John McCain was in Concord, NH on Tuesday apparently doing an Q&A at a high school. During that Q&A a student by the name of William Sleaster challenged McCain on his stance on gay rights. McCain first tried to dodge the question, but the plucky student wouldn’t have it:
Sleaster pressed on. “Do you support civil unions or gay marriage?”
“I do not,” McCain answered. “I think that they impinge on the status and the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman.”
“So you believe in taking away someone’s rights because you believe it’s wrong?”
“I wouldn’t put that interpretation on my position, but I understand yours,” McCain said diplomatically.
Sleaster went on to ask another question about how to help the working class in America, which McCain fielded by talking about the country’s need to figure out education and health care, and to secure the environment.
Sleaster indicated that he wanted to follow up again.
“You have one more? Go ahead you’re doing good,” McCain encouraged.
“I came here looking to see a leader,” Sleaster said. “I don’t.”
To his credit McCain kept his temper in check and told the kid “I understand. I thank you. That’s what America is all about.”
Perhaps some might see Sleaster’s response as rude, but it was honest and probably something McCain should hear more often. If nothing else it’s good to see at least one member of the next generation taking a stand.
Posted on 09/08/2008 at 01:06 AM 
Good for him. It’s about time we actually forced those running for president to answer questions rather than feeding us bullshit.