January 7, 2009
Posted: January 7th, 2009 11:47 AM ET

From
Former Republican presidential candidate John McCain will announce Wednesday the formation of the Country First PAC.
Former Republican presidential candidate John McCain will announce Wednesday the formation of the Country First PAC.

WASHINGTON (CNN) –- Arizona Senator John McCain is adopting a major 2008 campaign slogan for a new political action committee designed to support not only his own planned re-election run in two years, but help him put his stamp on the rebuilding of the Republican Party.

The formation of the “Country First” PAC is to be announced Wednesday, two sources familiar with the plans tell CNN.

One of the sources called it the “first official step” of the GOP Senator’s re-election campaign. McCain made it clear not long after losing the presidential election that he intended to seek re-election to the Senate in 2010.

The second source said that in addition to supporting his own political ambitions, “Country First” would be a financial vehicle to help McCain “help define the future of the GOP by recruiting candidates and driving the agenda.”

Filed under: GOP • John McCain • Senate


arc, Lugano CH   January 7th, 2009 3:51 pm ET

His slogan should be:

"Country First: or my supporters will hang & burn an effigy of you"

ran   January 7th, 2009 3:49 pm ET

I can only hope the great people of Arizona will not reelect this guy. Put a fork in him he is over done.

Smitty   January 7th, 2009 3:48 pm ET

LOL McCain never ceases to amaze me.

“Country First”

Which country, Mexico, US, Georgia, Iraq, Israel?

McCain the poster child for the soon to be extinct white RINO

anonymous   January 7th, 2009 3:47 pm ET

the guy who picked Sarah Palin thinks he has the right to use the motto country first

Old age is not for sissies   January 7th, 2009 3:44 pm ET

The ageism runs rampant...

Griff   January 7th, 2009 3:35 pm ET

PAC? People and Collectivity????

alvino   January 7th, 2009 3:34 pm ET

How about the slogan, "The Parts of the Country That Are More American First?"

Larry from RI   January 7th, 2009 3:30 pm ET

Country first John?
You have already demonstrated that it will always be "party first" with you during the last election, so which side of your mouth are talking out of this time McLame?

alvino   January 7th, 2009 3:29 pm ET

Maybe Obama can help him come up with a more catchy slogan. He likes to borrow Obama's lines.

I prefer he change his slogan to "Country & Western First"

Laurel Federbush   January 7th, 2009 3:19 pm ET

This is good news. John McCain is someone with a record of the strongest commitment to the well-being of the American people, and this is a contination of that commitment. I was proud to join "Country First" and hope many others will, too.

Roxanne - Alabama   January 7th, 2009 3:19 pm ET

It's time for John McCain to hang it up. We are in the 21st Century and we need new ideas. This is an old idea he tried in his run for president last year. America has move past what McCain represents. I sure Arizona can do better than McCain and put forth someone fresh.

dzymzlzy   January 7th, 2009 3:09 pm ET

There are certain catch phrases and sayings from this past election that I never want to hear again, such as maverick, Joe the Plumber, thanks but no, thanks, and country first is right up there as one of the worst.

Robin   January 7th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Annie, Atlanta,

Are you saying he should not receive his Navy Pension? Was that not earned?

I have a better idea. Able body people should get off welfare.

Richard S   January 7th, 2009 3:02 pm ET

Geez....this old guy still around? Has he figured out the economic thing yet?

JB   January 7th, 2009 3:01 pm ET

McCain blew it when he pandered so heavily to the far right wing of the party. He would have been better served – and would have retained his integrity – if he stayed true to himself. Now he's just a lacky. No principles or convictions.

artvpp   January 7th, 2009 2:54 pm ET

I think Senator McCain is plan has good intentions.

However, I find that it will be difficult if not impossible for the Republican party to regain control either in the Senate or in the House of Representatives with their current leaders.

On the other hand, more moderate, immigration friendly and fiscally conservative people like McCain will be good to the Republican party.

jean in MN   January 7th, 2009 2:53 pm ET

He's just looking for money. Here's part of an an email I got from them about their Country First propaganda:

Together, we can make government more responsive to today's problems and more answerable to the people. That's why I hope you will become a Charter Member of Country First and support our cause by following this link to make a generous contribution of any amount today.

