McCain Offers Rebuke of Trump in Liberty Medal Speech
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What’s the story?
Monday night Arizona Republican Senator John McCain was awarded the Liberty Medal by former Vice President Joe Biden at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. In his acceptance speech he denounced the "spurious nationalism" that has overtaken the country and those who would rather find “scapegoats than solve problems.”
Though he did not mention President Trump by name, critics and supporters agreed the president was the focus of his remarks and had strong reactions.
Here is an excerpt of Biden’s introduction:
WATCH: Former Vice President Joe Biden presents Liberty Medal to Senator John McCain https://t.co/v6F4tbzdAP
— NBC News (@NBCNews) October 17, 2017
And here is an excerpt of his most pointed words, seemingly directed at the president and the current administration:
Passionate speech from John McCain, who slams 'spurious nationalism': "We live in a land made of ideals, not blood and soil." (via ABC) pic.twitter.com/oP14ra9fqK
— Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) October 17, 2017
Former President Bill Clinton honored Sen. McCain, calling his a "true American hero":
Congratulations to @SenJohnMcCain, recipient of #LibertyMedal from the @ConstitutionCtr. He is a true American hero.
— Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) October 17, 2017
Former Republican presidential candidate John Kasich praised Sen. McCain for his words and his service:
Powerful words today from @SenJohnMcCain, a true champion for freedom and a true American hero. Thank you for your honorable service to our nation. #LibertyMedal
— John Kasich (@JohnKasich) October 17, 2017
Former President Barack Obama also congratulated McCain:
I'm grateful to @SenJohnMcCain for his lifetime of service to our country. Congratulations, John, on receiving this year's Liberty Medal.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) October 16, 2017
But Fox News commentator Sean Hannity was less impressed, focusing his attention on McCain’s predicted moves on the Republican budget:
Here we go again John McCain preparing to break another promise. https://t.co/SCyg1bZ0qp
— Sean Hannity (@seanhannity) October 17, 2017
Former congressman and political pundit Joe Walsh challenged McCain and argued he’s been in office too long:
John McCain yesterday said that wanting to put America first is somehow unpatriotic.
— Joe Walsh (@WalshFreedom) October 17, 2017
He's wrong.
And he's been in the Senate too damn long
And the president, as reported by the Associated Press, warned Sen. McCain that he will "fight back."
'I fight back:' President Trump issues a warning shot after Sen. John McCain's 'spurious nationalism' speech. https://t.co/i7QdvvyU5x
— The Associated Press (@AP) October 17, 2017
What do you think?
Was McCain’s speech an inspiring repudiation of the current administration or a betrayal of his conservative constituents? Was he talking about white nationalism and not the president? Must his words be followed by further action in order for them to really matter, or do the words alone matter in the present political moment? If you disagree with McCain’s opinion, why do you disagree?
Tell us in the comments what you think, then use the Take Action button to tell your reps!
— Asha Sanaker
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