October 7, 2008
Posted: 10:11 PM ET

From
 Obama: I don't understand why we invaded a country that had nothing to do with 9/11.
Obama: I don't understand why we invaded a country that had nothing to do with 9/11.

Obama just said "Senator McCain is right, I don't understand, I don't understand why we invaded a country that had nothing to do with 9/11. And we are still there ignoring the real problems elsewhere and spending money we don’t have.” BINGO.

Obama is owning this foreign policy discussion.

Filed under: Barack Obama • Presidential Debate


Mel   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Obama doesn't have any strengths except how much he hates America!!!!!!

DChange2008   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

McCain is just practicing political rhetoric that has slipped him through the political system thus far. Of course McCain did not learn about ploicy when he was practicing his answers, let alone foreign policy remember thats not important. Better yet, it was an elective on his degree plan.

Woody   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Every time McCain launches some attack on obama he just sits back and smiles, like a cat wainting to pounce. kennedyesque.
This is one smart guy and he's not afraid to show it.

Sandy   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Obama is showing much more realistic views regarding foreign policy. According to McCain this surge that is supposedly working how long is it going to take? Unless Iraq starts to take control, we will be there a very long time. Can we afford it financially and globally? Will McCain start a draft to take more aggressive move in Afganistan? Does this mean our children (male or female) will drafted due to poor judgements of the past? War is not the answer!

We do need to follow Obama's views on Iraq so we may concentrate on Afganistan. Then maybe we will see peace once again.

Gloria   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Senator McCain wants to argue, not about the politics he just wants to argue with Obama about everything. It's time to concentrate on the issues. The American public needs to hear what he plans to do should he become President, not show how upset he can become. Remember discuss Issues not cause confusion.

munawar nazir   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Obama is promoting democratic process in pakistan, This is what American policy should be! He understands!

Edward   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Rosen should I expect you to say McCain is winning since you are a liberal from the HAAAAFFFIIINNNGTON POST…come on Obama is lying

Georgia   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Yeah Obama winning, he is winning on taking 109k of Fannie Mae monies…and taking Fannie Mae and Freddie Macs people and putting them with his campaign. Why in the world would you have people on your campaign that bankrupted a company and give you advice…are you people blind????????

tennisguypitt   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

He brought up Bomb Bomb Iran! Perfect! That is not a joke McCain, newsflash!

He made excellent points, I applaud that!

Obama/Biden '08

Vicky-Ohio   October 7th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a new president.

President Obama

Me   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

McCain acts like a little schoolboy. Because Obama said something, then McCain feels like he should get "equal time" to respond. Typical! He sounds just like George Bush. Watch the faces that McCain makes–he is hilarious. SNL should have lots of material off of him as well as the Letterman show. McCain is out of touch with the real world!

Anthony Pombal   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

An economic melt down will end up leading to another world war.

jausti8371k   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

I agree I believe Obama is our guy!!! I don't have anything against McCain he just scares me. If he had the answers why hasn't he done anything about it! I am voting for Obama no matter what.

Cameron   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Apparently McCain really doesn't GET IT!!!

kris   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Obama is broadcasting and you don't do that. One thing I would like to ask Obama is this. the 5 women who in Chicago said they would endorse you if you did not endorse the war, And obama said I don't know if I can do that, because he did endorse the war if he could have voted The 5 powerful women who are every wealthy and sit are advisors to him told him they would not endorse him and Obama said ok. This is fact as these 5 women were on Bill O'Reilly few weeks ago,. When Obama started running that was what he always talked about and the word Change which is his cousin's theme also in Kenya ,. Ironic. I have always voted dem for president but he does not know his foreign policy at all.

mark   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Brokaw is showing his Pro-McCain bias selecting questions on National Defense, the last two debates were announced to be on the ECONOMY.
Brokaw intervened on MSNBC for McCain's campaign to get Matthews and Olbermann off election night coverage. He also co-wrote a book WITH McCain "Badge of Honor"

It all won't matter Obama won this debate from the sputtering Gramps saying "my friend" CONSTANTLY, as he attacks LAMELY.

Nancy Reyes   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

McCain clear winner on foreign policy

Brandon   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

I agree. Why must we spend money in AOR's that weren't the true perpetrator of 9/11. Even if Iraq had something to do with the attacks we have already removed their leader why not hone in the rest of our efforts on the terrorist responsible. I feel like fighting Iraq in this war was like attacking china because the japanese attaked pearl habor.

Barbara Cone   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Obama seems to understand that we are spread too thin in Iraq to pursue McCain's aggressive agenda in Afghanistan. McCain talks the tough old warrior talk but practicalities/realities elude him.

Kendrell White   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

Obama is really taking it to Mccain on foreign policy. For John Mccain to say "Speak softly and carry a big stick" is laughable. He is the same person that JOKED about bombing Iran. This is not a joking matter.

