September 26, 2008
Posted: 12:21 PM ET
The McCain campaign released a web ad Friday claiming McCain won the debate.
The McCain campaign released a web ad Friday claiming McCain won the debate.

(CNN) – The time between the final answer in any presidential debate and the campaign press release declaring victory can usually best be measured in milliseconds. But John McCain’s campaign – which has been downplaying his performance at Friday’s faceoff, offering praise for opponent Barack Obama’s “eloquence” and debating skill – seems to have decided it’s never too soon to start spinning the outcome.

The Washington Post reported Friday that the campaign was running an online ad featuring the headline: "McCain Wins Debate!" and a photo of a smiling McCain and an American flag background. Another featured a quote from McCain campaign manager Rick Davis: "McCain won the debate — hands down."

The Obama campaign quickly circulated the report – which came moments before McCain’s team confirmed he would take part in the evening debate after all.

Filed under: John McCain


Zydeco D   September 26th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Wow I am just speachless now. I don't know what any body can say about this guy. And poor Sarah This is an example of how white people in particular all over this country have been put in powerful positions and are bound for failure. No wonder we are in the mess we are in now. I have a college degree and my supervisor has a GED.

phil   September 26th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

this man is doing EVERYTHING to have the spotlight on him! I wonder what crap he would do as a president…
GO OBAMA!

Juaita STL   September 26th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

STUPID. maybe he won last night in his dreams

Low   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

This is too funny! McShame was caught on national televison walking to th congressional meeting , when the meeting was moved, and we he finally found where the meeing was, they were done. How funny is that!

Vicki   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Some republicans running for re-election in some states are trying to have their name on the ballot WITHOUT A PARTY AFFILIATION behind their name. They are hoping they will get more votes if no one knows they are republican. Doesn't that say it all!! Maybe that is what John McCain should do!!

Only John McCain would put out a victory ad before the debate has even happened. But don't worry, they will have some explanation for doing it. Maybe Sarah did it!! Republicans are good at finger pointing.

CitizenAJ   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Wow! You see Palin's interviews and then this. This ticket has lost all its marbles, all of them! What the heck are they doing in the McCain campaign? I guess they are really banking on Americans being gullable and stupid. That is what we would have to be to vote for this train wreck of a ticket. Whew!

MARK   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

I TOTALLY AGREE, Palin not only in not ready to be at the white house, she will defenitely represent a danger to our great country. she should go home, take care of her retarded kid, and advise her daughter to buy underware that stays in place when somebody is trying to push them down. Palin can take care of her own family, and she is now trying to decide for ours? That is so disturbing.
As a Democrat, i say leave her in the ticket, that makes it easier for OBAMA to win, as an American, I say go back to shooting moose, that is where you beong. The woman was great attacking candidates when reading from a telepromter, but when it comes to real life, and she has to use her brains to answer the questions We all Americans need to have anwered, not only she has no clue, but she looks stupid.
She makes Bush look brilliant, and We already know how embarrasing is that lame president . If God decides to punish us and put Mcsame and Palin in the white house, America will contniue to go dwn the hil, and idiots like Iran's president will be laughing at us because they will say We told you so.

Wake up America!!! let's save our country and let's put the right person at the white house. OBAMA is the answer and this is coming from somebody who has been and has a conservative mentality

Denise OKC   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Uhm??? A little cocky aren't we-considering he wanted to postpone both Prez & VP debates just YESTERDAY!!! Oh Well…stupid is as stupid does "sigh"

M. Winners   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Typical Palin/McCain election spin strategy:

Ready, FIRE, Aim…

Joe from Mahwah, NJ   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Is it me or does McCain have a very creepy grin?

indewoman for OBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

What is wrong with McCain………..???? I thought he wasn't even gonna go now he's already won the debate………

I'm giving my vote to Obama…we need sanity in the oval office.

American   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Dear John McCain,

You have NO respect for voters, do u??????

Shame on John McCain.

dn   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

I predict John McCain will go after Obama with personal attacks. Nothing from him will be focused on any issues. He will work to put Obama on the defensive and try to goat him into saying something his campaign will run with.

I just hope Obama is very carefull and takes nothing for granted. I don't think McCain is the smartest moose, but I think this is all part of a plan.

No presidential campaign can be this reckless.

ANGIE   September 26th, 2008 2:56 pm ET

First he wants to cancel the debate now he wins something that hasnt even happen WOW i think mccain and his campaign have gone INSANE!! THIS IS FRIGHTENING!!

Jeff Brown   September 26th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

If this weren't so pathetic, it would be laughable. I thought Walter Mondale and Bob Dole ran terrible campaigns, but this is the most poorly run campaign in my half century of living. It's almost as if these people really don't want to win!

Joseph Regis   September 26th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Debate victory?

The debate he is having with himselt to debate or not! Did he win the one he had with himself? who knows.

PD   September 26th, 2008 2:55 pm ET

He's probably going to release an ad tomorrow claiming he won the election.

JayT.   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Maverick behavior! I have been screwing up at work all week and I just look my supervisor in the eye and say, "Maverick behavior!" and all is forgiven.

