McCain on 'Exceptional' America

Also, during the National Presidential Forum at Columbia University on Public Service...

Moderator Judy Woodruff asked McCain point blank, "Are Americans better than people in some of these other countries? " McCain, answered 'yes' without having to actually say the three-letter word:

McCain: "We're the only nation I know in the world that really is deeply concerned about adhering to the principle that all of us are created equal and endowed by our creators with certain rights. And those we have tried to bring to the world. And we have not so much militarily, but through example, through leadership, through economic assistance."

I admire McCain's ability to answer the question so democratically, trying not to offend the billions of non-Americans and the millions of ethinc Americans (many dual identities and loyalties) while still letting Americans know his deep sense of pride, honor and of course, patriotism.

But, does McCain relly believe we are the only nation in which all of "us are created equal"? (or rather, treated equally?) How about the Mexican immigrants in his very own Arizona? Or the countless African Americans whose votes were disenfranchised during the 2000 election?

The real zinger is that McCain thinks we have helped spread equality to other nations "not so much military, but through example" First of all, is it just me or does this sound like a throwback to imperialism? Beyond that, this statement sounds like something George W. would say that would end of on "The Daily Show." The point being, the military and use of force is the main way the United States has tried to impose its beliefs of equality and democracy to other countries. And look how well we have done in Korea, Vietnam, the former USSR Countries and today in Iraq. If you take McCain's words out of context, I'd have to agree that military we have not accomplished much....

Three cheers for Judy Woodruff for asking the question.