Janice   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

It is true that the general in Afghanistan has called for more troops and we have responded that we can get him more in the spring. In the meantime we are attacking inside Pakistan and the very ones we have spent billions outfitting and training in Pakistan are firing on us. I am not sure that either of these candidates understands the concept of tribal rule. We are currently contributing to the peace in Iraq by paying a monthly income of about $300 for each man through the tribal leader, referred to as Godfathers by our troops, that help us out. We can't stop doing that until there are jobs to take the place of that income or the peace will fall apart.

Arthur D. Norman   October 7th, 2008 10:22 pm ET

So Obama will be defeated if he moves out of the soldiers?
McCain is losing terribly.
Obama is hitty homeruns

Palmer   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I don't care about their personal attacks with each other…I wish they would fight for the American people and not each others character…because that is not paying my bills, keeping my pension safe, providing me and my child with decent and affordable healthcare, filling my gas tank…who is fighting for the people? As for this war that has gone on far too long where innocent lives (on both sides) were lost, which is costing us billions of our hard working dollars, and has not improved much since it began…seriously…I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired!

Bo   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Senator McCaine what are you prepared to do about all of the troops that are suffering with PTSD coming home?

joe   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Where is McCain's strength again? Hard to see it tonight. He just seems petty

lana   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I have to agree with you. It is a shame that senator Mc Cain would not even acknowledge that the issue here is mostly foreign policy, and making sure Pakistan as well as Afganistan understand the United States position !

Mike   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Rosen: Obama is only saying what the american people want to hear. He is full of bull on his foreign policy stand. He does not impress me. McCain is speaking in reality. He knows more about how to deal with foreign policy than Obama. Unfortuantely, the american people don't want to deal with reality.

Richard   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Senator McCain is burying himself with attacks towards Senator Obama instead of telling us how he will act.

Kathy   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

We are back to the KGB story again. What's with the "My Friend" OBAMA is making sense. McCain is talking in circles.

Edward   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Senator McCain is dlivering an overall poor performance. It is painful to listen to him. He is so out of touch with America. The only thing missing from his proposals was 40 acres and a mule. As a former undecided voter, I have to go with Obama in '08

JennFlorida   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Is it me or can we only bring our troops home with honor if McCain, but in defat if Obama. Point of View by McCain - not me.

International pressure - can we us the big stick now, aslong as we speak quietly?

Jenn in OH   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

BAM! Obama is on his mark tonight and McCain is grasping at strings its very clear. Hes so bitter and angry sounding, and oh yeah if I have to hear "my friend" one more time I think I am gonna get sick!

Obama/Biden 08
Already sent my vote in just sitting back and enjoying this sad show of McCain and his lies and attacks!

sue   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

He has just won it!
Shows leadership when you can take over a debate!
I love it!
How does Tom lie being treated like the hired help?

Frank   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Barack Obama needs to talk about the leadership he will surround himself with and and keep beating down on GW Bush's foreign policy's for the last many years..

McCain is pretty good at foreign policy

Steve from Illinois   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Obama is much more presidential in his delivery and his style. He will be much more likely to get things done in Washington and through out the world with this type of attitude. I am sure other world leaders will see him as a breath of fresh air.

DWL   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I disagree w/ Hilary. Senator McCain still demonstrates a better understanding. Obama is defensive, and I think McCain on Russia and Iraq just seems more confident. McCain has done well not coming off as above Obama, but Obama has not done as well as in the first debate…

paige   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

How can Obama become president if he is not a natural born citizen as that would be unconstitutional!!!! Read up on this people!

diane08   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Mc Cain keeps saying "I know how to do it" as a response to everything, but fails to give any concrete strategy as to how he plans to do anything. If he "knows" how to fix everything why doesn't he give any specifics?

James   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Ha Ha! That is the mentality of the Obama supporters along with "a movement". Not what this country ever needs. We need mature adults.

Monie   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I believe Obama was a little bit too aggressive with some of his answers. They are under pressure, but he has to worry about attacking, and remaining calm throughout the debate.

Ron was a REP now a DEM   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

It's coming from McCain

I'm a HERO
I'm a VETERAN
I'm a real AMERICAN

Hopfully REAL HEROS, Americans , and Veterans will not buy into this guilt trip.

Deya   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

McCain keeps lying about Obama's opinion of the "surge" in Iraq. Who does he think he is fooling???

Kim   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

time for you to sit down, Mr. McCain. Obama's got this!

Texas Mom for Obama   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Go Obama Go! Show America who has the better temperament, judgment, and intelligence to keep us safe. Not McCain.

Tim   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Obama is just hitting every question out of the ballpark.
No question who wins this one.