Coco 5   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Unreal…..the man din't even want to debate, now he's saying he won?!?!?!?! He hasn't even spent any time preparing for the debate, but he really thinks that he can win. Yeah right. The man can't even read what's in front of him, kinda like Bush. This whole thing is absurd. I won't debate untill an agreement is reached….now I'll debate, even though we are probably further from an agreement than ever. YO McCAIN!! MAKE UP YOUR FREAKIN MIND!!!!

Victor   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Spin doctors have taken over the political process. And we are supposed to be the vanguard leading the world in the path of political and ideological democracy!!!

H. Charles   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

This is so out of control that I can't stand it. If Barack Obama were to claim victory like this, the American people would roast him like it was comedy central. Hey McCain supporters, now who's arrogant and out of touch and elitist?? Don't worry, I'll wait………..

Independent   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Republicans: Do you really trust McCain as president of the USA? Please inform him that the presidency does not include a caregiver. This man is out of his mind. The Republican Party is now a joke.

Arkansas Undertaker   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

And they call Obama Arrogant! This is really just as Pathetic as his Vice Presidential Pick.

JOE BLOGGS   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL!!!!
ROTFLMAO

Does anyone truly believe that McSenile is truly less tahn 10points behind Obama in the polls?

Come on Conservatives. Come on, Republicans. 'Fess up - your nominee and his running mate are the laughng stock of the nation!

Dillia   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

This is just like everything else, that McSame does! Manipulating the debate BEFORE it even happens! I feel pretty bad for the McSame camp, especially if this is the best that they have, Palin, who you can't ask a question to,because she doesn't know anything. A pretty face with lipstick and still doesn't know anything….She is not qualified to run for the highest office in the land…She makes McSame look stupid. He has bad judgment, he pulled out of the debate. McSame is looking more and more like the loser, he really is! Good luck with the bailout!

Jill   September 26th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

OK, is he trying to throw the election??

Douglas in Minnesota   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Why doesn't McCain just go ahead and declare victory in the election?

Janet Jacme   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

WOW!

We all knew they'd try to spin it into a win, but at least wait until the debate is over fellas, OK?

Thanks

Dennis   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Thank God…now I can watch a movie instead. My only question is, did he win before he lost or vice versa?.

Joyce Becker   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Spin, spin, spin and early spin to boot. How silly can the McCain camp get? I guess if he tells himself that he won long enough he might take Cindy's money and build his own White House and declare himself president. Is anyone paying attention to him, he sounds like a dotty old man.

Joel   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

I just saw an ad that said "McCain wins the presidency!" so there is no need to cast a vote anymore.

I'm starting to feel sorry for the old man. He is loosing what little dignity he had left.

Colleen   September 26th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Did he get the questions? Maybe that should be what the American people are asking. How can he put an ad out like that before the debate unless he already has the questions and knows the answers????

PALIN BASHER   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Was this ad WRITTEN by "Sarah Palin"?

juiceball   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I am speechless - LIES, LIES, and more LIES!

nora   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

It is 3 am and your children are asleep rest quietly knowing you children and the rest of the world is in safe hands. John is asleep and Sarah picks up the phone: What do you mean they bombed Madrid. Where is Madrid. Who lives in Spain anyway. Arn't they witches. Todd quick tell me what to do. Let us pary. God save us from the witches of the world. Oh what would John do. I know Bomb.. bomb..bomb.. Iran.

stephen t.   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

OK, this is beyond surreal. I want these guys to run the country,… we could always bet they'd spin it straight.

I just pray that folks see this idiocy for what it is.

FD   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

The site had probably been hacked, perhaps by one of the pro-Obama stooges who commented above.

Nancy from Ohio   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

McCain is really off his rocker and I mean that litterally. He needs to rock on his front step and watch the Democrats take over this year because of his blunders. This is just another one added to the election folly!!!!

Broad street buddy   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Just like Bush, 'Mission Accomplished', huh? Four years later Bush is the biggest loser, McCain tonight to become the second biggest loser.

Steve Nwagbo   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Now we're definitely back to the silly season. But wait. Sean Hannity, Rush, Limbaugh, et al, can you put a spin on this, please. This is pathetic! And by the way, who's running Old Pa McCain's campaign anyway? Who's responsible for these seemingly endless blunders? Shouldn't he be fired for 'betraying the trust' of his employer?

toni   September 26th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

This is a great Mccain reality how.

Nduka   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Ok this is now officially a bad SNL skit in the twlight zone that has gone terribly wrong.

Ang   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This is surreal . . . and sad. Where have you gone, John McCain?

MV   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

obama camp should repeat this commercial and add bush's "MISSION ACCOMPLISHED" statement some 5 years ago. shame on mccain who was even afraid to face OBAMA!!!

RoRo   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Maybe they have all the questions and answers already!! We know who they are, Republicans, Cheats and Selfish!!

AC Thomas   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Senator McCain did win the debate last night, in his dreams… he is not lying!
McCain, McBush, McSame!!!!!!

