October 20, 2008
Posted: October 20th, 2008 05:35 PM ET

From
The McCain campaign may be 'rethinking' it's decision not to discuss Rev. Wright.
The McCain campaign may be 'rethinking' it's decision not to discuss Rev. Wright.

(CNN) - John McCain’s campaign manager Rick Davis suggested in an interview that the campaign may be "rethinking" its decision not to use Barack Obama’s relationship with his former pastor Jeremiah Wright in the campaign.

McCain himself has not responded to questions about why he might be reluctant to cite Wright. During the primary season, Hillary Clinton had predicted that Republicans would use the controversial minister to attack Obama, if he were to become the Democratic nominee.

Now – in a new interview being circulated by the McCain camp – Davis is pointing to recent comments by Obama supporter John Lewis as a reason some in the campaign are weighing a shift in that policy.

Lewis had compared the atmosphere at some McCain-Palin rallies to coded racial appeals by late segregationist George Wallace during his own presidential run.

“Look, John McCain has told us a long time ago before this campaign ever got started, back in May, I think, that from his perspective, he was not going to have his campaign actively involved in using Jeremiah Wright as a wedge in this campaign,” Davis told conservative commentator Hugh Hewitt.

“Now since then, I must say, when Congressman Lewis calls John McCain and Sarah Palin and his entire group of supporters, fifty million people strong around this country, that we’re all racists and we should be compared to George Wallace and the kind of horrible segregation and evil and horrible politics that was played at that time, you know, that you’ve got to rethink all these things,” he added. “And so I think we’re in the process of looking at how we’re going to close this campaign. We’ve got 19 days, and we’re taking serious all these issues.

Prominent conservatives – including McCain’s own running mate Sarah Palin – had questioned his decision not to raise the Wright issue in the campaign’s waning days.”

Filed under: Jeremiah Wright • John McCain


J.D.   October 20th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

The only thing left to be determined will be JOHN MCCAIN's LEGACY. History will judge him based on his actions - whether honorable or not - in the next two weeks.

Independent in FL   October 20th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Oh, Please. Senator McCain might want to think twice about using another desparate tactic, especially this one. It's like he's rattling a sabre with the end pointed back at himself. Where is the honor and respect? Both are earned and can be lost....If he wants to keep the stellar reputation he has earned over his many years of service he needs to end his campaign on higher ground. Otherwise, the ground may just sink under his feet. Disenfranchised for Republican in Florida.

Fritz   October 20th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

John McCain has nothing left to lose except for the election. He already gave up his soul so it should be no surprise that he will stoop so low. It is a darn shame to see such a once great man throw away everything he ever worked for in return for power. Such a shame.

Real Mavericks are Independent!   October 20th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

McCain says he is a fighter but as soon as his money get low in a state he runs away when the race is close! Now he want to go back to attacking on this nut case, how many changes can his race go through, he must be the biggest flip flopper i have ever seen in my life!

Rich from Philly   October 20th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

McCain has shown that he'll go the gutter. Fortunately, this is turning off more voters than it is getting him. In these times, people want to what ideas McCain has and what he will do fix economy and keep country secure. The answer is he has no ideas; or, at best a new one every day. So devoid of ideas and policies he'll just sling more mud.

J.D.   October 20th, 2008 7:10 pm ET

The fact that - two weeks before the election – he is waffling about whether to "use" Wright as an issue or not just shows how much John McCain lacks clarity, strategy and cohesiveness. He's an out-of-control wreck, veering from one accident scene to another. Can you imagine him as President? What a disaster. Obama is crisp, cool, and sharp. I'm voting for O tonight.

Boricua4Obama   October 20th, 2008 7:09 pm ET

Cue McCain's "I don't care about some washed up radical pastor" statement, followed by weeks of attacks.

hometowndemocrat   October 20th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

My guess is that we will NOT hear a country wide gasp of shock WHEN McCain cashes in his last few ounces of integrity and plays the Wright card.

The unprincipled behavior of this ticket is beyond measure.

voter in PA   October 20th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Not surprising... McCain will do and say anything nowadays. Nov 4th couldnt come sooner so that we dont have to hear from the McCain/Palin camp anymore, they truly make me sick

William   October 20th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Give me a break... if the GOP goes to Rev Wright there will be ads with Palin standing with her witch doctor all over the place in no time flat. I wouldn't open that can of worms if I were McCain.