Sam   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

McCain has lost the foreign policy test. He has not been able to bring in change in his 25 years in the foreign policies. hes shares the blame for lowering the value of Americans abroad by needless wars

madeline   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

McCain is our man and when people realize this our country will be a lot better off. What a mess if Obama wins. We will be in for it.

kim   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

Obama seems more confident and controlled. Even given his "crush and kill" statements. :)

Rekha Sharma-Crawford   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

McCain scares the hell out of me. He sounds psychotic and out of touch. Since when is it honorable to refer to a fellow Senator and opponent as "that one"…hidden racism perhaps?

Paul Martin   October 7th, 2008 10:21 pm ET

I am disappointed in McCain's "Ready, Shoot, Aim" approach to the War in Iraq. His claim that he acts responsibly is not supported by his comments, demeanor and military career. Our Invasion can never be justified just like Nam.
I prefer Obama's philosophy that the US must be a leader for peace in the world and must take those steps critical to protect US Military.
I sense he has a better insight into the middle east dynamics. The middle east is not about occupation it is all about diplomacy to foster trust and to overcome millenia of hatred & distrust in that region.

Savage one   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obviously Schiederhas an anti -Obama perspective - toomany comments fromhim. McCain is looking to waving the flag rather than addressingthe issues.

Jordan South Dakota   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

BINGO is right, McCain/Bush's policy is questionable and needs to be pointed out. And another question to the McBush's policy is why you would ignore the nations biggest threat to invade an oil rich country with a dictator who wasn't the same kind of threat to us as Bin Laden.

Kathy   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Will someone please tell–Senator McCain that he is not "my friend" and to please stop addressing the audience in that manner. It is very condescending and irritating. I also be believe that he (Senator McCain) was rude to Sen. Obama by saying "that one".

louise   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

McCain is a broken record - "victory" in a war that should never have been waged? "I know how to lead" , "We will not have a cold war with Russia" while badgering Russia and criticizing Putin? This certainly is a good seminar on foreign affairs - in 1974…

Jeremy from Columbus, Ohio   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

HAHAHA….now we are to believe that John McCain knows how to get Bin Laden???? Give me a break McCain…you couldn't even find a qualified VP running mate. McCain has completed lost his marbles.

joe   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

wow…..obama is doing well in most of the topics. mcsame is saying the same thing over

Mississippians for McCain   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

It is obvious that the Clinton News Network or Constantly Negative News (CNN) viewers dont really understand the issues. Obama wants to create a socialistic (communist) America.

Carrie in Cali   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Also, McCain said because of his 'inexperience' Obama would have left Iraq in failure. No, he wouldn't have, because he wouldn't have been there to begin with!

paulzman0459   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

worst debate ever and brokaw has long lost control

Kate Fergus   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

The military surge didn't create the situation in Iraq today. It was working with the leaders of the various factions and they were responsible for ratcheting down the violence. This could easily change if not handled diplomatically, something that McCain is incapable of doing.

Larry   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

There is Mccain looking into the "soul" again! This guy is not what America needs. Wrong man, at the wrong time.

Michele, Pittsburgh, PA   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Undecided voter totally put off by McCain.

Samantha   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Mccain -talk more specifics and go aggressive….

Boots Harvey   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Yes, Mr. Rosen. You're a very credible source A Democratic Strategist blogging on CNN about how well Obama is doing. You swayed me. You probably think Cynthia McKinney was good as well.

Dan   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obama is looking very weak today.

Andrea   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

No Obama is not winning, he cannot display a clear plan. McCain has been educated in this area. McCain has the upperhand.

Tosan From North Bay, ON   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obama is actually doing very well, especially in Foreign Policy…. Its like he got some training from Joe Biden. As for John McCain, he needs to stop the negative attacks because it doesn't seems to work well with the focus groups

Sabrina   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

No Alexa, McCain does not get foreign policy, he only understands war. His narrow thinking could get us killed.

Kmmie   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Obama is right. Spending money we don't have.

Amelia   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

It's called developing relationships and allies, Mr. or Ms. No Hillary = No Obama

chandra nelson   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

I thought that this was going to be about the issues and so far i still do not know what John Mcain Docturine is. if his plan is to lead us, shouldn't he be able to explain it to us. He is no Sarah Palin we expect real answers from him

Terry   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

McCain is an arrogant jerk. And how dare he refer to Obama as "that one". So disrespectful.

D.G   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

BINGO…..OBAMA is right on foreign policy and every other aspect……you dont have to be a prisoner of war to be an expert on foreign policy…right Mr. McCain?….McCain is wrong on every issue of foreign policy…..Go Obama GO

Gary   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

hehe the boards are full of Obamanites….the screeners have their hands full tonight!!

tammy   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

Hello….. the economy!?!

RS-Texas   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

McCain's foreign policy = Bush's foreign policy…..what would be different??????????????