With your help we can work to elect these new leaders to Governorships, Statehouses, the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives in 2010 and beyond. Once in office they will become fierce advocates for limited government, economic opportunity, personal responsibility and strong national security.

R Graham   January 7th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

McCain is not the face of the Republican party - not because of his age but because he is nothing more than a Democrat with an illegitmate "R" after his name.

McCain proved in the dismal campaign he ran that he has no concept of 'Republican' principles.

Shortly after the election one blogger stated - and I paraphrase - McCain should cross over the aisle one more time, sit down and STAY THERE!!!!

Sarah's dirty thong   January 7th, 2009 2:41 pm ET

This is a great idea. Where do I sign up?

Page Turner   January 7th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

“Country First” would be a financial vehicle to help McCain “help define the future of the GOP by recruiting candidates and driving the agenda.”

And where exactly will they drive their agenda? Off a cliff? They can't turn any further right than they did in the '08 election and look how that turned out!

Anonymous   January 7th, 2009 2:40 pm ET

McCain's campaign thoroughly disgraced the concept, as honored by him, of country first. The Palin choice proves that. This is bunk.

MaryanneAZ   January 7th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

McCain may have a surprise in store in 2010. Arizona is slowly moving in a Democrat direction, and we've learned a lot about how to organize and register new voters. McCain is not going to win a Senate re-election in a cakewalk this time. He is used to running unopposed and counts on his name recognition. This time he will carry the baggage of his very public campaign and the braying and dividing his VP choice did in his name. He has a lot to live down and explain. I will not be surprised if he loses his Senate seat this time around. Mayor Gordon of Phoenix may be looking for the next rung in his resume by then. Gordon would have Napolitano and other Dems to rally around him for the seat.

Ghost   January 7th, 2009 2:32 pm ET

I will change my registration to republican right now just to vote for Palin in the primaries in '12. C'mon gang, admit it. Bringing her into the game last year made the whole campaign the funniest since that Robin Williams flick. I mean, how do you run for a political office, screw that, the vice presidency, and can't name one significant Supreme Court ruling? How do you not even know what your job description is? Please believe, we are not afraid.

As for Johnny Dangerously, I guess he still has to try. I almost feel bad for him. Almost.

Robbin   January 7th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

Country First....hmmm thats original

Patrick   January 7th, 2009 2:26 pm ET

He's the best senator ever. He was completely cleared in the Keating 5 scandal just type it in google and you can verify that for yourself in about 20 seconds. It's funny before he ran for President he had a higher approval rating among democrats than republicans and then everything flip flopped b/c people are so partisan they have to hate the other party. He should become independent and then everyone can hate him while he continues to make our country a better place.

PatC   January 7th, 2009 2:21 pm ET

McCain, Do the honorable thing that Bob Dole did. Retire. Thanks for your years of Service now go away and start Viagra commercials.

Ken   January 7th, 2009 2:20 pm ET

Oh John!!! You're such a wild and wacky Maverick – Kinda like Noah!!

riiiiiiight   January 7th, 2009 2:18 pm ET

Sorry, John. Picking Palin killed the "Country First" illusion.

suzyku   January 7th, 2009 2:18 pm ET

The man doesn't have a clue what country first means anymore, he proved that over and over and over during his disastrous run for President against Obama! This man, McCain has shown it's "mccain first".

Brian From Fort Mill, SC   January 7th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

I don't have any beefs with John McCain.
But I'm not too crazy about the "Country First" slogan.
It sounds more like his musical preference than a slogan! :)

Karen - Missouri   January 7th, 2009 2:06 pm ET

How creative. Just use the same ole' slogan. Is McCain THAT tired? Why doesn't he just retire and go back to his ranch and write a barbeque recipe book?

Vern   January 7th, 2009 2:06 pm ET

John need to go somewhere and relax! The last "Country First" slogan didn't work so why try it again?!

Mell   January 7th, 2009 2:05 pm ET

So many of you need to let go of your anger. The election is over and most of us have moved on and are looking toward the future – whether our candidate won or not. McCain is a good man. He's served his country well over the years. Whether he is re-elected to the Senate is between him and the voters of Arizona – the rest of you have nothing to say about it. I wish McCain well with his new endeavor – I hope the new PAC helps to encourage community-oriented folks with good ideas to step forward and get involved in politics.

America   January 7th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

He lost the election. The country is not interested. If we had liked his message he would have been president.