Kevin   October 20th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

I really don't care about Rev. Wright, Ayers, or anyone else. This election is about us, not Obama.

Obama/Biden ...we're voting in Florida

Bama4Obama   October 20th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

Smells like...desperation! The McCain camp will say ANYTHING to get elected-how pathetic! Tell us-when is Caribou Barbie going to release her medical records? I'd love to know how and why she "hid" her last pregnancy for 7 months-is the kid really hers?

Marilyn Miami Fl   October 20th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

If McCain brings up Rev. Wright it will be the final nail in his coffin. I'm already turned off by his negative ads and out right lies but that will be it. I hope and pray he doesn't go there because if he does he will be proving what Lewis said. It will be seen as an attack on his race and it will turn very very ugly! Don't Do IT!!!!

lil yogini, san diego (north county)   October 20th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

Oh, come on, John. Do you have any shred of integrity left? After you said you wouldn't touch it? You have broken every single one of your "promises" to run a positive campaign. Where's the straight talk express?

Definitely the kitchen sink.

jules   October 20th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

I think McCain should absolutely use Wright. After all, all the Obama supporters are already saying McCain is using negative campaiging. I've lived through many presidential elections and this one pales in negativity compared to most. McCain is bringing up issues that matter to me. Obama's character is a huge issue. After all, he wants to be president of the greatest country on earth. Obama cannot say that, after 20 years of attending the same church and listening to the same preacher, a preacher that Obama has called his second father in fact, he didn't know what this preacher believed in. He didn't know that Wright hates America. Wright is a radical. Ayers is a radical. ACORN is radical. There are too many to be just a coincidence. Obamanuts need to open their eyes. Obama has brainwashed so many. I'm amazed that the American people are so guilible. They fell for Bush's bs and they have now fallen for Obama's bs. Please, McCain, you must show people the true Obama. I have voted Dem in every election since 1976 but this time I know I can trust McCain. I know Obama is scary.

Joey   October 20th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

You know the Republicans are going to go there. They are professionals in running sleezy campaigns. Anything to get in the White House is their Motto. Forget developing an economic plan, a healthcare plan, education plan, or environmental plan. It baffles me that some American public continues to support these scum bags

Joan , Ontario   October 20th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Well if he does bring up Rev. Wright, then the Obama campaign has every right to show those clips of Sarah Palin with the "witch doctor" pastor. That should be pretty interesting stuff.

j   October 20th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Old news. I'm a lot more concerned about Palin's witch hunting preacher than Wright and even then, not very.

Don't believe the hype   October 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

When all else fails.... Here comes the race thing again. McCain, please get out with some kind of dignity.

onelove   October 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Rick, you should get your facts straight first. John Lewis did not accuse fifty million Americans around the country of being racist. He accused Sen. McCain of inciting an atmosphere like George Wallace. And it's true.

But go ahead bring up Rev. Wright. It will prove how much hate is in your heart.

Texas Teacher   October 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Well, we have seen the kitchen sink..... AND the bathroom sink... is anyone surprised that we are now getting the Commode?

Wes   October 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

Who ever doubted they would? Considering the smears they have already tried it was only a matter of time. The sad thing is if you listen to ALL of Rev. Wright's sermon, from start to finish, well...it isn't so "scary".

What's up with Palin and the CBN/700 Club? Old Pat said essentially the same thing for different reasons and his audience is considerably larger than Rev. Wright's. Bring up Rev. Wright? Then should bring up Palin's witch doctor and radical pastor. And WHEN is the so called liberal elitist media going to investigate Palin's AIP palling around and sleeping with secessionists ties?

Joseph Adewole   October 20th, 2008 7:04 pm ET

I was told that Sarah is a christian, she will then tell her Party not to judge anyone that calls himself a man of God. The bible says; towards the end, some will come and perform miracles even wake the dead, that it would be better if they were not born because of god's wrath that will fall on them...Who are we then to query God? i think Americans know better when it comes to OUR CREATOR.

Unshrub   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Old man McCain: don't you know people are tired of this type of campaigning. However, go ahead and do it, Obama can use the extra boost this will give him.

John   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

You have utilized everything else, Big J. Why not this? Surely, it may take individuals minds off the real issues and isn't that what your campaign is about?