Sam Rose   October 7th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

this isnt a town-hall it is
tit-for-tat between the two of them—this is because
they have both gone negative—McSame and Pallin were the first to go big time negative–and Obama didnt have a choice—

they both go negative and we suffer—-

who is going to bail us out??????

Warren   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

This is in no way a debate and we should be ashamed that political sound bites are shaping our American mind. Let them talk to each other, not give one minute speeches!

Warren
Philadelphia Pa

joe   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Speak softly, It seems McCain has been Screaming for a long time and say nothing but BOMB Drill and Surge. Nothing close to what we are dealing with

Mark   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

it's just sad that McCain just has to grasp at straws to stay in the game even when it's his so called format he is best at… anyone is good at a town hall meeting when they speak… it's just your supporters when you are on the trail… now its a debate and they don't have people just who agree with you, you have to answer real questions and he can't even hang in his town hall format.. just the facts John, just the Facts… stop slinging mud with that poor excuse of a VP candidate Palin, you want to bring real change? support Obama, John, do the right thing

ralgod   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCaine has a man crush on Petraus

Carole (VA)   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain wants us to do for Afghanistan what we've done for Iraq??? Pity the poor Afghans!

Shocked   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I think it is OVER for McCain. He appears to be very out of touch, he continued to repeat his "punch" lines and frankly he is INSULTING TO THE AMERICAN PEOPLE!! It is an outrage that he appears to be snarky and joking with a presidential debate and have the nerve to repeat stump punch lines!! I am disgusted by McCain and it will be a cold day in hell if that lost little man wins an election!

God help us all!

Kim, Dallas, TX   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I think Obama has the upper hand.

Watching this election closely   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Obama is winning on all matters… watch the line for "uncommitted Ohio voters," McCain is flatlining!

tab   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Obama is winning. (period)

Christine El Paso   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain is losing on his own ground (foreign policy)

Katrinia Johnson   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I agree! They where not ready for Obama to be able to explain is view on the war in Iraq and what is to come Afganistan

Andrew   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I feel that Obama came prepared for foreign policy and John McCain felt that it was not going to be a very important subject. This is why Obama is destroying McCain in foreign policy.

amy   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

obama is the best and mc caune have to learn to control his bad attitude ………….. control yourself my friend

viince   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain has more experience but it's not really showing.

Leslie Hudson   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I don't understand McCain's attack on Obama for "announcing" he would make a military move on another country, with relation to the Pakistan topic. Isn't that what the Bush administration did before it invaded Iraq? Wasn't that news broadcast well in advance of the first missile strike?

Angela   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

This election is a joke. Anyone even considering voting for McCain is as dumb as he is.

T Harris - Alpharetta   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Obama can't handle pressure. He's very defensive! He does not appear as the President.

Heidi   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain stop repeating yourself. We need real words and you are know for real words but I hear none of them.

Amy in Minneapolis   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Dear Senator McCain please shut up already and let the man tell the truth to me!!

forrealtho   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Tactics, strategy by us are not going to work! As soon as we pull out, they will fall apart. We are achieving NOTHING. Why can nobody see this? It's because we watch the war via armchair!

JANET   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

DESPERATE TIMES

Ann   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I am an independent and I am beginning to lean toward Obama due to the debate tonight. McCain seems to evade the questions and Obama addresses the questions more directly. I am tired of McCain attack techniques. Get to the issues and what he will do. Both should simply say what they will do and ADD HOW they will do it. I don't want promises. I want solutions.

Renee   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Barack Obama will be the next President of the United States of America!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve California   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

EXACTLY!!!

Why are people buying that "it was the right thing to do"? Oh yah, because W. said it so much, the dumb folks actually believed it! WE NEVER HAD THE RIGHT TO GO!!!! Our reasons for going were false. Period! The fact that Sadam was scum did not give us the right. If that logic were true, why should the USA be attacked since our current president is scum? We you look at it this way, it suddenly doesn't make a lot of sense, does it?

Way to go Obama!!!

CNN, Please post! You've ignored most of my comments!!

Marie   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

I agree, OBAMA is wining MCsane is so disconnect even in his own shoes.

Ginni   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain is getting on my nerves saying "I'm gonna git him, my friends, I know how to do it." Well if you know how to do it, THEN WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL GEORGE BUSH 5 YEARS AGO!!!!! Or tell the general that you keep touting!

Leann   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

McCain needs to stop calling people in the audience "my friends" It rings very hollow.

Terra Bikah   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

Did he or did he not shut McCain up on that issue. I think he did!

America, enough is enough. Please do not be fooled. We need change we can believe in. Is that McCain?

kiwib56   October 7th, 2008 10:19 pm ET

IF McCain knows how to take out Osama bin Laden, why hasn't he clued in the government thus far.