Give it up, it's over.

Franky   January 7th, 2009 1:57 pm ET

You know, I haven't hardly heard of Senator MCCain that much, especially after the election. And I gotta say, it seems like a good idea. Problem might be though whether he can not only own his agenda but bring others as well, especially for Conservatives. Plus, people respect Senator McCain, he'll have his own troops and mission to follow, we'll see if he can attract and adopt this slogan for weeks to come...

But then again, the Cards are in the playoffs in like a hundred years! Arizona got good things going on for now...Senator McCain is feeling it, huh Senator? Come on Senator McCain, you know...

Gene Car   January 7th, 2009 1:53 pm ET

Governor Palin and independents? I find it curious that Governor Palin was elected Governor, and according to a recent Daily Kos poll, would be elected again by a larger majority, in a State where there is a relatively higher proportion of Independent voters (43%) than elsewhere. And she enjoys a high favourabilty rating among those independents. Clearly, the notion that she cannot attract the middle is questionable. Obviously, we do not yet have a complete or accurate profile of Palin. Alaskans presumably,do.

Unshrub   January 7th, 2009 1:52 pm ET

Great idea. Let someone who lost put his mark on the republican party. Who comes up with these ideas? It must be a Democrat.

Proud to be American   January 7th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

Country First – what a great concept. It's not one that anyone in Washington seems to know – neither the Right nor the Left. It's all about putting parties first and americans second.

Slim Pickins   January 7th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

But will he mean "Country First" . He didn't mean it the first time during the campaign.

I want the "MaC" truly back .. in Arizona in an old folks home where he can relax and widdle.

Andie   January 7th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

Dear John, Can you just give us a break so we see where the country is heading first. Where is the plumber by the way?

carol   January 7th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

We already did "COUNTRY FIRST" by electing Barack Obama as our new President thanks all the same.

Gary of El Centro, Ca   January 7th, 2009 1:38 pm ET

I think the whole "country first" thing went out the window the minute he tabbed Sarah Palin to be a heartbeat away from the Presidency. It was a great theme, but it turns out it didn't mean a thing.

JJ12345   January 7th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

NW January 7th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Just retire, dude…
___________________________________________________
Is that based on age or what? How about Kennedy, should he retire?

I'm Not Missing The Old Mule & Winky Half-baked Alaska   January 7th, 2009 1:32 pm ET

This guy couldn't even recruit a decent VP candidate for his own once-in-a-lifetime nomination for president, and he really had no cogent agenda of which to speak. So, what's changed? And, he can tank that "Country First" crap. We didn't buy it last time, either.

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 7th, 2009 1:31 pm ET

John McCain is one old man that needs to climb under a rock and stay there. His "Country First" mess is nothing more than a lie and the real truth of who he really is has been covered up. John McCain has always put "Self First".

Annie, Atlanta   January 7th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Kathy, I agree. And don't forget about that Naval Pension, too. Also.

geecee827   January 7th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

Please, John, don't say "Country First" when you picked Sarah Palin as your V.P.!! You were not putting the Country first when you made that call, for certain. And the "Joe The Plumber" schtick was just too much. You lost man, we didn't want you and we didn't want Sarah. What makes you think you have a chance at running (or I should say "ruining") this Country? You had the most inept, comical, foolish campaing in modern American history. It was absolutely laughable. John, just retire. Do yourself a favor (and the Country if you really believe it should come first) and retire quietly – and enjoy your 7 homes and 12 cars of however many there are.

Tired of W, OH   January 7th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

I was wondering how long it would be before Noah and his infinite wisdom chimed in with the usual all-libs-are-mentally-inferior-to-my-supreme-intellect self-gratifying drivel. Got news for you, Noah. Just because someone does not agree with your views does not make them less intelligent. This way of thinking has been the downfall of the Republican party.

chuck   January 7th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

JOHN MCCAIN SHOULD SHUT UP NOW THAT HE HAD HIS DAY IN THE SUN.NEXT FOR JOHN MCCAIN SHOULD BE HIS RETIREMENT AND YOUNG BABES IF HE CAN HANDLE THEM.

J.P..   January 7th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

Really, honestly, McCain... give it up.

If I wanted to vote for a liberal, I'd have voted for Birth-Certificate Barry (multiple times... like his supporters did).

