People Remember The Time John McCain Shut Down Racist Questions About Obama During 2008 Election
In the aftermath of John McCain's death, a video of what many call one of his finest political moments has once again gone viral. In the moment, taken from one of his 2008 campaign rallies, McCain cut off a woman from speaking when she called Barack Obama an "Arab." While the majority of people still agree his action was one of nobility, some people question the language McCain used was just as problematic as her question.
“I can’t trust Obama," the woman began at a town hall meeting in Lakeville, Minn.. "I have read about him, and he’s not, um, he’s an Arab—"
McCain immediately grabbed the microphone back from her and spoke.
“No, ma’m,” he said. “He’s a decent family man [and] citizen that just I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that’s what the campaign’s all about. He’s not [an Arab].”
McCain also assured the people at the rally that they have no reason to fear an Obama presidency
At a different point in the rally, a man suggested Obama “cohorts with domestic terrorists." McCain said Obama was a “decent person” and that there would be no reason to be scared if he won the White House.
McCain was and still is applauded for the way he handled the racist question
However, some say McCain was wrong to suggest being an "arab" and a "decent family man" are mutually exclusive
In a final letter to the American people, McCain admitted that he has made mistakes in his political career, "but I hope my love for America will be weighed favorably against them."
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