The expression represented something sinister: a suggestion that that one — Obama — is not like the rest. He refused to look at Obama. He refused to shake Obama’s extended hand after the debate, the arrogance and lack of respect. If he wants to avoid rumors of racism he needs to show more respect. The ironic part is McCain has probably given Obama supporters and people in general a new reason to support him. By disrespecting Obama in this fashion, he has essentially provided a new avenue for people.
By Andy Sullivan
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – What a difference a word makes. Republican John McCain‘s presidential campaign has nicknamed rival Barack Obama “The One” to ridicule what they see as the Democratic candidate’s messianic tendencies.
For McCain himself, Obama is simply “that one.”
Referring to an energy bill during Tuesday’s debate, McCain said: “You know who voted for it? You might never know.”
“That one,” he said, pointing to Obama.
McCain was criticized after the first presidential debate on September 26 for refusing to look at Obama.
The Obama campaign seized on Tuesday’s remark as further evidence of McCain’s contempt for his opponent in the November 4 election.
“Last time he couldn’t look at Senator Obama, this time he couldn’t say his name,” Obama campaign manager David Plouffe said after the debate. McCain did refer to his opponent as Senator Obama at other times in the debate.
Obama’s vice presidential running mate, Delaware Sen. Joe Biden, was more forgiving. Continued…