RJ, Phoenix   January 7th, 2009 1:22 pm ET

Steve in AZ.
"Money First" goes to the Dems.
Look how much money they spent buying the presidency.
Obama spent nearly 5 times as much as McCain yet barely won 53% of the popular vote.

Jan   January 7th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

Kathy–Obama IS a socialist-thinking politician–did you not hear his comments to Joe The Plumber? Pure socialism,

geecee827   January 7th, 2009 1:20 pm ET

McCain has reared his head again?? John, didn't you get a clue from the election? We don't want you (and certainly didn't want Sarah) running (or I should say "ruining" this country). How can he say "Country First: when he picked her for V.P.??? Is he kidding? He ran the most inept, comical campaign in recent political history. The "Joe The Plumber" schtick was just too over the top. Why does McCain want to continue to embarrass himself?

Proud American   January 7th, 2009 1:19 pm ET

Noah – Wow are you a Idiot.

Annie, Atlanta   January 7th, 2009 1:19 pm ET

Will someone please tell McCain words mean nothing; it's all about action. Country First my behind. Where was country first when he picked Sarah Palin vp, to step in should something happen to him?

dave   January 7th, 2009 1:18 pm ET

Oh, John. How clever to form a PAC for your re-election bid. It's what campaign finance reform was all about, huh?

Ex-Republican   January 7th, 2009 1:17 pm ET

Noah January 7th, 2009 12:49 pm ET
------------------
I guess as long as you are in a uniform, committing treason is honorable. As long as you were a POW, Keating Five is honorable. As long as you crash five planes, then leaving your disabled wife is honorable.

The man has no honor, he lost it while in uniform. He sold out his fellow country men to save his hide. That's not honor, that's straight out cowardism.

Mick in Mesa   January 7th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Maybe John-boy will have luck at purging the GOP of the neocon plantation types and evangelical nut jobs using this approach.
For the country's best interests lets hope so...

NW   January 7th, 2009 1:16 pm ET

Just retire, dude...

Vegas Barbie for Obama   January 7th, 2009 1:14 pm ET

Old dude needs to give it up. If his Presidential campaign was any indication of how he could, or would, "rebuild" the Republican party, that's a stamp that belongs in a collection somewhere, not one with any part of or plan for the so-called "future" of the party.

California Gold   January 7th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

The Republicans need much more than slogans, old white men and Sarah Palin.

Mari   January 7th, 2009 1:10 pm ET

COUNTRY FIRST???? REALLY?????????? Let's see, McCain and his campaign did everything possible to DIVIDE our Nation! Remember Palin's comments about "the real America" she implied that there is another America that is not "so patriotic"!

How IS DIVIDING your Country, causing fear and division, PUTTING YOUR COUNTRY FIRST????????????

Senator McCain, it is time that you retire. Your campaign was one of the most vile and hateful I have ever seen in my 55 years of life!

jean in MN   January 7th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

Here's a better slogan for them: "I've suffered for my country. Now it's your turn!" –John McCain with apologies to Monty Python's "Protest Song"

Angel   January 7th, 2009 1:09 pm ET

NOAH WRITES..."I see that liberals are still afraid of Sarah Palin to this day, which greatly intrigues me. Liberals do not accept any woman who has not gained her position by either riding the coattails of her husband or by relying completely on the government for help."

HUH?! Does republican men even allow women in the same room w/them to speak?!

Don in Albuquerque   January 7th, 2009 1:08 pm ET

Give it up. You were and still are a failure!! You no longer serve the needs of the American People.

Fernandez   January 7th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

Mr. McCain
Respect your service to this Country, I think it is time to hang it up and for Arizona to pick a new Senator.

DJ   January 7th, 2009 1:07 pm ET

Well, that's a nice slogan – but John, seriously. I think the people will see you for who you are ... an opportunistic leech who shape-shifts to fit whatever persona or position (no matter how reprehensible) he THINKS people want to see. Leadership? Next, please.

dr.mimi de la cruz   January 7th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

IF MCCAIN WANTS TO REPACK THOSE LIES, HE

NEEDS TO GO BACK IN TIME & VOTE DIFFERENTLY.

ON THE OTHER HAND HIS "COUNTRY" DOES NOT

INCLUDE THE REST OF US, JUST THE VERY WEALTHY.

jean in MN   January 7th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

Maybe next time they will actually put the country first, rather than just rely on a slogan and smoke and mirrors.

