June 17, 2009
Posted: June 17th, 2009 11:25 AM ET

From


WASHINGTON (CNN) - Sen. John McCain told CNN Wednesday President Obama's statement that he doesn't want to meddle in the Iranian election controversy sends the wrong message.

"On this issue, I do not believe that the president is taking a leadership that is incumbent upon an American president, which we have throughout modern history, and that is to advocate for human rights and freedom - and free elections are one of those fundamentals," the Arizona Republican told John Roberts on CNN's American Morning.

President Obama Tuesday said that he has deep concerns over the election results in Iran, but stressed that "it's not productive, given the history of U.S.-Iranian relations, to be seen as meddling, the U.S. president meddling in Iranian elections."

McCain disputed that assessment. "We're not meddling in any country's affairs when we call for free and fair elections and the ability of people to exercise their human rights," he said Monday. "And when they disagree with a flawed or corrupt election, as the Iranian people have, [not] to be beaten and even killed in the streets."

Filed under: Iran • John McCain • President Obama


Mick   June 17th, 2009 12:56 pm ET

Don't kid yourself. If McCain has been elected, Iran and N. Korea would already have been bombed, and the world would be over. Blowhard war-monger! All the experts I have heard think Obama's approach is just right for now. Don't you have to vote on health care, John? Or go call Sarah and make sure she's OK today?

once upon a horse   June 17th, 2009 12:55 pm ET

I guess that "BOMB, BOMB, BOMB, BOMB IRAN" is the next best solution eh Sen. McCain?

Lisa   June 17th, 2009 12:52 pm ET

Funny all the experts agree that Obama staying out of the Iranian election politics is a blow to Amadinnerjacket because it takes away his ability to talk about "America meddling" America trying to impose their version of democracy on an Islamic state" etc.. But McCain knows better. Does McCain really think Obama has to stand on a soapbox and cry about freedom and indevidual rights and democracy or else he avocates the opposite?

Ms. Dee, Texas   June 17th, 2009 12:52 pm ET

Can someone tell John McCain to sit his tired behind down. I'm sick of him. He is not the President. He lost the election. We were not interested in his NONSENSE then and we certainly are not NOW.

HellsEye   June 17th, 2009 12:50 pm ET

Okay McLame, you didn't win. But thats not the big picture. Don't these blowhard rethuglicans understand that Iran can use propaganda against us if it is deemed we are too interested in Iranian affairs? Okay, so Obama goes on record and lambasts the results. Now what happens?? Exactly, nothing....

really?   June 17th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Well, no one – and certainly Iran – didn't help us sort out the election that W stole in 2000 – so why should we help them? Why aren't we worried about the fraudulent elections, puppet governments and genocides in Africa? Pick and choose political grandstanding – that's all this is.

Jack in Florida   June 17th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Thank God McCain was not elected..........still doesn't get it!!! Time to drive the hybrid into the sunset, John........the Repubs need a new generation of moderates that get it...

JP   June 17th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Obama can never do anything wrong. Never. It was McCain who opened his mouth in front of the worshippers.

JonDie   June 17th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

McCain doesn't even know that Iran and Iraq are two different countries.

Nini   June 17th, 2009 12:49 pm ET

Carter gave the gift of Mullah’s to the world and Iran and now 30 YEARS later Obama is making sure that Mullah’s are secured for another 30 YEARS with no regards for the Iranian people

The Free world no longer has a LEADER.

@ NYC   June 17th, 2009 12:48 pm ET

Somebody please tell McCain to shut it.

Sherri   June 17th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

I am so glad that McCain did not win! We would be at war with every other country by now. People are blind if they don't see that all he wants to do is fight and get revenge for some crap that non of America has to really do with. It is so sad that he is still trying to talk and discredit the President. I never heard all this crap when Bush was in office destroying America and what people really have worked hard for. He just distorted the American dream! So go retire McCain! Your game is over, OLD, done, suspended and dismissed!

Lara   June 17th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

As with Iraq which we had no business attacking because they were no threat to us. We need to stay out of Iran and let the people there work out their differences. We have enough on our plate now as it is, to start another issue would be just plain foolish. Let this man run the country without other people second guessing him. Like it or not he is the President of the United States.

GI Joe   June 17th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

The Songbird is a warmonger and his words and the words of other Greedy Obstructionist Party members is having a negative effect in Iran as we speak.

THEY NEED TO SHUT UP. JUST SHUT UP. THEY were not elected and have no diplomatic skills whatsoever.

Respect   June 17th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

So republicans when are we going to speak out loudly with actions against Saudia Arabia, China, Pakistan, Egypt, and elsewhere?

I'm still waiting. Oh that's right we are to busy borrowing money from these countries.

Judy Who   June 17th, 2009 12:45 pm ET

I understand Senator McCain's point, which I think is very valid.

However, I do believe that President Obama is right to be cautious about stepping too much into this situation. Too heavy of a hand or too loud of a voice from the American Presidency, could indeed be twisted by the current government there as meddling by the US and Israel in order to destabilize an Islamic nation. The hard liners are still in control, and although there are hundreds of thousands of protesters in the streets, all the Iranian government and military would need is some way to cast these demonstrators as being under the evil influence of the West (silly here, valid reason there) to step up the crackdowns.

Nichole, Tulsa, OK   June 17th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

Pick your battles, John. If that's your view, I'm once again reassured why choosing Obama to be my President was the right thing to do.

MOI   June 17th, 2009 12:42 pm ET

For Dan: Wonderful Analysis!
Republicans keep using the concept of "Freedom" as an excuse to fight and kill whomever disagree with their Imperialist agenda. Thank God that the Demographic of America is changing, and with it, this old ugly conception that we should dictate to others how they should live.

history repeats   June 17th, 2009 12:42 pm ET

matt

"the FACT is obama is scared of iran"???

are you joking? go back to the fox news chats ok the adults are talking.

Maria Loi   June 17th, 2009 12:42 pm ET

America had meddled enough on affairs of other nations. The people of Iran have to do their thing. We are but arm chair critics. Obama has a plan and he does not allow this upcoming ugly event to hurt his long term goal with the Iran and the Middle East!
McClain speaks through his nose. Did he really know the truth to this ugly event in Iran?
The best way is to see how it is played out. Obama has priorities and your country comes first!

Nini   June 17th, 2009 12:41 pm ET

The people of Iran standing up to the mullah’s after 30 years and Obama with every speech is trying to legitimize the terrorist supporting regime of Iran.
Has anyone noticed how Obama refuses to call them the regime and keeps referring to the them as Islamic Republic of Iran, guess what Mr. President the Iranians hate it when the country is referred to by that name. Iran is Iran and will stay Iran.

After 4 days of bloodshed of the students and the youth of Iran our president Obama hasn’t condemned the actions of these tugs.

It is a sad day for Democracy and the free world.

I wish Obama had the guts to come out and stand with the people.

If America doesn’t standup for Freedom, is there any hope for the rest of the world?

Rush Von Brunn   June 17th, 2009 12:41 pm ET

McCain needs a brain just like the tinman.Rush is going down soon,just like the fly the President squashed.hahaha

HJA   June 17th, 2009 12:40 pm ET

Go for it McCain!!! Right on, more war. Send the RIGHT message. After all we (USA) should stick our nose in everyone's business. (Like they will listen) Bomb 'em to the stone age. Come on be like GW and invoke God. You gotta love the GOP.

FactCheck   June 17th, 2009 12:40 pm ET

Bill Maher is right.. the Republicans are a party of old white men and Jesus freaks.