PM   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I am sick of McCain's patronizing tone and abstract answers! Well done Obama!

Anothen Williams   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

That has to be a soundbite right there Obama is destroying McCain on what is supposed to be McCains strong suit.

Will   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Bravo!!!

dharmas   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is the first American leader who has identified where the pakistan position is , with billions poured into the country only fundamentalism has been fanned
He shows sound judgement of South asian and mid east issues
We need him at the helm in White House

David   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

mcsane is fixing to lose it….LOL

Neil   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I totally agree. But still dont understand why McCain keeps reverting the point, that Obama wants to take out BIN LADEN, NOT Pakistan.

jausti8371k   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Is it me or is McCain always talking and seems to be living in the past. If everything is so simple why hasn't McCain fixed it. If he could get Bin Loden (excuse the spelling) why haven't we done it. If he says "my friend" one more time I am going to scream.

Ramesh Shrestha   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain is just telling old jokes. The guy who said 'bomb bomb bomb Iran' is blaming Obama saying the latter wants to attack Pakistan. Obama made it very clear that if we know that Bin Laden is in pakistan and pakistan is not willing to cooperate, then we will invade. What abetter answer can you hear than that? McCain is not ashamed to say that he knows where Bin Laden is and he will killhim. Poof!!! Lies, lies, lies!!!!

raamze   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I love you Barrack but answer the questions and you will win this battle. McCain still can't look at you for some reason!!! Hmm…

Stevo   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I think if anyone watching this thinks McCain has the upper hand, then you are watching a different debate! If I hear "MY FRIENDS" from McCains mouth one more time I think my ears are going to explode! I am noooo friend of his!!

Jennifer   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

This debate is not connecting with the voters at all. McCain just took Obama's words and twisted them. As these two sit here and smash each other and do this he said, geezer said I don't want to listen. It's getting old it's the same old stuff. Blame him for this and him for that. McCain has rode along Bush's coat tails jumping on the same band wagon and as an American I'am an Obama supporter and will continue to support Obama.

Carrie Pa   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

My friend, McCain, just doesn't get it!

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama level headed has it hands down. He has the right military advisors.

Rep For Obama   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain is a name dropper. Is everyone is Hero?

Dale Schiff   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama warns Pakistan to get on board or else. McCain criticizes him for it; yet backs an invasions of a country that had nothing to do with 911!

Anonymous   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCann = Bush foreign Policy

Micah from Bham   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

You are right, Obama his winning,

MSH   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

He is still too abstract.

Harper   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

THAT is the BEST line from this entire debate.

martie   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

BINGO is right! Go Obama!!!

marina   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Failing in Afghanistan, is that not where the originators of 911 are located, WHY are we in Iraq?
Obama definitely hit the bulls eye with our foreign policy problems.

G   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

He is ruling the section on foreign so much for the so call expert. Also may I add that Mccain appear very angry when Obama wanted to answer to Mccain's claim about pakistan. This show very badly on tv and Obama made me laugh really hard when he said this from the guy that said bomb, bomb, iran. Obama has a lot more common sense and leadership qualities showing right now than Mccain. If Mccain can't keep his anger to himself during this town hall venue than how is he going to work with others across party lines?

Steve California   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

EXACTLY!!!

Why are people buying that "it was the right thing to do"? Oh yah, because W. said it so much, the dumb folks actually believed it! WE NEVER HAD THE RIGHT TO GO!!!! Our reasons for going were false. Period! The fact that Sadam was scum did not give us the right. If that logic were true, why should the USA be attacked since our current president is scum? We you look at it this way, it suddenly doesn't make a lot of sense, does it?

Way to go Obama!!!

Austin   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is precise & targeting his responses specifically to the issue/discussion at hand, unlike McCain.

vic nashville,Tn   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Is it ? what joke

I really miss Hillary Clinton

Will   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain once said he would "follow Osama to the gates of hell."

changing times   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Maybe McCain and his supporter think if they keep saying Obama doesn't know what he's doing that maybe someone will believe it. NOT!!

Anonymous   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Last one out turn off the lights at the McCain campaign tonight. This thing is over.

Diana   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I am so surprised how obama has grown… his confidence and knowledge for someone who is supppose to be inexp. is surprising….

He has my vote and for the first time, I'm proud of it!

Jessica in Houston   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

If the McCain /Palin ticket think winning in Iraq and spending 10 million a month there is more important than spending that money here in the US, they have just solidified my support for Sen. Barack Obama…This Iraq war is not where our troops need to be…Obama just won the debate

Manny   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama has just won the election

Hope Monger   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

I remember a few years ago, when we thought the US was going to strike Iraq and never did. Clinton went on tv and said " the best way to use force is to show it, in order not to have to use it." So , it makes sense to threaten to strike Pakistan, in ordder not to have to do so. So Obama is right.