Dave, Central Illinois   January 7th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

You hateful Libs don't understand anything but "me first" and that explains your politics and your comments. Obama and McCain have put the election behind them, why don't you. McCain sacrificed more for his country in one minute than most of you hateful clowns have in your lives.

Al, NY NY   January 7th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

Noah January 7th, 2009 12:49 pm ET
Can I Call You Joe- You are intellectually bankrupt. Obama has been involved intimately with far shadier individuals than McCain. McCain is an honorable man who, unlike your pink commie self, has worn the uniform of this country and served honorably. I see that liberals are still afraid of Sarah Palin to this day, which greatly intrigues me. Liberals do not accept any woman who has not gained her position by either riding the coattails of her husband or by relying completely on the government for help.
----------–

A very interesting set of comments....So McCain did NOT leave his wife for the Botox barbie and her $?? He didn't get involved in a group that had at the head of it a Nazi sympathizer? And what pray tell is a "pink commie"? I guess Archie Bunker still lives in the minds of some. As for Fido PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make her the candidate in 2012. I cannot stress how much we DO want her to be there. All this crap from the righties about being afraid is a load of you know what. She is a cancer on politics and the beating she and JM took was mainly of her design.

awesome   January 7th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

that is awesome! its 2009 and you called that guy a pinko! oh how well you represent republicans all over this fair nation. very accurate.

ANYWAY – i'm glad that you and the rest of the neocon-soon-to-be-regional-majority-and-then-minority-god-willing red staters haven't caught on yet: we WANT palin to be the next leader of the party. i know i do. i can't wait to see what happens when the repubs put her at the top of the ticket again and REAL, thinking conservatives wash their hands of the whole situation. it is going to be fantastic.

what party do you think will replace the GOP in our two party system? whigs? green? libertarian? all of them? that would be awesome.

Robin   January 7th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

John McCain has my support.

Cori from Colorado   January 7th, 2009 1:01 pm ET

Country First is a losing slogan, as the world witnessed. Try coming up with something that works, and don't cross paths with Palin, you'll surely lose again.

mb   January 7th, 2009 1:01 pm ET

mccain needs to retire and keep up with cindy.

Kansas Voter   January 7th, 2009 1:00 pm ET

John McCain activly worked to get the bid criteria changed on the "American Tanker" program so the French firm Airbus would win. He wrote the Air Force and asked that the carrying capacity of the aircraft, when not used as a tanker, be used for half of the qualifications. Tanker aircraft are used in their freighter configuration far less than ten per cent of the time. He also requested that infrastructure requirements not be counted in the bid process. The Airbus aircraft would be able to use far fewer airfields than the Boeing aircraft without significant and expensive alterations. Thanks to John McCains meddling in the Air Force Tanker bid the Airbus wrongly won. This cost the United States 45,000 high paying jobs. And when the bid award was overturned, McCain caused the whole project to be rebid at enormous expense to the American people.

I don't know if we can afford any more of his help for America. "Country First" my rear end.

Achai Kamau   January 7th, 2009 12:59 pm ET

Maybe McCain really means it this time. His entire campaign, which condoned threats against the life of a US Senator, was entirely Party First and McCain First.

Realist.   January 7th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

If I hear country first one more time, I am going to puick. Should have been looser first.

Lisa P   January 7th, 2009 12:57 pm ET

Color me cynical. "Country First" got dragged through the mud a few two many times during the recent campaign for me to think of it as anything but a divisive and hypocritical political ploy. Maybe McCain should think about "A Fresh Start" instead.

Texas Observer   January 7th, 2009 12:56 pm ET

He really believes he can good things for the country. Problem is that he is
1. Not very bright or capable anymore, and
2. Not willing to be principled to get there. Too much compromises!

I will acknowledge his tenacity, though. This is an attempt to convince the public that he indeed is a person with integrity, despite the way he campaigned. I don't think he will acheive that end. The country is moving in a different direction than the simplistic slogan of 'Country First'.

bsmith171   January 7th, 2009 12:55 pm ET

mccain should be deported to mexico. take bush with him.

PG   January 7th, 2009 12:55 pm ET

"Country last-McCain First" a much better slogan.

