October 9, 2009
Posted: October 9th, 2009 10:53 AM ET

(CNN) - Arizona Sen. John McCain said Friday the Nobel Committee's decision to award President Obama the Peace Prize was likely based on expectations, not accomplishments.

"I can't divine all their intentions, but I think part of their decision-making was expectations," McCain told CNN's John King. "And I'm sure the president understands that he now has even more to live up to."

But Obama's former rival for the White House said he was happy with the decision.

"I think all of us were surprised at the decision," he said. "But I think Americans are always pleased when their president is recognized by something on this order."

John King's full interview with McCain will air Sunday on State of Union at 9 a.m. ET.

Filed under: John McCain • Popular Posts


Emma   October 9th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

I was not surprised that Obama was awarded the prize and I expected John McCain to be negative about the honor. The GOP is fighting hard to regain their influence, but have neglected the quality of gentlemanly discourse in the process. At least John McCain, this time, was more politically correct in his putdown.

justin   October 9th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Nice deduction genius.

Mike   October 9th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Does McCain remember his las award? or his last Solution to todays problems???

Lynda   October 9th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

Some of the more serious Republicians know that BASHING this President over this award is going to be the END for many so called Superstar GOP'ers........the far right wing has taken control of this Party and the Moderate and common sense conservative Republicians don't know how to get it back and out the the hands of Limbaugh, Hannity, Beck, Palin, Wilson so the rest of the GOP in the House and Senate are starting to follow the radicals lead.......but it is the wrong road and it will lead them down a path they don't want to go down......because it is a losing path.....

JR   October 9th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

"But I think Americans are always pleased when their president is recognized by something on this order." John McCain

Americans yes, but republicans no, they're incapable of patriotism.

~~ July ~~ ( Working HARD to make TX Blue )   October 9th, 2009 12:19 pm ET

This award was given to the American people .... WE have to earn it too ....

Doc in Virginia   October 9th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

When McCain whines it's like the yelping of canines having intercourse.
I hope JD Hayworth beats him in the primary like the family mule.

richie   October 9th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

Run Johny run to your mouth piece John king...

cindy   October 9th, 2009 12:15 pm ET

Thank you Mr. Mccain for showing people like hannity, rush, and bill o and some of the republicans how a true american should act when someone gets such an honor. I truly believe if gentlemen like you would stand up against all the hate, with the exception of a few brain washed crazies, the hate would start to subside and America would not look like a joke as it is looking now. I do believe alot of the haters are more like the taliban than you realize. Their goal is to hate and destroy also. And you Christians who saw palin promote hate and gloat at the effects, shame on you, what does the Bible say about back biteing and hate? Please people, start acting like the United States of America, God Bless America and the President, and you Mr. McCain.

sick and tired   October 9th, 2009 12:14 pm ET

I think all Americans should take this moment for what it is worth. The other countries are saying basically "we think President Barack Obama and the United States is headed in the right direction." Many people say he doesn't deserve it. You are entitled to your own opinion. I think the whole message has been lost. Other countries are recognizing our President because he's taking the time to reach out to them and listen and exchange thoughts. He's will to say okay you don't agree with everything the United States has done or is doing. That's okay. Let's see what we can agree on and how we can work together. The world is reaching out and encouraging our President. Surprisingly many of us can't even do that. The United States doesn't have to bully everyone. Might does not always mean right. I think we should have already learned that lesson as a country. If the United States keeps sending out the message that either you agree with us and do it our way or we're not goin to talk to you or we're going to destroy you, I think we will find the United States alone on most matters that are affecting the world. Let's be civil and let's get behind our President so that maybe he can accomplish great things within our borders and around the world.

unshrub   October 9th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

Talk about someone with sour grapes. Why can't this guy be happy for him, and why can't he be proud of him as our President? McCain has become what is so wrong with out poliits. They are no longer happy with success, even if it is for our country, if that success is from the other side in politics. Wrong, wrong, wrong.

Jeff   October 9th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

I wonder if John McCain is saying to himself, "This should be me!!!"

I also wonder why the Republicans didn't nominate Joe the Plumber for a Nobel Prize in Economics.

Marie Laveaux   October 9th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

Bravo, Senator McCain, I think you echo not only your own feelings, but that of the President as well, judging from his speech a little while ago. We should all be proud that an AMERICAN got the award.

Lisa P   October 9th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

The RNC should have consulted McCain before they put their foot in it. He's got it right this time.

Bill   October 9th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

McCain is Jealous.

Obama deserves Nobel. He has already Accomplished it.

Dal in CA   October 9th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

Grapes are sour is the response from the Republicans.
The International community is seeing OBAMA as a person who is and has been bringing people together to discuss their differences and start to work together as one human race on this planet.

david   October 9th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

I have to admin, I was wrong.. there is 1 decent human in the republican party. Thank you for being an American before allowing your affiliation to skew your words.

dee   October 9th, 2009 12:08 pm ET

Clearly McCain hasn't heard/read the reactions from his own party...not every AMERICAN is celebrating the fact that the President has been recognized with such an honor...nor have they read the statement from the Nobel Committee that recognizes they awarded Obama for what they basically HOPE he accomplishes....