Miguel   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

I bet John McCain is kicking himself in the nuts for not having picked Mitt Romney. The guy actually has some executive experience and probably would have been able to advice him in the current economic crisis. Instead, he picked barbie who with all due respect has no place in American Politics. Country First? I don't think so.

NY loves Obama   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Fraud! I have absolutely no respect for you, Senator McCain.
This Republican is voting for Obama instead!!!

sarah   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

well, this is a welcome bit of hilarity in what has been a thoroughly maddening few days. the world seems to have became a more and more absurd place in the last few months, thanks to the maverick and his running mate, the reformer.

Cheryl   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

I honestly believe the old fart is mentally ill.

Democrat....no matter what!   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Hey, (Hill) Billy! There's only one logical, real reason for anybody to be supporting McBush! They're called the 4 R's for Republicans:

1) Racist
2) Religious fanatical blindness
3) Really Rich
4) Really, really Ingnorant!

Wake up and vote for saving this country from these guys who are tearing up America like heartless wolves!

Eric L   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

What debate? I thought it hasn't happened yet. I'm totally confused by McCain. Is he senile? Does he have alzheimer's? Why is he talking about something that hasn't even happened yet?

Clinton Democrat for Obama   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This is so age-ist of us to criticize Sen. McCain….

and it's sexist too!

SidearmS   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Wow. Just simply wow. Right up there with "Mission Accomplished".

Ken, LA California   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This is pure Witchcraft, thanx to Palin and Pastor Muthee.

Barney   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Just like his war policies - READY —- FIRE —– AIM

Vegas   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

I don't think the people on this blog remember the Hillary/Barry debates…

He was so bad he quit going to them…

He's gonna get smoked tonight… unless you think,,, eh, hu, umm, yea,,, umm, well…. ahhh… seee ahhh…. ummm…. yea… uh… I'm not sure…. ahhh…. PRESENT…

Is an answer… LOL… this is going to be a riot!

New Day   September 26th, 2008 2:51 pm ET

No no no… You guys are wrong. He is "willing" himself to win the election. Kinda like Mel Gibson and Danny Glover in Lethal Weapon 3!!!!

Azzy   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

What the?

Joe PA   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Why do I keep hearing circus music whenever I see McCain or Palin.

Roger   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This is truly pathetic. His whole campaign has been truly pathetic. His choice of the inept Sarah Palin was pathetic. I don't understand how any clear thinking, level headed individual could possibly vote for this "couple". The only chance we have as a country is to elect Barack Obama. The thoughts of a McCain presidency send cold chills down my spine!

Obama for America

Cam   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I understand having the ads ready for after the debate but to put them up before the debate?

Who is running this clown's campaign? Do they realize that the internet is in "real time"?

This is pretty idiotic but somehow extremely tragic at the same time. I think it goes directly to McCain's judgement and objectivity.

Hey McCain, we know you were at one of your several house last night but out-dueling your butler on a debate about whether your porridge is hot or cold does not mean you won the debate!

Kiah G   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This man is a complete and utter idiot and anyone who doesn't thinks his campaign is an indicator of how he would lead is an idiot to vote for him. What a joke!

Sarah sanj   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Mccain is so desperate!

NJ   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

in other words, MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!

Fabian Blache III, Baton Rouge, LA   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

His senility and dementia are progressing rapidly.

McCain has gone from running from the debate to throwing himself in front of the bus.

If McCain can't run a campaign that demonstrates any sense of awareness, how can he run our nation?

Brian   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Duh! Where is Homer Simpson when you need him?

uchujin   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Anyone who says McCain is not putting country first can't see the forest for the trees. Here is a man who's campaign managers have offered him up as sacrifice to ensure that Obama and the democratic ticket gets elected. As a lifelong Republican intending to vote Democrat this fall, thank you Senator McCain for your selflessness in giving us President Obama. The depth of your insight in seeing that the change America really needs will not include you will never be forgotten.

Cynthia Putzell   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

First get rid of Palin! Then you can win.

FutureMD   September 26th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Newsflash: Republican Declares Victory Prematurely

Surely this is just an isolated incident everybody. No repub has ever declared victory prematurely before.

Trish NJ   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

This is no surprise to me. The McCain camp is filled with lies & BS. His entire campaign has been filled with gimmicks and cheap ploys to distract the voters (i.e his VP pick)! I guess he thought the American people would be dumb enough to bite the bait. However, Americans are worried, in fact scared, about how they are going to feed their families & survive in this declining economy. We don't have time to be mis-lead into a deeper financial hole then what we are already in. I don't vote for a candidate b/c he/she is black, white, or a woman, I vote for the candidate that has me and my families best interest in mind!!!!

Obama/Biden 08

Kel   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

What an asinine, presumptive thing to do. They're just trying to grab headlines because now that their campaign has finally been getting the attention its so desperately wanted, they're realizing that the attention is just scrutiny into the idiocy at the core of their entire campaign. This is sad.

Tainopower   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Country first. America haters will be thrown under the bus.

Uche   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Mission Accomplished!!! Sounds familiar???

J in CA   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Well this just goes to show that the Mcsame campaign is "fundamentaly strong."

Brandon   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

McPalin is a Joke!

