2008 Presidential candidates
49 News believes in providing information to the public and helping you make informed decisions. The Republican and the Democratic presidential hopefuls are a two people we feel you should know a little about. Get informed on where these candidates stand on issues like the Iraq war and health care. Plus, hook up with their MySpace profiles (when applicable) and their campaign sites. And remember, get out and vote November 4, 2008
Democratic Candidate
Barack Obama
Senator for Illinois since 2005
Born in Hawaii on August 4, 1961
1991 Graduate of Harvard Law School
Visit his MySpace Profile, Campaign page
On Iraq: Introduced legislation that would commence a pull-out no later than May 1, 2007, with the goal of removing all combat brigades from Iraq by March 31, 2008. It allows for a limited number of troops to remain as basic force protection, to engage in counter-terrorism and to continue the training of Iraqi security forces.
Health Care: Supports a new national health program that will allow individuals and small businesses to buy affordable health. Wants to change the private insurance market to a National Health Insurance Exchange, and provide insurance to uninsured children. Plans to expand Medicaid.
Immigration: Supports increased border control, but wants to make the application process for becoming a citizen less strict and less expensive.
Gay Marriage: Opposes gay marriage, but supports civil union and gay equality.
Abortion: Supports abortion rights
Republican Candidate
John McCain
Senator from Arizona
Born in Panama Canal Zone on August 29, 1936
Graduate of United States Naval Academy, National War College
Visit his MySpace page, Campaign page
On Iraq: Supports troop surge. McCain believes if efforts in Iraq do not retain the support of the American people, the war will be lost as soundly as if our forces were defeated in battle. McCain says America's ultimate strategy is to give Iraqis the capabilities to govern and secure their own country.
Health Care: McCain says bringing costs under control is the only way to stop the erosion of affordable health insurance. Save Medicare and Medicaid. Protect private health benefits for retirees, and allow our companies to effectively compete around the world. McCain believes families should have more control over their care.
Immigration: McCain believes that the U.S. border must be secure and that the federal government has failed in its responsibility to ensure that it is secure. If elected President, he vows to secure the border.
Gay Marriage: Opposes gay marriage. McCain believes the institution of marriage is a union between one man and one woman.
Abortion: Wants Roe v. Wade to be overturned, promotes adoption.