Sean, Atlanta   October 9th, 2009 12:08 pm ET

SORE LOSER!

Just like all the other republicans!

Cameron   October 9th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

Poor John, he is still a sore loser!!! the sad part about he and his buddies is that they don't recognize this is a win for our nation not the man.

yougottobekidding   October 9th, 2009 12:06 pm ET

McSame, the polite thing for you would be to congratulate the President! Instead of questioning why you did not win the award. lol

yougottobekidding   October 9th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

STOP WHINING! You already lost the election!

Willy Brown   October 9th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

McCain shut yp. you blew the last election by being too much like a democrat lite.

Doc SteveO   October 9th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

John, if I had only seen or heard lots more of this during the campaign, voting for you would have been much easier to at least consider.

rhymenocerous   October 9th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

Very classy response from J-Mack. The rest of the Republican party could learn a few things from this man.

sherry   October 9th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

Sound's like McCain is whinning.......
Why do the right wingnut's alway's say the cup is half full?
They have no optimism or hope and only believe in negativity.

Really?   October 9th, 2009 11:56 am ET

And we had no expectations of you to do anything and you still won't tell us where Osama is, although you say you know. "He has evern more to live up to"...and what the h3ll makes you get up each morning?

James   October 9th, 2009 11:56 am ET

No doubt about that because Obama has not accomplished anything other than revoking Bush's stance on abortions, continued funding for wars, tuned his back in Israel, and cradled third world dictators.

Mickey, NY   October 9th, 2009 11:56 am ET

Who cares what this coward thinks...republican politicians are domestic terrorists. They stand for everything that;s wrong with this coiuntry.

Evolve or die...

Mike C. from Canada   October 9th, 2009 11:54 am ET

John McCain = pure class.

He's proven over and over that he's an American FIRST and FOREMOST. It would have been easy to expect instantaneous whining and criticism from the Republicans but McCain shows that he is able to rise above partisan politics and support his president.

Clay   October 9th, 2009 11:54 am ET

If only the Son of Cain were to understand that it's all of us who should strive for peace...But I guess that peace is something that's just not a part of his genetic makeup...

Mohandas Ghandi   October 9th, 2009 11:53 am ET

This award is an insult to previous Peace Prize winners (forget Gore) Obama should not accept it until he has achieved some of the expectations of him.
Obama had to nominated for this award after being in office for 11 days.

WI Vet   October 9th, 2009 11:53 am ET

REALLY!!, people are mad that the leader of the United States, the Global Rep. of the American Dream to the World was awarded the NPP.

Are you peole really that hateful and crazy??? Are the political factions that blinded by "I wants" to not see the bigger picture of "We can".

Maybe if our Pres was more hated as other Pres. they would feel better.

Clay   October 9th, 2009 11:52 am ET

If only the Son of Cain were to understand that it's all of us who should strive for peace...Ibut I guess that peace is something that's just not in his genetic makeup...

Post always rejected by CNN as well   October 9th, 2009 11:52 am ET

"I can't divine all their intentions, but I think part of their decision-making was expectations," McCain told CNN's John King.

Hey Johnny boy, just congratulate the president and leave it like that. No need to go into speculation. 'And from the tone of your voice, it doesn't sound like you're all that thrilled about it.

Too bad you'll never get the Nobel Peace Prize. LOL!

Kim   October 9th, 2009 11:52 am ET

John, you fooled me.. good job.
I know that was hard but was well said.

RNC = DNC = politics as usual   October 9th, 2009 11:50 am ET

Prison camps still open.
Torture redefined.
Sending more trrops abroad.
Continuing two major wars.

How does that qualify?

Just like his wild campaign promises that went no where, this will drop his poll numbers even farther.

Death Assurance Companies   October 9th, 2009 11:50 am ET

John,just go back to your nap,making sure you and your VP nut job,Sarah, didnt get elected was enough to gain the prize.You and Glinda would have started WWIII by now.

Eliza   October 9th, 2009 11:49 am ET

For once, McCain uses his own reasoning powers, can see things for what they are . . . not his party's usual negative persuasions, and gets it said, before the bosses shut him up.
He does have more positive contributions, no matter if siding with the Democrats or the Republicans. And, best of all, can express his own views, after all.

Mike   October 9th, 2009 11:47 am ET

We would be pleased if he had accomplished something positive. He has only quadrupled our debt and deficit to the delight of third world countries. He has weakened us in world standing and I only hope we can survive long enough for elections in 2010 and 2012.

Ric In Pennsylvania   October 9th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Sour grapes. Nothing more. It's a sure bet had McCain won, he wouldn't be getting any prizes unless it was for picking the most stupid running mate.

sheslovin   October 9th, 2009 11:46 am ET

Your missing the point of the award. It's for bringing peace to the world, not fixing America's financial problems. Obama's speeches have helped bring peace talks to the table. We should be proud this president is getting the Nobel Peace Prize and not getting shoes thrown at him.