John, Brooklyn, New York   January 7th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

McCain's slogan was devisive from the outset and it is a poor decision to continue to use it.

"Country First" evokes John McCain's Vietnam War POW status and, by association, implies that those who support his campaign (or his new PAC) are equally patriotic. However, conversely, it also implies that those who do not support the campaign or the PAC – let alone fail to make donations to it – are, by contrast unpatriotic and don't put country first.

It was a failed campaign in the fall and it continues to be a poorly designed, poorly reasoned, and, ultimately, unsuccessful slogan for his PAC.

Sanity first   January 7th, 2009 12:52 pm ET

Do you think if John were a Democrat the comments might be different?

30m-PA-voted Clinton then McCain   January 7th, 2009 12:51 pm ET

McCain is my president-elect. Not Obama.

Noah   January 7th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Can I Call You Joe- You are intellectually bankrupt. Obama has been involved intimately with far shadier individuals than McCain. McCain is an honorable man who, unlike your pink commie self, has worn the uniform of this country and served honorably. I see that liberals are still afraid of Sarah Palin to this day, which greatly intrigues me. Liberals do not accept any woman who has not gained her position by either riding the coattails of her husband or by relying completely on the government for help.

Randyman   January 7th, 2009 12:48 pm ET

He needs to go hunting with Cheney.

MAngeline   January 7th, 2009 12:47 pm ET

Bad choice of slogan for him after choosing Sarah for his running mate. She definitely was not a "Country First" choice–unless he has stupid and narrowminded as his guidelines.

Beverly   January 7th, 2009 12:47 pm ET

Kaye in Jacksonville said it ALL. THANK YOU KAYE.

PA   January 7th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

It's "Alaska & John First" now last – John.
The "Country First" never existed.

Randyman   January 7th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

McCain must have changed his first name to "Country."

max   January 7th, 2009 12:45 pm ET

the picture says it all ... a party run by mental midgets ...

Dave   January 7th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

Even though I voted for him, the last thing the conservative republicans need is a R.I.N.O. setting the agenda.

Zachary Kirkpatrick   January 7th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

Notice the implicit suggestion in the slogan "Country First," that opponents of McCain are by definition, putting something else "ahead" of "their country," and of course showing that McCain certainly doesn't seek reelection for his own benefit but to help us all. Orwell would certainly be amused. I'm just not sure that anyone really believes either of these.

Edward   January 7th, 2009 12:42 pm ET

So the man who claimed he wanted to fight special interests as President is now going to create a special interest PAC?

shoegazer   January 7th, 2009 12:42 pm ET

Ah,maybe"no country for old men"would be a better choice.

David   January 7th, 2009 12:40 pm ET

John try another slogan that one don't work.

boered1   January 7th, 2009 12:38 pm ET

Hmm campaign finance reform.. guess I do not get politicians ...

however since he is a republican we will no hear from all those who say he is doing a wonderful thing and ll those who say he is doing somethig terrible and should not run at all and he is a blight on society

idiots

Go back to Arizona you senile old fart!   January 7th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

I can't believe that he can fool people into believing that he cares more about this country than his own political future. He has got to be the most selfish polititian I have ever seen (and that's saying something since Blagojevich).

walt   January 7th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

if mccain decides to, and is able to, lead the GOP away from the defiantly anti-intellectual and anti-freedom planks it's recently adopted then i'm 100% behind him.

karen-phoenix   January 7th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

As a former 40 year long republican who voted for Obama I will give republicans some advice! NO MORE rich, spoiled boys. You need someone who has worked his/her way up from the working class. He must be highly educated(no less than a masters degree) and worked to rebuild the middle class through jobs and national health care. AND NO MORE OIL!!!

SENATUS POPOLUSQUE ROMANUS   January 7th, 2009 12:35 pm ET

Coutry FIRST as in:
Interrupting his campaign for an utterly useless trip to Washington, as if the Nation needed his economic savy??

Country FIRST as in:
Choosing a running mate not because of her political savy, purely because by chhosing a woman, McCain tried to divert voters attention from the buzz about Obama's choice of running mate?

McCain ought to be somewhat quiet for several months and take a deep breath whilst in one of his numerous mansions (to many to count).

Michael M, Phoenix AZ   January 7th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

McCain was somehow named as the "Person of the Year in Arizona." Not bad for someone who has been running for President since the late 90s and done nothing for this state. The choice was made by the Arizona Republic newspaper of course.

