Obama strikes back at McCain

bc Indiana — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:04:32 GMT

Now I like this. Obama is clearly aware that al Qaeda is a threat and needs to be eliminated. He's not afraid to fight but he's going to fight smart.

Obama strikes back at McCain

SDinIA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:04:41 GMT

Wow, he linked John McCain to George Bush what, three or four times there? Can't hurt to connect the Republican nominee to the least popular president in the history of popularity polling.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Dante — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:06:10 GMT

Well said!!! Good job Obama!!

Obama strikes back at McCain

Soldier Not Blinded — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:06:49 GMT

You're paying attention Barack? You're paying attention? That's good.

Keep paying attention. Pay attention to the Middle East when you withdraw American troops and the entire regions plummets into anarchy of genocide and civil war. The war in Iraq has ruined that country and made extremists even more extreme -- but THAT is not the issue. The issue is withdraw, because we can pretend we didn't invade.

So keep paying attention, because I want a damn good explanation of how you're going to take responsibility for the hundreds of thousands that will die because of your crowd-pleasing withdrawal.

McCain may have been wrong to send us into a war in Iraq, but at least he understands the human price of withdrawal at this point. But wait, you're a democrat. You only care about human rights if those humans are American.

Obama strikes back at McCain

KL Banes, Provo Utah — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:07:52 GMT

Obama strikes back at McCain

Blaine — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:09:24 GMT

I can't wait to see Obama and McCain on stage. That visual alone will move the numbers positively in Obama's direction some 5%-7%. McCain lied on Romney and will try it on Obama and pay dearly for it.

Obama strikes back at McCain

sunny, nv — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:10:33 GMT

Who said he would have trouble handling Senator McCain?? If so, this is a very good start! Go, Obama, make us proud!

Obama strikes back at McCain

juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:10:59 GMT

McCain and GOP is all about fear mongering and conviently ignoring the fact that the Shrub/Darth vader's fiasco in Iraq led to Al quida being in Iraq. Obama is right on and I hold out hope that Americans will not fall for that snake oil pitch again.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Patrick, Detroit, MI — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:11:01 GMT

Again after the debate it's McCain and Obama talking at each other. Clinton's performance has removed her from the discussion. I would hope that Democrats can unite for common goals and leave the rhetoric and sore feelings behind

Obama strikes back at McCain

Jarrard Evens, Texas — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:11:04 GMT

Obama is in way over his head taking on McCain on foreign policy. Telling people what you would have done, and would not have done, is a lot different then actually doing something Barack. And looking at your resume, it appears you've done absolutely nothing, other then give speeches. Mccain is light-years ahead of you in getting things done in Washington.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Pat Burns — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:14:06 GMT

Poor John--Lost John
Lost john standing by the railroad track
a-waitin' for the freight train to come back.
The freight train come back but never made a stop
lost john thought he'd have to ride the top
Well, he's long, long, lost john
yeah, long, long, lost john.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Marbw — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:15:13 GMT

Barack cont'd part 3--
The first step must be getting off the wrong battlefield in Iraq, and taking the fight to the terrorists in Afghanistan and Pakistan.

I introduced a plan in January that would have already started bringing our troops out of Iraq, with a goal of removing all combat brigades by March 31, 2008. If the President continues to veto this plan, then ending this war will be my first priority when I take office.

There is no military solution in Iraq. Only Iraq's leaders can settle the grievances at the heart of Iraq's civil war. We must apply pressure on them to act, and our best leverage is reducing our troop presence. And we must also do the hard and sustained diplomatic work in the region on behalf of peace and stability.

In ending the war, we must act with more wisdom than we started it. That is why my plan would maintain sufficient forces in the region to target al Qaeda within Iraq. But we must recognize that al Qaeda is not the primary source of violence in Iraq, and has little support -- not from Shia and Kurds who al Qaeda has targeted, or Sunni tribes hostile to foreigners. On the contrary, al Qaeda's appeal within Iraq is enhanced by our troop presence.

Ending the war will help isolate al Qaeda and give Iraqis the incentive and opportunity to take them out. It will also allow us to direct badly needed resources to Afghanistan. Our troops have fought valiantly there, but Iraq has deprived them of the support they need and deserve. As a result, parts of Afghanistan are falling into the hands of the Taliban, and a mix of terrorism, drugs, and corruption threatens to overwhelm the country.

As President, I would deploy at least two additional brigades to Afghanistan to re-enforce our counter-terrorism operations and support NATO's efforts against the Taliban. As we step up our commitment, our European friends must do the same, and without the burdensome restrictions that have hampered NATO's efforts. We must also put more of an Afghan face on security by improving the training and equipping of the Afghan Army and Police, and including Afghan soldiers in U.S. and NATO operations.

We must not, however, repeat the mistakes of Iraq. The solution in Afghanistan is not just military -- it is political and economic. As President, I would increase our non-military aid by $1 billion. These resources should fund projects at the local level to impact ordinary Afghans, including the development of alternative livelihoods for poppy farmers. And we must seek better performance from the Afghan government, and support that performance through tough anti-corruption safeguards on aid, and increased international support to develop the rule of law across the country.

Above all, I will send a clear message: we will not repeat the mistake of the past, when we turned our back on Afghanistan following Soviet withdrawal. As 9/11 showed us, the security of Afghanistan and America is shared. And today, that security is most threatened by the al Qaeda and Taliban sanctuary in the tribal regions of northwest Pakistan.

Al Qaeda terrorists train, travel, and maintain global communications in this safe-haven. The Taliban pursues a hit and run strategy, striking in Afghanistan, then skulking across the border to safety.

This is the wild frontier of our globalized world. There are wind-swept deserts and cave-dotted mountains. There are tribes that see borders as nothing more than lines on a map, and governments as forces that come and go. There are blood ties deeper than alliances of convenience, and pockets of extremism that follow religion to violence. It's a tough place.