Veteran of War   October 9th, 2009 11:45 am ET

Finally a straight talker, a soldier that thinks before he talks and can recognize the intention of the award where other cannot

Doug   October 9th, 2009 11:45 am ET

YES Sir, we are all pleased for our president to win Nobel.

Ted Tartaglia   October 9th, 2009 11:44 am ET

John McCain is not long for the Repub party. Limbaugh, Hannity, Beck, Steele, and others of their ilk will ban him from the party for such outrageous support of our President.

I Support President Obama!   October 9th, 2009 11:43 am ET

It is hilarious watching rethuglicans foaming at the mouth. What makes people hate so much? Here at work they are almost dying and good for them! Congratulations President Obama! You deserve a peace prize just putting up with the rethuglicans your first year in office!

Only 23% of the country approve of Republican'ts in Congress   October 9th, 2009 11:43 am ET

Any American who is NOT pleased to have their president receive an honor like this is anti-American in my opinion! I don't care what your politics are, there are times when Americans need to put partisan politics aside and pull together for the good of the country and THIS is one of those times! To have a president who is awarded an honor such as this after 8 long years of having a president who was REVILED by most of the world is something every singel American should be proud of and again, in my opinion, if you're NOT proud of it then you should just leave this country!

Fools and their freedoms are soon parted   October 9th, 2009 11:42 am ET

True. now maybe POTUS will do more than appear on Letterman.

Colleen   October 9th, 2009 11:41 am ET

Very classey response. Way to go Mr McCain. Tell your fellow GOP'ers they should do the same.

Henry Miller, Libertarian, Cary, North Carolina   October 9th, 2009 11:40 am ET

If they're giving out awards based on expectations, I think they should award my son a 2014 Winter Olympics Pairs Figure Skating medal–his principal coach, an Olympic medalist herself, thinks it's possible. And my daughter, according to the same coach, has a similarly good shot at the 2014 Ladies medals.

Paul   October 9th, 2009 11:40 am ET

McCain, you are not a God, thus you can't divine anything. And we all pretty much understand, to you the Orwellian saying Peace = War is how you equate. At least you recognize this award is an honor, but do you understand why you could never receive such an honor yourself? I am not sure that this award is warranted, but we definately have a less hostile adminstration in office at this time, that prefers diplomacy over thuggary.

sandy   October 9th, 2009 11:37 am ET

Thank you Mr. McCain. It's too bad other Republicans can't stand up for their President. It's sad that these people act the way they do. I will remember their actions when I go into the voting booth. This country belongs to all of us.

Dave   October 9th, 2009 11:37 am ET

I guess McCain didn't get the memo that Republicans are supposed to denounce every Obama victory and celebrate every failure. "But I think Americans are always pleased when their president is recognized by something on this order." Really Senator McCain? That sounds downright patriotic. I'm not sure how long the RNC will put up with that kind of thing.

Mark S.   October 9th, 2009 11:37 am ET

McCain obviously didn't see the RNC response. They, as Republican Americans, were NOT pleased that "their president is recognized by something on this order." They cheered the loss of the Olympics, and jeer the President winning the Nobel Prize. Whose side are they on? Why do they keep comforting the enemy by attacking our Commander in Chief? If "the enemy of my enemy is my friend", then the RNC and Osama bin Laden must be best buddies by now.

Tom C in NY   October 9th, 2009 11:37 am ET

a rather classy comment by McCain, I must say,

rr   October 9th, 2009 11:35 am ET

Show some guts, Senator.

This prize is a slap in the face to the peace and human rights activists who risk their lives and freedom every day in Russia, China, Myanmar, Sudan, Somalia, Venezeula, Iran, Cuba and other places.

This prize was given to Obama for words, not actions. Name one place on the entire planet that has more peace or human rights because of President Obama.

Jackie in Dallas   October 9th, 2009 11:35 am ET

Now, that is a nice, measured response from the "old" John McCain, the John McCain I could have voted for; the one who realizes that the President represents our country to the world.

And yes, the decisions are based on expectations...most are. When the Nobel Committee awards prizes to medical researchers, it is not only for what they have done, but the effects on the future that their research can engender.

andy   October 9th, 2009 11:34 am ET

McCain is right. Obama has accomplished nothing. He is a failure on the wars we are fighting. His stimulas was a joke. His attempt to socialize medicine is more scary than funny. Of course, McCain will be called names for saying anything about the dems chosen messiah, the great Obama.

Dont blame me   October 9th, 2009 11:34 am ET

For Obama to receive the Nobel Peace prize, ( he was only in office for 9 days before the voting cut off date ) just goes to show how CHEAP the prize is.

I mean, what did he do to DESERVE the prize after only being in office for 10 days???? Obama only spent 100 days as a US Senator.

Ther is only one word for the Nobel Peace prize now, CHEAP.

Just think what all Kissenger did to earn it.

