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Obama Weighs McCain-Free Trip to Iraq

He may travel after nomination—but not as campaign 'stunt'

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted May 29, 2008 4:20 AM CDT

(Newser) – Barack Obama is considering visiting Iraq after clinching the Democratic nomination, the New York Times reports. The candidate, slammed by John McCain for not having traveled to Iraq since 2006, has turned down the offer of a joint visit with McCain, referring to such a trip as a "stunt." He told reporters that his campaign is considering arranging a foreign trip this summer, and that Iraq would be the most important stop.

"If I’m going to Iraq, then I’m there to talk to troops and talk to commanders—I’m not there to try to score political points or perform,” Obama said. “The work they’re doing is too important.”

Barack Obama is saluted by Marine Corps veterans during a campaign visit with New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, right, at the Veteran's Memorial Park in Las Cruces, N.M., Monday, May 26, 2008. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

John McCain is seen at Baghdad's International Airport to visit the top U.S. commander in Iraq, Gen. David Petraeus, Baghdad, Iraq, Sunday, March 16, 2008. (AP Photo/U.S. Air Force, Master Sgt. Andy Dunaway, HO)

Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama talks with the media aboard his plane. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

Democratic presidential hopeful, Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., arrives for a town hall-style meeting at Mapleton Expeditionary School for the Arts in Thornton, Colo., Wednesday, May 28, 2008. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

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Obama Weighs McCain-Free Trip to Iraq

He may travel after nomination—but not as campaign 'stunt'

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