S Callahan   June 17th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

I think this situation in Iran belongs to the people in Iran. I also think the spirit of God is pulling people out of their homes to protest tyranny and that is a good thing. We all have born given rights as a human being..and they , the Iranian citizens, are right to stand up and demand those rights be accounted for. Mr. McCain, in all respect to you, it's not right for us, at this time , to instigate. Let the people there make their voices heard..they are doing a very good job at it despite the opposition against them. Have some faith in people.

CNN = Moveon.org   June 17th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Obama is afraid to do anything or say anything. He is essentially voting "present" like he did so many times during his very short term as a Senator. Unfortunately, the Iranians who are trying to have a little freedom, can't rely on this President to help them. He is scared to death of the liberal left in this country and ruining his popularity rather than taking a stand on anything.

Randolph Carter   June 17th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

matt wrote: hey all the obama idoits thinks they know everything the fact is obama is scared of Iran

What do you suggest we do, Matt? Have a nice day!

CD in FL   June 17th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

Imagine having him and Palin right now in the White House: We would start another war and Ms. Palin would be responsible for the Nazi-like propaganda telling that is God's will to go to war.
Thank you, President Obama for doing the right thing.

Ann C   June 17th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Keep Talking John...it just confirms why you are NOT President and Obama is. Every time you or Palin open your mouths I say a prayer, you are tired and old. Maybe your party should look at it's own election problems..Florida 2000 and am I mistaken but is your prty holding up a democratic free election in Minnesota so thre isn't a democrat in there.

Leah   June 17th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

I think the President approach is the right way to do.
US should not interfere with other country especially Iran.
By meddling with Iran's politics, you are handling a tool for Ahmadinejad the reason to cracks down and harms those who protests against him.

Better be an observer on the side line.

history repeats   June 17th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Dan

its so true. attack everyone to keep us safe. and they think it is sooo outlandish to compare that philosophy to the exact propoganda of adolf hitler!! they always say "its not the same" because we are up against REAL TERRORISTS and im wondering if they thought hitler was onstage telling his people "we think their might be terrorists in poland but we're not sure if they are real or not, but we'll invade and then we will let you know the outcome afterwards" "they might just be cardboard cutouts of terrorists"...... i dont understand why these so-called "conservatives" can never understand logic. i truly think its rooted in their deep belief in mythical creatures of the bible that have absolutely no substantial proof whatsoever.

Marty, FL   June 17th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Could you imagine if the war-mongering McCain had been president, or Palin VP?! Fortunately, the neo-cons are no longer in control of our foreign policy. They have made ENOUGH of a mess.

President Obama is handling this situation appropriately. Our administration should not be involved in the election process of another country. It would surely be used as propaganda, but McCain somehow does not seem to understand that fact, or is ignoring it to pander to the neoconservative "base." Nonsense.

marcus   June 17th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

i'm trying to think back to how the first president Bush handled the tianneman square uprisings.. oh yeah, he didn't do a thing !!! that was the opportunity for the US to take a stand and help bring about reform in the most important other nation on this planet.. but, here comes another idiot republican, who didn't call out his idiot president, but has all kinds of laughable opinions about this democrat.. it's so hard to take these clowns seriously.

John M in NoHo CA   June 17th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Did ANY country get involved in our 2000 election fiasco? They kept their mouths shut because they knew they'd have to deal with whoever ended victorious.

Fox News is Zionist jewish station   June 17th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

If you havn't figured by now that Fox is a zionist israeli station at heart, owned
by a hard core jewish man, you know nothing about fox.

That's why Fox always
defends Israel when it slaughters children and pregnant women as an act of peace, while when someone speaks a word against israel, he is DOOMED as ignorant by Fox.

By the way, CNN.com not CNN TV station, is also somewhat a zionist machine. I see a huge difference in attitude beteen cnn.com and cnn station. Obviously different management is the reason.

Shawn   June 17th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Be quiet McCain. The adults are now in charge.

Remember when McCain was about to start WWIII with Russia over the Georgia conflict? Remember how awesome he thought invading Iraq for lies was? Mmmmkay. All the pro-reformers we see protesting (you know...the ones Obama wisely reached out to) are the same people McCain wanted to bomb and kill. Bomb bomb bomb, bomb bomb Iran. Remember?

President Obama is handling this situation perfectly. He's informed and cautious, pragmatic and actually waiting for the facts before saying something stupid or doing something dangerous. And that's why I voted for him.

Walter   June 17th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

So the conservatives want Obama to talk trash against Iran when we don't the specifics about how the elections were rigged. Seems someone may want to get facts straight before making claims. I forgot, conservatives don't need facts, just ideology.

Bonnie Kimberly   June 17th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

I read a posting about the FOX network and it seemed like that person did not think FOX was biased in their reading of the news at all. What fog are you sitting in? And what does this President have to do before you decide he is doing OK? Yes I know that will never happen, I just had to ask. This country will never come to agree on anything much and as long as I live I expect to see people ranting about whoever is POTUS , but this is really getting old, the ranting and raving by FOX is nothing short of scary. Mr Obama won the election can't we just racket down the rhetoric some? I know this network is the only one some of these folks watch, and if you try to talk to some of them about world affairs the first thing they say is "I love America and you are living under a rock and don't see how bad Obama is" .Now this implies two things one is I don't love America and secondly I am stupid. NICE. This is what they hear nonstop on FOX. I am at least willing to talk about their point of view, and I never say they are stupid or UN-American. However if they don't stop all of this talk of socialism and fear mongering I may get a lot more testy.

Peace   June 17th, 2009 12:30 pm ET

Hey McCain, we still have men and women in uniforms in their neighborhood. Have you forgotten that or you do not care!!!! The President does and the rest of us all.

Carl, Illinois   June 17th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

We shouldn't be surprised by McCain, he will take every emergency as an opportunity to look for a microphone. I think any, and I mean ANY, appearance that the US is meddling in Iranian affairs would squash the whole uprising over the fraud and the hard-line vote stealers would end up quelling this so much easier.

If this is led by Iranians it may actually succeed in getting rid of that nut-job pathological liar Ahmidinijad. Something Bush or McCain never made any progress on.

McCain is just wrong about this whole situation and his grandstanding is sort of comical. Hopefully he won't suspend his Senate duties and head to Iran to "solve" the problem – because his line of thinking has made the problem worse for too long.

GG   June 17th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

I think Obama is meddling indirect, but is carrying a BIG STICK

Joe   June 17th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

That's right people, Poindexter has all the answers. Take credit for the work others do. Amplify minor achievements. And most importantly, bask in self-absorption. I think I had a boss like that where I worked once.

WOW! What a president!

McCain was right, Obama does have little experience in foreign policy and his Europe-first policies are going to mar his administration. If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything.

If this is our idea of a head of state, I've seen better heads on a boil.

history repeats   June 17th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

i dont know what to say about this because sometimes i feel we should take care of us first, but then i remember we are all human beings. a country that is not allowed to elect their own leaders should have some intervention on their behalf. i also believe though that NO religion should have supreme rule over any country. it flies in the face of what religion was supposed to really be about when it was pure. i think it was a guide to living right but everybody started adding these stupid divine rules and before long everybody thought it was about worship crucifix's and gods. and my god is stronger than yours. or your god isnt as real as mine. relgion is a poison for humanity. including christianity. have you ever tried to have a rational discussion about the valdity of christianity with a christian? even if they have been a christian for 30 yrs its like they dont know anything about the historical evidence of it at all....or should i say lack of historical evidence of it all.

matt   June 17th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

hey all the obama idoits thinks they know everything the fact is obama is scared of Iran

citizenjane   June 17th, 2009 12:27 pm ET

Hey Phoenix86

Try laying off being a FOX News parrot.