David   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain is doddering. He looks unsteady on his feet, and he's unsteady in his answers. Combine that with his belligerence toward Obama, and it's not a comforting picture of a possible president.

Steve in MN   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain needs to win. Obama needs to not lose.

Right now, Obama's not losing.

Bobbie S   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is making his comments in a very consise and frank manner. He is correct about the Afghan war and changing the policies. He is putting the right focus.

Amelia   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Come on people, McCain and his running mate keep harping on him being a leader in the military and a war vet. and I highly respect that, but how does this experience transfer over to leading a nation and dealing with more than just foregin policies?

william reese   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

The format does not allow enough time for rebuttals.

EJ (USA)   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Obama is just wonderful. He has come so far in his debating skills and ability to do well in these town hall type formats. I am just so impressed and I can't wait to vote for him for President of the United States.

LT   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain says he can GET Bin Laden. How come he didn't share that knowledge with his main man, BUSH?

EM   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

Amy, how can McCain joke about something so serious as bombing Iran? How moral is that when we have Iranian Americans in the country today…

Elizabeth - TEXAS - Former Republican   October 7th, 2008 10:18 pm ET

McCain voted to go into Iraq with Bush. Obama didn't. Obama can lead us out responsibility. McCain wants to stay there until we win. We can't.

Sabrina   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Yes he is! Obama understands and he gets it.

Jessica, DE   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Good Lord, if you know how to do it McCain, then why haven't you done it?! Why haven't you RALLIED your party, rallied the Senate, and gotten it done?

You keep saying, Senator McCain, that you know how to fix all of Americas ills. Unfortunately, I haven't heard a SINGLE DETAIL, not one, on how these "easy fixes" are going to be carried out.

Mike S.   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Sam, what debate, what election are you watching. Your man has nothing.

Lissa in Montreal   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

You got it, Hillary - finally qualified that indictment of McCain's that Obama doesn't understand. Beautifully said by Senator Obama.

jm from sc   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama is a much better candidate that McCain. I will be Fact Check will reveal so much more lies McCain told. I know because they are the same lies he has been telling all along.

Heidi   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama is winning on this issue… Take for example McCain just stated he knows how to get Bin Laden and he will get him, so why hasn't he told us so far is he only going to do that if he is president??

mark   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

that hair transplant SHOT at Biden will Kill McCain's review later
That crud aimed at Joe Biden while he's at his family funeral….was MAGGOT LOW!
it came off unfunny, and MEAN SPIRITED

Mary, Dublin, Ireland   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain just said he was joking about "Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran". I don't know about you but I don't think a potential Commander-in-Chief should be making any jokes like this, regardless of the situation.

Diane Dagenais Turbide   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama is winning on foreign policies because he has more judgment, and he is more in touch with today's realities of our standing in the world and our increased diplomacy needed in this world…and not just a visit at the end of a war!

Wow! McCain says He knows how to get Bin Laden…what has he been doing for eight years…another commission!

lisa in omaha   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

a great resonse that put it right back into McCains face

voter   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Sam
How can being in Iraq keep us safe when Bin Laden, who is responsible for the 911 attacks, is in the border of afghan and Pakistan?

Larry   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama is looking like The President, Mccain is looking like he is tired and mad.
Obama is owning the foreign policy conversation.

falcon   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Obama is losing big time. "KILL", he said. Sending troops to a foreign country without permission is INVASION

Jeremy from Columbus, Ohio   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Go Barack!!! Great exchange on this question. McCain seems to be getting a bit annoyed with Barack. Maybe will will see that temper come out and Johnny will throw a temper tantrum on national television.

Yvonne   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Did McCain get a check up when he came back from the war?

Alan   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

I agree completely. McCain just cited Lebanon as a terrible mistake that cost 300 marine lives, but then he goes and talks about Iraq, which has cost us thousands of lives, as if it was some how the right decision for America.

joe   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain seems out of touch and off message

Rep For Obama   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Why are we still in Iraq. Why are we not focusing on where we really should be Afghanistan?

texas voter   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain is having a hard time figuring out who his hero is, it keeps changing. Reagan?Roosevelt? Really, I think it is Palin,shhh. don't tell CINDY!!!!!!

LITTLE JOHN   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

How can Obama win on foreign policy when he has never drafted any or voted in favor of any or supported any or did not know why we are in Iraq , give us a break !!

Mike   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

I am sick of hearing McCain say "…and I know how to do it." That is great lets hear it.

lorenzo   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

obama killin mccain 2nite

Eldar   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain constantly 'stretches' the truth.

First, he's trying to convince us that the Nuclear Power is 'clean' and then just now that we supported a "Freedom Fighters' in Afghanistan during the USSR invasion on Pakistan.

