John McCain, a Navy veteran, Vietnam POW, and longtime U.S. senator, passed away at 81 after battling brain cancer. His career was filled with defining moments, but one exchange from his 2008 presidential campaign remains a powerful example of integrity.

A Heated Campaign and a Bold Response

In the final weeks of the 2008 presidential race, tensions were high between McCain and his Democratic opponent, Barack Obama. At a town hall event in Lakeville, Minnesota, a woman in the audience made a false and offensive claim about Obama.

“I can’t trust Obama. I have read about him, and he’s not, um, he’s an Arab,” she said.

Without hesitation, McCain took the microphone from her. “No, ma’am,” he responded. “He’s a decent family man [and] citizen that just I just happen to have disagreements with on fundamental issues, and that’s what the campaign’s all about. He’s not [an Arab].”

An Important Moment in Politics

At the same event, another supporter expressed fear about Obama becoming president. McCain again stood firm. “He is a decent person and a person that you do not have to be scared of as president of the United States,” he assured the crowd.

Many in the audience were not happy with his defense of Obama. Reports from the time say some people booed and called Obama a “liar” and a “terrorist.” But McCain refused to back down.

“I want to fight, and I will fight,” he said. “But I will be respectful. I admire Sen. Obama and his accomplishments, and I will respect him.”

A Legacy of Integrity

Despite their political differences, McCain and Obama respected each other. Years later, Obama praised McCain for his “classic integrity” and willingness to put principle above politics. After McCain’s passing, Obama reflected, “At his best, he showed us what courage means. And for that, we are all in his debt.”

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