Emma, San Jose, CA   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Bringing up Rev. Wright would show more desperation than ever by the McCain campaign. Obama did not speak the words the pastor spoke, nor has he given any evidence that he would act on the Rev's ideas. Who would look the most silly? McCain/Palin and company.

Palin actually participated (by being prayed over with a man who says he gets rid of bewitched persons) with a group who has questionable
credibility about spirituality. That would be emphasised by Obama supporters and people who have already voted for him if Wright were
to be mentioned. Remember, Palin called the Iraq War God's war.

Carol   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Lying in the same "bed" you catch the same discease. You become a socialist. That's what happened to obama. He NEVER started out like the rest of the average American taxpayers. Work hard, believe in the rights of the American citizens, be proud. Our values go way back to the start of our nation. Why we came here, fought for and why we stay here instead of haring off to another country seeking a "better life." It doesn't get any better than this. America is where everyone around the world flocks to. The current problems we have can be attributed to not one man, not one party but to a system that needs renovating. Our government needs to be re-vamped. Electing obama will not solve problems in any quick time. He has the wrong end of the stick.

John McCain has our INTERESTS foremost, the VOTERS first, and COUNTRY FIRST.

VOTE WISELY, your life and way of living depends on it. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day and these problems we have will not be resolved quickly either. Don't look for results within the first 3 or 4 years.

Tim   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

It was only a matter of time. Why don't they talk about answers to the problems we face!!!

Is anyone else not infuriated? They have nothing but attacks. Where is the substance???

America doesn't care about this! They care about Health Care, the War and the Economy. What are you going to do for those issues McCain?

Bulldog   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Here we go again. The real question is will the media fall for it once again. This was a concocted smear that originate from Sean Hannity. Yes, the extreme right radical, Sean Hannity did all the legwork getting Reverend Wright in the national spotlight. I don't know about you, but just about anything out of Sean Hannity or Rush Limbaugh's mouth is useless nonsense.

Juggernaut   October 20th, 2008 7:03 pm ET

Reverend Wright is a footnote in history. The Obama Juggernaut is coming to Washington, D.C. with the power and might of most Americans. We want a change of the good old boy network and we're sending Barack to get it done.

This country is bigger than John McCain and Reverend Wright. Can you say 150 million dollars raised for the Obama campaign last month–hello?

John , IL.   October 20th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

That will be the last desperate act of a desperate campaign.
Everyone already heard this all before. McCain said he would
not go there, but here he goes. This man and his campaign
have been a walking contradiction. "CNN poll says McCain
attacks unfair" Do they REALLY think this will turn the tide?

Patricia, Thousand Oaks, CA   October 20th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

That wouldn't be surprising. McCain doesn't have much ammunition left. It's terribly saddening to see this once American hero selling his very soul for power. It doesn't really have anything to do with "doing the best thing for the country". It's all about McCain's fierce ambition. Give it up and leave gracefully, Senator McCain, while you can still hold your hear up – sorta!

Penny   October 20th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

John McCain said...............and why, at this point would anyone believe anything John McCain said? He has lied and flip flopped on virtually every thing he has said......no surprise here.

Vegas Barbie for Obama   October 20th, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Not surprising from McCain, the master of the low road. However, the American people have heard this, and dealt with it. We are over that. Obama, unlike McCain or his whiny counterpart has the capacity to do, gave an historical speech on race that Americans will never forget, especially when McPalin pulls a racist prank like again reviving the Rep. Lewis statements and the Rev. Wright issue. It's too late, McGrumpy and Madame Troopergate. Please give it up and go home!
OBAMA/BIDEN '08 & '12 YES WE CAN!!!!

Carmen   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Pathetic! They're deliberately distorting what Lewis said in a sad attempt to justify baseless attacks, knowing that attacks are all McCain has left.

adam   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

its so obvious McPlain cant win on the issues. he cant win on being a uniter. he cant win with a positive message. its disgusting the desperation tactics coming from that campaign. how can you be happy winning that way. McPlain makes me sick to my stomach.

Obama is the ONLY choice.

Georgia vote   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

McCain has nowhere to go but dirty.

Rae   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

That's funny. I don't remember Congressman Lewis calling them racists or comparing them to George Wallace. I believe he said they were creating an atmosphere of division and hatred.

