Q: If it’s working, senator, do you now have a better estimate of when American forces can come home from Iraq?
McCAIN: “No, but that's not too important. What’s important is the casualties in Iraq, Americans are in South Korea, Americans are in Japan, American troops are in Germany. That’s all fine. American casualties and the ability to withdraw; we will be able to withdraw. General [David] Petraeus is going to tell us in July when he thinks we are.
“But the key to it is that we don't want any more Americans in harm's way. That way, they will be safe, and serve our country and come home with honor and victory, not in defeat, which is what Senator Obama's proposal would have done. I’m proud of them. And they're doing a great job. And we are succeeding and it's fascinating that Senator Obama still doesn't realize that.”
The whole answer on video here and below:
How is his full answer being portrayed?
McCain: Bringing Troops Home from Iraq “Not Too Important” from TPM.
Marc Ambinder says "context is always important", which goes to show, some people still have brains left in their heads.
The context makes it clear that McCain is reiterating his position that the presence of troops isn't the issue; instead, it's the casualties they receive.
Just think, we have months of this type of misrepresentation and political games to look forward to.
The McCain Report weighs in as well.
Maybe we should name this "Important-Gate", since every other story that makes massive headlines in a matter of hours seems to have the word "Gate" in the catchy headlines.
[Update] I have another piece, a little more in depth, on this issue over at Digital Journal, with reactions and statements from politicians added.
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