Mississippi Miss   October 9th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Surprise is not the word I was looking for. If this is a good thing for America, I fail to see it. The less that President Obama is seen and heard, the less I blush with shame, that this is the best we could do for the great country that so many of us love. He does not love this country like many of us do. His mistrust and lack of true patriotism is based upon the past wrongs of slavery and injustice that this country had to overcome. We are still overcoming. President Obama has helped to fuel the fires of racism in this country, that the Nobel Peace Prize committee obviously does not understand. We are just waiting until he exits the world stage, because so many of us know that he is the worst thing that ever happened to this country. Let us pray that he gets the Afghanistan strategy right. I wish he could pray about it, and I wish that he had God on his side, but the sides that he chooses are anti-faith, anti-morals, and anti-sanctity of human life.

Peace yes.. purity no... faith... no... hope... not without faith.

Four and The Door   October 9th, 2009 11:33 am ET

John McCain is always a class act.

Common Sense 09   October 9th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Still a sore loser; republican! Fact is he received the award for many things and one is beating the heck of you, his campaign was the 1st of its kind for the president, the 1st African American and then he has inspired many people across the world that this mess Bush allowed will pass! Therefore don't hate the accomplishment but celebrate our President!

jpspec   October 9th, 2009 11:33 am ET

Obama was nominated just two weeks into his presidency! This announcement comes at a time when Obama is making his decision on Afghanistan. This makes me suspicious that the timing is meant to influence Obama's decision.

confused   October 9th, 2009 11:32 am ET

WOW, nice reasonable comments. I'm actually SHOCKED!

Bill from CA   October 9th, 2009 11:32 am ET

Too bad more Republicans didn't have the level of dignity and class that McCain does.

cornell smith   October 9th, 2009 11:32 am ET

MCcain would not of won it in a thousand years ,because he is a for war. mike steele could not of won it either because he is Rush L in blackface. This is a peace Prize not a war prize. He should of won the prize for justr running for and winning the office of the strongest nation on the planet. i am a Viet-nam vet and i am tired of our childen dying in wars because we refuse to tallk to one another. Bush and chenney were people believed in physical power. it does not work that way anymore. Obama is headed in the right way at least.

Don in Albuquerque   October 9th, 2009 11:31 am ET

That little green dragon on your shoulder shows Johnny.

Party's Over   October 9th, 2009 11:30 am ET

They don't give out this award to people who they think might do something. He was awarded for his accomplishments thusfar. Can you Republicans ever acknowledge anything good that doesn't involve money?

Dan   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

The senator has become a positive and moderate voice in his party, primarily because many Republicans have become ever more strident and extreme in their opposition.

Al from Denver   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

I am surprised that President Obama won the Nobel Peace prize, but what surprises me the most is the response from the RNC and Michael Steel. Instead of being proud that his president won the award, he issues a statement slamming the president. This statement just illustrates further where this country is headed. Obama didn't ask for this award and I'm sure he is just as surprised as everyone else, but why criticize and condemn the hope that is obviously behind his selection. I truly feel sorry for any american who resents our president for winning the Nobel Peace Prize.

WhoCares?   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

You mean all Americans but the RNC eh John?

No ..Maybe you're right since I don't consider people that root against America getting the Olympics and are angry when the President of their country wins the Nobel Peace Price.

I would call those people Anti-American.

Dan   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

This is how REAL MEN respond in politics. None of this BLAH BLAH RIGHT WING THIS or BLAH BLAH LEFT WING THAT"
Just : "man did good, props to him etc"

mike   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

He has knowledge of why Obama won the award because...............???????

Equality for all   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

Yes, we do have great expectations for President Obama. All Americans, Republican, Democrat, Independent, need to support this administration, and I believe he will live up to these expectations.

Dominican mama 4 Obama   October 9th, 2009 11:28 am ET

You hit it right on the head McCain. Finally. The Committee chairman, when questioned, stated that Obama was NOT the first person to win the prize at the beginning of his efforts. They cited Gorbachev as another recipient that obtained the recognition before the body of his work had manifestd itself.

Here's the bottom line: The committee voted and saw fit to award Obama the prize. Our president needs all the support he can get both domestically and internationally in order to bring to fruition his ideals for our country and indeed the planet. He is currently working in a vaccuum. With his opponents blocking anything and everything, and his political 'supporters' milking this opportunity for their own personal aggrandizement. How difficult his path is as he goes it pretty much alone. I thank the Nobel committee for lending their approval to what he seeks to accomplish. For giving him from half-way across the globe a resounding and encouraging pat on the back. If only to say to him what should've fallen on our shoulders as citizens of this country to have said: we support you, we encourage you, we stand with you.

Chris   October 9th, 2009 11:27 am ET

"But I think Americans are always pleased when their president is recognized by something on this order."

Did you read that? McCain just called all the wingnuts un-american...

Molly Weasley   October 9th, 2009 11:27 am ET

Thank you, Sen. McCain, for staying classy and acting like an adult on this matter. Perhaps you could mention this to others in the GOP.

Peace Smeach   October 9th, 2009 11:27 am ET

I say congrats to President Obama – now since he won the PEACE prize he will have the courage to meet with that hate mongering Dali Lama.