Kristin   June 17th, 2009 12:27 pm ET

And why would we care what war monger McCain thinks???
I thought he was still busy trying to figure out how to roll the windows down on his new car.

Daniel   June 17th, 2009 12:26 pm ET

Hey, cool, lets all rush to McCains side. The guy is still whining because he didnt get the oval office.

What frustrates me, is that republicans and democrats (more so republicans) seem to be SO much more worried about politics, then running this country. Its more important to them that they have control, even if the country is burning to the ground.

Case in point: McCain would much rather see Obama do a typical US asinine move as to comment on another countries election making us look like jerks... AGAIN, just so republicans can use it against him in 2012.

Rediculous.

denverdoc   June 17th, 2009 12:25 pm ET

Obama's measured approach so far is exactly what should be done. The last thing we need is American interference which would galvanize Iran's hardliners agains any reform seen as pro-american or allied with the west. There are other more secretive ways to push for regime change other than a bunch of bluster and military threats. I wouldn't expect Mccain or the republicans to recognize the subtleies anyways.

sifto77   June 17th, 2009 12:25 pm ET

Obama–hide your head in the sand and continue to trash Fox News–at least we have somewhere to go for the truth.

Dan   June 17th, 2009 12:25 pm ET

GOP Philosophy:

1. Attack Iran and North Korea, They are manufacturing Nukes.
2. Attack Somalia they are Supporting Pirates.
3. Attack Egypt, Pakistan, Jordan and Saudi Arabia because they have Al Quida Pockets.
4. Attack Cuba and Valenzuela because they are Communist.

Attack the Whole World, it will make America Safe.

George   June 17th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

This man (McCain) is contradicting himself. Now that his party is not in power, it's OK to fight for election and democracy. Well, his party was in power for 8 full years while Saudi Arabia has no elections, no voice of people, no freedom and they were not only close friends with that country but no one bothered saying, hey, the Saudi people deserve fair election. Look at UK, there's no elections there, they already know when the ruler dies, who will become the next ruler.
Pick on Iran, because they have oil!

Dee Dee Lynn   June 17th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

This is why McCain isn't the President. President Obama knows that probably the worst thing we could do (the US) is to be seen to be in any way involved in what is going on in Iran. In fact, this was on the verge of happening 7 or so years ago, but because the idiot President at the time decided to go and camp out in Iran's backyard, he killed the momentum. Obama struck the right tone. He clearly and unequivocally affirmed our commitment to democracy, but also made it clear that Iran must work this out for itself. Unlike Republicans, he does not believe that the US is the only truly sovereign nation, and therefore the only one with the real right to self-determine.

Richard   June 17th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

Hey McCain,
You lost your last bid to be ruler of the universe so suck it up. But, there is still time to show up in the Arizona State parking lot and be given an honorary degree in plumbing or something so you can still do something productive with your life!

Peoples Voice   June 17th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

Yeah, John. Your opinion on Iran is just what we need. Bomb, bomb, bomb Iran. Why don't you go back to your cell and shut up.

Deb   June 17th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

I totally disagree with John McCain and am once again so relieved I and others voted for President Obama. We should not meddle in Iranian elections. I think our President is doing a great job. We are not all "Iranians" as McCain decried that we were all "Georgians" during the presidential campaign.

Robert   June 17th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

McCain is completely wrong, and just strengthens the feeling that we dodged a major bullet when he didn't get elected. America has lost a lot of respect in the world because it seems we dictate what other countries should be doing in their own governments. Especially with Iran, where the CIA has history of overthrowing elected leaders.

steve   June 17th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

McCain appears to think he is still a Presidencial candidate but does not seem to remember he was defeated 2 to 1 and without the southern states the defeat would have been much worse. Who is going to vote for someone that will be as old as he will be in 2012.

AJ   June 17th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

The President is absolutely correct. It is people like McCain who gives America a bad rap for "meddling" in other country's affair.
If McCain and all the other meddling fools want to denounce Iran's election because they felt it was not "free and fair", then why don't they go ahead and do it themselves and leave the President alone. Don't they realize he has enough work to do here in America?

Jacnpdx   June 17th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Lol Like the free and fair election in 2000? We didn't expect any other country to come to our rescue...

John   June 17th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

The GOP are either more stupid than I thought, or they're promoting this Iranian policy in a vain attempt to screw things up so that their agenda of fear will have some basis in reality. I mean McCain can't keep singing, "Bomb, Bomb Iran" if they're our friends right?

history repeats   June 17th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

is it me or is it obvious that fox news told there posters to come into this forum and post their opinion about obama's comment about fox news being biased? its seriously like high school when you deal with those people. fox news is an ignorant and childish news station anyone with a brain can see that and its been a pretty obvious opinion of most people here yet there is a massive attack of how fox news is the only credible voice in media. ridiculous.

Maggie   June 17th, 2009 12:20 pm ET

John, if he aggreed with the US "meddling" in Iranian elections they he would ahve to agree to others "meddling in our unfair elections. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Meddle in their afairs opens the door to our own past recent election. There are some things the dems would want o keep under the rug.

Ted   June 17th, 2009 12:20 pm ET

This has to mark the first time that protesters in favor of democracy over dictatorship have not been supported by the US. While I agree that we should move slowly, it's clear that we need to tell the people of Iran we support them in their endeavors to have a clear, accountable and transparent election process.

Where is Jimmy Carter in all of this? He is always out front of election issues in other countries and our own.

By the way, how is McCain to blame for the Iranian revolution that occurred during the Carter administration during which they took American hostages?

AMERICA FIRST!   June 17th, 2009 12:19 pm ET

How would America feel if Iran or any other country wanted to investigate our election process. We all know that the election in Iran was not a fair election but WHO ARE WE TO DEMAND A RECOUNT SO TO SPEAK. FOR ONCE AMERICA HANDS OFF. THE PEOPLE OF IRAN NEED TO FIND A WAY FOR FAIR DEMOCRACY. Tired of US acting like "BIG BROTHER" when we have our issues here, big issues and that is where all our efforts should go. It's not like Iran right now is a huge threat to us or any of our Allies. I say stay out of it.

S. Smith   June 17th, 2009 12:18 pm ET

Hi phoenix86,

The reason even FRANCE and Germany can take a strong stance on this is because they have strong ties with Iran, economically and diplomatically. Try flipping off FIXED NEWS for a few minutes and educate yourself.

If you had the good sense to show the same restraint as Obama, you wouldn't end up looking so foolish with your uninformed opinions.

Expat American   June 17th, 2009 12:18 pm ET

What does Georgian McCain suggest that we really do? Immediately Condemn Ahmadinejad's alleged victory while openly siding with the opposition? This is exactly what Ahmadinejad wants.

Then what? Send more troops and install a second Shah? This, as well, is exactly what Ahmadinejad wants.

Quick knee-jerk action without serious contemplation could result in the rise of another Khomeini.

What really matters is what would Palin do? She is more qualified to be President, according to her supporters...or is she too busy savoring the victory of her Letterman apology?

morefromLA   June 17th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

John McCain looking for another jet to crash. Thank God he's not in the White House (except when invited).

tee   June 17th, 2009 12:15 pm ET

phoenix86

We are informed and we think logically.............you're the one that opinionated............never use any fact.........what is the common sense thing to do?

