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Debate Puts Spotlight on 'Joe the Plumber'

McCain mentions make Ohio man America's most famous plumber

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Oct 16, 2008 12:01 AM CDT

(Newser) – Joe Wurzelbacher found it "pretty surreal" to become the focus of last night's presidential debate, the Ohio plumber tells the AP. "Joe the Plumber" was mentioned more than 20 times in the debate—more than Iraq or the economy—as John McCain and Barack Obama sparred over their tax and health care plans.

Wurzelbacher—who spoke to Obama during a campaign stop earlier this week and complained that a proposed tax hike would prevent him from buying the business he works for—thinks McCain has "got it right" on taxes but won't disclose how he plans to vote in November. "That's for me and a button to know," he said.

Barack Obama answers a question from plumber Joe Wurzelbacher in Holland, Ohio, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008.
Barack Obama answers a question from plumber Joe Wurzelbacher in Holland, Ohio, Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008.   (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)
John McCain, reacts as  Barack Obama speaks during their presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008.
John McCain, reacts as Barack Obama speaks during their presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008.   (AP Photo/Photog)
Barack Obama speaks during a presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008.
Barack Obama speaks during a presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, N.Y., Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2008.   (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)
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Video clip of Ohio plumber Joe Wurzelbacher asking Barack Obama about his tax plans.   (cranesnplanes55)

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Joe, I want to tell you, I'll not only help you buy that business that you worked your whole life for and I'll keep your taxes low and I'll provide available and affordable health care for you and your employees.
- John McCain

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