Mesa Mick   January 7th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Atta boy Sen. McCain. Time for some of that reform you preach about to take place in your own party.
Perhaps your efforts will finally bring the GOP into the 21st century and once and for all put those plantation neocon evangleical repthugs into the dustbin of failed political movements.

Good Luck Senator, and here's hoping you can effect the necessary change...

Luis Maldonado   January 7th, 2009 12:32 pm ET

Who cares!

Maggie from Virginia   January 7th, 2009 12:32 pm ET

I wonder why McCain hasn't come to the defense of Palin in recent days. You would think he would take some responsibility, since he's the one that got her and her family into this.

P. D.   January 7th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

McCain is way off on this one. Is this what the Republicans want? Another old, rich, white guy teling everyone he knows what it is like to be you? Give me a break!

Proud American   January 7th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Ignorant remark from "Proud American" in 3… 2… 1…
__________________________________________________
GOOD MORNING LITTLE IDIOT. Has your mom let you out of the basement today?

Trust   January 7th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

What a load of bull. Country first and republicans hate half of the country. Only if you look and thing like them then they say you are an american. I served but they dont love me.

Charles L. Shaw, Liverpool, NY   January 7th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Can someone explain to me, why PACs are legal? And just how does a PAC help the American Citizen? PAC are special interest groups designed to surpress the freedom and liberty of the Americasn Citizen.

Steve   January 7th, 2009 12:30 pm ET

The people of Arizona should be wise to this so called Senator.
I am sure somebody will make his 64% Not Voting in 110th Congress
a campaign issue which they should.

Proud American   January 7th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

This Idiot should take a course on "how to pick a running mate." What's really sad is these IDIOTS are paid with taxpayer money.

FreeNLovIt   January 7th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

Out of all the Elephants, McCain is probably qualified to host something like this. He's never been afraid to do the right thing. He tripped while campaigning for Prez, but that's part of life.

Lorraine Hynes   January 7th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

For Pete's sake, McCain, take the hint. You will never be elected to serve as President of the United States. You are weak and wishy-washy and, let's face it, you actually thought Palin could add anything to the position of VP and take over if you died.

By 2012 people will be saying 'John who?'

Brian G, Sugar Land, TX   January 7th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

The RNC needs to revise its platform before it can choose an appropriate leader. The RNC has an 18th century mentality, which ignores all the advances in science, technology, environmental awareness, diversity appreciation and social justice. The RNC "creed" of "Me first, you never" has no place in today's world.

The RNC is like a small fundamentalist church asking why it has so few members, when the solution is obvious...move into the current millenium!

ga.   January 7th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

sorry mccain, but you are one of the big cracks in the republican party, you could have said no to palin, if you are so smart then you had to know she was not qualified, but you let the charade go on and on, knowing better, that's not putting country first, no more republicans, no more john mccain.

Thanks   January 7th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

That's really great news... for Democrats.

robert williams   January 7th, 2009 12:26 pm ET

It's time for this outstanding American warrior-politician to enjoy the peace and tranquility retirement offers and leave the vicissitudes of public life to that enthusiastic, younger generation who await their turn to participate in the daily challenges of serving the nation.

pat C.   January 7th, 2009 12:26 pm ET

after the stupid blunder mccain made selecting palin i am sure he has no credibility left anywhere! i would not trust one thing he says. i am like the person above me...he is to old and should leave new beginnings to new people. he will forever be tainted and thought of as to old to make good decisions. palin ruined his career for life as well as the republican party in most peoples eyes. our country rose above such ugly bashing politics and voted in fresh air and a young bright intelliegent man to bring us out of the republican gutter.
we the people spoke loud and clear!!

Pam   January 7th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

We need term limits on members of Congress. And Supreme Court justices.

CanIcallyouJoe   January 7th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

Well, I suppose "Country First" is more convincing than "It was fun to cheat on my handicapped wife, then leave her for money" or "The Keating Five really isn't a big deal, right?" or "Folks, let me tell you, Bomb Iran and Gorilla jokes".

I heard he actually had a tough choice between that and "Shortest Skirt Gets to Be My Running Mate".

Go home, Johnny Boy.