Emmy   June 17th, 2009 12:15 pm ET

McCain was right... American companies need to manufacture more bombs and light ammunition, Pres. Obama, invade Iran immediately and let the war begin. America is not tired of fighting.. they can afford to bankroll any war in the Middle East. McCain is my man any day, let the war songs start

Barbara   June 17th, 2009 12:15 pm ET

I support President's Obama handling of the situation in Iran. If we've learned anything at all from those horrible Bush years is that we can not control the world or bully our way into countries. The Iraq War was a waste of dollars and sadly, lives-both of our military-military from other counries and innocent people in Iraq.
I am very proud of our President. He is restoring our image all around the world!

RepubliKLANs Are Stupid As Stupid Does   June 17th, 2009 12:15 pm ET

Yes, McSame let's go Bomb, Bomb, Bomb Iran!!!...GW Bush has finished bombing Irak and wrecked the USA economy in the process, and now you want to start another war with Iran and totally bury our children and grand children in an unjust war!!!

Way to go McSame...keep spouting that gibberish until you believe it!!!!!

Bonnie Kimberly   June 17th, 2009 12:13 pm ET

Let us let the people of Iran run thier own freedom march. We don't need to be trying to save them from thier leaders.....it gets scary thinking we might even try to do this. They have thier own system and they don't need or want us trying to butt in. We don't have the answers for these people and should not try to act like we do. McCain needs to pull his head out!

Steve J, Michigan   June 17th, 2009 12:12 pm ET

Sure McCain lets give the Iranians someone to focus thier anger and rage at. Lets stick our noses in someone else's business because you Repugs will never learn...Man i'm sick of these losers...

Steve-Michigan

True Muslim   June 17th, 2009 12:12 pm ET

McCain is similar to Bush and he continue to have the wrong approach to Middle Eastern issues.

The best approach to the problem in Iran is to stay away. If the US interfer, then all Iranians will unite against it. Obama is smart, and his speach in Egypt is behind what is happenining now in Iran.

Melissa   June 17th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

Of course he does. The war monger wants to go to war, just like the rest of the Republicans.

peter   June 17th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

a clear and defining example of the difference. tact is spelled tact not tack. so when making a point, you don't have to drive it in. finess sorely missing in john mcain. i'm so thankful we have president obama, who can get his message across to the iranian people without his words backfiring and inciting the situation. i do think thats the reason your not the president.

Big Ed   June 17th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

Hey, Phoenix86 – Seek professional help...soon!

Alex   June 17th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

The message being sent far and wide in the past few months (if not the last 8 years): Republicans are pro-war. I really can't see how anyone who claims to be a GOP supporter can claim otherwise after the non-stop spewing of McCain and Cheney over the past 5 months.

The Unshrub   June 17th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

Give it up old man, and let those in Washington who aren't senile do the work.

Billy   June 17th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

John "Ready, Fire, Aim!" McCain.

He has no clue.

Big Ed   June 17th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

Senastor McCain, what would you suggest? "Bomb, Bomb, Bomb..Bomb, Bomb Iran"?

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   June 17th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

This is why you lost the election. BAD JUDGEMENT!!!

ANNY   June 17th, 2009 12:08 pm ET

This is why america voted for Obama instead of the Republican.....we don't need to stick our nose into their business......If the Iranians want a new President, if they want freedom of speech then let them stand up for themselves and fight for it.......we don't need to get involved and start another war.......but that is what the GOP is all about WAR.......McCain needs to sit down and shut up, someone tell him he wasn't elected President............

Eric   June 17th, 2009 12:08 pm ET

What McCain fails to recognize again, is that there is no proof that the election was fradulent- there were some irregularities but nothing to suggest voter fraud to the scale that would change the outcome of the election. Sure, Americans don't trust or like Iran, but rachetting up the rhetoric isn't the answer. Change in Iran will come from the people, we can support that but it would be wrong to get overly involved at this point when there is a lack of proof of what McCain suggests- nor has the violence that's been reported severe enough to warrant a greater response than has been given.

What is McCain's motive here? Undermine the president? Appeal to Americans negative feelings about Iran? Encourage the president to make a mistake? Or is he just that flawed in his thinking on foriegn policy.

Tony/Seattle   June 17th, 2009 12:08 pm ET

Wrong, Johnny! The Prez is playing his cards just right. Any strong American stance on Iranian politics is just what the Iranian radicals want in order to divert attention from their internal problems. Better to be smart than loud and self-righteous.

Robert   June 17th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

Mr. McCain,
We first need to clean our own Dirt. Why should we bother about Iran's Dirt. Let Iran Go to Hell. Mr. McCain, if you are so concerned about Iran, please go and live there.We need to take care of our own problems:
1....... Economy........ 2....... Health Care....... 3....... Wars........ 4.................... Unemployment........ 5....... Crimes, Homicides and Gang Violence.........
YOU REPUBLICANS ALWAYS FOCUS ON INSIGNIFICANT ISSUES, THAT IS WHY YOU SCREWED UP IN THE LAST 8 YEARS.

Judy   June 17th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

McCain stilll doesn't get it....we don't want to do things like we used to do. I don't want USA to be involved in internal politics of other countries. McCain and his daughter are riduculous. I lost all respect for him during the campagin when he bowed to the right wing haters.

Mario, mtl, ca.   June 17th, 2009 12:06 pm ET

Please John McCain shot up, after claiming bomb,bomb,bomb, iran.. Makes like a stupid Bush followers again', don't you understand that your cowboy politics no one like it, please wake up old man

Ken   June 17th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

There is no solid evidence yet.

If the US had waited for solid evidence (instead of trumped up propoganda) before invading Iraq, there would have been NO war.

– 4,500 fewer American casualties.

– Hundreds of thousands fewer Iraquis as casualties.

– Almost 800 BILLION saved.

But, Republicans, if you want to invade.... see what happens. (again)

Reformed Republican   June 17th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

Put a lid on it McCain – Your comments are a crude reminder of the long dead cold war and counter productive to my country's efforts to deal with 21st century realities.

GP   June 17th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

if he didn't define it explicitly himself by saying exactly what we should do, I'd say perhaps Obama should have defined what " meddling" means... how about we let some other country make those calls for once, and take care of our own just like those other guys are doing?

Blue is my favourite colour   June 17th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

Right, Johnny, try to start the war–and then have a moment of lucidity to realize that you are not in any position to dictate policy or orders to anyone.

You are an out-dated pinhead. Go home to your beer barbie doll and figure out how to shelter her money from taxes. You'll need it when you are voted out of the senate and have nothing to occupy your time with anymore.

Simmy   June 17th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

CNN.........Where did 10 comments on the article re: Pres. Obama/Fox come from? It was in 'permalink,' and 2 mins. later you had comments......Why are you 'now' censoring when it comes to subjects cc the right wing? Isn't censoring what's going on in Iran? Rethink your MO, producers.....

Lou from CT   June 17th, 2009 12:03 pm ET

Expressing our reservations about the election is as far as it needs to go. Let Iran boil over as long as US interests are not affected.

Hey Johnny – don't go away mad – just go away.

PulSamsara   June 17th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

McCain – Eat your Crow and shut your mouth!

Your way FAILED !

This way is working – shameless fool.

Deborah from KC/RN   June 17th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

Thank Goodness John McCain is not our president. He does not take time to think things through and get all the facts; before he just jumps in and starts reacting. Same thing he did during the election. I guess we should invade Iran and help them kill their citizens with our own military? I guess it would be good if Iran's President and Supreme Leader could blame American interference on all their problems, like they have been able to for the past 30 years? Why don't you Republicans, ever think about what it is you are doing, before you run your mouths? Just like Dick Cheney making our enemies think this would be a great time for them to attack us, you are hurting our country. Stop putting your party and your own political gain; ahead of doing what is best for America.

big papa   June 17th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

John McCain is a caricature of a defeated ideology, political party, and bitter people...

