Obama only has words?

PCL   September 18th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

I saw articles on the Web today questioning McCain's marbles. They seem to be rolling around in his head in an ad lib fashion. Its a delicate subject. No one wants to talk about it. He is a war hero after all.

But if we don't discuss it, and get his medical records, we could have a babbling president in office with Sarah Palin waiting to step in as commander in chief.

Big time scary.

McCain Invented the BlackBerry, Palin Invented the Manure Spreader   September 18th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

FOUR MORE MONTHS!

REED   September 18th, 2008 1:58 pm ET

The Republican ticket has been a comedy of errors. Who could have made this stuff up. I'll be voting for Obama….the only choice.

Cincy voter   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

McBush is an old warmongering fool. That is all.

FAILIN' PALIN   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Quick Sarah point out how you wore a sombero while on the vacation in Cancun. That will show your command of all things Spanish.

Sally from Cali   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

… and this is how future wars will start. McCain will not know who he's talking about …Lieberman won't be there to correct him… and God help us.

old…out of touch…too much to learn…not enough time

mitchell   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

mccain moved spain's borders next to georgia's.
WE ARE ALL GEORGIANS NOW.
send all latinos to czhekoslovakia!
i'm the maverick and i approved this bizzarre message.

ANGIE   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Nice going mcwar lets make more enemies then you wonder why other countries hate us and want to attack us like bill maher said MCCAIN IS GOING TO GET US KILLED! NO MORE COWBOY WAR MONGERS LETS GET IT RIGHT THIS TIME OBAMA/BIDEN08

Barney   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Hmmmm – we're going to bomb bomb bomb Iran, kick Russia out, bring Georgia in, "deal with" Spain, and today he said in regards to Yemen "I know how to deal with them and it won't be easy".

Sounds like peace on earth, good will to men.

NO MORE WARS FOR OIL, MCCAIN

Obama/Biden '08

Olivia, MD   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

This is just the beginning. McCain's stupid comments will be making headlines all over the world. Send him back to Arizona and let's wake up from this nightmare.

Obama/Biden 08

darko   September 18th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Exactly WHAT about his statement is controversial???

The fact that is was parsed lends me to believe that it was even more non-newsworthy.

TRUTH HURTS @ McSHAME CAMPAIGN - JOHN McSAME LIES WILL BE WORST THAN GEORGE BUSH!!!!   September 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

what a doddering OLD FOOL @ 72!

banderson   September 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

If this doesn't raise the hairs on American necks about how John McCain will approach world views then nothing will. Since when does our government leaders snubb allies. Imagine what this guy would try to do to enemies. NO MORE MCWAR, NO MORE MCBUSH, NO MORE MCSAME.

LIZ   September 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

Everyone is a crook these days. Twisting words, and actions………. it's not right and a disgrace.

Elijah   September 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

"I will reunite with any leader that has the same principles and philosophy that we do", McCain is reported to say. Wow! I thought a good leader should be open-minded and respectful to all principles and philosophies. Is this guy for real?

voter   September 18th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

spain newspapers were not parsing McCain's words. He had no clue who was Zapatero despite receiving hints from the radio announcer. He thought he was a dictator like chavez and castro. He referred to spain as latin america when it is in europe. This is the man that the media says is a foreign policy expert. Please, get real. He hasn't got a clue.

rice, bryan   September 18th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

so now mcbush would like to go to war with anyone that doesn't look at things the same way he does. war, war, war, oil, oil oil, only the ignorant will vote for bush for a third time.

George Bush in a skirt!!!!!!!!!!   September 18th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

This is Bush the III. He is not president yet and isolating America more and more. This is a joe. He is begining to sound deranged!!!!!!!!

Truth Be told   September 18th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

so, who's the inexperienced now?

if you think mccain is the perfect man to be our next president, this article says it all.

it's scary.

GEEZER & GIDGET BATTLE SPAIN!   September 18th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

Sarah, that is your cue to say how "unfair" Spain, is, be sure to put that little pouty look on your face and maybe let the lower lip stick out just a bit. That should rattle those Spaniards!

McCain now is your cue to say that if only Obama HAD "held town hall meetings with me" I would have known the man's name!

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT:

I cannot find the time portal to exit this very bad X-FILES rerun, so would someone out there please send Agent Scully?

Thank you.

Anonymous   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

The real story (see Huffington Post) is that McCain had no idea who he was talking about. McCain heard a Spanish name and immediately began talking about Mexico and Latin America.

Also, the interview was conducted in English.

Peter (CA)   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Let's see…Obama goes to Europe and the Middle East to talk to the leaders, draws 200K in Germany, and is ready to put the US in front of the world stage as the leading nation.

McCain is rattling sabers with fellow NATO members.

What's wrong with this picture?

Deb, Allentown, PA   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

Can you imagine how many friends we'll have in the world if McCain and Palin are elected? None, zip, nada, zero.

I want other countries to support us, not watch us go down in flames. I'll be voting for Obama/Biden.

TC   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

SPAIN SHOULD RIP MCCAIN A NEW ONE!

Voter   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

how sad a he only prefers to speak to people like him rather than extend a hand.

McCain is to confrontational… you need to be open to people different than you if you want respect and to move forward. He'll "budge" on this… but is this basic characteristic something he needs to be pushed into?

TC   September 18th, 2008 1:54 pm ET

MCCAIN HAS GONE FROM BEING AN HONORABLE, MORAL, ROLE MODEL TO A BITTER, ANGRY, SELF-ABSORBED OLD MAN WITH OLD IDEAS.

WHAT A DISGRACE TO COMPROMISE ONE'S INTEGRITY, CONSCIENCE, AND HUMANESS ALL FOR THE SAKE OF WINNING AN ELECTION.

IT'S DIFFICULT TO FEEL ANYTHING FOR THIS MAN OTHER THAN PITY!

John in Binghamton NY   September 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

How many world leaders is this guy going to anger before he even gets into office?

Should of pick Lieberman so he could whisper the correct answers in his ear. He wont be getting much help from Pailn.

Palin to McCain: "I don't know, I thought you knew???"

Kenda   September 18th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Have you noticed that McCain looks more and more confused?

Dal CA   September 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

We were told that McCain knows about foreign policy. Looks like McCain's mental abilities are failing. Going SENILE. AGE is a Factor. Or is it he is thinking more about other stuff.

Johanna not voting GOP   September 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

I want our leader to inspire other countries, not piss them off…

tara   September 18th, 2008 1:52 pm ET

Yet another reason to vote for the Obama/Biden Ticket!

cara   September 18th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

McCain is a MORON!

Ed, Santa Fe NM   September 18th, 2008 1:51 pm ET

McBush would continue the moronic "diplomacy" of not meeting with nations that are unfriendly? McBush needs to look up the meaning of DIPLOMACY.

Jayden   September 18th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Who could make this stuff up? What a mess the Republican ticket has become.

J from DC   September 18th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

This is an interesting story, Since Palin is doing interviews with Fix News, I mean FOX news. Other reporters are trying to change their tone on the McCain Campaign. I think, they feel that writing positive words, will gain some future gratitude from Republican, with hope of getting a much sought after Palin interview. I think that if Palin does not want to interview, just report the news. I mean after her recent interviews, I never really hear anything news worthy that she said. Except for the fact that she said something at all. If that is the real story, there is no story there. Obama is the hope for the rest of us, and Biden is still my kind of guy. McCain has no answers at all.

Republican for Obama   September 18th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Way to go, McSame! Let's strive for enemies in every country!

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