But that is no excuse. There must be no safe-haven for terrorists who threaten America. We cannot fail to act because action is hard.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:15:31 GMT

Strong message. I think we'll see details developed over the course of the general election, which will result in the American public even further questioning the strategic "wisdom" of the Bush administration.

Al Qaeda in Iraq won't survive a U.S. pull-out. In effect, they need to keep attacking us, to keep us there, to prevent the absolute massacre that would happen if they were to stay under Shi-ite rule.

George Orwell may well be writing about this as we speak, on that great typewriter in the sky.

Oh, and another point, Obama should try to get Tony Zinni as a running mate. Can't think of anyone with the capacity to better expose this farce on the trail. I have no idea if Zinni is a Democrat, or the least bit interested in public office, but it would be great if he could be talked into joining the ticket.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Archana Chatterjee — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:15:44 GMT

There will be many serious debates this fall (health care, the economy, the environment, civil liberties/Constitution, special interests/lobbyists) and many distractions (patriotism, college theses, middle names, foreign clothing) but the overriding issue this fall IS AND SHOULD BE -- What to do in Iraq ?

While 70% of American disapprove of the war, the question we face is whether we want to get out (realizing the risk that this may be a propaganda victory for the insurgents, Iraq may descend into genocide and a Iranian-dominant Shia state to the South as well as a "defeat" of the US) or whether we want to stay in Iraq militarily for at least 5-10 years at the cost of hundreds of American lives and hundreds of billions of dollars with no guarantee that things really will be better down the road.

This is the question the country has to ask - do we want a "Get Out' or "Stay In' strategy. each candidate will have 8 months to try and convince the American people. In November, we as a nation will decide what happens in and to Iraq.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Molly Grant, Deerfield, Michigan — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:16:08 GMT

More blah, blah, blah from Obama. That works when going against Hillary, but not when you're going against a true hero and a man with as much experience as McCain. Obama has news for McCain? That is laughable. Barack was messing in his pants when John was serving his country. And that fact is probably still true today.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Alan, NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:16:21 GMT

Is BO saying that today (not 2002) Al Qaeda is not in Iraq. I accept that they were not there in 2002 (where he seems to think we still are), however, and again I blame Bush, I do think there are Al Qaeda in Iraq today. How does that affect his withdrawal argument?

Obama strikes back at McCain

KJ, Dallas, TX — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:18:35 GMT

Thanks to Sen. Obama for once again setting the record straight. McCain, your antiquated ideas, philandering, persistent scandals, and lobbyist influences will not make their way into the White House in 2008. The American people are looking for a change. Someone who is honorable, respectful of the US and its citizens, and honest. You're definitely not the one.

OBAMA, 2008!

Obama strikes back at McCain

learn from Chamberlain — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:19:53 GMT

Does being the candidate of change mean that you ignore the past? Does history have no lessons to learn from? If Sen Obama does not see any threat to America from the middle east then he needs to say so. Also Osamma has been held in check, I do not recall an attack since 911. Maybe I missed it.. Just because he was against the war in Iraq does not mean everyone will love us if he is ellected. Please America agree with Bush or not we have not been attacked. Surley we have had success with that!!!

Obama strikes back at McCain

Ron Jeffers, Arizona Independent — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:20:09 GMT

John McCain is a one trick pony, and it's a pretty lousy trick at that. McCain publicly admits that he is not qualified to handle the economy, and I don't recall any McCain submission for a health care plan. All he is running on is his stand on the Iraq War....which the public has clearly shown they are tired of. McCain will get slaughtered in the debates AND in the general election in November.

Obama strikes back at McCain

ramus — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:20:55 GMT

It will be interesting for Obama to tell all of us what he knows about the execution of war. One would think that would be a skill set the cic of the country should have. Right now it looks like Obama's experience in that area is a whole big pile of nothing. Barack running a war would be like watching a blind guy competing in nascar.

Of course, if we just talk to these terrorist types, they'll come around to our way of thinking. Let us know about how that's worked for you in the past Barack.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Lifelong Democrat who'll vote for McCain if Obama is nominated — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:22:40 GMT

Obama is a weakling and a surrender-monkey. 4000(+) troops will have died in Iraq for nothing if he's nominated and elected.
I hope veterans organizations from all over the country read his words. He is dangerous to the security of our nation.
I say NO-bama, and YES U.S.A.!

Obama strikes back at McCain

kathe, Oakland, California — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:23:49 GMT

Surrender that is only word McCain seems to know - I guess a draw-back to Vietnam days. And McCain, if you are going to "quote" Mr. Obama do it correctly for that is not what he said - as usual you take it out of context. So you McCain want us to stay there forever fighting their war for them. When is it time for the foreign countries to stand up for themselves. We have major issues here in America dealing with the American People. When do you and your party talk to us about what you will do to help us?? And you know what. If President Obama pulls all troops out and terror threat is poised towards the USA, you betcha, we go back for that is the President's responsibility to protect America not change other countries.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Rajah Kahn — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:25:29 GMT

Obama has really evolved in being tolerant, poised, and confident. Now he speaks with much authority than Clinton and McCain. McCain seems to be aging each day, and his only point of mention is about the war. Up to now he does not understand that nearly 70% of Americans oppose the WAR. So what he is trying to prove is FUTILE. Let's get to the perspective of the real issues that are plaguing the American people, the economy, health care, jobs etc, that this administration has corrupted. This country is not all about WAR that this, "my friend", guy keeps talking about.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Alan, NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:26:16 GMT

And to all the newbies, Afganstan defeated the British Empire and the Soviet Union. Is this why BO wants to increase the size of the mlitary? Doesn't sound like change to me. Sounds more like those who don't read histoy a doomed to repeat it.