I wonder how American Budists and Richard Gere feel about the fact Mr. PEACE PRIZE won't meet with Mr. PEACE

mjm   October 9th, 2009 11:27 am ET

Wait...I thought the republicans were criticizing the award and acting like terrorist?

Not so much.

Linda   October 9th, 2009 11:26 am ET

Thank you John McCain for not going with your ridiculous 'party liners" who are now spewing their hate because the President of the United States of America was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize! How hateful and unpatriotic they are – they do not represent me or my great nation.

Congratulations President Obama. There's a chance peace will come in our lives, please buy one.
All we are saying, is give peace a chance.
Make love, not war.
No nukes, no nukes
In our lifetimes.....

scott in atlanta   October 9th, 2009 11:26 am ET

Wow... The audacity of HOPE...(expectation) We haven't had any of either in a long time... The reward is deserved and note-worthy. Tell me Mr. Mccain, what did you "EXPECT" from out last president?

Ex-Repug   October 9th, 2009 11:25 am ET

Imagine that, a Republican making a back-handed compliment. McCain and his friends are not a very gracious as usual.

Ruty   October 9th, 2009 11:23 am ET

McCain is jealous because a black man beat him. Plain and simple. McCain is a dumb head who needs to shut up. The more he talks the dumber he sounds.Obama has a brain instead of air in his head. Maybe you need a transplant John.

John (A Republican African American)   October 9th, 2009 11:23 am ET

McCain you are such a sell out. No wonder repubilcans dislike you and Bush kicked your butt.

Brian - Trinidad   October 9th, 2009 11:23 am ET

Had to understand the Nobel Judges.They award a Nobel Prize to physisicts some 30 years after they invented something and gave Obama a prize for something that he did not do and probably will never do.

dash   October 9th, 2009 11:23 am ET

He's must've not got the Talking Points memo this morning...

Tom in CA   October 9th, 2009 11:22 am ET

Expectations ... something that neither Senator McCain or ex-Governor Palin can comprehend.

AEK   October 9th, 2009 11:21 am ET

And the 2009 Nobel Prize for Stating the Obvious goes to John (I just can't help myself) McCain! He is, however, the lone Republican not criticizing the President for receiving an award he did not expect or lobby for.

Moderate Democrat   October 9th, 2009 11:21 am ET

McCain still regrets being a traitor, going on the radio for the enemy and condemning his country men and helping kill many of his fellow soldiers. If he were in Afghanistan today, he would be telling Al Qaeda where all of our bases, strategy, and high profile personnel are: Just like he did in Vietnam!

JOHN   October 9th, 2009 11:21 am ET

Our president has done more to promote peace in his short time in office than Bush did in 8 years of office.

obama the liar   October 9th, 2009 11:21 am ET

let me think about this....jimmy carter–arafat-barack obama-a three ring circus.

sarah   October 9th, 2009 11:21 am ET

Why would anyone care what a Vietnam screw up like McCain thinks? THE GOP IS NO LONGER RELEVENT TO AMERICA

mayahh   October 9th, 2009 11:20 am ET

And I shall appoint you "KING" of your nation, your blessings will be many, all that you have requested will be granted, your coast I shall enlarge..

Olumadunwa   October 9th, 2009 11:20 am ET

I hope Senator McCain will at least see beyond politics for once in his life. I acknowledge the fact that he's been an influential politician in the United States for more than a quarter of a century; but life is not always about politics. We get serious when we have to and we play politics when we have to, there is time for everything.

Willy   October 9th, 2009 11:20 am ET

McCain has been doing a decent job of keeping it classy lately. I can appreciate that. I'm baffled by the nomination myself, but instead of being a divisive jerk about it, he took the high road.

Sgt. USMC   October 9th, 2009 11:19 am ET

Republicans are hateful beings. Run McCain, get out of that party because they will turn on you for not being hateful towards President Obama.

Clive   October 9th, 2009 11:19 am ET

I can't believe I'm typing this , but I actually agree with John McCain. I fail to see how the man who is in command of the biggest military in history, who (still) runs illegal prison camps and lets the Israelis do whatever they want to the Palestinians is deserving of this honour. Walk the walk Obama.

worriedmom   October 9th, 2009 11:19 am ET

Words mean nothing, it is action that does.

Robert   October 9th, 2009 11:19 am ET

Now THAT is a classy response. One the Republican rank and file should take note of. My respect for McCain has just increased.

Of course it is for future expectations. He hasn't been in long enough to have accomplished anything worthy of it yet. The president of that committee said they did the same thing with Gorbachev in 1990. So it is not unprecedented.

Teddy Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter, Al Gore, and now Barack Obama. Five great men who this country can be proud won this award.

LacrosseMom   October 9th, 2009 11:18 am ET

Poor old McCain, you just can't stand this young brilliant man, can you?!

HBO   October 9th, 2009 11:17 am ET

McCain is sick with these facts:
1. He got thrashed by a young, non-white, intelligent, leader; and,
2. The honors just keep rolling in for the man he lost to.

He will be remembered forever as the bitter old white man that lost to the better, young, black man.