McCain Is Out Of Touch .... We're Out Of Time   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Looks like the McSame campaign is cratering.

summerstorm   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

WHAT THE HECK!!!

Will this ever end?

McCain go home and relax! Your duty is done!

12 HOUSES to 0   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

MAN HAS NO FACULTIES TO WORK WITH &

HIS CAMPAIGN ADVISERS NOT ANY BETTER OFF.

denise, pc, fl   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Looks like he's dreaming again.

GreenPea   September 26th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I'm so TIRED of hearing republidums talk about all the "experience" Palin has. Well, what experience did your demi-god Reagan have??? He was a darn actor, and republidums rave at how wonderful a president he was. So why are you so anti-Obama, when he is an educated, public servant for many years? Just get over yourselves. Republidums will say anything to justify a dumb hopeless ticket.

Laura   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

The add should ready

Drama Queen Lipstick wearing McCain wins!!! …. for being such a fool

the other jd   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Hey-McCain convinced me! He was masterful! I hung on every word! Suddenly, I am convinced that I should vote for him.

Oh, wait…the debate hasn't happened yet?

Tired of W, OH   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Can't…………….talk………………..Laughing………………too……………hard!

Recognizes a LUNATIC   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

This guy is INSANE. This should be a perfect example to anyone that would vote for this MORON that he is living in his own little world and doesn't have a clue!

C   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

This guy has turned the entire United States into a childish joke! People around the world must be laughing at us! Send this guy back to the Senate and put him in "time out"!

Vee   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Why go with someone who can do more than one thing at a time, when you can have somebody who can see the future.

Don't you know that McCain:

Won tonight's debate
2. Fixed the economy
3. By gally he won the election already.

Pam   September 26th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I am really amazed. MacMeToo is losing it!!!! Big Time!!!!!

Mccain is a liar   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Wow, how many houses, how many cars, how big of an ego, honestly if he had any sense left in his tired old lieing brain of his he would fire his whole campaign, staff, manager's, all of them, they are low live's, the scum of the earth, lieing to the public without a care in the world.

A NATION OF WINERS for OBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

WE HAVE GONE FROM MCMORON JUST BEING A GREEDY

SLIMY SENILE IGNORANT OLD MAN TO MENTALLY DISTURBED.

KH   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

These people keep shooting themselves, this is absolutely ridiculous. Spinning the results before the competition!

WoW - they probably have a web ad for Nov 5 - "McCain wins by a landslide" HA!!

Moe   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Drama after drama for John McCain …for your information the debates are tonight and you've not won yet. Barack is waiting for you by the way so that you guys could discuss the future of America. We wish you good luck and have fun!

ES NYC   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

When this is so HILARIOUS in such grave times, it is definitely PATHETIC…

TKW- New Mexico   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

He has gone crazy! Admit this man to Shady Pines immediately! Obama all the way to the White House!

June W in Canada   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Let me see if I've got this correct!
The McCain camp has a release saying he won the debate that he wasn't going to attend before he was forced to attend at the last mnute, but he's won the debate that hasn't even happened yet?????? I guess that's their version of "straight talk."

Matt in Florida   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

His only hope of winning was not showing up, so he thought he'd won it when he suspended his campaign.

I think he might be losing his mind. Seriously.

Paul , St. Louis MO   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

"Dewey defeats Truman".

Gary E., Roma, TX   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

sorry… I meant to write, what a SUPER dork

Margo   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I certainly hopes this gets the attention of those who would vote for McCain. Does the McCain campaign think people don't read or think? Perhaps it was McCain who said people cling to their bibles and their guns… …. and maybe these people just can't put 2 and 2 together and come up with four.

This has to be the work of Rove…. claim to be the winner and President before the votes are counted. Sort of has a familiar ring.

s.b.   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Who says these ads are from McCain and not from some firm hired by Obama to try to make McCain look bad.

Paula, Seattle, WA   September 26th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Dewey beat Truman… right????

Jasonhouse   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

What a complete joke McCain has become. He's a farce, a punchline.

He stood up 2 days ago and promised the nation that he was going to Washington to solve his party's self-made crisis, and that he wasn't going to pursue his presidential ambitions until he had solved the problem.

and then McCain does NOTHING to provide leadership on the issue, and instead exacerbates it to use as a political gambit? Note to everyone…

McCain couldn't even get the party that he is the anointed leader of to reconcile its own ideological failings.

If McCain can't even rally his own party, how can he be counted upon to rally all of government to a common cause? How can he be counted upon to rally the entire nation for the greater good? How can a man who can't even bridge the divide among his closest allies, be counted upon to bridge the divide with America's worst enemies?

Thiat isn't a victory for McCain, it's proof positive that for whatever reason, John McCain simply isn't fit for duty.

Ledia   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

What's the point? I don't get it. What the hell are they trying to say?Barack got it right: THey don't say what they mean.