Kaye -Jacksonville FL   January 7th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

"Country First" – a losing campaign slogan with way too many bad moves attached to it – does he REALLY think folks will rally to it now? He's got to win back the moderate, independent voters that were repulsed by Palin and and McCain campaign tactics. This slogan won't do it – actions speak louder than words Senator McCain – get in your Senate seat and work cooperatively with Obama to turn this country back to prosperity.

Donna   January 7th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

It didn't work the first time around... time to come up with something new.

Jim   January 7th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

these should be the first orders of business for "Country First"

- make Norm Coleman stop his lawsuit
- convince the wealthy that there is more to the Country and the world
than just their pocketbooks
- stop slanderous campaigne tactics
- stop letting ideological differences divide the country, the more
people govern by their ideologies the more people that don't agree
lose their freedom

You gotta be kiddin'   January 7th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

John McCain didn't put "Country First" during the 08 election. What a hypocrite he is. Barack Obama knows how to put country first he showed when he campaigned.

Steve in Arizona   January 7th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

If it were truly a new Republican PAC, it would be "Money First".

Kaye -Jacksonville FL   January 7th, 2009 12:19 pm ET

Talk about never learning from past mistakes. "Country First" – sort of implies that only the GOP and McCain give a damn about America, doesn't it? I was insulted by the slogan during the campaign, still think it reflects the kind of partisan, slap-you approach to politics. The GOP will never rise again until it understands that the majority (no, clearly not all) of voters are sick and tired of nasty, divisive politics played out by affluent white folks with little interest in the hard core issues of ordinary, diverse Americans.
Stupid is as stupid does....

Newport News, VA   January 7th, 2009 12:19 pm ET

God First, Country Second.......That has a better ring to it John.

Indigo   January 7th, 2009 12:18 pm ET

Give me a break. Anyone that would pick Sarah Palin for running mate certainly does not put country first.

Laverne   January 7th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Oh Please, did not work for you the first time so let it go. The only thing that will help the republican party is if scandal continue to follow the democratic party.

c from stl   January 7th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

I feel bad for John McCain. Even though I was a Barack Obama supporter, it saddened me to see his campaign crash and burn after picking Sarah Palin as his VP.

Objective thinking   January 7th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Ignorant remark from "Proud American" in 3... 2... 1...

Victor   January 7th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

The MaC is truly back

vahe   January 7th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

go home mccain let the new generation rule the country.... old people

Kathy   January 7th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

McCain wouldn't know country first if it hit him in the face.

Collects Social Security despite being extremely wealthy – GIVE IT BACK!!

Gets free medical care off the government – And called Obama a socialist

Concerned citizen   January 7th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

John take up golfing or fishing!Please don't make a fool of yourself anymore.
Wonder if he will take Sarah along?

JD in Moraga   January 7th, 2009 12:14 pm ET

...from Merriam-Webster:

Main Entry: fas·cism
Function: noun
Etymology: Italian fascismo, from fascio bundle, fasces, group, from Latin fascis bundle & fasces fasces
Date: 1921

1. often capitalized : a political philosophy, movement, or regime (as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual

"Country First" indeed.

Al, NY NY   January 7th, 2009 12:14 pm ET

I bet he'll recruit the Lipstick Fido from Alaska to join in and do recruiting...you betcha. Actually she may not since he's not Republican enough for her and her flat-earth, creationist ideology

Newport News, VA   January 7th, 2009 12:13 pm ET

Here we go again. I guess he didn't pay much attention to Arizona's votes as they came in on election night. Senator, you almost lost in your home state. Give it up. I'm tired of seeing you old guys. That goes for Harry Reid and the rest of the senior citizes in Washington. Sen. Warner of VA knew when his time was up, when are the rest of you geezers going to realize it.

Proud American   January 7th, 2009 12:13 pm ET

More like "IDIOTS FIRST". Good Lord those people are STUPID. Republicans if you really, really loved your country GO AWAY.

Just Go Back To The Senate ... Please   January 7th, 2009 12:13 pm ET

You would think that after selecting Palin, John would drop this "Country First" illusion.

Jeff in Illinois   January 7th, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Stuart just summed the whole thing up completely.

Ex-Republican   January 7th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

If the name is going to be 'Country First"...doesn't that disqualify any republicans from being in it?

stuart smalley is the next senator from Minnesota   January 7th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

More like the "Me First" PAC.

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