Poor, poor sad, resentful, old man.

Repubhypocrites   October 9th, 2009 11:17 am ET

Who cares what republicans think! They are haters and antiobama no matter what. Get over your bitterness hatred and jealousy! Obama always imitated but never duplicated! Sorry Rush, Coulter, Hannity, O reily, and Beck.

awaitingmoderationby CNN   October 9th, 2009 11:16 am ET

You have to remember the Nobel Committee has awared the prize several times now to blithering idiots, Yassir Arafat, Jimmy Carter and Al Gore. I think maybe Obama will be happy to join this Hall of Lying Idiots, he may become their king. He is certainly qualified. In reality it is a slap in the face to a president who actually read and followed the Constitution of the United States and stood up for our sovereignity rather than the one world order. Watch what happens to our currency and this absolute moron the liberals, ACORN/SEIU and George Soros put in as president, will smile and accept another phony award for that from all of these people of the world who are so devoted to destroying the health of the United States.

Steve in Kentucky   October 9th, 2009 11:16 am ET

You need to rename this from the Political Ticker to the Right-Wing Propaganda Stream.

The president wins an impressive award and all CNN can do, mostly, is to go interview people with hateful things to say and then post stories about them. I mean look at the headlines here:

McCain says Nobel award based on expectations
Poll: McDonnell widens lead in Virginia
RNC slams Obama award
Rollins: Nobel committee cheapens award
Praise and skepticism greet Obama's peace prize
'A' for effort before finishing his test?

With fair and balanced coverage like this, who needs Faux News?

Larry   October 9th, 2009 11:16 am ET

After 8 years of disasterous Republican policies the world has a lot of expectations for President Obama.

manya   October 9th, 2009 11:15 am ET

The award has been given for an honest effort to make a peaceful world . No rhetoric. Modern civilized world, nuclear weapon free . pollution free.
no more barbaric wars, peace and growth and progress.
let us help accomplish this task. We can leave a wonderful planet for the future generations.

Farrell in Houston   October 9th, 2009 11:15 am ET

Michael Steele is head of the RNC and he doesn't agree with McCain, he agrees with the Taliban and Hammas.

Barbara   October 9th, 2009 11:15 am ET

This, indeed is a show of class for Senator McCain... – kudos to him for not bowing to the RNC line.

bill   October 9th, 2009 11:14 am ET

Although I am not a fan of this vindictive and bitter old man, he was more congratulatory and kind than the other members of his political party were.

They are just downright mean, vindictive, and play "win at all costs in 1012", even if it means the degredation of this country.

Advocate50   October 9th, 2009 11:13 am ET

Kudos to John McCain for taking pleasure in his former opponent and an AMERICAN winning the Nobel Prize. No wonder he has failed to garner whole hearted support from Republicans himself.

T'SAH from Virginia   October 9th, 2009 11:13 am ET

WOW – a Republican that is thinking straight and no one would expect it from McCain... This is the approach all of the REPUBLI-CAN'Ts should take instead of HATING!!!! If President Obama PRIZE is based on EXPECTATIONS – then he will still deserve it!! If he does not in the end DESERVE IT – then the REPUBLI-CAN'Ts can KICK HIM TO THE CURB and say I TOLD YOU SO for the rest of their lives.

We – as Americans – should embrace this no matter what and let the world see that WE ARE THE WORLD and for once can GET ALONG!!!

BUT not here – not USA – not the small pockets of AMERICA who feel they are a dying race and don't want to go out QUIETLY!!! It’s a SHAME!!!

U GO OBAMA!!

Susan   October 9th, 2009 11:13 am ET

McCain should get ignobel award for introducing us Palin.

Concerned82nd   October 9th, 2009 11:12 am ET

Nonsense! I’ve no idea what’s going on but it sounds like a sham to me. How in the world does one win a Nobel Peace Prize for doing nothing?

There are sooo many more deserving people of this prize. From global aid workers, who have given their lives to the “meek”, to others who have highlighted the plights and tribulations of the same people.

Obama will use this money for democratic campaigns, while those truly deserving to be be Nobel laureates would spend it on their humanitarian causes.

Good job Nobel committee; you just cheapened the value of the prize!

Allysia   October 9th, 2009 11:12 am ET

Just plain jealousy.

Duck Fallas   October 9th, 2009 11:11 am ET

THATS the John McCain we admire and respect. Where's he been the last several years?

Lisa   October 9th, 2009 11:11 am ET

McCain wanted Tom Delay to win....he's been on Dancing with the Stars and darn it, he's got talent!

FormerGOP   October 9th, 2009 11:10 am ET

THANK YOU JOHN FOR SHOW HOW TO BE A REAL AMERICAN CITIZEN!
Thank you for standing by your country and President,
Your fellow republican need to follow your lead!

Limbaugh is a liberal   October 9th, 2009 11:10 am ET

The prize is not as much Obama's as it is America's at large. Sure, Obama may not have actively been involved in diplomacy for long. But the day he was elected the whole world celebrated. And that's a great accomplishment. For us, America! You can search long through history books, but at no time in history was the election of a US president so widely celebrated! So the prize is well deserved. Not by Obama, but by us!