Don't think they are going to change too many minds if they go this route.

Ron was a REP now a DEM   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

More desperation by UNSTABLE / UNABLE

redhead from Toronto   October 20th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

Sen. McCain, Remember this – you raise one, Barack will raise you one better, you know, tit for tat, don't you think you have been divisive enough, where is the McCain of 2000. Do you think you should be held responsible for every person you ever met, every church you sat in, every meeting you ever went to? John, John, where did you go?

Shawndra   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

The McCain campaign manager needs to be fired. Rick Davis has not learned anything from the Democratic primaries. Rev Wright is no longer is an issue for Barack Obama. The American people saw how sincere Obama was when he dismissed himself from Rev. Wright. Also Sarah Palin may not want to bring up the Wright issue because we all saw how the african preacher that she claim led her to her faith was praying witch craft out of her. OMG!! John McCain is afraid to even talk about his faith.

Carl   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Go for it! Give it your best shot. Average joe's like ar tired of this nonsense. With the condition of the economy and all you want to talk about is this crap.

david Armendale, SF, CA   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

McCain will surrender his last shred of decency if he chooses to reverse himself on the Rev. Wright issue – and will politically be cutting his own throat in the process. Just as focusing on the Ayers issue has backfired on McCain by being seen as untrue and irrelevant to the pressing matter of the economy, so too will any effort to divert attention to Rev Wright.

Deena   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

My gosh this stinks so much of desperation. Nothing seems to be working for McCain so he is grasping at straws. First Ayers, then "redistribution of wealth", now going back to "Jeremiah Wright" – this is beyond pathetic and I guess people (who dont follow blindly) are going to see these sad attempts for what it is. Go OBAMA/ BIDEN

Jaynie   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

It would be a mistake. Although I guess when you have nothing left to lose you don't mind giving up your honor and dignity. I think it would be a dirty ploy and it would probably backfire. McCain's having enough issues because of negative campaigning. It would work on the base but it would turn off the majority of independents.

Ann   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

I guess desperate times call for desperate measures....McCain and Palin you are so negative no one is even listening anymore (except for morons who are easily duped).

dld   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

Oh for the love of God, is this McCain campaign ever going to step out of the gutter?
I just saw Palin saying in essance that she does not like the negative part of the campaign. Yeah right! It is all she has done! & nasty nasty to boot!!!
They may be hearing that people think they are wrong; so now time to switch gears yet again....

John: Bitter And Not Better   October 20th, 2008 7:00 pm ET

McCain is grabbing at straws and trying to justify why they're going to use Reverend Wright. He's going to use the Rev because he losing, end of story. Whatever morals he had when the campaign started went out the window when he started sliding in the polls.

Grow some morals John and lose honorable, not like Hillary when she said she would stay in the race in case something "happened" to Barack.

Don't leave bitter John, just leave.

Bea   October 20th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

we know about Rev wright....who cares...but if you want to bring it on...you know Palin has her own Pastor problem but the truth is..no one cares about what McCain has to say anymore. No one. IT WONT WORK for no weapon formed against Barack Obama shall prosper and he doesn't go to that church any more.

Murf   October 20th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

The McCain camp must be suicidal to even consider resurrecting the issue of Reverend Wright. Suicidal.

If they think they're in trouble now they ain't seen nothing yet. Raising this issue again will consign the republican party to the sidelines for the next thirty years and will prove once and for all that they don't learn from their mistakes.

Tannim   October 20th, 2008 6:59 pm ET

IOW, they are digging deep to find ANYTHING that could stick.

Signs of a desperate and losing campaign.

Also signs that they really don't have anything to run on.

And that's why it's no surprise that Obama is up 2-1 in Electoral College projections.

Lyndon   October 20th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Another pathetic ploy by the most pathetic presidential campaign in modern political history. Dukakis has nothing on these guys.

Wendy in NC   October 20th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

McCain camp is playing their own game of 'Limbo'. How low can you go?

Wright is old news and the general public has had enough of it, Ayers and all the other old news the GOP is dredging up.

I'm going positive. Obama/Biden for me!

casey/ former repub   October 20th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Good...then palin can explain her ABUSE OF POWER.
Actually you dont even have to say anything. Just let the out of touch campaign continue to ruffle feathers and shake up things. Maybe they
can replace Sarah with Joe the Plumer. Thats seems to be working a liitle.