Obama strikes back at McCain

bart — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:27:01 GMT

War talk..it's all McCain knows...

Obama strikes back at McCain

Toby Hill — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:30:21 GMT

Obama is right, there was no "Al-Qaeda" in Iraq at the time but while he maybe correct in terminology he better research the formation of Al-Qaeda in Iraq before pretending to be qualified as CIC. As much as I don't like some entries in the main user defined on-line source one would be wise to research Ansar al-Islam. The congressional resolution following 911 included many radical terrorist groups that wished us harm and for Obama to claim none of those groups were in Iraq before we invaded is disingenuous.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Steven, Denver, Co — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:30:49 GMT

KL, You should catch up with the rest of the world. It was proven that Al Qaeda was NOT in Iraq at the time we attacked them.

I suppose you think they found weapons of mass destruction as well?

On another note, I keep hearing that McCain is a war hero. What does being a hero have anything to do with governing a country?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Soldier Not Blinded — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:30:55 GMT

Juan, you can scream about Bush "fear mongering" all you want and say McCain and the GOP ignored facts...

But you can't change THESE facts: since 9/11, there hasn't been a single al-Qaeda strike against the continental United States. Fear-mongering might put servicemen and servicewomen in harm's way, but it sure as hell keeps your children, your family, and this nation out of harms way. And guess what? That's why SOLDIER ARE SOLDIERS. Signing that dotted line isn't a cake walk. That's we they give us guns.

So complain about Bush fear mongering only after the next 9/11 -- which, by the way, won't happen until Obama pulls us out of Iraq and leaves Osama open to fly on over to us.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:32:57 GMT

Alan, if you want al Qaeda out of Iraq, then we should leave.

This presents al Qaeda with one of two options: follow us out, or stay there and face the Shia backlash.

Obama strikes back at McCain

JA NYC — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:33:08 GMT

I wonder why John McCain, being the "war hero" he is, hasn't come out and said that we should have continued the war in Vietnam rather than pulling out. It is, after all, analogous to the quagmire that we have in Iraq. And let's be honest, yes, there was tyranny in Vietnam after we pulled out, but thirty-six years later it is turned into a tourist destination for Americans.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Toby Hill — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:35:48 GMT

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ansar_al-Islam

Obama doesn't see any threat that was in Iraq before we went in because he's not a leader and won't read the evidence.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Yiannis, Baltimore — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:36:28 GMT

All of you who complain Barack is not a fighter will soon get a reality check:

"There was no Al Qaida in Raq before Bush/McCain invaded".

"According to our country's intelligence reports Under Bush/McCain Al Qaida has only grown stronger"

"Bush/McCain drove the US into a ditch in Iraq"

"Before Bush/McCain invaded Iraq oil was $27/barrel. To the benefit of Putin and Haliburton now it is $100"

"Bush/McCain were distracted planning the war in Iraq and allowed bin Laden to escape in Tora Bora"

"McCain says he won't strike bin Laden if the Pakistani government tells him so"

Obama strikes back at McCain

wayn, tampa, fl. — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:36:54 GMT

Obama is a nut job,he doesn't know anything about foreign policy. What a fake, Obama the cult leader.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Megan Jones, IL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:37:16 GMT

While McCain has served his country, Obama has served himself. You don't just come up through Illinois Democratic politics without having ties and doing deals for politically connected lobbyists, so Obama should just spare us of the image of him being a pure and honest politician. We've never heard a man talk so much, and say so little. The man points out problems, and then says "We're going to fix those problems!" Say what? How are you going to fix those problems Obama? Show us what solutions you ever came up with that were actually implemented. He can't, because there are none.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Bri — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:39:14 GMT

SoObama... is al-Qaida in Iraq or not?

First you say " IF al-Qaida is forming a base in Iraq" you will take action while pressing for a complete troop withdrawl.

Then when challanged, you say " I know al-Qaida is in Iraq".

Obama-- then why did you say the first statement?

Then Oama states that al-Quida was not in Iraq until the war sarted. LIE. They were there at least a year before. Read msnbc news archives if you don't believe me.

I know why Obama calls the war " misguided".

Because one of his distant relatives, Saddam, was deposed.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Theoko, Mpls — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:41:35 GMT

The McCain/Bush strategy has resulted in an Al-Quaida that is newly resurgent in Afghanistan, as well as a situation of relative calm in Iraq that is entirely dependent on a level of U.S. troop presence that we cannot maintain. More disaster awaits us in the future, and McCain still cannot see how wrong he has been. He is full of experience of a world that no longer exists, he is a dinosaur plain and simple.

Bring on the new blood to deal with the bloodbath brought to us by the old.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Reagan, Tampa, FL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:42:10 GMT

McCain will beat Obama to win the presidency...our country is not that stupid to put Obama in office. This is not Canada, France or Germany...this is the great USA.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Just for the Record — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:42:41 GMT

Well said, Molly. I think I'd rather have someone who's fought war and seen the ugliest side of war deal with Iraq than someone who has probably never even held a gun.

McCain was a tortured POW in Vietnam longer than Obama was in law school. AND McCain was a US senator before Obama even WENT to law school.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Bri — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:43:40 GMT

Obama does not know anything nor do many people on this site.

In the summer of 2002, Zarqawi was reported[attribution needed] to have settled in northern Iraq, where he joined the Islamist Ansar al-Islam group that fought against the Kurdish-nationalist forces in the region. He reportedly[attribution needed] became a leader in the group, although his leadership role has not been established. According to Perspectives on World History and Current Events (PWHCE), a not-for-profit project based in Melbourne, Australia, "Zarqawi was well positioned to lead the Islamic wing of the insurgency when the March 2003 invasion took place.