...everything that comes out of his crusty, old mouth smacks of jealousy, regret, and dyspepsia...

...Go away John, live on your wife's wealth and give up your government healthcare, pension and social security...

...since you (and your ilk) don't believe in government...

Rich G   June 17th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

Yes, McCain, lets do get more involved. Shall we bomb, bomb, bomb Iran? Shall we tell Ayatolla what we want him to do, and then if he refuses, what, blame President Obama for not being forceful enough? Win win either way, right?

Perfectly stated. Let's meddle with Iran. Worked so well with the Shah!

Darlene S.   June 17th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

Will someone please tell Sen. McCain he lost the election? Also, he is not the spokesperson for the GOP! Go back to his ranch in Arizona and watch the sunsets with Cindy!!!

dieter   June 17th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

The days of sticking our noses publicly on every stinking issue is over. There are back channels to support the "loser" of the election and his supportes but the righty hawks just want to send a drone and bomb.
You will fuel the "I told you so" from radicals is we call the elections fraudulent. Remember, our track record is not that good lately.

Gerri   June 17th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

McCain: Your judgement is flawed, the whole country knows it, that is why you LOST the election. Thankfully your words have no credibilty, and nobody is listening to you.
We all know the last tihng we need right now is another riff with a middle-eastern country.

Jon   June 17th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

Because the Republican approach to Iran worked so well during the Bush years? Come on, McCain, your party's plan has been tried and failed. Now it's time for you to be quiet while the administration the people voted into power has a chance to try to make real progress in the Middle East.

Bill   June 17th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

This is the real reason why the Republican party is scared about their future. Not because of a lack of a party leader but because they don't adapt, they don't want to understand. They want to employ the same old egocentric foreign diplomacy. They are creatively bankrupt in a new world they don't understand.

Arlene, Illinois   June 17th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

John McCain, the fresh new face of the Republican party!

the nerve of it all . . .   June 17th, 2009 11:59 am ET

While the republicans are holding up an election in Minnesota , they now want us meddling in Iran's election too?

Randolph Carter   June 17th, 2009 11:58 am ET

Because meddling in Iran has worked out so well in the past. Don't believe me? Look up Operation Ajax. Have a nice day!

Leslie W.   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

And this is exactly why McCain is NOT in office! I can only imagine how McCain would've acted in those Summit meetings! Holy Cow! The troubles we would have right now- in 6 months!

President Obama is right: we shouldn't meddle! It's only fair that we stay out of it and stop trying to police the whole world!

Foo   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

Old Man Alzheimer's thinks its in 1959

gary   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

I guess McCain had no problem when Bush was given the Presidency by a rigged election in 2000.He only wants other countries to have fair elections. What a joke!!!!

Barbara   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

John McCain would be more effective an advocate for election reform in Iran if he would phrase his comments as against election fraud in Iran rather than as an attack on the President. We have no business publicly interfering or attacking another country, esp. Iran. They would only use our words against us in their partisan battles. We should express very strongly our support for Democracy and work in the background to help them if needed. McCain and the rest of the Republican should try and remember what direct interference in Iraq has cost this country in the lives of our soldiers killed – over 4,000 I believe- as well as the tens of thousands maimed in body and spirit as well as the suffering of their families. All for what? Bankrupting this country is also another legacy of the interventionists. Right now I think that John McCain is looking to score some cheap political points. He wants to stay in the news so HE feel relevant.

Larry from RI   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

Mr. Obama did the right thing – What would you do McLame – sing them a chorus of "Bomb, Bomb, Bomb Iran" to provoke them even further?

Same tired old man with the same tired old response!

MarionN   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

I'm glad that we finally have a president who does NOT try to tell other leaders how to run their country!
Which does not mean that he agrees with the way they do.....

If the GOP would have won the last election, we may already be at war with N. Korea right now and possibly starting anotherone with Iran......

GOP: Stop critizising our new president at anything he is trying to accomplish!
You had 8 long years and couldn't do much right....

Let's see where America stands in 4-8 years from now and if it should be worse than now, THEN start bashing away all you can!

Fran   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

What’s your plan John? Send in the troops. Your party already has us in 2 wars.
Do you have any knowledge of this situation? We may not remember how we destroyed democracy in Iran and installed the Shah, but they do. We can’t wave our credentials of supporting of freedom and democracy in their face. They know better. But I guess any thing the President will do you will criticize.

Allan   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

America dodged a bullet last November.

Fair is Fair   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

Drew in PDX June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

Nobody meddled in our 2000 flawed corrupt election… :\
_____________________

True... but we put our so-called corrupt election in the store window for everyone to look at. Nor did anyone die in the streets here for simply voicing an opposing viewpoint.

Very poor analogy.

daniel   June 17th, 2009 11:57 am ET

Yes, it's great to have the power of a giant, but better to know when to use it. Republicans seem incapable these days of subtle thinking, actions without bluster, words without threats.

Dawn in Pa   June 17th, 2009 11:56 am ET

So we are to stick our nose into something that does not pertain to us... I heard several Iranians tell us on the news, that we as a Country not to interfer. Of Course the Republicans will say we need to stick out huge meddlesome nose into someone elses problems. Lets take care of our own problems, before we take on someone elses.

Did the Iranian people need our help? shall we use a steath and BOMB Iran, as John McCain once said. We cannot afford another war that will defendedly bankrupt the whole world...

Just get over it, we actually does not know what Obama is saying behind closed doors, just like he had done with the Pirates, and not of the Carabean nor Pittsbugh.

People can show strength though silence and diplomacy other than fighting words or pissing someone off thus another costly war and we cannot afford it.

Jon Cruz   June 17th, 2009 11:56 am ET

Could this sore loser get off the stage?

E.C.Coleman   June 17th, 2009 11:55 am ET

Many persons who voted for obama are now seeing and realizing what they voted for and what fraud has been thrust upon them as citizens.

There are many, many disinfranchised Democrats who cannot believe what a FRAUD obama really is.

obama lied to the citizens of America ........and, he's still lying.

Don   June 17th, 2009 11:55 am ET

Obama is right. We have no more business calling a scandal on the Iranian vote, then Iran would have getting involved in the two stolen Bush elections. Tit for tat, Friendo.

Tommy   June 17th, 2009 11:55 am ET

What would McCain have done? Probably spewed beligerrent idiot-speak similar to the last administration that really had no overall effect at all.

I think the Senator and the rest of his party need to put their heads down and get to work. They forget that their role at doing nothing while an ignorant president (their party leader) runs havoc over our economy and foreign relations is not going to work this time. The Age of Republicanism is (Thank God) coming to an end: no more underfunding of government programs to a point where they don't work anymore, and then coming out to decry the dysfunctionality of those same government programs, and using this as an argument for privatization of government functions. I think the American people have figured out their modus operandi after watching it happen since 1994.

If you haven't noticed John, the White House is ACTUALLY TRYING to right this country after 8 years of absolute stupidity (6 of those years where an aloof, complicit Republican congress held power).

Aim high!

moosehead   June 17th, 2009 11:55 am ET

Let's face it, John McCain is a military lobbyist, and has always been. If he had his way,. the whole budget would be directed to waging war and starting new conflicts. He's become very rich, by being the bum boy of military suppliers..

AIB   June 17th, 2009 11:54 am ET

I am extremely gald that McCain is not the President. He can say whatever he wants

Scott in Tennessee   June 17th, 2009 11:54 am ET

You mean to tell me McCain is still hanging around trying to stir up trouble for the American people. This character needs to retire and get out of politics and stop all this confusion. If those people in Iran cannot stand up against unfair elections or cannot accept the election that was cast, people like McCain needs to accept it too. We as Americans cannot police the world all the time. Its those politicians in Washington that has special interest in these other countries that is breaking Americas financial system. It kind of puts you in mind of the British that was forcing our hand in the 1700s, except we are being the british now toward other countries. Lets take care of America.