And one thing really annoys me from McCain, which is his phrase 'my fiends'. He is not really being a friend of mine and usually, when people approached me with those words I knew I was in for troubles…

CNNFanatik   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

What other way could the Republican party take our country surplus and spend it on issues other than Social Security, Healthcare & Energy Independence?!

St. Louis, MO voter   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Senator McCain KNOWs how to get Osama? Then pray tell why hasn't he told the Bush administration "his buddies"…….crap or treason, which is it?

Me   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain is boring i just woke up from his speech what did he say… rambles and doesnt answer questions. Obamas GOT this in the bag.. for someone not to have that much experience is bringing it home!

cubbie   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

i agree why attack a country that had nothing to do with the 9/11 as they have said in the past bush decided to finish a job that his father could not finish that the attemented attack on his dad a

paki is the real cause of that dredfull day

Griff   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

If Barack Obama is elected youir leader… Canada will be the New-Super-Power of the Northern Emespher..

wannabeobamagirl   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

if he knows how to get bin laden, why doesn't he let HIS president in on that little secret. while he holds this info close, bin laden continues to roam. what a joke.

Chris Columbus, OH   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

When will McCain sit down when Obama talks and shows him some respect?????????

Christy Horne   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

So far, I think both candidates have done well, but yes, I think so far Obama is winning this debate. I absolutely don't agree that Obama is being too abstract. Then again, I give the American public credit for being able to follow rudimentary theory presentations!

Ashley   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain just said he knows how to get Bin Laden….why hasn't his maverick self done that yet? He's had 7 years now!

Doc   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Funny, McCain seems to "knows how to do everything" but in 26 years has not done it.

Tiff of lithia springs   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

My friends

Don't let MCcain go anywhere near decisions of war he will have "flashbacks". And he thinks our sons and daughters need to have them in their old age.

RS-Texas   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

AMERICA IS THE HOLY LAND FOR AMERICANS…..NO OTHER COUNTRY'S DEFENCE COMES BEFORE THE DEFENCE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Mity   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

well said obama!!

Michael, Pensacola, FL   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain is just out of touch!

American for obama------   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

McCain has not talked about Obama meetiing with Iranian leaders because Kissinger supports it…………….Common sense leadership

Thomas   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Thank you Tom B !
Good Q and A
Afghan victory hopes played down

The UK's commander in Helmand has said Britain should not expect

"decisive military victory" in Afghanistan.

Governor Palin, war is not a Hockey game!

People die ! Men, Women and Children.

stacey   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Amen Marg! My DH and I said it is insulting for him to call us FRIENDS!!

Benjamin Wells   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

YOU ARE RIGHT AND DEAD ON..HOPEFULLY YOUR COLLEAGUES WILL CONCUR…

Ex-McCain supporter   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

I agree McCain has lost it. He is as bad on foriegn policy as he is on the economy. If he is going to get Osama why hasn't he.

Sean P   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

I agree that Obama doesn't undestand why we invaded a country…yadda yadda yadda…but let's quit talking about the past and talk about the future…the future of our troops and our security

Lori   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Anybody who thinks Obama has a deep understanding of ANYTHING is not paying attention.

He skims over the top of issues–slick, but superficial.

I could give better answers than Obama.

Betty   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

Okay, I hate to say this…..but I have totally decided to vote Obama. Up until this point, I was totally at a loss as to who to vote for. After this debate, I have definitely decided to vote Obama. Palin won the VP debate in my opinion, but Obama has blown McCain away in the Presidential debate. I was an undecided voter–until tonight.!

Angela   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

The Republicans might have had a chance if they didn't put racists on the ticket- TELEGRAPH??!! Did he just say telegraph his punches? Ummm… He is OLD. Someone send him a telegram: Telegraphs went out 50 years ago when PHONES came in.

Nate (a now former Republican)   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

OMG, why would McCain to put Obama's context by WAGING WAR ON PAKISTAN!

Who know's, they might be watching this, AND YOU SAYING OBAMA WANTS TO ATTACK PAKISTAN is not foreign policy to me.

THAT MY FRIENDS IS HOW YOU BICKER!!

Drew   October 7th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

You're right, he hit it spot on, it was a brilliant line, and he is winning on foreign policy, however they need to move, on the dials go lower and lower each response….and there goes tom asking another question about it, this isn't what we need, we need to talk about social issues…

Margarita   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

H is winning in everything. This is intelligence. True leader of America and the world. Common sense. Pure common sense.

jeff   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama is winning on everything. McCain is winning on using hthe phrase "My Friend"

Arshdeep Bhela   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

why hasn't the republican party "got" him yet?