Obama strikes back at McCain

bill, okla — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:43:49 GMT

Senator McCain's comments indicate he has no faith in the "sovereign Iraqi nation". "My friends," he says,"if America leaves, Al Qaeda will take over the country." This nut wasn't kidding when he said we'd be there 100 years...if he's elected president. Poor student, bad pilot, off-kilter tempered politician - and scary to think of as president.

Obama strikes back at McCain

the truth — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:44:24 GMT

for those of you that say al queda was in iraq before the war, that is an untruth. if you would go check your facts by doing a little research you will find by account of the military and the present administration that al queda wasn't going to venture anywhere near iraq because saddam's iron fisted approach would not tolerate their entry into iraq.

to say something without knowing the facts is an indictment upon how informed one may or not be. in order to argue or debate on behalf of your candidate be sure to be informed so that you don't make your candidate look bad, not to mention yourself.

to dislike a candidate based upon falsehoods that you have convinced yourself is true is to fool only yourself. stop and take the time to educate yourself so that your comments will be taken seriously instead of being dismissed as foolish, unfactual rhetoric.

by the way. not all veterans agree with the war, but fight on because of loyalty to those we fight with. give most of us a chance to come home to be with our families and our brothers and sisters as well, we would come home.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Ken Mesle — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:44:28 GMT

Soldier Not Blinded,
You really need a more suitable name Soldier blinded by shiny neocon BS. Where is your outrage about the 600,000 + Iraqis who have already died because of your fearful leader's neocon pleasing war? I guess you weren't paying too much attention to the colateral damage then. Colateral damage is how you kool-aide drinkers refer to massive civilian casualties isn't it?

Obama strikes back at McCain

an unwavering patriot — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:44:37 GMT

and i approve this message because it's about time al qaeda paid for the horrendous act in 9/11. it's about time we took him out without resorting to fear to hide our strategic blunder in the civilian command of our military.

Obama strikes back at McCain

OGLib, New Jersey — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:48:07 GMT

With regard to the present, I don't think Obama is saying that there aren't insurgents in Iraq who call themselves "Al Qaeda". I think he's saying that we've been there long enough, we're not really helping the situation, and it's time to leave....and signaling that we will be leaving in the near future is the only way to get the Iraqi government to truly stand up.

It's been almost 5 years since the initial invasion. By AQI's own count, I believe they are down to about 3,500 fighters in Iraq. We need 160K troops there ad infinitum to fight 3,500 guerillas?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Ronnie, DC — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:48:20 GMT

"What Obama says is not true. Al Qaeda was in Iraq before the war. And as far as how to handle Al Qaeda, McCain can be viewed as the professor, and Obama can be viewed as the kindergarden student. Obama measured up to Clinton on the experience front (both have none), but he will never measure up to McCain."

A complete utter falsehood. Saddam put people in jail if they were even suspected of being a terrorist.

Obama strikes back at McCain

James G., Oak Park, MI — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:49:08 GMT

What Obama says is not true. Al Qaeda was in Iraq before the war. And as far as how to handle Al Qaeda, McCain can be viewed as the professor, and Obama can be viewed as the kindergarden student. Obama measured up to Clinton on the experience front (both have none), but he will never measure up to McCain.
KL Banes, Provo Utah (Sent Wednesday, February 27, 2008 1:07 PM)

Obama is correct. Say what you will about him, but Saddam did not allow Al Qaeda to fester in his country when he was in power.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Sierra, SF — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:50:01 GMT

Great lines, Obama
This McCain fellow, he's not so bright, is he ?

KL Banes, Provo Utah: '...What Obama says is not true. Al Qaeda was in Iraq before the war...'

There was a part of Iraq that Saddam couldn't control
That was the aprt that al-Queda infiltrated
But, al-Queda and Saddam were enemies
al-Queda was never in any part of iraq controlled by Saddam.
Saddam ran a 'secular Iraq', al-Queda wants a Muslim world.

Geroge Bush, John McCain and Hillary Clinton brought al-Queda into Iraq by invading it and removing it's government. It was their bungling that helped spread the influence of al-Queda in Iraq.

This unjustified war also helped increase the influence of Iran in Iraq, because it 'liberated' the long suppressed Shis's....

Please feel free to ask for any other clarifications you may need, KL
I'm glad to help in your education...

Obama strikes back at McCain

James Johnson, New York, NY — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:53:11 GMT

Go Obama, For those who have never been outside USA serving their Country and seeing death every hour and every day, You got no idea what an Actual war looks like. Loss of innocent lives because of Lies from Bush and McCain. Don't forget we invaded Iraq, we are an occupying Force in a Sovereign Nation. To make it worse it is 3rd Most holliest place (Land) in Muslim Religion. We Americans are not fighting Al Qaeda in Iraq, We are fighting a Culture Deeply rooted in belief and dignity of their religion. You can't change that using a war. Former USSR tried it in Afghanistan and failed miserably. Barack Obama has the Wisdom to see that. I pity those talking heads without any knowledge of the world.

Member of the US Navyseal (" We rule the Night" )

Obama strikes back at McCain

Julie Hensley — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:55:42 GMT

Senator Obama has an incredible strength that Bush and McCain have failed on over and over again. He surrounds himself and listens to people who know what they are talking about. Not just those that are saying what he wants to hear. In that regard alone, he is able to overcome whatever AGE advantage McCain would then have.

If you paid attention to the debate last night - soldier who is not blinded - you would know that Obama is quite aware of the situation as it is now and that a withdrawal has to be done in such a way as to respect Iraqi sovreignty and what the Iraqi people want. I have no doubt that it is a remarkable challenge...but keeping you, your friends and others like you there, as targets for an insurgency that only grows and bankrupting the country by doing it without increasing anything akin to our security is not a solution either. Please visit www.BarackObama.com and see what HE has to say about it. He WAS opposed to the war from the get go..but he's practical and KNOWS that course is no longer an option. We are THERE and while we need to leave... we need to do that with a sharp eye on how to do it while utilizing resources that have been IGNORED largely.. like more humanitarian and political aid.