Vets Daughter   October 20th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

No surprise. Play the race card Johnny..we know thats the only one you have left in your hand.

Cindy   October 20th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

If this is the trump card, why was it not played a long time ago?

Hpotterfan77 from CT   October 20th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

I am completely confused as to why their campaign actually has the n&ts to state was their next plan of attack it. No wonder their behind in the polls....let's tell everyone we're going to smear you and hopefully they're going to buy it?!?!?! That guy is, well, not to edumacated...Obama/Biden '08/'12 for real change!

rys   October 20th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

way to go mccain!!! bring up the rev wright so obama/biden can receive more votes and donations!!! you big idiot. those things aren't working. people are losing their jobs, houses & cars. their retirements and savings account and the worse has yet to come. nobody cares about bill ayers or jeremiah wright. get a clue and start talking about what really matters to the american people. and everybody (republicans) are wondering why Gen Powell and Chris Buckley and other republicans are jumping ship!!!

No McPain   October 20th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

How many times does the McCain campaign have to be hit over the head before they learn?

Voters do not want negative attack ads. We want facts about the issues facing us – the economy, the war, health care.

The Ayers thing didn't work; the terrorist thing didn't work; the socialist thing didn't work. Stick to the issues affecting the citizens.

Lesley   October 20th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

This is absurd. They are desparately trying anything to bring up Wright, over McCain's objections. John Lewis never called McCain's entire group of supporters racist, only that the comments coming from the McCain campaign trail were urging some people to make over the top comments toward Obama. Perhaps they don't read the news, their negatives are on the rise big time and they are trying to put out more negative ads. Whatever.

The Truth   October 20th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Do it at your own risk and watch this country be torn apart at its seems. Thats how you sew the seeds of hatred Johnny boy. Oh, and grow a pare and take back your camp. Seems you are not in charge anymore

MD   October 20th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

I thought the endorsement of Barack Obama was the final nail in the McCain/Palen coffin but if they start up again with Rev. Wright I would have to re-think that statement. To bring up Rev. Wright again after Senator Obama had to go as far as to leave his church (Something no other Presidential candidate has ever had to do.) would surely send the rest of the undecideds into the Obama column. They need to stop. It simply will not work. Obama/Biden "08"

Noah, MT   October 20th, 2008 6:56 pm ET

Next they'll be rethinking the kindergarten issue where Hillary accused Barack of "planning to become president someday". Give it up John, it's over. You can bring up Reverend Wright and the whole Wright family, but Barack Obama will be the next president.

Obama/Biden 08

mitch   October 20th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

whatever. rev. wright has more integrity and honor than mccain, anyday. and im white!

Mike   October 20th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

And while we're at it let's talk about the minister that shaped Palin's beliefs...now that's scary.

Enough Already!   October 20th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

Oh, the smell of DESPERATION! The McLame camp might wish to consult with Hillary on that one...just to gage how well that strategy worked.

Maya Lawrence   October 20th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

These people are downright disgusting. Have they no shame?

Catholic-mom-4-OBAMA   October 20th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

The Republicans will stop at nothing! More lies, fear and hate! They couldn't get us to believe them on Ayers.

They couldn't get us to believe them about "socialist".........so now they are scrapping the bottom of the barrel with Wright!

So more hate, more LIES, more FEAR-mongering!

WONT WORK! WE REJECT THE POLITICS OF FEAR, HATE AND LIES!

THE AMERICAN PEOPLE   October 20th, 2008 6:54 pm ET

AS AN INDEPENDENT, I BELIEVE THAT WOULD BE THE DEATH MARCH FOR JOHN MCCAIN. THAT ISSUED HAS BEEN FULLY VETTED & EXPLORED AND RELYING ON IT NOW IS TRULY AN INDICATION OF A MAN WITH NO SOLUTIONS AND NO VISION FOR THIS COUNTRY.

BK   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Idiots. After every negative thing you have done has backfired, you are thinking of using a negative thing like this? The only thing that could work of this nature is if something ~new~ came out that people weren't already tired of hearing about.

Shaun   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Here comes that kitchen sink everyone keeps talking about...

dEMOBRAT   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

Yeah, we know Obamabots....he's desperate.

Hope LV,NV   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

ayers didn't work go to the old Wright standbye.