Dot   October 9th, 2009 11:09 am ET

I applaud Senator McClain for his gracious statement re President Obama's win of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. I have heard a great deal of grumbling nationally and internationally this morning on the news including the gasp when the announcement came in Oslo. Mr. Obama's presidency is indeed early. His hopes were high during his campaign and are still high. Let us sit back and take a deep breath. Let us be proud of our country and of our President. Let us, too, keep our hopes high!

Lyle   October 9th, 2009 11:09 am ET

Just green with envy!

Shellie   October 9th, 2009 11:08 am ET

McCain's just jealous.....again.

Michael in Houston   October 9th, 2009 11:07 am ET

What the heck do you know McCain.....your the one who dug up Sarah Palin and shoveled her on to the rest of us.

Thanks alot for that by the way. Ya...she personifies the Office of the Presidency

Peter E   October 9th, 2009 11:07 am ET

No offense, but even Hillary Clinton has done far more for world peace, even before becoming Obama's Secretary of State, than the president has. And I don't think people nominated her. But what do you expect from a prize committee that gave the much coveted 'peace' prize to Arafat once!

victim of republican greed   October 9th, 2009 11:07 am ET

I don't think Fox lies, Beck, Hannity, and Limbaugh are very happy today. Maybe tomorrow, something terrible will happen, and then they can rejoice.

sammieb51   October 9th, 2009 11:07 am ET

And the alternative "expectation" was McCain/Palin - nothing like having the Clampets in the WH ... come listen to my story about a GAL named ..... give me a break guys - if McCain/Palin were in charge, things would REALLLLLY be BAD!

Larry of Norway   October 9th, 2009 11:07 am ET

There were 20 second place ties for the Peace prize this year; they were all the Miss America contestants who prayed for World Peace.

In third place was an 84 year old woman from Lithuania who had a dream about workd peace.

A Democrat of 51 years who has finally got smart to their foolishness.   October 9th, 2009 11:06 am ET

Well if it has anything in expecting change then they have a long wait, don't they. When the Boss is asleep leaning on his hoe.

Jim   October 9th, 2009 11:06 am ET

ummmm, noooooooo.

"The Norwegian Nobel Committee said it gave the prize to Obama for his "efforts to strengthen international diplomacy," his "vision of and work for a world without nuclear weapons" and for inspiring hope and creating "a new climate in international politics.""

there's NOTHING in there about "expectations"

when will republicans stop being part of the problem and start being part of the solution.

No More Incumbents   October 9th, 2009 11:05 am ET

OMG. A nobel prize for campaigning. Amazing. Name 1 thing he accomplished that could come deserve this award. I'm not anti Obama. I just wish he would start to do the things he promised on the campaign trail and stop spending my kids money like a drunken sailor.

Citizen of the USA   October 9th, 2009 11:05 am ET

HOORAY for a deserving President! Our President has done so much to improve humanity throughout the world. So who is more deserving than President Obama. Of course, he has many enemies that will crush him no matter what his accomplishmenta are. I say to those persons, be proud of President Obama's accomplishment. HAIL to our chief!

IndyVoter   October 9th, 2009 11:04 am ET

This is one of the saddest days in US history when the world sees that Americans can't even rally around its own President when he is awarded by an independent body an award that promotes peace. Who would want this kind of "democracy"? If all we do is tear each other down and hoodwink each other out of our hard earned money, why would anyone want to be like the US? Like I said, it is a sad day.

Terry from West Texas   October 9th, 2009 11:04 am ET

McCain is often a gracious man. Unlike most of his Conservative colleagues, he does have morals and principles by which he tries to live. Republicans lost, but the did nominate a man we could have trusted as president. The last time they did that was when they nominated Gerald Ford.

dk   October 9th, 2009 11:04 am ET

Thanks for the patriotic comments John!

Sniffit   October 9th, 2009 11:04 am ET

Expectations? Huh...that's funny...cuz that's not what the people who gave Obama the award said. Today is fixing to be hilarious...the GOP is mid-conniption-it over this. Which one will say the hands-down stupidest thing about it? Stay tuned...

HouseDiva   October 9th, 2009 11:04 am ET

why wait till a person is long gone before you give him his flowers.

the sour grapes of wrath are coming on strong today.

Jayne   October 9th, 2009 11:03 am ET

SLAMMER! The Republicans can't stand it... They are so jealous!

lila   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Indeed, Obama woke up with the weight of great expectations just a bit more heavy. lol
But it also was an award given to him because he inspired the entire world. Granted not bitter hateful republicans or Bin Laden, but everyone else. That's not an easy thing to do. For a moment in history we all heard the voice of our better angels. That voice was a call for basic human decency. Shocking that basic decency has become so rare as to prize, but it has, and for that fact alone, we must treasure it, now more than ever. Just read the republican blogs and it is clear why this award to Obama is so fitting.

