I asked former U.S. Senator Trent Lott what he thought were the political costs of McCain’s attempt at stalling the debate. Here is what he had to say:
I think it would have been hurtful obviously in Mississippi. We’re proud of this moment and our students worked hard and everybody worked hard. I was confident all along that this debate was going to take place, and I was trying to make that suggestion as best I could within the campaign. But remember this, that most Americans are wrestling with all these financial problems…they’re saying, ‘Wait a minute, I want a debate, but let’s put our country first.’ I love Ole Miss. But I put my country even before my beloved Ole Miss.
John was right to go back. They were both right to go back to Washington. But I think they did the right thing by coming here tonight. They’re exhausted. They’re both exhausted. I know John very well. He kept shifting his feet because John was in pain. You don’t have every bone in your body broken the way he did, er his legs and his arms, without feeling pain in your legs.
Fellow reporter: Is it okay if I write that down?
Lott: Well, sure.
Previous Comments
In pain about what?
#138322 | Author: golden eagle | Date: Sep 27 2008
Is he playing the POW card? What?
#138343 | Author: vince | Date: Sep 27 2008
I was in pain watching him and his unwillingness to even look at Obama… And I’ve only chipped a clavicle. I would hope that even Lott could recognize that McCain simply ain’t gonna cut it. It’s now about the Republicans managing some level of power and not about what’s right or even what’s a better choice for this country. Sad.
#138352 | Author: kaust | Date: Sep 28 2008
Remember we are a “nation of whiners”.
#138353 | Author: FreeClif | Date: Sep 28 2008
The Mississippi Free Press produced this story through the MFP Solutions Lab, supported by the Solutions Journalism Network. This series digs into Mississippi’s systemic issues and sheds light on responses to them in other communities. Beyond just reporting on problems, these stories interrogate their causes and inspect potential solutions.