BBOvenGuy   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

It's too late. McCain already looked desperate with William Ayers, and the line of attack went nowhere. What makes him think Reverend Wright is going to do any better?

The only people who will be interested in Wright are conservatives who won't vote for Obama anyway. Independents will be too busy listening to Colin Powell.

Steve   October 20th, 2008 6:53 pm ET

who cares?

Carmelita   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Can you say desperation!

Christian Democrat from Florida   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Here we go again... Now the nuts are really going to come out of the woodwork–or should I say–"their hoods"..... I'm beginning to think the McCain/Palin campaign would love to incite a race war at this point.

mama sue   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

People are already sick of his negative attacks, and they are doing him more harm than good. Every attack he tries to make just seems to backfire, and he ends up energizing the Obama supporters.
I was actually impressed by his restraint on this topic – not enough to vote for him, but enough to think he might have some useful life left after the election.

White Christian Mother for Obama   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Wouldnt suprise me I was wondering how far in the polls he would have to be... before he stepped the low of lows.

I am begining to not like McCain with a PASION!!

I voted for Obama/Biden today and I must say... I am glad I did and nothing McSame can say will ever make me regret my decision!

CR   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

Yeah because all of McCain's other brilliant other ideas have worked so well. OBAMA!!!

President George Hussien Washington   October 20th, 2008 6:52 pm ET

You'll see this ahh around October 31st

Griff   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

This Photo makes it look like, he's eating his own words anyway..
Obama should do that too..

KJS/Alabama   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

MCCAIN IS DESPERATE...HE WILL STOP SHORT OF NOTHING....EVEN ATTEMPTING TO GET PALIN'S WITCH DOCTORS TO RAISE GEORGE WALLACE FROM THE GRAVE TO STAND IN THE DOOR OF THE WHITE HOUSE......BUT IT WON'T HELP...
OBAMA/BIDEN '08

Charla in TX   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Why should the McCain camp have any conscience now? They've already blazed down the Negative Campaign Freeway......which McFlipflop said he WOULD NOT DO.

The Straight Talk Express wasted no time in turning into the TRASH TALK EXPRESS.

Irma in North Carolina   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

Go ahead John and Sarah use this, but you should already know how the American people are turned off on all of your nasty attacks. Why dont you just face it you two are losing it and even they guy up above wont help you. I hope more of you people go out and vote early like my husband and I did voting for obama.

Kehrin   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

They haven't brought it up again because that opens the gates for dissection of Palin's evangelical connections, aka Ed Kalnins, and they don't want to open that can of worms

PL   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

This must be a real sad time for McCain, think about it he has nothing to bring to the American people. I feel real sorry for an old man who spent most of his life in public service and to end up like this, it's just heart breaking. How long will it be before he pulls a Jesse Helms?

Phil   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

20 years of sitting in the pews, daughters were both baptized by wright and he is faithfully donated money to the ministry and now that his presidency is up in the air, Obama denounces wright!? hmmm 20 years of racial theology taught by a man who gave Rev. Farrakhan (A radical islamic who stated that Judaeism is a gutter religions and the white man hasn't reached evolution) a lifetime achievement award doesn't settle to well with me. You are a product of your enviroment and bad company corrupts good character! Get em McCain!

KLEE   October 20th, 2008 6:51 pm ET

never mind all the rhetoric – nothing but throwing the kitchen sink and all the other trash McCain/Palin can find – since they have no message to give but "scare" tactics or is it Strategy?? VOTE OBAMA/BIDEN for the CHANGE WE NEED!

Reason   October 20th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

Mccain = desperate

Briana   October 20th, 2008 6:50 pm ET

desperate desperate desperate

It's the economy DUH!!!!!!

Cardi   October 20th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

If the McCain campaign goes back on their word not to bring up Rev. Wright and start politicizing this very personal issue, then they have COMPLETELY lost every laSt bit of honor and integrity they may (may not) have LEFT. Their desperation is palpable and they will sell their soul just to try to win at ANY EXPENSE!! SHAME ON THEM!!

jo   October 20th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

keep thinnking People are voting for Obama in Co now.