Our military is noble and dedicated. We cannot justify asking them to go into an impossible situation and solving a problem that is not a military problem and not even providing them with the proper resources to do their job as they can do it.

Don't you get it soldier? Bush doesn't respect the Military.. he doesn't respect soldiers. The commander in chief of the US considers you quite expendable so that he can finish his Daddy's war and his friends can get richer. That's a path you're ok with continuing?

Obama strikes back at McCain

bill, phoenix, az — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:56:13 GMT

Obama didn't answer the question. This isn't 2003, this isn't about the invasion of Iraq. This is about what he will do today. And today he said he would send troops to where al-Qaeda has bases. Well that is in Iraq and it is the same Iraq he wants to pull the troops out of. Sorry, Obama, you can't do both.

Those of you here who support Obama, what do you think he will do in Iraq?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Billy G., Oak Brook, IL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:56:29 GMT

Obama is quite the jerk. He wants to quit Iraq and start a war in Pakistan? How is that an improvement? I am so sick of these "holier than thou" Democrats who maintain that because Bush started the war in Iraq under false pretenses, we should just pull out and let the Iraq go to hell. Obama is so full of himself and it's all crap.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Houston — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:58:38 GMT

The reason that "Al Qaeda in Iraq" is disappearing is because the Pentagon is paying them $300 per month not to attack American troops. As soon as the money stops (probably after the US elections in November), this so-called Al Qaeda will be back, armed with the weapons that Petraeus has given them.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Lee in CA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:00:26 GMT

"I will not surrender. I will not surrender to Al Qaeda."

"I will, however, surrender the Bill of Rights to a demented monkey without a peep. Yes friends, I fight for you."

I wish these @@@holes cared as much for this coountry as they do for Iraq. Go run for president of Iraq, John. Take Cheney with you.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Rick,ky — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:01:16 GMT

Alan(NJ),KLBanes(Utah),Jarred (Texas) & Yes , You Soldier Not Blinded & some other's may still beleive GWB & his Boogeyman excuse. The American people have woken up to Reality & the fight is Not in Iraq as of you wish.We know where Al-quida is, the ones America want.Our Troop's & resources will be well served by President Barack Obama. Pack your bags for the Afghanistan-Pakistan border soldier not blinded & thank you for your service.

Al Sadr will be more than happy to take the fight to al-quida in Iraq, after America is gone.

Obama strikes back at McCain

EJ, Florida — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:02:50 GMT

JA, NYC - "I wonder why John McCain, being the "war hero" he is, hasn't come out and said that we should have continued the war in Vietnam rather than pulling out."

North Vietnamese generals admitting on many occassions decades after the war that if the US had stayed just a few months longer the VC would've been destroyed. A lack of American perseverence is the reason the atrocities that took place after the war were allowed to happen.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Citizen of Rome — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:03:20 GMT

"I am so sick of these "holier than thou" Democrats"

I'm sick of dumber-than-crap and still self-righteous-as-possibly-imaginable republicans.

Where's that leave us?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Toby Hill — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:04:45 GMT

Of course there was no Al-Qaeda in Iraq, not even Abdul Rahman Yasin.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Jeff, Portland, OR — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:08:45 GMT

KL Banes, Provo Utah.....Molly Grant, Deerfield, Michigan......Jarrard Evens, Texas

Al Qaeda WAS NOT in Iraq before the war. And you rejected nominating this experienced war hero in 2000 and instead gave us the failed businessman, average governor with no foreign policy experience, who accomplished nothing politically prior to 2000 in George W Bush. So I don't think Republicans should lecture anyone on who is a worthy candidate. You have failed in that category.

Al Queda is probably just as strong or stronger in Afghanistan and Pakistan so why do we continue to allocate a huge portion of our resources (140,000 troops and Billions of $ per month) to a country that needs to start learning to function on its own? Isn't it time to reassess what's in our best interest? How long do we stay and do we actually enforce previous benchmarks that were meant to accelerate progress?

These are fair questions and require an answer better than calling me a "terrorist sympathizer" or "we are fighting them over there so we don't have to fight them here" type of response.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Paul Miller, Woodbridge, VA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:08:51 GMT

Bri - "In the summer of 2002, Zarqawi was reported[attribution needed] to have settled in northern Iraq, where he joined the Islamist Ansar al-Islam group that fought against the Kurdish-nationalist forces in the region."

True enough, I believe. But let's not forget that northern Iraq was readily available because of the U.S. enforcement of the no-fly zones in the north and south. Its not like the lawlessness in Iraq started immediately after the invasion. Our involvement since Desert Storm contributed.

And that's not to defend Saddam's regime. He was truly not a benevolent ruler. In the long run, the people of Iraq may well be better off without him. But in strategic terms, it was our efforts to curb Saddam's reach that enabled these organizations to operate in Iraq.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Judy Pintar, Issaquah, WA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:09:00 GMT

What I can not understand, is how anyone, Dem or Republican, could vote for or want McCain for President. He's too old. He has more scandals in his background than even Bush. He was a mediocre serviceman who never could rise to the stature of his father and grandfather (in spite of his POW bravery). To be passed over in the service with a POW after his name shows how ineffectual he is. I am so afraid of who he owes and how much. America can not possibly want another Republican in the White House after these last 8 years.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Jim L; Claremont, CA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:09:15 GMT

Hey Soldier Not Blinded - I want George Bush to stand up and address the thousands that have died since he declared "Mission Accomplished." I want George Bush to stand up and explain to my child and children all over this country why this country has gone from a creditor nation to the largest debtor nation in our country's history. I want him to stand up and explain why he and his administration, for political gains and the economic benefit of corporations, intentionally ignored the warning signs of global warming, when we discover what great lengths we 'survivors' of his administration must go to save our children's future.