Bob in Pa   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Oh come on John, it was because the leftists involved knew Obama needed a boost. But the Peace Prize no longer carries the meaning that it once held. They have awarded it to to many who never accomplished anything. They award it based on intent, but not accomplishment.

Allen   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Who cares what that old foggy says. He has never been right about anything. That's why he'll never lead thsi great nation.

The black Spider   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Alfred Nobel stipulated in his 1895 Will – the peace prize should go "to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses."
Who do think Alfred Nobel would have vote for if he was still alive? The rest is jealousy.

Beth   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

McCain and his fellow Republicans are sooooooojealous!!!! And it shows!!!!

Truth-Bomb Thrower   October 9th, 2009 11:02 am ET

Certainly not on ACTUAL RESULTS!!!

(What a laughable joke this award has become. They should just rename it the "Disdain-for-America Award." Poor Teddy Roosevelt is probably rolling over in his grave.)

GI Joe   October 9th, 2009 11:01 am ET

The inept, songbird pilot warmonger knows he will NEVER get anything like this.

Jealous you sore loser?

Jose from Tampa   October 9th, 2009 11:01 am ET

Nice to hear something like this from McCain. If only he were the McCain of 2000.

KenB   October 9th, 2009 11:00 am ET

Wow...what a sore loser. Give it up old man.

liz   October 9th, 2009 11:00 am ET

Congratulation Mr. President. You deserve it. You've brought HOPE to the world. Your peace talk have brought Europe and America together again. The world look up to you.

katiec   October 9th, 2009 11:00 am ET

One thing you can know that if Mccain had gotten elected that he most certainly would not have received such a prestigious award as we would no doubt have three wars going now,
Never forget, Bomb, "Bomb Iran.
Diplomacy, meeting with and listening to other countries are not merits the republicans subscribe to.

Billy J..Texas..   October 9th, 2009 10:59 am ET

Although he is too hawkish for me, I was really rooting for this guy when he ran against the nimrod in the 2000 primaries. He has proven to be a standup guy when compared to most other politicians and way smarter than a lot of the competition on both sides of the aisles. Too bad his chance for the presidency had to be cut off by a lazy fratboy from Midland, we wouldn't be in the mess we are in now.

Brent   October 9th, 2009 10:59 am ET

Hearing that the Republicans are "outraged" over Obama receiving the Nobel Peace Prize is not surprising. Their party platform these days seems to be "let's just advocate against whatever Obama is for."

The question of why Obama received the prize is still open, however. If I were to hazzard a guess, I would say that it is because of how Obama has changed the way the US deals with the rest of the world. He has come out and denounced the torture that was allowed by Bush and has made changes to eliminate that sort of thing happening again. He has backed away from unilateral actions and pushed for more diplomatic and effetive means of solving conflicts. He has dropped the Bush doctrine of pre-emptive strikes against tiny third-world nations that really do not threaten us.

Overall, Obama has done quite a lot to restore America's image in the world, and has pulled the US away from actions that increase hostilities and make resolving things peacefullt very difficult. Since the US is the most powerful nation in the world, our stance vis a vis our neighbors and cohorts is going to have a lot to do with how peaceful a world we have, and this is why Obama has actually accomplished something worthy of this prize.

Shelly   October 9th, 2009 10:59 am ET

One decent response from the GOP. The rest of the GOP is drowned in paranoia, fear and hate.

PK   October 9th, 2009 10:59 am ET

The CNN journalist reports that McCain said (in CNN's words) that the Nobel was "based on expectations, not accomplishments."

But when you read McCain's actual quote, McCain says "part of their decision-making was expectations."

Did McCain actually say at any point that it was not based on accomplishments? CNN's words indicate that it was "based on" expectations (omitting "partly") and seems to insert its own "not accomplishments."

Preco   October 9th, 2009 10:58 am ET

Mr McCain what is the world expecting from you?

What do you think the world is expecting from the likes of you?

You old farts and the not so old crazies who brought the USA to this sorry path should shut up!

Mr McCain, I can divine your own intentions and they are NOT GOOD for the USA and much worse for the rest of the world.

Michael Moore Rules   October 9th, 2009 10:57 am ET

You lost, old man. Get over it, you dried up geezer.

Joan   October 9th, 2009 10:57 am ET

Finally, a Republican with some class who understands what an accomplishment this is and what an honour it is for the United States not just the President.

Brad   October 9th, 2009 10:57 am ET

I don't agree with his politics, but I have nothing but respect for John McCain. He understands you can disagree with someone without disrespecting them. I wish all Republicans, and even all politicians, were more like John McCain.

Jackson   October 9th, 2009 10:57 am ET

jealosy..you lost John McCain..now please get over it.

wait a minute   October 9th, 2009 10:56 am ET

I disagree with Senator McCain.

Fan of Common Sense   October 9th, 2009 10:55 am ET

After Seeing Yessar Arafat and Jimmy Carter win this thing, this should be a surprise to no one. Next year it'll probably go to Hugo Chavez or Ghadaffi.

Ray   October 9th, 2009 10:54 am ET

Don't feel bad, John. No one expected anything out of you. That's why you're not the president.

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