Another grumpy old white woman for Obama   October 20th, 2008 6:49 pm ET

Another lie from McCarthy. Why does anybody believe anything he says?
The only jobs available under another GOP government will be in the Army, Navy, Air Force or Marines.
They are still rewarding outsourcing of Americas real jobs.
They are still bailing out Corporations with OUR money and the futures of our children.
Right is wrong
Left is right

Independent   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

McCain has little to lose. May as well.

CM   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

Oh please, McCain's campaign (Rick Davis) is desperate and looking for an excuse to use the Rev. Wright. It didn't work the first time. Just remember there are still alot of skeletons that can fall out of the McCain/Palin closet. Seems the truth hurts... You betcha!!!

Norm   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

With the election being only two weeks away, I think that most people are weary of the Wright, Ayers, and Joe the plumber issues.

jo   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

early voting in Colorado..... I voted for Obama..... and many ppl were voting Obama today.....Aurora Co.
Obama 08

Brenda   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

It's a shame the McCain campaign is so eager to win that they will steep this low to bring up Rev Wright. The American people are not thinking about Rev Wright ... they are CONCERNED about the economy ... jobs, etc.

Lee NY, NY   October 20th, 2008 6:48 pm ET

It wouldn't be a surprise if they put Wright out there again: everything they do sinks them further in a hole and this would do the same. It would be just one more attack. Everyone's had enough.

Cindy in Atlanta   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Is McCain ready for Palin's witch doctor preacher to come to fore front...I mean really, when are the Repubs going to learn that it's because of all these "negative" attacks that they are going to lose this election.

Yesterday when Colin Powell made his endorsement of Obama, the negative tone of McCain's campaign was one of the underlying factors for him in making is decision.

I also read all the major newspaper endorsements of Obama and most of them also mentioned the "negative tone" of the campaign as an underlying factor as well.

So at this point, I don't know what benefit they think they would reap by brining up Rev Wright.

Since Obama is apparaently too polite to say it, let me say it for him....Barack Obama is not Bill Ayers or Rev Wright, if you wanted to run against Ayers/Wright....just wait till 2016....after Obama/Binden's 2 terms are complete.

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

THIS NON-AMERICAN MAN SHOULD BE RAN OUT OF THE COUNTRY

Tiff of lithia springs   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

BRING IT ON BUDDY!

THANKS HILLARY FOR THE IMMUNE SHOT!

gallimimus   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

The McCain camp just "reeks" of desperation. Get a clue, just like the Ayers thing, it won't work and it's not what people want to hear. It's a tired subject that just needs to go away. McCain, keep on shooting yourself in the foot. Obama/Biden 08. I mailed in my vote on Saturday. Colorado for Obama!!!!!

Anonymous   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

Desperate times call for desperate measures, I suppose.

Abul   October 20th, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I knew it!! You can trust GOP people. Even McCain promised not to use this guy to attack Obama.

Sammy   October 20th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

He has nothing to lose I guess. Except he has promised not to go there and it will be seen as another time when winning is more important than his values.

The Truth   October 20th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

McCain is going to go to every negative place he can.
Because this election, for him, is all about him.
He is an I candidate, not a we candidate.
Which is why he's losing and why he will lose.
Americans had enough of that the past 8 years.

C from MT   October 20th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Hey CNN, you didn't mention that Congressman Lewis did *not* call them racists - he was warning them that playing fast and loose with language to get your supporters angry can have unintended consequences.

So not only is John McCain distorting a fair criticism from a man he previously praised, not only is he getting his supporters angry to get them to vote, he is now going back on pretty much the only remaining decent act he hasn't reneged on to date.

Wow. Now THAT is erratic.

Obama 08.

Jeff   October 20th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Enough of the trying to frame Obama as one way or the other McCain. How about your try and frame your economic policy so we can understand it? We dont want to hear your smears – we want to hear your opinions on topics we care about – the economy, education, heathcare.

TjayeInLA   October 20th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Desperate times call for desperate measures and it's fairly clear that McCain's campaign has definitely become desperate.

Danny from Phoenix   October 20th, 2008 6:45 pm ET

Hyprocrisy at its best. McCain's camp is DESPERATE, and it is showing. They are bringing up relationships as scare tacticts, even though non-partisan organizations and the media debunked the false statements. Absolutely pathetic.

Wake-up America   October 20th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Pathetic!! Keep it up with these personal attacks and you will continue to loose more and more Independent Voters.

