Obama's Tax Plan Is 'Dumb... Painful': McCain

John McCain slammed Democratic plans to raise taxes as “just plain dumb” and “painful,” the Chicago Tribune reports. The vehement appraisal came after Democratic vice presidential candidate Joe Biden urged high-income earners to embrace a tax hike targeted at them. “It's time to be patriotic…time to jump in, time to be part of the deal, time to help get America out of the rut.”

The Dems, and an independent watchdog, contend that most Americans would see tax breaks under an Obama administration; only those who earn more than $250,000 would pay more. McCain was unflinching. “Raising taxes in a tough economy isn't patriotic,” the candidate said today. “It's not a badge of honor. It's just plain dumb.” (More John McCain stories.)