What do all the veteran soldiers who are suffering without adequate care upon their return from Iraq.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Mandy, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:10:47 GMT

We NEED to get the hell out of that war that is costing us billions of of own taxes to the extent of not having any money here for our own social programs. We are in a war that never should've been, it has been longer and cost more lives and more expenses then Viet Nam. For what??? Can someone puleeeeeeeeeeeeze tell me what we are "Winning"??? The definition of democracy is freedom of choice and here we are shoving it down the throats of people who haven't a clue what it is about because they have NEVER lived that way! I think we need some new blood in the Whitehouse, and I think Obama is right on track! Bush has managed to screw up this country beyond belief in almost 8 yrs, and nearly bankrupting us, making the dollar almost worthless on world markets. He is the most useless, corrupt president we have ever had in history! McCain is a Bush clone. I personally am sick and tired of the BS. McCain cannot do a dang thing in my state of AZ, what makes anyone think he can run a country?? He is arrogant, pompous, mouthy and clueless and a well known fact that he is not beyond telling someone to go f*** themselves if they disagree with him. I'm sick and tired of losers like him in the whitehouse as well as that Bush mentality. It is kinda like if you are mad at someone, don't try and talk or negotiate as adults, just walk up and punch them in the mouth! Bush and McCain at their best, because they don't know how to do anything else. Obama amongst all his training, also has a degree in international relations. I think this is EXACTLY what we need right now to start winning back some of the respect Bush has lost for us throughout the world. GO OBAMA!!!! MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU!!!

Obama strikes back at McCain

christian — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:11:37 GMT

Billy G. you are a complete IDIOT. Firstly, "quit" is the wrong word to sue. Secondly, " start a war in Pakistan" ... where the heck did you pull that from (probably out of your A$$)??

Obama strikes back at McCain

Chris Blask, Bradenton, Florida — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:14:50 GMT

The KKK will take you out if you support the Nation of Islam - live by the sword and refuse to reject Farakhaan and die by the same sword of a different race. Two wrongs doesnt make a right and neither does one wrong when refusing to reject and stalling to reject Farakhaan;s teachings. get ready america race wars are coming your way I'm afraid - obama has aligned himself with the nation of islam

Obama strikes back at McCain

Jesse Monsen, Baltimore MD — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:17:02 GMT

Ahhh...yes, Hillary tried the mocking sarcasm-thing. McCain apparently needs to discover for huimself that such foolishness doesn't distract Sen. Obama or voters. I tell ya folks, McCain is going to find himself on the wrong side of a landslide in November.

Obama strikes back at McCain

ChenaMax — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:17:03 GMT

Senator McCain cannot scare up any legitimate points against Senator Obama, so he's grasping at straws. Senator Obama is going to be asking all Americans to join with him to change America and the world for the better. And they will respond and say, Yes, We Can!

It is not a matter of if one group gains the other loses; it is a matter of all groups being at the table of riches, and participating equitably. Senator Obama and his team of advisers will be ready to show America how to create new wealth. All groups, rich, middle class, or poor, will fare miles better.

In the meantime, look for a landslide in November.

Obama strikes back at McCain

tsg — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:18:45 GMT

if you are align with a hate groudp such as the nation of islam and you stall in rejecting them then you are living by the sword so die by the same sword of a different race: KKK vs. nation of islam race wars to come - obmas supports Farakhaan. don't stand close to him - they gonna get him after his support last night of Farakhaan. it is brewing now you can imagine.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Robert, Seattle, WA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:20:05 GMT

Basic military strategies are lost on Mcain. One should NEVER reinforce failure. We are bleeding our military to death. We need to withdraw, regroup and then re-attack the enemy, in Afghanastan, Pakistan, or wherever they are.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Bona Phide, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:21:28 GMT

Marbw: Thank you for posting that. It's funny to me that people sit here, and say Obama is all speeches, and no substance. It really means you have not done your homework, and are very uneducated in terms of following politics.

If you look you will see that he has very strong convictions on what needs to be done globally. Not just in terms of Iraq, but Russia, Kosovo, and other very important global issues. If you watched the debate last night he was much more direct and concise on his ideas going forward as president in terms of foriegn policy. The real issue about the future of Iraq is what Obama has said all along. If we go in there, we will create a quagmire of conflict. You now have an open field with the Sunnis, Shiites, and Kurds all vying for power. The only thing that kept them whole was rule by dictatorship. What can we do once we have secured Iraq to the best of our ability? The only answer here is to leave it in the hands of the Iraqi governement that has been given the tools to take it from there. If they fail, then it is a failure of the Iraqi people to take control of their own destiny. If civil war does insue, then civil war is an inevibility that American pressense in Iraq will only delay. The question is at what cost is it worth it for America to delay the inevitable?

The very tired argument that Al Qaeda was working with Iraq has been shown to be false a LONG time ago, and it is well known that their pressense there became apparant after we invaded. They crossed weakened borders to fight American troops, which makes Obama dead on in his assessment prior to going in.

America's occupation of Iraq equates the creation of more terrorists determined to push them out. It is time for Iraq to allow Iraqi's the freedom to either be successful with their new government, or to seek out the route that will lead them to establishing a government that will work for them.

Obama said last night that he would reserve the right to return in full force should terrorists try to take over in Iraq.

