[slickpoppa]

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Q: “So no contraception, no counseling on contraception. Just abstinence. Do you think contraceptives help stop the spread of HIV?”

Mr. McCain: (Long pause) “You’ve stumped me.”

Q: “I mean, I think you’d probably agree it probably does help stop it?”

Mr. McCain: (Laughs) “Are we on the Straight Talk express? I’m not informed enough on it. Let me find out. You know, I’m sure I’ve taken a position on it on the past. I have to find out what my position was. Brian, would you find out what my position is on contraception – I’m sure I’m opposed to government spending on it, I’m sure I support the president’s policies on it.”


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I didn't think much of McCain, but I liked this.
First, he was 45 years old when AIDS was first recognized. On a personal level, it made no difference to him to know about condoms and HIV.

He was confronted with a question he should know the answer to. He knows he should know since he votes on related issues, but especially since those who came of age afer AIDS arrived will all know. He's missing the round 1 question on a game show. He is a politician, he could have disguised his ignorance with some dodge. Instead, he took the more difficult route and admitted he doesn't know.

I give him full credit for his answer.

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Are you joking? Anyone who doesn't know that condoms help prevent the spread of HIV is an idiot.

This wasn't McCain straight talking. This was him not knowing his canned answer about sex education desugned to pander to the social conservatives but not completely alienate moderates. McCain is just as fake as every other politician.