Barack Obama and John McCain began tonight’s debate by reiterating their plans to stimulate the economy. CNN is updating the transcript during the debate.
McCain doesn’t believe the government should “spread the wealth around” as the candidates debate over what Joe The Plumber wants.
The moderator Bob Schieffer asked McCain and Obama to address the negativity in their campaigns. McCain brings up comments made by Rep. John Lewis, who compared the campaign to the segregationist tone fostered in the 1960s. Now they are comparing the actions of the people who attend their rallies.
McCain brings up Obama’s relationship with Bill Ayers and ACORN. The candidates defend their running mates.
The candidates are discussing plans for energy independence and health care. Joe The Plumber comes up for the 13th time. Ted points out that Wiki already has an entry.
The moderator asks the candidates whether they would appoint a Supreme Court justice who would disagree with their stance on Roe V. Wade. McCain says he would never impose a litmus test on justices. He says he wants to leave Roe V. Wade to the states. He says he would consider anyone for the Supreme Court based on their qualifications.
Obama says he wouldn’t impose the litmus test and reiterates his support for Roe V. Wade. He says that women should be able to decide and the constitution allows for right to privacy.
McCain says he wants to change the culture of America and says those of us who are “proudly pro-life understand that.” McCain brought up Obama’s present vote on partial-birth abortion. Obama says he’s willing to support a ban on late-term abortions as long as there are exceptions for when the life of the mother is in danger.
Obama says he wants to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies and that no one is pro-abortion. McCain says “health of the woman” has been stretched by the pro-abortion movement and talks about adoption.
The candidates end on education.
Schieffer says “Go vote. … It’ll make you feel big and strong.”