McCain would have us holding off the inevitable for the next hundred years. Can we really afford to have McCain investing that much of our resources? And for what?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Wanda Goin, Chicago, IL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:22:09 GMT

To Molly Grant of Michigan: Clearly you have the intelligence of a three year old. Blah Blah Blah? How intelligent you are. Obama has an insight you will never have because you are clearly a war mongering Republican. Those of us who do our homework know this unnecessary war has already killed more Americans than died in 9/11. It has single-handedly destroyed our economy and continues to do more harm than any outside force. This was a war waged for no good reason. To continue the war is both harmful to us and to Iraq. They must find a way to stand on their own feet and be an independent country. We cannot stay there forever and subject our desimated military to a war they should never have had to fight.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Jeff, Portland, OR — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:23:09 GMT

Soldier Not Blinded.....learn from Chamberlain

Saying that Bush has done a good job and that Iraq has proved it's worth because we haven't been attacked since 9/11/01 is like saying "we were doing a good job with terrorism on 9/10/01 becasue we had not been attacked". This type of statement means nothing to reality as we saw on 9/11/01.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Alan, NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:23:14 GMT

Paul Miller snd if they follow us out where will they follow us to - Afganistan or the US? Isn't that GWB's argument. How ironic

Obama strikes back at McCain

Wanda Goin, Chicago, IL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:24:01 GMT

To Billy G: So we should stay in a war that was started on false pretenses for how long? And, how many American troop deaths will satisfy you? And, how many billions of dollars should we waste there while we let our economy go to hell? What an idiot!!! My guess is you're related to George Bush!

Obama strikes back at McCain

Mandy, Phoenix, AZ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:24:37 GMT

OBAMA is awesome!!!!

Obama strikes back at McCain

Joe Smith, Houston - TX — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:28:09 GMT

All you Bush/McCain lovers need to wake up. It is 2008, and Americans are looking for a new direction. McCain is too old. Obama is smart, intelligent, and has the judgement to lead this country on day one. We are looking for a president to be "Right" on day one. Not a president of the past. Obama knows more about foreign policies than McCain thought he know.

Obama 2008!

Obama strikes back at McCain

juan,ft lauderdale,fl — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:37:55 GMT

I am amazed by the comments from soldier not blinded that he continues to support chickenhawks who successfully made every lame excuses not to fight and get treated so badly by this administration i.e., Walter Reed and refusing to acknowlege PTSD. I am sure many, many people pray that another 911 will not occur again considering the majority of the national guards/reservists are in Iraq. Thanks to the Democrats and a solid majority of Americans prevented this sorry excuse of a president to sale the safety of our ports to Dubai. I admire your service not your blind loyalty to corrupt and lying administration who used you and others for their political agenda.

Obama strikes back at McCain

James Johnson, New York, NY — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:41:30 GMT

The War in Iraq will never have a military solution without a political solution. Look at Baghdad, it is basically divided into ethnic groups with walls and barriers. The only way is to Let Iraq Govt and people take the responsibility of their lives and destiny by having a political solution. The Iraq Govt is pretty much useless. We have to Force them to take responsibility and take the lead by giving them a withdrawal schedule. Iraq withdrawal will accelerate the responsibility handover to Iraq Govt. For those who are not sure of what to say, You imagine someone invading your House and then forcing you to live by his rules. That is what we are fighting about. We are actually fighting the culture not a war. Don't we get it?

How would you feel when someone walks into your house and commands you to live by his rules ===> Naturally we rebel and that is what is happening in Iraq.

Member of Navyseal (" We rule the night")

Obama strikes back at McCain

Trezzy, Corona, CA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:43:27 GMT

All you McCain supporters, based on what you are saying the only concern you have is protecting america. Which is fine, I want america to be protected as well. But it doesn't bother you that this coutry is in a recession right now and your candidate as admitted he has no idea on how to fix the economy. So we are going to continue the billion dollar war. The jobs are going to continue to go overseas. More and more people are becoming homeless because of the housing crisis. Inflation is looking worse and worse. So if McCain wins, we will have a safe america (by his words), but no economy, a lot of homeless american's and unemployed american's just because McCain is a war hero and don't know anything else about running a country.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Barbara C., Pompano Beach, FL — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:43:55 GMT

Step right up folks and vote for "The President of War". But when you vote for him, make sure you are helping out with your own son or daughter. My son is headed to Iraq this coming November. I am not voting for "The President of War".

Obama strikes back at McCain

LQ, ROCHESTER MN — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:44:36 GMT

Go Obama!!
Al-Qaeda was NOT in Iraq until after we invaded. Saddam would have had them killed - they were NOT working together. We had no business invading Iraq,they were not a direct threat to us. We were already in Afghanistan and needed to kill bin Laden. Going into Iraq only ended up taking troops away from Afghanistan and now Al-Qaeda is getting stronger there. What a stinking mess Bush, McCain and the rest of them got us into.
And just because McCain was shot down, captured and tortured, and has been in the Senate for years does not mean he would make a better president.
And no, we have not been attacked since 9/11 - thank God and all those people working black ops or undercover or whatever. No thanks to Bush.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Johnboy — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:45:49 GMT

Obama has to pull out the troops from Iraq.......if not we will be killing his family.

While Obama has attracted money, notoriety and delegates, he has yet to attract military advisers who know what they are doing. If he doesn’t, and he becomes president, the United States won’t fare any better than it has for the past eight years.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Brother of a US Soldier — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:48:42 GMT

'Blinded Soldier'

If we correctly focus, we can find him!!!!

With the way you talk I have to respectfully question if you are a Soldier as you say, because my brother did 2 years total in Iraq and now 9 months in Afghanistan; and your thoughts of Osama attacking us in the mainland if we leave Iraq leads me to think that you don't know where he really is and it's not IRAQ Also what are you talking about us leaving Iraq and correlating it with an Attack on US soil????

Ending the war will help isolate al Qaeda and give Iraqis the incentive and opportunity to take them out. It will also allow us to direct badly needed resources to Afghanistan (Pakistan Border) where it is heavily thought HE IS! If we eliminate the threat, and stop wasting time trying to police Iraq, and not holding the Iraq government accountable for the lack of leadership and control in there country.