BAC   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Something is really wrong here. This is all stuff that no rational politician would do. There is something going on that is completely strange. I really think McCain is completely losing it. This is pathological - and people STILL want to vote for him. God help us all

SBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Guess Debate is off again….. McCain already won…

McMsx   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Instead of supending his compaign, McCain traveled to the alternative future where he has won

Sarah Bell   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

You sir, are a FRAUD!!! David Letterman was right, someone is putting something in your metamucil. How can he get away with this??? Oh right, the other guy is black. This is bull. What's there not to be proud of America??? Take a bow.

Gary E., Roma, TX   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

what a dork

Joe from Micihgan   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I am speechless! Do you guys know what McCain has just done to our country? He has taken the most powerful position in the world and make it into a joke. George Washington, Reagan, Lincoln, FDR, JFK, Clinton, Hoover. Would any of them act this manner. You are looking at the most childish 72 year old. If this is how he will run the country…..GO BLESS US ALL….WE HAVE REALLY 4 TOUGH YEARS AHEAD OF US

America think for you   September 26th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

What an illussion they have. Day Dreaming anyway the debate is at night. That guy is really losing it.
$700 billion to bail out wall street how about main street? America do you realize that that $700 billion that you will spend will be use to bail out Chinese banks and other foreign banks bad business and then they will sell these business back to us American. We should not let this to happen because the same mess will come back again in wall street. Wall Street greed, big CEO Payout need to have control over them. This $700 billion just show you that the republicans do not care. Congress please do not let George Bush rush you and us American into this mess. Bush has four months in power and he does not care of whatever mess that $700 billion will make.
Is that package has a plan to bail out main street as well? The economy cannot run good without main street confidence. If main street do not have money that $700 billions is a waste.

D&D   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

McCain knows that he has nothing to lose at this point…so he doesn't really care about what he or his campaign do anymore…it's sad!

frank   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Is he on drugs?

Mikey   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Don't get me wrong, I'm wholeheartedly supporting the Obama/Biden ticket. But this seems a bit suspicious, and the graphic looks horribly amateur. Nobody else may share this opinion, but it looks to me like they were hacked.

However, Blue is still my favorite color! ;-)

MIKE FROM C-BUS   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

McCAIN CURES CANCER!

McCAIN CAN FLY!

McCAINS HAS FOUR BRAINS

McCAIN IS ACTUALLY 145

McCAIN INVENTED OXYGEN

KEEP EM COMING.

Paul   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Would he push the nuclear button before there was a war, just to get a jump on the next news cycle?

J   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

How can anything but total racism explain any of McCain's support at this point?? Palin is completely clueless, and McCain has been acting so erratically that it boggles the mind.

BJGT   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN!

DEMI   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

THIS IS DUMBER AND DUMBER McCAIN AND PALIN, WHAT A JOKE!

ONE CAN'T DO INTERVIEWS, AND THE OTHER REPEAT LINES FROM OBAMA SPEECHES, YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME, ABOUT THESE TWO, I WILL VOTE THIS TIME!!!!!!

Former Republican for OBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

MCMORON WINS THE DEBATES

WITH HIMSELF ALL THE TIME.

Stephanie from Troy, MO   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Well, I guess that this is just one more piece of evidence, if we needed one, that his trip to Washington and calling for the debates to be postponed was just political posturing. Of course, anyone with half a brain could figure that out Wednesday evening. The people running his campaign (Bushies) have lost any semblance of sanity that they had. That noise you hear is a toilet flushing, taking John McCain's bid for the presidency straight to the sewer.

John Alleva, Little Italy NY   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Dewey Defeats Truman!

B T   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Hey I thought the underhanded politics were over……..O thats right McCain already threatened he would not attend the debates, only no one fell for it this time. Who wants lies running this county?

Allen   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Dream on, buddy!

Rex Savage   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I am really surprised since I thought that O'Bama, being Irish and all, had a much better sense of gab. I guess all that Islamic indoctrination he received in grammar school is surfacing and affecting his debating ability with references every few seconds to Allah. Too bad, too, I was disappointed.

O'BAMA IN '08. DON'T WORRY, HE'S NOT IRISH!

Kendra   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

This is right up there with GW Bush's "Mission Accomplished". Oy ,are they twins! How can one claim victory for something that has not even happen yet? If this is how they run the campaign then how on the hell can they run a whole country? John, I simply adore you as a person and really wanted to vote for you but you've keep making that impossible.

Ryan   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

If this doesn't symbolize the cluster#*$& that is the McSame/Failin ticket, I don't know what else to say, except ehl ohh ehl.

Crown Point, Indiana

Wayne in Illinois   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I knew the man had lost his marbles and this just proves my point.

Kind of sad though, to go from Hero to Zero has taken its toll on McCain and I think its time for his handlers to take him to a quiet place where he can rest in whatever fantasy land he is living.

John in Redmond   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

What a den of festering liberal self congratulatory liberal dolts. I know, I sound liberal with the name calling, I just can't hold back after reading some of this drivel some times.

Ralph Harness   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

John McCain was a terrible pilot. While in the U.S. Air Force, he crashed and destroyed five extremely expensive aircraft. Is this the guy we want piloting the USA? I think John should take some of the money he got from Keating in the big banking scandal he was part of, and pay back some of the loss to the Air Force for those planes. He won the debate? Yeah, and he was a hero too.