I for one have had enough and I personally know of many others that have also.

If you can't discuss the issues and what you are going to do for America, then go home in defeat. I just hope there are enough TRUE AMEICANS that can see beyond this B.S.

Shame on MCain.   October 20th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

I expect the worst from McCain and his Rovian band of sociopathic bullies. Nothing is below the belt in this election, not even blatant, horrible lies and racial slurs. Make up your mind, McCain: is Obama a Muslim or Christian? McCain, once a good man, has smeared himself with the filth of a dirty campaign and he reeks of it. If this is the way a man acts while merely running for the office, what on earth is he capable of if he actually gets it?

Voting for Change   October 20th, 2008 6:44 pm ET

Repubs still haven't figured out that the negative personal attacks don't work!

Challenge Obama's economic plan...
Challenge Obama's foreign policy positions...
Challenge Obama's domestic positions on energy independence...

Issues McCain! People want to discuss and hear leaders talk about issues!!!! Continued negative campaigning and personal attacks will make history judge McCain harshley. He's a man of honor....I hope his campaign doesn not contiue to tear him down.

Cynthia; Bham   October 20th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

It was a losing issue in the primaries and will be the same in the general. The McCain camp has gotten so deep in the gutter until nothing will surpise me. On the other hand, look at the money they have helped Senator Obama bring in. I guess the next month Senator Obama will report $200 million. Everytime that the McCain camp comes out with dumb stuff – people donate more to Obama.

In addition, McCain has his preacher problems and Palin most CERTAINLY has hers.

Tiff of lithia springs   October 20th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

HERE COMES THE DESPERATE KITCHEN SINK! JUST WHEN WE THOUGHT THE CAMPAIGN COULDN'T GET ANY LOWER.

Boomer1953   October 20th, 2008 6:43 pm ET

Sad and Pathetic

They've gone past throwing in the kitchen sink to pumping in raw sewerage How can McCain look in the mirror and be proud of himself and his party. This is sick.

The republicans may just implode because of this election. A super majority in both houses will render them irrelevent. One party rule is not good, but maybe this will pave the way for a new third party.

Go Barak!

south jersey   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

go ahead JM

pull out all the stops.. make the next 2 weeks as bloody and gory

as you want..

show how low and base you can be

go down in history as a sore loser

Your style doesn't belong in the White House

sophia nyc   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

McCain's bid will end with his campaign in the gutter. Good job!

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

And we're rethinking Hagee. Oh, and Cindy's stealing drugs from her charity to support her habits.

Ain't gonna work, John. Tooooooooo Late. We've been down that road the last two elections.

I voted for Obama/Biden

gerry   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

It's pathetic how CNN feel they need to carry the McCain smear mail.

Sheila43302   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

Well, of course they will. What else is new?

mk   October 20th, 2008 6:42 pm ET

well well, isn't this a predictable outcome.
We all knew they would try to use Wright, problem is,
He has already been used. It will be viewed by the voters as exactly what it is, a desperate attempt to shift the focus from the issues.

Tired of the BS   October 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Too little too late McCain!

Independent Voting

Obama/Biden 2008

Countdown with Keith Olbermann   October 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Looks like they are already pulling out good old Pastor Wright, maybe that will bring more due attention to the fact that Sarah Palin has a black pastor from Kenya that is a witch doctor.

Debbie in Los Angeles   October 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

McShame just couldn't leave it alone... Why was I thinking otherwise??

Obama/Biden in '08!

DeniseGA   October 20th, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Grasping at straws McCain?

Lewis speaks for himself, and is not involed with the Obama campaign. So if you want to use Wright, have the courage to cite a VALID reason!

marie   October 20th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

Crazy, I will be glad when this election is over. I feel sorry for McCain because he cannot control his own party. Sad

Tiff of lithia springs   October 20th, 2008 6:40 pm ET

I think it's too late for that mess. People are already lined up at the polls and guess what they are not voting for you. Try and come up with some decent policies. Your campaign is a mess and that is essentially how you will run the white house.

RESPECTABLE REPUBLICANS TAKE BACK YOUR PARTY.

the other jd   October 20th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Here comes the kitchen sink.

ND Mom   October 20th, 2008 6:38 pm ET

Filthy Liar! Maybe it's time for Obama to rethink a few details about
McShame and Phony Palin!

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