Respectfully (support our troops, not the cause!) Bring our troops home safely

Obama strikes back at McCain

Johnboy — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:49:46 GMT

Obama strikes back at McCain

Molly Grant, Deerfield, Michigan — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:50:05 GMT

Wanda Goin, Chicago, IL (

To Molly Grant of Michigan: Clearly you have the intelligence of a three year old. Blah Blah Blah? How intelligent you are.

Apparently considerably more then you. You're just like Obama, all high and mighty on decribing the past, real short on what to do about it. Both of you are all talk. Nice cut-and-paste from the Moveon site too. It's getting hard to tell the difference between moveon and the Demcartic party anymore. They appear to be one in the same.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Dave, Los Angeles, CA — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:52:40 GMT

I love these comments above. Go get 'em Obama!! McCain is living in the past! W

HERE HAVE YOU GUYS BEEN???? It is old news that AQ was not in Iraq prior to the invasion. That was 6 years ago but now they quite obviously are. Go ahead and blame our commander-in-chief at the time (I guess that was John McCain according to some of the misguided comments). Blame him over and over. This does not change the fact that they are indeed there and Obama's comments represent a major shift in his "Out of Iraq" promise. You will not be able to engage in precision strikes from Kuwait or carriers in the Persian Gulf when it comes to hitting AQ. You cant. Obama is starting to build his "Entry Strategy" for Iraq. Why leave in the first place? AQ is already well represented in the country. I guess some fools just think they will pack it up and head back home once we leave?

Obama will lose this election when people get over their Obamamania this summer and realize that his "only attack al-qaeda" strategy won't work. They will regroup. Its that simple. They are already effective at intimidation even with our 150K+ troops. Yes, only the Iraqi government and the Iraqi people can effectively eliminate the AQ elements. But sending 1-2 brigades home a month in Feb or Mar 2009 will not provide a deterent to AQ and will have the new Iraqi army scrambling. Muqtada will end his cease fire since we're not there, the sunni on shia violence will flair, and the sunni's will realign with AQ. Does anyone here understand that?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Perry, NYC — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:52:57 GMT

Bravo Barack! Put that BS argument right back in its place. Finally it has ceased working on America & all it takes is someone with the b@lls to refute it in no uncertain terms. Who's afraid of the big bad McCain? Not Barack!

Hillary is outside the discussion entirely. By next Wed. it will be official & she should step aside so we can start the general without giving them a months-long headstart.

Barack will wipe the floor with McCain.

Obama strikes back at McCain

S.B. Stein E. B. NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:53:22 GMT

I think it important to understand that the Iraqi government has not lived up to the expectations of the United States as well as the Iraqi people themselves.

Now an extreme view:

We, as Americans, have lost too many soldiers and marines in the conflict; we are the only ones who are really holding the country together. What have we gotten back for that? Not a whole lot really, and I, as an American taxpayer and citizen, would like to know why we shouldn't just carpet bomb the place. I know that it would lump the civilians with the terrorists and insurgents and isn't very friendly is a good reason why. I don't think that these people really understand what a non-combatant really is. I say that we strip everyone over there of weapons and put them into small areas until we can finish fixing what we broke. When we are done fixing everything, then we will let them out slowly. If there are major problems, then back they go. I think this is a harsh, but it is far cry better than having to worry about shooting the wrong people or having bombs in market places.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Anon — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 19:57:58 GMT

McCain will be lucky to have his health by election
Obama Inspires this country to be better than the rest.

Why has Edwards stayed mute on his endorsement?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Kay, Valdosta, Georgia — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:00:29 GMT

Go Obama!!
You prove over and over that you are the man for the job. I believe we can go all the way in 2008.

Yes we can!!

Obama strikes back at McCain

Dave, AZ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:02:40 GMT

So Obama not serving in the military makes him unqualifeid to be president. I guess this type of thinking makes John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, John Quincy Adams, Woodrow Wilson and FDR not suitable to be president. By the way, FDR did a pretty lousy job as commander-in-chief during WWII, dying only a few weeks before the Germans surrendered. I wouldn't call Bush's stint in the Guard military experieince since he flew outdated aircraft and had trouble showing up. We still haven't seen a copy of his discharge papers yet, probably something to do with National Security.
What are McCain's national security credentials anyway? Can you think of anything he has done, outside junkets?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Matryx, Minneapolis, MN — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:12:00 GMT

How can Neocons believe they can be taken seriously in an intellectual debate when facts dont phase them? Facts didnt phase their leader, or their party. They had control of the country for 7 years and got nowhere.

You dont get anywhere ignoring facts and common sense.

Obama strikes back at McCain

Debbie, Ewing, NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:14:03 GMT

I am the widow of a war veteran who died from war injuries. It seems like everybody is forgetting how Iraq got in the condition that its in. Because we didn't go after Ben Laden-Al qaeda, whether in Iraq or else where, is the current Rep. administrations doing. So we give up over 3,000 soldiers lives, trillions of AMerican dollars, the use of our army for training and you somehow feel we owe Iraq something?

Obama strikes back at McCain

Alan, NJ — Wed, 27 Feb 2008 20:28:26 GMT

And I can't wait for all the Iraqies to unite for change. The shi'ites, the Sunnis and the kurds will just give up their 1000 year differences and signg kumbiya (probably along with the US Senate according to BO). Thing is guys, I don't have an answer but if the US pulls out the way BO is talking there's going to be one hell of a blood letting. This is from someone who also opposed the war but unlike BO I see that times have changed. As a note, on his website he actually states that he will (re) deploy troops to protect humantarian enclaves. I hink he will need to. The way I see the world will blame us for starting a dumb war and then running away from the mess we created.