Christina   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Be it black or white, male or female, young or old - EVERYBODY knows that Obama is going to wipe the floor with John McCain tonight!!!

Cirena   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

There is a typo in my comment above, so I will type it again. Mccain is an idiot. If I was a republican, I would be very embarrased by all of his actions.

jerry   September 26th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Now we're really in the realm of Orwell's "1984." How can nearly half of the American people not see this crap for what it so clearly is? McCain will lie, lie, lie, and lie again. Each lie tops the ones before. Now, after trying to wriggle out of debating Obama, he declares he won it, BEFORE IT EVEN TAKES PLACE!!! Hey, then he can skip it ager all, since it's over in his mind.

I'm not sure where McCain belongs- in prison or in a nursing home.

Michael   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Why not? This guy has been delusional for some time now - but nobody in the "liberal media" has had the journalistic integrity to mention that inconvenient fact. And so the odds are 50-50 that this truly pathetic reality-challenged political hack will replace Bush.

I'm voting for Obama, but I'm tempted to write in David Letterman.

Judy from Indiana   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

If McCain/Palin win…God help us all.

rich   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

LOCK UP THIS ASYLUM ESCAPEE_NOW!

McLooney tunes is on the loose!

Beth   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

John, really?

Dr. Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

WHEN YOU ARE MENTALLY UNSTABLE,YOU CAN

WIN THE DEBATE BEFORE YOU ACTUALLY HAVE IT.

Ryan Wing   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

As someone in media, this is not uncommon. It takes a lot of time to put together video and graphic animations for various topics. They probably already have the general election victory graphics and videos being worked on - not because they are certain they are going to use them - but because they take time to make. This is a case of someone accidentally releasing something they shouldn't have - something that most lilely would not have seen the light of day - but was created 'just in case'

Obama '08!

Forigner   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Mcsame is the biggest fool that I know to ever run for president in the U.S history

Dave   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

What a NINCOMPOOP

Rob   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

again…. just hateful comments… nothing new from the Obama train….nothing new.

This guy is a joke   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

and he clearly doesn't get it and thinks running for president is a game.

Terry   September 26th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Oh my god this week will go down in history as a complete collapse of John McCain. Obama just has to stand and smile, McCain just keeps shooting himself in the foot.

Nic   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

In sports, we call this "myopia."

Now we all know what he was doing for 45 minutes in the meeting last night. He was on his Blackberry posting up bulletins on Myspace and Facebook that he won the debate! Too bad someone forgot to tell him to schedule them in EST not GMT!

Marilyn   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I saw this yesterday and thought it was just a gimmick.
After yesterday, somebody need to get mccain checked out. I believe he is seriously mentally ill.

Tired   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

People, people…he won the debate in his mind caused by the hallucinations his medications give him. Show some respect for the mentally challenged elderly.

A Boston   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Win? After McCoward was clearly quick to back down!
Still trying to dupe the American people. Tricks are for kids.

Obama 08′

PUMBU   September 26th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

MY GOD I'M AN INDEPENDENT BUT THIS GUY GAVE ME SO MANY REASONS TO VOTE FOR DEMOCRATS, WHAT A MORON AND ARROGANT ELIITIST MACCAIN IS? WHAT HAPPENED TO THIS GUY? SERIOUSLY, HE NEEDS TO SEE HIS DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY.

Kevin in Jackson, MS   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

A another fine example of the typical Republican "smoke and mirrors" machine hard at work.

Generation X   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

This is just to easy…lol…lol…lol…

rice, bryan   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

wow, now mcbush can see into the unclear future. what a clown. keep wishing upon a star, dreams even come true. even for really old people.

VON BISMARK,Vienna.   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

This campaign has ran out of material.

Killbucket   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

This has got to be the most arrogant political campaign in history. How cynically focused on hoodwinking the uninformed. -By the way, the GOP IS the Republican Party. Like we don't know who KFC really is…

Cirena   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Mccain is an idiot. Plain and Simple. If I was a republican, I would verry embarrased by all of his actions.

Arden   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

WHAT A JOKE. MCCAIN YOU ARE A FOOL. THERE'S NO FOOL LIKE AN OLD FOOL. How much spin can one person spin. Like Pres. Bush I can no longer stand the sight of John McCain or Sarah Palin. Four very close friends have already planned to leave the country if John McCain get elected and I feel sure that there will be more to follow.

David Goldman for OBAMA   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

MCSENILE DID WIN !!!!

HE DEBATED HIMSELF AS ANOTHER PERSON & WON.

HIS CAMPAIGN IS GOING TO BE WORLD FAMOUS,

AS THE COMEDY OF ERRORS IN POLITICS.

Crazy Cat Lady   September 26th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Good grief — you couldn't make this stuff up if you tried. Is everyone in the McCain campaign wearing clown shoes?

TRUTH   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Does he mean the debate he had in Washington that actually hindered a bipartisan resolution to the bail out?

When McCain wins, Americans lose! Unless you're rich!

Mary   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

You old fool. What debate the one with Sarah Palin or your wife?

