McCain 'would consider' Huck debate

Posted: Tuesday, February 26, 2008 2:38 PM by Domenico Montanaro

From NBC/NJ's Adam Aigner-Treworgy and Matthew Berger
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- After Huckabee earlier said he'd like to debate McCain again, McCain said the Huckabee campaign has never contacted his staff for a debate. But he left the door open for a face-to-face meeting.

"I did not know that he had sought to do that," McCain said in Cincinnati. "In fact, we've had 16 debates since this campaign began, and I've been engaged in every one of them. So, I would certainly consider that proposal."

Huckabee campaign national chairman Chip Saltsman said here that the campaign had not officially sent a letter or contacted the McCain campaign seeking a debate, but reiterated Huckabee's words that the campaign had "made it very clear" they wanted a forum. He also said there had been plans for a debate but the television network scheduled to air it backed out.

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Rev Wright; Obama's Pastor earned another masters degree in the history of religions with a focus on Islam

Wright sought to build his church on the black theology of liberation, the Marxist ideology introduced in 1968 by Rev. James Cone of New York. It emphasizes Africa's contribution to Christianity rather than that of mainstream white theologians.

At Trinity UCC's 2007 Trumpet Gala, Rev. Wright named Louis Farrakhan, head of the Nation of Islam, as Trinity's Man of the Year, and awarded him the the Lifetime Achievement Trumpeteer Award."

It was Farrakhan, who was quoted saying, "White people are potential humans -- they haven't evolved yet"

Ben Wallace-Wells notes in Rolling Stone: "This is as openly radical a background as any significant American political figure has ever emerged from."

Tsese are the men who are backing and endorsing Barak Obama.

America wake up!

john doe (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 2:45 PM)

This would be an interesting thing to see. Would they include Ron Paul who has even less of a chance to beat McCain? It is unlikely that either Ron Paul or Mike Huckabee could win enough of the remaining delegates for there to be a ballot at the convention. If the Ron Paul supporters haven't figured this out, then they are really missing something.

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 2:54 PM)

So if a debate had been scheduled and was cancelled---sounds like all parties would be free on that date and able to debate. Since MSNBC is airing this topic it might be in their best interest to host it. It would seem fairly easy to plan at this stage since I'm assuming a venue had already been set up for the previously scheduled debate. Sounds like it's just a matter of getting television crews there. Doing so before the next round of primaries on March 4 would be a service to GOP voters (unless this really is more about a coronation than a nomination).

GP, Milan, IL (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 2:57 PM)

We need a debate!! I think a debate where both Huckabee and even Ron Paul might actually be allowed to speak, unlike the other 16 debates referenced, would be a great idea. It should happen as soon as possible, as a matter of fact.

Amy, Statham, Georgia (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:07 PM)

This would be like a night and day contrast to see them deabte. One looks dead and the other is full of life. One is a liberal and the other a true conservative. One speaks out both sides of his mouth on issues the othe clearly articulates an understandable message. If sure you know who is who. McLobbist would get destroyed.

Chris Taylor (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:09 PM)

There has been a petition in the works to be given to Mr. McCain for a few weeks , and over 11,000 names have signed it. I consider myself an independent, but I am one of the signees, because McCain is vying for us independents too. As is Huckabee. I'm not sure if they have given the petition to Mr. McCain yet.
Mr. McCain should debate Gov. Huckabee if he still considers his reputation a selling point in this election. DEBATE REPUBS, DEBATE!!!

Katie, Des Moines, IA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:15 PM)

What a great move by MSNBC to possibly form a pre-Texas/Ohio primary debate between the Republican contenders. Another move to show the other networks that MSNBC cares..!

m. j. Dacula, GA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:21 PM)

John Doe ... this must be a plant ... or you are not reading the topic. Your posting has nothing to do with this topic. In addition, the attitudes of an infintesimal number of those who support Senator Obama have nothing to do with whether he agrees with them or not. He has stated many times that he does not support Farrakhan's ideas. You obviously either cannot read ... or choose to read only those idea which give you a reason to rant.

Get out of the Gutter ... and Get Real (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:22 PM)

john doe....I congratulate you on your courage (using your real name) and your originality (john doe). Such rhetoric is unbecoming and an inaccurate representation of the coalition that supports Sen. Obama. Surely in the past 50 years you've supported the same candidate that the skinheads have or even the same party the KKK has voted for. Does that fact reflect poorly on the vote you cast?? I don't think so...and neither does the views and beliefs of those that are in your life either. Siomply put, CUT IT OUT!! That whole fear campaign is so 2006, maybe you should wake up!

eric, NC (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:28 PM)

First Carter, then Clinton, now Huckabee.