GOP = 21st century dodo   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

This from the singer of "Bomb Iran"? I'm glad this man isn't making decisions on foreign policy. Or domestic policy. Or economic policy.

Cire   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

Ignorant, ignorant, ignorant, ignorant! Why doesn't Senator McCain just say he supports Ahmadinejad in the election, because if the POTUS says ANYTHING it will immediately and swiftly give the conservative radicals in the country the opening they need to crush dissent as American made. This man is either stupid or...I can't think of anything else he could be. Please Senator, I'm begging here, stop endangering Iranian lives to make your point

Soy   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

McCain, like many other Repubs out there are completely clueless about how other nations work and operate politically. Its the same clueless and useless reaction that Bush would give to a situation like this which would do more harm to the cause of the reformist. First, what evidence has been provided that there was any rigging in the election? We can't go based on feelings, gut and any other crap out there that ppl want to base this on. We need facts and evidence before you challenge these things. President Obama is absolutely correct in this in that the involvement of the US would be detrimental to the reform movement. The Ayatollahs would now make it about US meddling and influencing the politics of Iran. Ever hear of propaganda as a tool of war? When will the Repubs start thinking strategically and not withcowboy diplomacy?

E.C.Coleman   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

obama is a yellow, spineless, wimp; McCain knows this and should blast obama for his response as he is doing.

That obama is now blasting Fox News is idiocracy.....and dictatorial.

Too bad, obama, that not all of us want you to be president.

obama is merely the chosen loser.

Get over it.

Enjoy the next few years.

There will NOT be another four.

libertad   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

I understand where McCain is coming from, and his recommended response would probably be appropriate were this upheaval taking place in a country other than Iran. But, Iran has such a long history of anti-American sentiment, the best way for Ahmedinejad to consolidate support after the election would be to have the United States appearing to be pressuring the Iranian people to oust him. His confrontational stance towards the United States is what the Iranian people appreciate MOST about him.

In this instance, Obama is doing just the right thing.

Ray from Nashville   June 17th, 2009 11:53 am ET

It's funny how the conservatives are all about bringing free elections to the world, yet our nation has been instrumental in plotting against and bringing down (by any means necessary) any lawfully elected government that it deems unsuitable to our interests (and you can read into that unsuitable to American business interests.) Usually these governments are champions of the common people against the wealthy elite, which conservatives will tell us means they are socialists. It's that kind of foreign affairs policies that have gotten us into this trouble to begin with.

Biff   June 17th, 2009 11:52 am ET

This headline is about 15 articles down on the ticker.

"Obama pledges U.S. help for Afghanistan presidential election"

All you sheep spouting we shouldn't help or care about other countries are not commenting there.

Can you not comment on an article unless it has McCain, Palin, Rush or RNC in the headline?

Do you really care about this country, this world and its people or are you just getting caught up in the soap opera we are being fed every day?

Seattle   June 17th, 2009 11:52 am ET

Thank God he isn't president right now!!! Admadinejad, Hezbollah, and Alquiada would be flourishing. Isreal would have attacked Iran by now. We would trying to figure out how we would be able to afford the occupation of Iran.

WAKE UP AMERICA   June 17th, 2009 11:52 am ET

McCain is an idiot. Here he is talking like some "bully" in the sand box.

However, John McCain is NOT the President and is NO position to question how the President handles Iran. John McCain is just like Bush, they do nothing but create WARS and never do anything to solve them but talk trash!!!

GO HOME McCain, President Obama doesn't need your advise, based on your own record, you never practice what you yourself preach.

Henry Miller   June 17th, 2009 11:52 am ET

The main reason I didn't vote for McCain was his insistence that it's okay to meddle in the internal affairs of other countries. I see he hasn't gotten any wiser over the last eight months.

Beth from Virginia   June 17th, 2009 11:51 am ET

With all due respect, Senator McCain is wrong. President Obama has strongly stated the need for a democratic process in Iran. But Obama is absolutely right that we should not meddle in the affairs of other countries. "Meddling" is what got us into Iraq, remember???

AJ   June 17th, 2009 11:50 am ET

Senator McCain said 'We're not meddling in any country's affairs when we call for free and fair elections and the ability of people to exercise their human rights " If to tell the USA that the election results between Al Gore and G.W. Bush was not fair and we needed to address it, there would have been outrage among all Americans on the audacity of another country trying to police our elections.

Politicians should think about if the shoe was on the other foot before commenting about how we should addressing the "democratic" process of another country. Recent history shows us that the right candidate does not always win the race. Look at the Al Franken situation as well as the one mentioned above!

darryn davis ll   June 17th, 2009 11:50 am ET

Hey SENATOR, the world know what we stand for, also he knows he has deal with who ever the winner is, it best to start with a with no waves.

Trade Freedom for Security, Lose Both   June 17th, 2009 11:50 am ET

The Hate coming from the Left is incredible.

tony   June 17th, 2009 11:50 am ET

Wow, most of these comments make it pretty plain to see that the only time liberals believe in free specch is when it coincides with their philosophy. What ever happened to open and intelligent debate on a topic?

Pegasus   June 17th, 2009 11:49 am ET

You know, McCain, Romney, Boehm, Cheney, and others of their ilk in the disgusting republican party complains about EVERYthing President Obama does. They just criticize and criticize until they have no frickin solutions. It's really beginning to be redundant and irrelevant on what they are saying. The republicans act like they are so much better and beyond the Democrats but they have yet to prove it. Why don't they just shut the hell up and let President Obama run this country. The Republicans had there chance...they screwed up and failed and now is chanting "failure" in a sense for President Obama's administration. But their evilness towards President Obama will only hurt the republicans. And those curses they are throwing is only turning into blessings for the current administration. So come on, republicans! Keep talking about President Obama because the more you talk negatively about him, the more you are making him look even better. You republicans are a horde of faithless and fearmongering naysayers.

Ajw   June 17th, 2009 11:49 am ET

And another thing... why does CNN keep playing clips from McCain and Republicans, but they fail to play clips from Democrats and Independents?

Bob C.   June 17th, 2009 11:48 am ET

That's right lefties, attack all the Obama critics. It's called moderation in this country. You don't have to like McCain's criticism, but boy am I glad he can freely express his views. Why did CNN allow comments to be submitted on the "Obama attacks Fox news" article, but then remove them once there were some negative comments for our Commader in Chief. Supression of the opposition? Hello Iran, here we come. Let's continue to sensor the media – love it!!!

joe smith   June 17th, 2009 11:48 am ET

I have one for mr mccain and mr. obama; please find out what happened to the Freddie Mac report, instead mincing words over a deadbeat country, with a deadbeat government. This Nation, which the two of you swore to uphold, can't even get to the bottom of a key financial report owed to the very American people you so desperately try to placate..

Simmy   June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

This coming from the candidate who selected Palin, wanted to suspend his campaign, rode into DC on a white horse to save the economy, and made a mess of a mess........May his words fall on deaf ears.......President Obama should keep his cadence......Let change come on Iran's forum.....If and when the time comes, he will know exactly what to do......Peace

Drew in PDX   June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

Nobody meddled in our 2000 flawed corrupt election... :\

citizenjane   June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

Yes, McCain, lets do get more involved. Shall we bomb, bomb, bomb Iran? Shall we tell Ayatolla what we want him to do, and then if he refuses, what, blame President Obama for not being forceful enough? Win win either way, right?