Shirley-Ohio   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

He may have won the debate according to the Republicans after that circus act they performed in Washington, but I believe McCain may have just lost himself the election.

Robert Jordan   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Everybody pile into the DeLorean…we're going back to the future!

PartyHeartyArtie   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Can the McCain camp really be that stupid???

Enough !!!   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

What a clown McShame has turned out to be!!!

WASP Member!!!   September 26th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

OMG!!!! Did this senile old man forget that the debate has not happened yet. Somebody please tell him. Where is Joe Leiberman when McCain is in need of someone to whisper in his ear.

Wake-up America   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Talk about Egotistical. McCain and you other Republicans who support him are so delusional I actually pity you.
And I will pray for you every night in the hopes you WAKE-UP from this brainwashed nightmare you are living in.

The McCain Campaign and the rest of you Republicans have done nothing but negative attacks, some reports indicate as much as 90% of the adds are misleading and flat out lies. So why can’t some of us Independents and the Democrats say what we feel. McCain/Palin is for “Country First” I just can’t figure out which country. It sure isn’t America. Maybe Palin thinks Alaska is country and McCain thinks his 9 homes are a country into themselves.

NYObamacan   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Wow… this is the definition of spin.

zac   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

mcshane is the biggest losser i had ever known.go obama

Anonymous   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

THIS IS DUMBER AND DUMER McCAIN AND PALIN!!!! WAKE UP PEOPLE UNITED STATES IS GOING BROKE AND YOU ARE GOING TO VOTE MORE IDIOTS IN. WOW!!!! NO WONDER WE ARE IN A RECESSION!

DEMI

Seriously   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

News Headline from McCain Campaign Headquarters: "US WINS WAR WITH IRAN!!!"

Irmiya M Sauka   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I doubt very very much if McCain is incharge of this campaign if not why is he letting the honor of many years be destroyed in a season? The lies has developed a life of its own. It's a shame

JC   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obviously, he won it before he lost it…..

Gia in Los Angeles   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

ROTFL!!!

Naomie   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

OMG…Can someone please tell tell this guy that the American people are in NO mood for all this drama. PuhhhhhhhhLease.
I don't get it. He must be banking on an uninformed and dense electorate with all these gimmicks.
McInsane has giving me high blood pressure, I can't take anymore from him (ok. I can't even acknoledge the train wreck that is Sarah Palin). America wake up. Ask yourself,
—-"self, do I want all this drama in the white house?"
—-"HELL TO THE NO!"

Vote sanity, intelligence, visionary, USA first, Vote Obama/Biden

Eric   September 26th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I just heard Sarah Palin stepped Down.

Thank God For Tolkien   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Wow, now this IS impressive, the McCain campaign can look into a crystal ball and can tell the future! If I learned one thing from Lord of the Rings it is that guys who look into crystal balls to tell the future are generally the bad guy. Thus, I must conclude that McCain must be evil. Hmm… that would make Obama good since he has yet to claim victory in the debate. Since all politics is simple: black and white, good and bad. I'm going to vote for the good guy: Obama.

Judy   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

McCain it was true that you did this for politcal reasons. You are such a poor loser and I hope the American people see you for what you are. An old scumb bag. You are too pretty to be true. You did nothing but show up and it is a shame that your Republican base let you use them as a piece of cheap dirt. All of you should rotten in heeeeeeeeeel.

James   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

McCrazy strikes again!!!

This guy is truly NUTSO!!!

McCainThePresident   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

McCain will also win the election and he will be the next President of United States.

Paul in Charlotte   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Dewey Defeats Truman!

DB   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Letterman will love this!

Nancy from FL   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Typical Obamabots attacking a true American like McCain and being sexist towards Sarah.

PALIN/MCCAIN 2008!!!

HILLARY OR PALIN 2012!!!!

Naomi   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I've had enough of this man and his campaign! McCain is mentally unstable. Somebody please admit him to a hospital.

Christy   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Is billy out of his mind!

Valerie from Middletown Connecticut   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

What ?

No way No how   September 26th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

McCain-Palin

The lights are on, but nobody's home

How much do you want to bet this was a glitch on the part of his campaign, and he will be spinning it that he was referrring to the debate on the bailout or something else.

The fundamentals are sound , my a-s.

Nick   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I won the lottery tonight!!!! (wishing it worked this way)

jr california   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

today is a really great day for the mccain camp… can't wait for the 'bate.

James   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Hilarious!!!!

The Double-Speak Express full steam ahead!!!!!!!

Pam, Illinois   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

This is delicious! The McCain camp is running around like a bunch of chickens with their heads cut off. It just proves McCain was grandstanding all along - but then any normal, thoughtful American voter knew that. His sorry attempt to run away from debating Barak Obama is just pathetic.

JusLaugh   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Wait a minute. Did I miss a day somewhere? Isn't the debate scheduled for tonight?

If this were Obama, the media and pundits would be jumping out of their skin calling him "presumptuous" and "arrogant".

Jon, Charlotte NC   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

i'm really confused…

Rick   September 26th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

You couldn't write comedy material this good…!!!

Dave in Houston   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN!