I used to think I didn't like Democrats...

maybe I just don't like Baptists...

bullfrog7 Fort Smith AR (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:31 PM)

So lets take a few bets here.
How long do you think McWar can stay awake during a debate?

Longer or shorter than Darth Vader in a shrub meeting?

HP Boston (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:32 PM)

HP Boston (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:35 PM)

John Doe,

What is wrong w/ a church that promotes African contributions to the Bible??? You do know that a lot of Biblical stories took place in Ethiopia and Egypt?? Both in Africa!!! So why can't African Americans learn about that portion of our history. we learn about Africans contribution to History in other ways why not Christianity???

As for Farrakhan!!! He is just a symbol at htis point and carries not weight with mainstream African American Society. The Nation of Islam is a small sect of Black Muslims who more often thah not have nothing at all to do with the radical Islamic terrorists. In fact the Nation of Islam was institued in America as a means to help blacks achieve a certain amount of achievement from the white society that was oppreeing them. The Nation educated inner city blacks, got them off the street and helped to empower people who felt otherwise powerless. After the death of Elijah Muhammed and the defection and death of Malcolm X the Nations power was not the same. Ans to end this...... Farrakhan can endorse whoever he wants. His endorsement is probably not even wantd by the Obama camp. But Obama is probably gracious enuff to accept support from him even if they have different political views... Not to mention I sincerley doubt that Obama thinks white people are the devil.... I beleive he loves his mom and grandparents and other family members too much!!!!

Kris STL (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:39 PM)

I think a McCain/Huckabee debate would be a HUGE ratings boost for the network that has the courage to show it. For a while now, Huckabee has been shunned by the media leading people to believe he was pretty much out of the race.

If they suddenly see a debate scheduled, they will definitely want to tune in and see what's going on. the drama would be so thick, you could cut it with a knife!

Come on MSNBC....host the debate!!!!!

Brent P., Bristow, VA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:40 PM)

John Doe, I HOPE that you are just being sarcastic and I'm misreading your post.

But if you're not:

I'm sure that the Ku Klux Klan is strikingly opposed to Barack Obama's campaign. Does that mean all the candidates opposing him share the same values as the Ku Klux Klan?

The answer, obviously, is No. The fact is radical people, apparently including yourself, can endorse all they want to as free Americans, and no one can stop them. It's whether a candidate ACCEPTS that endorsement that should speak to his or her character.

In all of the history and facts you provided, nowhere did you ever mention an actual connection between Obama and those men.

EJ, Florida (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:44 PM)

This would be really helpful. In the past, the debates have been primarily time given to the favorites, and then the CA debate where McCain and Romney spent most of the time disagreeing with each other. So it would be great to see Paul, Huckabee, and McCain spending some time really hashing out the issues. Let's hear about immigration, taxes, education, energy independence, and other stuff. Skip the pointed questions about evolution and affairs with lobbyists and talk about the plan to make America a place to dream and hope again.

Tea Anderson, Ventura CA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:46 PM)

john doe -

We aren't all sheep told what to do by religious officials - some of us (not enough) think for ourselves.

As for Farrakhan, Obama said he didn't even want that endorsement - he can't tell who to endorse him and who not to, they have free speech just like you do, thanks to a government not controlled by religion that tried to keep "heresy" as a state crime for centuries across the world.

Michael, Plymouth, MN (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:51 PM)

This debate will never happen. McCain doesn't stand anything to gain and it will only serve to legitimize Huckabees campaign. As it stands, McCain will get his delegates he needs by next week and Huckabees 'miracle' will come up short. McCain will keep ignoring the presence of Huckabee and Huck's run will end as it did on SNL, being the butt of the joke.

Mike, Lodi CA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:51 PM)

McCain has everything to lose, and huckabee everything to gain doing a GOP debate. I don't see why McCain would even consider this but I hope it happens and then the nation can see why Huckabee should be the next president of the United States.

Adam, Ames, Iowa (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:52 PM)

Well, John Doe (btw nice name: afraid to put your name there?) it seems that your post is somewhat stilted to a side. I'm not sure which.