LAW   June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

has McCain forgotten history????? we did that- we meddled in the affairs of Iran and became the Great Satan. A friend of ours did a year as a hostage in Tehran because of this policy.

If we are seen to be on any side at all. – that side becomes "the tool of the Great Satan" and all credibility is lost. McCain – SHUT UP!

Al-NY,NY   June 17th, 2009 11:47 am ET

Rob 11:30 am ET
Obama commands Israel to stop building settlements, yet says he doesn't want to be 'meddling' in Iran. No real hard thinking here to see which side Obama's leaning towards.
-----------------

A completely flawed argument. When we send billions to Iran on a yearly basis THEN we can get involved in their internal affairs. RIght now, Israel needs to heed some advice from the POTUS unless they want to get cut off and of course they don't want that. As for McCain, SHUT UP. You are undermining Obama's efforts in the region. Back in Duh Duh Duhbya's time, the righties screamed bloody murder when a Democrat had openly disagreed

Kevin   June 17th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Strange how McCain and other Republicans forget the controversy of our own election in 2000. Maybe as they say, those in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. We have no proof of how any vote stealing in the Iranian election may or may have not been carried out. The same Neocons are just itching for a reason to take over Iran like we so "sucessfully" handled Iraq (that is sarcasm for any of you fellow neocons reading this). Any interference will simply serve to infuriate Iranian officials. Many NGOs over there are just now recovering from a crackdown when their government thought the US was intefering. Its time to shut up about their election and start talking more about ways to help our own fragile economy recover.

Ajw   June 17th, 2009 11:46 am ET

This coming from John McCain who infamously said, "Bomb, bomb Iran." Of course, he said that not knowing that there were things out there called "Google" and "youtube" which would make those comments known to everyone. Just like the Mullah's in Iran thought that they could lock down the country just by banning reporters.

Greg, San Francisco, CA   June 17th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Wrong again John. Any statement of support for the Iranian protesters will give the hardline regime and the mullahs an excuse to crack down more violently, citing interference from the American infidels. You never think things through John, just like when you picked a 'thoroughly vetted' VP candidate.

phoenix86   June 17th, 2009 11:45 am ET

Hey Obamabots,

Try being informed instead of just opinionated.

Tony in Maine   June 17th, 2009 11:45 am ET

McCain is pandering to the lowest common denominator in the Arizona electorate. I keep waiting for him to break out in song again.

Buddy San Diego   June 17th, 2009 11:44 am ET

And you, sir–who was NOT elected president–exactly what would you do???

Schlocktight   June 17th, 2009 11:44 am ET

Where were you comments on election freedom when your party was stealing election? Take your modernized racist comments and your bad jokes and go live in Alaska with the new leader of your party along with your wife and drugs.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   June 17th, 2009 11:44 am ET

Well, it doesn't seem like we need to be urging anything except calm and peaceful protests for Iran's civilian population. We know that there is a problem, but to get ourselves directly involved and attack them over this is premature.

Tim   June 17th, 2009 11:42 am ET

Proof that ahd we elected this warhawk we'd be sacrifing our soldier's lives for that cause as well.
Thank God this old fool didn't make it to the Oval office.

Jean (Plantation, FL)   June 17th, 2009 11:42 am ET

I think McCain should mind his own business. We had a rigged election right in the US in 2000? Did he call for international observers? Did he think the international community should have blessed the results of the election? No.

I don't think we have anything to say to Iran. Let the Irannian people take care of their own fate.

lurch   June 17th, 2009 11:42 am ET

I agree with the president. We really have no need to put our noses in the affairs over there, however we should know what is going on. But the way McCain is talking is not to smart I guess that's why he lost and Obama won.

Jessica   June 17th, 2009 11:41 am ET

This is why im thankful McCain and republicans didn't win. Inserting the US in this affair – at this point – IS MEDDLING! And everyone in the world knows that.

Imagine if other nations swooped in in 2000 – when we KNEW Jeb and Florida stole the election, along with OH! And they declared that our elections were fraudulent (hindsight 20/20 most of the world didn't realize the bafoon we were getting in Bush).

We suspect they were fraudulent, but we can't prove that? What good would getting involved, short of supporting the people of Iran who wish to secure their freedom and right to cast their vote and have it counted?

We can only support – and SHOULD this turn far more bloody, then yet, the intl community (not just us) should step in and try to do something.

We cannot let another Tiannemen Square happen

Nan   June 17th, 2009 11:41 am ET

Though it is most likely the Iranian elections were not fair, there is no way of knowing if the outcome would be any different. Yes it is impossible to count 40 some million votes in a few hours. But remember that the protests are being held in the cities not in the south where the poorer people live. Obama is being very wise in his reaction. The knee jerk reaction of attacking is what has caused so many countries to dislike us. McCann is once again showing that he does not think before he speaks. He should take into account all of the facts. Obama is wise in opposing the violence but stating we should not meddle in the Iranian affairs. This allows the US to take the high road and not give the current Iranian government the ability to state the unrest is due to US intervention and cause further hatred in the region.

Tim   June 17th, 2009 11:41 am ET

Shut up McCain, President Obama is handling the situation just the way he should. We cannot interfere in another countries election process.

Russell   June 17th, 2009 11:40 am ET

I geuss it's just the great white American way to meddle in other countries affairs , why would Obama do more thatn just comment on Iran , isn't it enough that foriegn countries look at the US as blueye'd devils , and don't know how to mind thier own business , try for once Mcain to keep your mouth shut , because if the peope of Iran know that US has any even the littlest hand in their election, that would compound the problem , How come so many white republicans always think their way is the only way to get things done , if they haven't been paying attention this country was almost destoyed financially because of that John Wayne shoot from the hip mentality , that's why Mcain lost the election , because the first thing they want to do is pull out the sword on you .

MLMitchell- Baltimore,Md.   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

Funny how people conviently want to direct or suggest how things should be done, when people that looked like President Obama were often violated and even killed just some 40 yrs ago.......no Human Rights issues then, say John!

Peter Weller   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

John McCain, is history, the future is a mystery, Pres Barack Obama is a gift today, he is a present to the people of the United States and the World at large. We need new, fresh and useful ideas, not old and stale ideas that have been tried and shown to not work. Thank you.

Arizonian   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

Shut up bomb bomb Iran John. You lost. Let the Iranians handle their own affairs, it might work out better for them than you think.

Anonymous   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

The republicans have no sense of subtlety when it comes to confronting problems of the world...they have only one response, bluster. It is the right way to confront the hard liners in Iran. If we are seen to meddle, they will just begin to encircle their current president and protect him. They just have not gotten it that we don't want their ways of facing the world any longer...John, we will bring you home for a long retirement at the next election....

Michael in Tucson

JM   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

I see McCain's point, but I have to agree (especially given our history with Iran) with President Obama. It just would not be productive and of course, we would be trying to be helpful (and it would be), but Iran and other right wing Muslim countries would just see it as us interfering and it would just make our relationships with them, which are already bad enough as it is, even worse.

gl, From Pittsburgh   June 17th, 2009 11:39 am ET

Why do so many Republicans what the USA to meddle in other courtries affairs, but hate for THE USA to take care at their own country. McCain incase your forget THE USA IS fighting two wars one that was an unnessary war. McCain we all know by now you are obessed with fight wars all over the country. MAIN REASON YOU ARE NOT OUR PRESIDENT. PEACE AND BE STILL!