Ohioan   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

The McBush and Princess Palin camp has become so very dysfunctional, that I am beginning to think the opposition has infiltrated it.
Could they be more stupid? No.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Pretty nervy for the guy who played bait and switch/duck and run just to get some attention until today. Let's wait and see if you can even remember your name tnoight, McCain. My money's on Sen. Obama!!
OBAMA/BIDEN '08 & '12 YES WE CAN!!!

tulsa   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I've watched the Democratic party tear itself apart every 4 years for years.
So this is what it looks like from the other side?

It's not that fun actually. Sad though.

Fritz   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I am honestly beginning to think McCain and Palin should simply concede defeat now. They have totally lost it. Let the election be between Barr, Nader and Obama.

Tainopower   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

All I am going to heard from obama tonight is da da da da da da da da da da da . We may be lucky if he answers a question whit out starling. 2 minutes answer is not enough for obama is going to spend most of the time saying da da da da da da da da .

Christy   September 26th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

how could you possiblly win a debate that hasn't happened yet….sounds like propoganda and spin and a bunch of rhetoric to me!!

Jeff - NYC   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

This is so sad.

By the way I taught no ads nor campaign work since Mr. McCain has suspended his campaign.

This is not the actions of our John McCain.

MLD ND   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McCain has absolutely lost it. The guy should call up his buddy Clinton do lunch because they are both freaking egomaniacs.

JDM   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

This isn't funny anymore.
What in the H##L would they do this for?
This is a war hero! His camp is making him look like a nut!!!!!!!!
I'm a Dem and I don't care for him, but

Dee   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

To Billy,

What in the heck are you talking about!?!?!?! If your talking about the political posturing that he performed during the bailout process then you fell for the biggest stunt in history.

McMuffin hasn't won anything yet and you are just as senile as he is!!!!

prairieguy   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

and to think some folks think he should actually be placed in charge of America and the free world…..Lord please give us a break!!!!!!

Dennis in IA   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Can you say ARROGANCE? First he suspends his campaign and the ads and his speeches keep appearing, he then goes to DC and corrupts the negotiations on the BAILOUT - not rescue! Now he claims victory in the debate that he himself said that he would not attend until an agreement was in hand! McSame you should be ashamed as an American to put out all this false information when you said that you would "Take the High Road in the campaign" I picking an unqualified vp candidate and saying in your book you do things quickly and have no regrets shows that you are unfit to be our president. It is about time America wakes up to this nonsense and see how ridiculous the republicans really are!

Illinois Blue Dog   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I thought Rick Davis had McCain's campaign running on all cylinders after the RNC. Clearly not. What a bunch of boneheads. Its just been one screw up after another since the economy took over the headlines a couple weeks back. I bet McCain wishes he had picked Romney, who not only knew how to speak about the ecomony but, more importantly, knew how to speak to voters about the economy. While I have been an Obama supporter for a long time, I respected and admired Romney, and thought he would have been the best VP choice for McCain and the Republican ticket, especially in places like Michigan and Pennsylvania. But then again, Palin can gut a moose in 2 minutes flat, so maybe she wan't that bad of pick after all.

Barry   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama is the moron that does not have a clue.

Dino   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Say this was an honest mistake by a campaign staffer, it still shows that they plan responses to these things. Which goes to show McCain expected to show up at the debates all along.

Grandstanding, anyone?

Greg   September 26th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

McCain would have won the debate if he didn't show up. It's not like Obama is really much of a contender…he's a WIMP!!

Jen   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

All Obama had to do this week was sit back and watch McCain self-destruct.

I guess McCain is trying to buy the narrative now, since the media won't echo his talking points anymore. What a joke.

one nation under god!!!!   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

no teleprompter,no 300 advisors just McCain and the boy

Kathy   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

McCain is really losing his grip on reality! God save us if the gullible American voter chooses him and air head Palin.

Obama/Biden 100%   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Oh my goodness….will this get any crazier?

Yakof Smirnoff   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Lame…

brett   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

There's no fool like an old fool…

Len in Washington   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

At what point will the Republicans throw up their hands and walk away from this disaster? Add to this the reports of even more conservative Republicans calling for Palin to step aside and you have a very sad scene indeed.

Ethan   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

People who support McCain will see him as winning no-matter-what. It is denial and fear. They really feel as though their ideals are represented by him and have so much emotional emotional investment in the party that they are unable to change. Obama and Biden will attempt to bail them out… I hope they can.

Allen Hussein   September 26th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Hahahahahahahaha, I think it is official that McCain flew over the Coocoo's nest. Anyone considering voting for McCain needs to seek professional help immediately!

Scott Tucson   September 26th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Well sure, why not? Without a telepromter, I believe my dog can beat Obama in a debate. At least my dog doesn't stutter when she barks.

Tony   September 26th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

MOTHER OF GOD PLEASE HELP US!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HE'S BEEN HANING OUT WITH PALIN TOO LONG!

YIKES!

Mark Wagner   September 26th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

ahaha did "Billy" (2nd post) really said Illinois will go red?

Obviously a McCain supporter being that out of touch.