The idea that Christianity is a white or black issues shows the narrowmindedness in which we view religion.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but the last I checked Jesus was not white nor black but a color somwhere in the middle. The idea that "white mainstream theologians" are the definitive view on Christianity is a bit arrogant, and the last I checked that was a sin.

The idea that African or AA's cannot have an interpretation of Christianity is, well, let's say the Jews and AA's have more in common than white Americans have with Jesus.

Obviously, people like Farrakhan are the same as you only flip colors. However, I seem to remember something about freedom of speech in this country whether you like what they say or not.

Lastly, why are you scared? The idea that this country was setup on the princples of Christianity is simply a misnomer. The last time I read the Constitution, Dec. of Indep., and read about the forefathers, they were men of principle and believed in God and that men are guided by those higher laws, but they seemed to forget, or more precisely, did not mention which religion.

So, wake up and read!

T Terry (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 3:54 PM)

the idea of this has really got to have Romney truly pissed ...

------

BTW, to John Doe above: if 2 million white (non-racist) people endorse Obama, and two racist blacks endorse him, who should I be swayed by? The answer is none of them; they make up their mind the way they wish, I make up my mind the way I wish; since I'm no follower, looking at what they do is simply a spectator sport for me.

I don't believe obama is muslim, I don't believe Obama is a racist (neither his white side or his black side), I don't believe his wide appeal, which may include racists should concern me unless he is seeking such endorsements.

Moreover, I don't believe our country is served well by people who misjudge him as a god or as a 'wolf in sheeps clothing'. The dude is human, all things considered, it is virtually impossible for anyone to do worse for our country than Bush (well except Guiliani, but that's water under the bridge now).

So I'm fine with whoever gets in: Clinton, Obama, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, or Nader, although I won't be voting for any of them, I'm voting for Romney.

jim (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:08 PM)

Alright, you've got to be kidding me with this one. The debate that was cancelled was scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 28th in Houston hosted by MSNBC!!! Please don't pander to us like we don't pay attention to our candidates schedules. You're trying keep John McCain from being put on display for all of America to see his faults because we don't have a choice in the matter anymore now that he is the nominee. And yes, S.B. Stein, the Ron Paul supporters know this, but we relish every opportunity that Ron has to call McCentury out on his idiotic statements and beliefs. It's highly entertaining to us.

Americans for a President who doesn't suck (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:14 PM)

Everyone knows, especially McCain...McCain cannot hold a candle to Huckabee's abilities and intelligence. It's a crying shame they're assuming Republicans will automatically give in to this charade. All three remaining candidates should debate!

Lynn (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:16 PM)

I along with tens of thousands of others have been emailing every media outlet for the past couple weeks asking them to please schedule this debate between Huckabee and McCain. For the people, of the people, by the people... isn't that why we elect a president?! We are not being given that chance. We are having "our" candidates shoved down our throats. This debate needs to be scheduled immediately. Hopefully John McCain is a man of his word and will go through with this debate.

Lisa Gooch, Coupeville, WA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:16 PM)

John doe,
I say you are a bigot. You love to hate, that is it.
Seriously, you are implying that America's unviersities should ban Islam studies so that we can deprive citizens the information they need to udnerstand Islam in its context in order to try to create a harmonious rather than hateful world community. I, Protestant, have a BA in Islamic Studies to help me understand the problem of radical Islam in a world where Muslim nations are emerging as economic and political power houses. One of my friends has a degree studying Chinese culture in an era of China's emergence as an economic and military power.
So, I frankly don't udnerstand why anyone should have to be penalized for majoring in any thing they want. I cannot think of other reasons for your continued cocnerns about Obama's Islam link other than to say that you are merely a bigot with a mind too narrow for a good education.

Ron Allen (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:24 PM)

I would like to see McCain, Huckabee and Paul debate before the Texas/Ohio/VT/RI voting. Now that there are only 3 candidates left in the running, it would be a great service to voters to let them hear from each remaining candidate to make the best choice. If those four states come out for McCain, great. It would only help him in the general election. And who knows, maybe Huckabee or Paul would show a surprise.

Gia, Portland, OR (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:28 PM)

If there's a debate, you bet I want Ron Paul in it! It's not about the nomination, although it's still a long time until August, it's about educating the American people.

The United States is bankrupt. It's the end of the welfare/warfare state no matter who is elected President. The only question remaining is how soft the landing will be when we crash.

