Barack Obama and John McCain both won rave reviews while cracking jokes at each other's expense at the Al Smith Dinner.It has been a long-running tradition for presidential candidates to take a break from the campaign trail to engage in a comedic sparring match at the annual charity dinner. McCain and Obama did not disappoint as they delivered some of the funniest lines of the election season. (See the Obama video and transcript, and the McCain video and transcript)
A few of McCain's best jokes:
On his campaign strategy: "A major announcement. Events are moving fast in my campaign, and yes, it's true that this morning I've dismissed my entire team of senior advisers. All of their positions will now be held by a man named 'Joe the Plumber.'"Watch the video and read the transcript of McCain's comedy routine.
On his dismissive reference to Obama during the second debate: "This campaign needed the common touch of a working man. After all, it began so long ago with the heralded arrival of a man known to Oprah Winfrey as 'The One.' Being a friend and colleague of Barack, I just called him 'That One.'"
On his supporters: "Even in this room full of proud Manhattan Democrats. I can't shake that feeling that some people here are pulling for me ... I'm delighted to see you here tonight, Hillary."
On Bill Clinton: "Where's Bill, by the way? Can't he take one night off from his tireless quest to make the man who defeated his wife the next president? When a reporter asked him if Senator Obama was qualified to be president, Bill Clinton pointed out, sure, he's over 35 years of age and a U.S. citizen. He was pandering to the strict constructionist crowd."
Some of Obama's best jokes:
On his rock star appeal: "But I have to say tonight's venue isn't really what I'm used to. I was originally told we'd be able to move this outdoors to Yankee Stadium, and can somebody tell me what happened to the Greek columns that I requested?"Watch the video and read the transcript of Obama's comedy routine.
Poking fun at Sarah Palin: "I do love the Waldorf-Astoria, though. You know, I hear that from the doorstep you can see all the way to the Russian tea room."
On his image: "Who is Barack Obama? Contrary to the rumors you have heard, I was not born in a manger. I was actually born on Krypton and sent here by my father Jor-El to save the Planet Earth. Many of you know that I got my name, Barack, from my father. What you may not know is Barack is actually Swahili for 'That One.' And I got my middle name from somebody who obviously didn't think I'd ever run for president. If I had to name my greatest strength, I guess it would be my humility. Greatest weakness, it's possible that I'm a little too awesome."
In comparing their comic stylings, it's interesting to note that while Obama mixed self-deprecatory humor with jabs at his opponent, McCain aimed most of his barbs at Obama.
Who's better prepared to be comedian in chief? Cast your vote:
Comments