Anonymous   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

McCain's argument about Obama telegraphing his punches..so thin I can see right through it.

victor   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

One has to ask the question who is looking to the future. And who is living in the past.

Trysh, Los Angeles   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

He has advertised every move he was going to make on Sen. Obama throughout this campaign, so how would we believe he wouldn't do the same in war?

Austin   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

We do not need a History Lesson from McCain. Obama is so very right to rebut McCain’s accusations.

Tracy   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama is brilliant. no one wants to say it, but the only reason we went to Iraq was so that GW could take care of his father's business (or try to). there i said it.

California Gold   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

What a fat lie. McCain was on a stage campaigning when he sang his song "bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran" Video feed folks.

And if McCain knows how to get him (Bin Laden) then why hasn't he caught him?

Bama4Obama   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Of course he is! All McCain is saying is "I know how to ___", without any substance attached. Go Obama!

Dee   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama hit it right on…

Elizabeth - TEXAS - Former Republican   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama is a leader. McCain has jokes and one liners. To bomb Iran is not a joke. McCain never won a war and he can't get Binladen. McCain is a joke.

politics1234   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Again I will say wake up Americans. McCain says these things about Iraq and wanting to stay in Iraq because he is the board chair of an organization in DC. Google it and you will see.

Wisecanvas   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

True, yet ironic as everyone asumed McCain would destroy Obama on the Foreign Policy front, especially as it relates to Iraq. McCain is self-destructing and using old tired lines which are not connecting. He needs to talk more about his visits to Iraq and yes, even delve further into history and talk about his heroic Vietnam days.

SKC, Ohio   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

FINALLY . . Obama has vocalized what a lot of Americans have been thinking for years.

alexa   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I think McCain has the upperhand.

Cam   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I find it hard to believe from this debate that foreign policy is McCain's strong suit and Obama's weakness……

joe   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

We cannot trust this McCain he is not a truth teller. Yes OB is winning

Josh   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I think Obama's answer is the answer every American has been waiting to hear and an answer that every American can agree with…McCain wants us to stay in Iraq until we "win," HOW DO WE WIN?! NO ONE SEEMS TO KNOW JOHN! WHAT'S THE OBJECTIVE?! When the first skyscraper breaks ground in downtown Baghdad? Or when we've placed an Exxon Mobil refinery on every major oil field?! Someone has to know the answer to this…

Lynn R.   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

WOW…Barack is using McCains own words against him on foreign policy. I though McCain touted himself as an expert. McCain is looking like a war mongerer and incoherent - "bomb, bomb, bomb Iran?" What an idiot!

Sue   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Not only is he winning on foreign policy, but the lines at the bottom of the screen seem to indicate he's winning the votes of your roomful of uncommitted voters.

Kimo Harris   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I don't think so…..especially not in tonights debate……this feel good rhetoric just to dodge the question isn't sound foreign policy

No Hillary = No Obama   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

that's a joke right? Obama's only foreign policy experience is when he paraded himself around Europe as if he had already been elected. What kind of a narcisstic type does that?

Larry   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

You are right on! Mccain is looking worn and angry! Obama looking cool and understanding the issues.

saint paul mn   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Senator Obama is very respectful, thougthful and is considering us all, he has studied long and hard and considered history

he is not here to pretend he is here to tell and speak with honesty

i am tired of listenign to old same answers from mccain
and NOT one simple answer, with points,
or simple facts

this is really not good

changing times   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama is winning on all points.

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama won all of it

If mccain knows how to get bin laden, why hasn't he told his military friends how to do it before now. He's lying.

claimjmpr   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Why is Tom letting McCain respond when he didn't let Obama respond earlier.

What is the POINT McCAIN? Be quiet already…he's trying to put words in Obama's mouth!

stacey   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

I only wish Mccain could "hear" Obama. He is right! This war is in the wrong place!

Mccain is a liar   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Mccain messed up bad, he thinks he is so clever but Obama won this debate HANDILY…handily…i mean that is an understatement but I cannot wait to see the next pollings…

Kate Fergus   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Obama will be a shrewd, intelligent, and thoughtful in his actions related to foreign policy. He sounds and acts so much more presidential than McCain who is an angry old man. He will be listened to on the world stage - look at how many people went to see him speak in Germany. McCain has trouble getting people to come to his rallies. He needs Palin to tell the lies and arouse hatred and bigotry.

Obama/Biden - the only choice for '08

regina p   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

obama is hitting on all cylinders now. tackling hard questions while simultaneously fending off mcshame's constant jabs and connecting with the audience and specifically the people asking the questions.

TexicoFrom Mexico   October 7th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Bing0= Obama is the 21st Century equivolent of John F. Kennedy!!! This man is smart, and America wants someone smart to run things….lord knows what the JOE-SIX PACKS have gotten us over the last 8 years!

Veterans for Obama!