Ron Paul is the only candidate who discusses the root of the problems we are facing and the solutions. The more people who hear his message; the faster our country can restore the Republic and become a free and prosperous people once again.

MME, Philly, PA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:33 PM)

A debate would be great. The GOP needs some discussion of issues, not just little "gotcha" stories and fluff.
The best thing would be a Q&A with the audience.

Another idea - even better. The Dems and the Reps all on stage together. Each and every candidate would answer each and every policy issue. Say 3-4 minutes per answer with 6 big questions.
1 - Economy
2 - Foreign policy
3 - Health care
4 - Domestic policy
5 - Vision for America
6 - Leadership

No attacks on the other candidates, just each persons ideas. We need this type of a look at the candidates side by side.

Mike Boyer (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:38 PM)

Go to www.mustdebate.

Cathy Catey, Abilene, TX (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:42 PM)

I for one remember from history how many conventions were brokered. I like the idea of a convention like that. Huckabee can win when people are given a choice of Mccain or Huck. Too many dropped out leaving delegates that can choose either.

MyKisa Summerfield Florida (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:51 PM)

John Doe great piece and true. It is trinity united church of christ,so it can be checked out. Can anyone tell me is the sight :freedoms enemies a good site??It gives the names of 2 of Obamas classmates from one of the 2 Jakarta Schools he attended.Barry(as he was known than)previously very religous in Islam.that was from Rony Amiris another classmate now ceo of Garuda Indonesia said he(Obama)was often in prayer room wearing sarong. I dont see anything wrong with any of this except Obama tries to distance himself from it. He was born of Muslim man and had Muslim step father thats fine just say so. He was so small than.When he was able to reason for self chose christianty or is this another ok I dont need you anymore to Islam.That would be bad .Its not the fact even though his followers get so hyper over it.It makes sence and by him and so many followers screaming about it makes Muslims look bad/That isnt right cause they are great people too.Everyone should be looked at for this highest job.Maybe this will be in there debate.

Joe (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 4:52 PM)

To GP:
It may be too late to 'uncancel' this specific debate because of when it was scheduled. It was scheduled for a Tuesday, being either last week or tonight; I cannot remember which week.
In general: Another televised debate with all canditates is still worth while. If only to remind us... which candidate represents me best; and not primarily focused on who has the most delegates in an unfinished election run. Knowing who is leading does not help me in decision making.

AK, NOTL, Ontario (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 5:00 PM)

McCain doesn't want a debate because he knows Mike Huckabee would win it with his clear and witty and wise and insightful words. Huckabee is a wordsmith and he would beat McCain handily. Since McCain is out ahead of him, he would lose his momentum and likely would even lose his cool. McCain does not speak well on his feet like Huckabee does. McCain would be backed into a corner with Huckabee winning every aspect of the debate.

Gerald Voie (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 5:01 PM)

I would like to see a republican debate before Tues. The press would have a great story here. McCain would get more exposure. And Huckabee would bring up some good issues.

Michele, Colorado Springs, CO (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 5:10 PM)

I really think every Republican should demand this debate. While McCain may be mathematically considered the nominee he has in no way endeared himself to the substantive core of the party. He needs the opportunity to gather more support from the base before assuming we're all going to vote for him in Fall. In addition, Mike Huckabee has been written off by every major media source for the past month and a half. He has earned the right to engage a fellow candidate at any time. I believe the problem lies within media circles and their heavy-handed, presumptive treatment of this election. It seems that almost no one is willing to give Huckabee a fair shake.

John P, Emmaus, PA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 5:11 PM)

I agree that MSNBC should host the debate! And, perhapes each candidate could be given equal time and valid questions? The previous deabates I've seen were poorly handled with McCain and Romney receiving much more time and respect and they received questions that were valid. Huckabee and Paul had to fight for time and Huckabee had to answer questions about his religion. Was Mitt Romney at any time asked about his religion and to explain how it might influence his decisions as President? What about McCain or even Paul for that matter? Did anyone ask them about their views on creation????

Yes, a debate would be great--one conducted in fairness and focused on issues relavent to the presidency!

But chances are it won't happen (MSNBC - prove me wrong!). Those of you supporting Huckabee--don't worry! McCain will HAVE to debate Huckabee in September at the convention. Watch and see! Those of you who have negative things to say about Huckabee - please, open your eyes and ears.

D. Holland, Mechanicsville, VA (Sent Tuesday, February 26, 2008 5:18 PM)

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