Beacon   June 17th, 2009 11:38 am ET

I could not disagree more with Mr. McCain–Pres. Obama is supporting human rights, free speech and personal involvement in due process. He has decried the violence while supporting the Iranians' right to question authority and to undertake their OWN assessment and treatment of THEIR situation. He has not put his oar in where it is neither wanted nor requested at this time. Like most (if not all of the rest of the world leaders) he is awaiting the PROOF that the elections were (or were not) corrupt rather than going on surmise and suspicion before he takes a definitve stance. My old grey-haired mother once told me, "A smart person has the information; a wise person knows how and when to use it." Thank goodness there's a wise person in the White House.

Hastey Dellinger   June 17th, 2009 11:38 am ET

Obama won't stand up for the democratic process because he doesn't believe in it himself. He doesn't care if he is showing himself to be indecisive and weak because he thinks by being everybody's friend, no country will attack us. What a fool!

jj   June 17th, 2009 11:38 am ET

Shut up old man McCain and let our prez do his job and go 2 one of your 7 houses. Will reps ever give this president any credit?

Royster   June 17th, 2009 11:38 am ET

McCain's Iran solution: INVADE! Thanks John, more of the same.

yolanda   June 17th, 2009 11:37 am ET

This is one reason why McCain is not the president. Knee jerk reaction like this can only create more problems for America with Iran. His handling of the financial melt down gave America a clue to how he would govern, reckless and thoughtless. I am thankful that I have a president that thinks through situations before acting a craze cowboy.

Joanne   June 17th, 2009 11:37 am ET

Statements like these from McCain are exactly why he was not elected. Remember his 'bomb bomb bomb Iran? What a jerk!

Tracy---Indianapolis, IN   June 17th, 2009 11:37 am ET

What response do you expect from a Natural Born Killer(McCain)?

Obama 12

Dante in Madison, WI   June 17th, 2009 11:36 am ET

Well we know how HE would respond if HE had one the Presidential election: Nuclear war.

Fortunately he DIDN'T win the Presidency so in short, who cares what McCain thinks?

Corey   June 17th, 2009 11:36 am ET

McCain, I agree it is highly likely this election was rigged. Albeit, what SOLID evidence do you have that the elections were flawed? Unless you have irrefutable evidence, unlike that given by the Bush Administration for Iraq (WMD's, Saddam/Bin Laden link) or the Johnson Administration for Vietnam (Gulf of Tonkin), imposing the will of the US on Iran will only lead to trouble, as evinced in both the Iraq and Vietnam wars. Moreover, it will only lead to greater US animosity in the Middle East region.

robert J   June 17th, 2009 11:35 am ET

I don't think John MCcain is qualified to speak on anything current. The man and his reputation and his thinking are from the past. Voters clearly stated this so why does the media continue to pander to his expertise? He is just another out of touch, just say no Republican . Let our President work in his way and lets see what happens. The Republicans had 15 years to screw everything up. Let the President at least have a few years of his own!

Eddie B.   June 17th, 2009 11:35 am ET

John McCain is a warmonger. Period! It would be the absolute worst thing for the U.S. to get involved with Iran's election process. If by any means, the protest for Mousavi is aligned with the U.S. support it would be devastating to their movement. The history of the U.S. meddling and basically trying to run Iran is over and plays against the U.S. every day. This is why he is not President!!! Barack is doing the absolute right thing.

United States President supporter   June 17th, 2009 11:35 am ET

John McSame that's why you didn't get elected samo ol' bush thinking..

Jim   June 17th, 2009 11:35 am ET

Well John, if you were president....oh wait, you lost. Nevermind...

Pete   June 17th, 2009 11:35 am ET

Thanks GOD that this knee-Jerk pro-WAR idiot isn't running the country. My GOD people. Let's see, Obama makes an address to the Islamic people of the world and wow, things start to change. These idiots would perpetuate aninmosity forever.

Why do Republicans Hate America and everything it stands for? Why do conservatives HATE the troops?

They would sell us all to our death to make a penny. We need to round them up and send them to re-education camps.

katiec   June 17th, 2009 11:34 am ET

Hey CNN
Why are you allowing comments on Mccain but have taken them away from other controversial articles?
Mccain, if we cared about what you had to say we would have
elected you president. By now you would have probably bombed
Iran.

Jeff, Huntington Beach, CA   June 17th, 2009 11:34 am ET

Take with a grain of salt any comment coming out of an old clown who sang "bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran. (McCain should be a has been) War and conflict are always the answer for those who will sacrifice nothing in that war or conflict. Have known too many "hawks" (and parted ways with such) who's selfless rhetoric never matches their self centered, self righteous actions.

Jerk   June 17th, 2009 11:34 am ET

McCain, this kind of meddling in other countries affairs is what has made us less safe!

It is up to the Iranian people to determine their future, not us!!!!!!

gl, From Pittsburgh   June 17th, 2009 11:34 am ET

This is why McCain is not the President becasue he love to shoot at the hip. This is not the President of the USA call. Peace and be still is the right way. Stup up McCain you lost. No one is listening to you.

Chesapeake, Va   June 17th, 2009 11:34 am ET

Shut up Mc sain.... We have our own problems to deal with.

Cindy   June 17th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Thank God this man didn't win the presidency! We would be in another war because he wants to run the world. Let Iran handle their problems. America is always in everyone's business this is why we are so hated around the world.

LOL!!!!   June 17th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Shut up, Johnny.

What about our own little Bush/Gore debacle?

Ivan Schiff   June 17th, 2009 11:32 am ET

Then when Iran crushes the protesters claiming they are a tool of America, McCain and his co-supporters will say Obama went too far.

Claude   June 17th, 2009 11:32 am ET

This is an internal Iranian issue. Any comments by the US is not helpful. McCain needs to shut up and let the President do what he feels is right.

phoenix86   June 17th, 2009 11:31 am ET

Oblama has reached a new low, even for him, with respect to his weak-kneed response to the ongoing oppression in Iran. Even FRANCE and Germany took a strong position in support of individual rights in Iran.

Oblama's position is based on two overriding themes: Self agrandizement and fear.

One and done.

Yute!!   June 17th, 2009 11:31 am ET

Thank God Johnny's not the president. Seems we may have avoided WWIII.

Willy Brown   June 17th, 2009 11:30 am ET

That's because Barry's clueless on the A A Job title

Rob   June 17th, 2009 11:30 am ET

Obama commands Israel to stop building settlements, yet says he doesn't want to be 'meddling' in Iran. No real hard thinking here to see which side Obama's leaning towards.

southerncousin   June 17th, 2009 11:30 am ET

Way to go John, now lets tell the truth about those new UN sanctions against NKorea that Hillary and the dear leader are so proud of. The biggest joke that has been perpetrated on the American people since the election of the Hussein Obama.

Big red shoes   June 17th, 2009 11:29 am ET

Mccain is a clown and should shut up. He will never be president.

JS007   June 17th, 2009 11:29 am ET

McCain is a fool. Obama knows very well that the best way to help the Ayatolla's crush the opposition is to make it look like the US is involved in some way. I'm so tired of the neo-con stupidity.

Sniffit   June 17th, 2009 11:28 am ET

"On this issue, I do not believe that the president is taking a leadership that is incumbent upon an American president, which we have throughout modern history"

And our behavior towards Iran over the past half century is to be considered a smashing success, McCain? Sit down, shut up and let the people with new ideas handle the hotplates buddy....mindless continuation of our previous policies, actions, statements and overall positioning towards Iran WILL NOT GENERATE PROGRESS. This is nothing more than a pot-shot from someone who would've perseverated the discord.

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   June 17th, 2009 11:26 am ET

Well the President's approach is way better that what McCain would have ever attempted. How'd that song go again? Bomb Bomb Bomb, Bomb Bomb Iran. Keep your comments to yourself McCain.

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