October 2, 2008

McCain Cool to Obama's Handshake

@ 10:06 am by Walter Alarkon

Barack Obama went to greet John McCain on the Senate floor Wednesday during the bailout bill vote, but McCain didn't seem too pleased to see him.

Obama "crossed over into the Senate’s Republican floor territory and offered an effusive handshake," reports The Hill's J. Taylor Rushing. "McCain, who appeared hesitant, accepted it."

McCain at the time was standing with Sens. Mel Martinez (R-Fla.) and Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.), both of whom greeted Obama more warmly.

Others picked up on McCain's ice cold response.

Though McCain shook Obama's hand, he did it "with a 'go away' look that no one could miss," reports CQ's David Nather. "He tried his best not to even look at Obama," Nather added.

"McCain offered a chilly look and a brief return handshake," wrote The New York Times' Carl Hulse.

"While it took Mr. Obama several seconds to make his way over to see his rival, Mr. McCain barely pivoted his body as he took Mr. Obama’s hand for a handshake that lasted just a moment," according to The Times's Michael Cooper and Jeff Zeleny. "The eye contact was just as brief."

Archived under: Campaigns, News, Presidential Campaigns
Tags: Barack Obama, John McCain

13 Comments »

1. This comes as no surprise to me. I even noticed McCain's coldness back on 911 when both Obama and the McCains arrived in NY for their appearance at I think it was Ground Zero. Obama greeted the McCains and he received the same chilliness there. After a brisk handshake the McCains quickly turned and walked away and Obama was left looking like he was shunned by someone who he thought of as not a friend but at least as a comrade. McCain's childish snubs are very indicative of how he would lead the Unites States of America, snubbing those who dare to challenge him.

   Comment by MARK — October 2, 2008 @ 3:56 pm

2. since the floor is covered by cspan, is there any video?

   Comment by nitish singh — October 2, 2008 @ 4:53 pm

3. John McCain will be back in his "normal element" when his Republican candidacy for President crashes and burns.
   The Republican "machinery" let him run since no responsible candidate wanted to be stuck trying to defend the Presidential Stupidity (and incestuous corruption) of Bush and Cheney. McCain, who still believes in the validity of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, is this year's sacrificial candidate. And while "brain dead" sloganeering will appeal to "brain dead" Republicans, especially those who still believe that in 2003 that Saddam HAD "Weapons of Mass Destruction" and failing to understand that Saddam HATED Al Qaida rather than was working with Al Qaida, the rest of us will be thankful when the "Bush (debacle) years" are over.

   Comment by Jim Allen — October 3, 2008 @ 6:56 am

4. I know this is not the topic, but would like to know if there is a possibility of an extention of unemployment being discusses.

   Comment by camille — October 3, 2008 @ 7:39 am

5. Mind proof reading your hearsay before publishing? Mel Martinez is a Republican Senator from Florida. Makes me question your factual integrity in the rest of your posting or in your other pieces.

   Comment by Nick — October 3, 2008 @ 8:09 am

6. John McCain is really giving us a glimpse into his true personality. He is liar, a poor sport, He is arrogant,and I think he is a bully. You know this really disheartens me . Because even though I didn't always agree with his politics, I always had alot of respect for this man. I remember what he went through in the 2000 primary season, The way he was treated by the Bush campaign and I thought it was terrible. But It seems like McCain is now doing the same exact thing. I have lost just about all the respect I had for him now. I guess this shows winning at any cost is more important than the repect of your fellow country men.

   Comment by dorothy009 — October 3, 2008 @ 8:48 am

7. Considering his demeanor and body language at the debate this is no surprise. McCain's sneer and beady eyes with hate and distain in them does not show well for someone who wants to be president. He looks like an angry and bitter old man.

   Comment by BONNE — October 3, 2008 @ 8:48 am

8. John McCain showed his true colors during the debate with Barack Obama. His lack of respect was evident in his body language, his refusal to look at Senator Obama, and in the tone of his voice during the debate. We don't need McCain in the White House, and the country will suffer if we elect him. Our national interests will be better served with civility and consideration in the nation's top job. We've had enough go it alone's, do it my wayer's.

   Comment by Dennis — October 3, 2008 @ 10:25 am

9. I do not think handshaking sanitary or decent.
   Personally, I believe that to decline the handshake would have been the better choice.
   The true gentleman accepted the offer, though …

   Comment by GCT — October 4, 2008 @ 2:54 pm

10. McCain did not look at him during the debate either.It appears that Obama has now gotten under his skin.

    Comment by Ed Gray — October 5, 2008 @ 2:11 am

11. Don't forget that Obama also shunned Hillary in the same way on the floor of the Senate when they were battling each other.
    I'm a supporter of Obama, but I know that he has shown his petulant side in the past. Recently he seems to have kept a cool head. That's easier when you're winning.

    Comment by JIBBER — October 6, 2008 @ 5:56 am

12. McCain really one upped himself by avoiding Obama's handshake attempt entirely after the debate, swiping Obama's hand over to his wife instead, poor loser I guess.

    Comment by sean — October 7, 2008 @ 10:50 pm

13. Although the Town Hall with John McCain and Barack Obama may not have contained many new details, McCain's refusal to shake Barack Obama's hand at the end spoke volumes regarding character. Our country has never needed a diplomatic leader more. As our nation attempts to repair the damage of the past administration and moves ahead with very delicate situations, our leader must have top notch, skilled communication skills. The decisions encountered will be life changers for all planet dwellers. Actions really do speak louder than words. McCain's refusal to shake Obama's hand offered insight all American's should be thinking about. Change is no longer a need, it's a must.

    Comment by stefi b in portland or — October 8, 2008 @ 11:20 am

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