The passing of a political figure often brings together current and past leaders, friends, and family to celebrate the life and legacy left behind by the individual. When Senator John McCain passed away in August 2018, the question arose among many Americans: why didn't Barack Obama give a eulogy for the late senator? This article dives into the reasons behind this decision and explains the significance of eulogy giving in commemorating a person's life.
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Senator John McCain's Funeral
Funeral Arrangements and Invited Guests
Senator McCain passed away on August 28, 2018, and his funeral services were held in multiple locations across the country, making it accessible for people to pay their respects. The main service took place at Washington National Cathedral, where many important political figures attended, including Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. Other services occurred in Arizona and Annapolis, Maryland.
McCain's funeral showcased bipartisanship, as he invited both Republican and Democrat politicians to attend his funeral. This gesture was a reflection of his commitment to working across party lines for the betterment of the American people.
Eulogy Speakers at John McCain's Funeral
John McCain specifically asked former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama to speak at his funeral, showing his appreciation for reaching across political lines and adhering to the principles of bipartisanship. Additionally, McCain's daughter Meghan McCain and longtime friend Senator Lindsey Graham delivered heartfelt eulogies.
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Though Barack Obama was asked to speak at the funeral, he did not deliver a traditional eulogy that recounted McCain's life story and accomplishments. Instead, he provided a tribute that focused on common values they both shared and their respect for each other as fellow Americans and political adversaries.
Reasons Why Obama Did Not Give a Eulogy
Respect for McCain's Wishes
As seen in the speakers chosen for McCain's funeral, the late senator was deliberate in who he wanted to deliver eulogies and tributes. By delivering a tribute speech, Obama respected McCain's wishes and gracefully acknowledged their shared values, despite their differences in politics.
Focus on Bipartisanship and Unity
A traditional eulogy might have focused on McCain's accomplishments and political successes, but by delivering a unifying tribute, Obama used the opportunity to underscore the importance of working together for the American people, something that McCain valued throughout his political career.
Avoid Overshadowing Other Speakers
It's worth noting that Barack Obama is an exceptional orator, and his speeches often draw attention away from other event participants. By refraining from delivering a full eulogy, Obama allowed room for other speakers, such as McCain's daughter and close friend, to share their personal experiences and emotional eulogies, honoring the late senator in a more intimate way.
Why Didn'T Obama Give Mccain Eulogy? Example:
You can refer to the tribute speech Barack Obama delivered at John McCain's funeral to gain a better understanding of its content and how it differs from a traditional eulogy. Here's an excerpt from Obama's tribute:
"We come to celebrate an extraordinary man, a warrior, a statesman, a patriot who embodied so much that is best in America – President Bush and I are among the fortunate few who competed against John at the highest levels of politics. He made us better presidents. Just as he made the Senate better. Just as he made this country better."
Understanding the reasoning behind Obama's decision to not give a eulogy during McCain's funeral service offers insight into the importance of respecting the deceased's wishes and highlighting central values shared among different political parties. It also emphasizes the significance of eulogy giving in commemorating a person's life and providing solace to family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why didn't President Obama give Senator McCain's eulogy?
President Obama did not give Senator McCain's eulogy at his specific request. McCain, before his death, had expressed his wish for former Presidents Obama and George W. Bush to deliver eulogies at his funeral, a wish that was respected and honored.
Who delivered the eulogy at Senator McCain’s funeral?
At Senator John McCain's funeral, both former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama delivered eulogies, as well as McCain's daughter, Meghan McCain, among others. The choice of speakers reflected McCain's desire to send a message of bipartisanship.
Was President Obama present at McCain's funeral?
Yes, President Barack Obama attended Senator John McCain's funeral service and was one of the speakers, honoring the late senator's legacy and their shared respect despite political differences.
Did Senator McCain and President Obama have a good relationship?
While Senator McCain and President Obama were political rivals, especially notable during the 2008 Presidential campaign, they maintained a relationship built on mutual respect. They often found common ground and worked together on certain issues over the years.
What was the significance of Obama's eulogy for McCain?
The significance of Obama's eulogy was multi-faceted. It underscored the theme of bipartisanship, reflected personal respect between two political opponents, and was a powerful reminder of the character and service of Senator McCain.
What were some key themes in President Obama’s eulogy for McCain?
Key themes in President Obama's eulogy included the celebration of Senator McCain's commitment to the United States, his courage, and his dedication to bipartisanship. Obama also spoke of the importance of upholding democratic values and unity.
Have other former presidents given eulogies for political rivals?
Yes, it is not unprecedented for former U.S. presidents to give eulogies for political rivals. The act is often seen as a gesture of unity and respect that transcends political boundaries.
How did the public react to Obama's eulogy at McCain’s funeral?
The public reaction to Obama's eulogy was generally positive, with many people appreciating the eulogy's message of civility and respect in politics. It was seen as a poignant moment of bipartisanship.
What did Obama and McCain agree on politically?
Despite their political differences, Obama and McCain found common ground on several issues, including the need for campaign finance reform, immigration policy, and the belief in a strong national defense.
How did Obama's attendance at McCain’s funeral affect the image of the Democratic Party?
Obama's attendance and eulogy potentially bolstered the image of the Democratic Party by showing a willingness to rise above partisan politics and exhibit respect for a Republican senator's legacy.
Did McCain's choice of eulogists reflect his political philosophy?
Yes, McCain's choice to have both George W. Bush and Barack Obama, a Republican and a Democrat, deliver eulogies at his funeral, was aligned with his often-stated belief in bipartisanship and working across the aisle.
How did Senator McCain's family respond to President Obama's eulogy?
The McCain family warmly received President Obama's eulogy, openly expressing their gratitude for his heartfelt words and the honor he paid to the late senator's memory.
Can the eulogies at McCain’s funeral be seen as a call for restoring civility in politics?
Absolutely. The eulogies, particularly by former Presidents, were widely regarded as a call for a return to civility and mutual respect in the current political climate.
Was President Donald Trump present at Senator McCain's funeral?
President Donald Trump was not present at Senator McCain's funeral. This was reportedly in accordance with the wishes of Senator McCain himself.
How have historians and political analysts interpreted Obama’s eulogy for McCain?
Many historians and political analysts have interpreted Obama's eulogy as a significant moment that highlighted the cross-party respect that can exist between political leaders and as a commentary on the state of contemporary politics.
Did the 2008 Presidential Campaign affect Obama and McCain’s relationship?
While the 2008 Presidential Campaign was contested, both Obama and McCain made efforts to maintain civility and respect throughout. Post-campaign, they continued to exhibit a professional relationship, demonstrating that they could work together despite their past competition.
What role did bipartisanship play in Senator McCain's political career?
Bipartisanship was a cornerstone of Senator McCain's career. He was known for reaching across the aisle to pass legislation and was respected by many of his colleagues for his desire to put country over party.
What has been the Obama family’s relationship with the McCain family post-presidency?
The Obama family has maintained a respectful relationship with the McCain family, as evidenced by their presence and participation in memorial and funeral services honoring Senator McCain.
How did President Obama reflect on his own presidency during McCain’s eulogy?
During McCain's eulogy, President Obama reflected on his presidency by emphasizing the shared values and commitment to service both he and McCain held, even when they disagreed on policy.
Is there significance to McCain’s funeral bringing together multiple former presidents?
The gathering of multiple former presidents at McCain's funeral was highly symbolic. It demonstrated the importance of national unity and the respect held within the highest office irrespective of political affiliations.
Did Senator McCain leave a letter or statement explaining his choices for his funeral arrangements?
Senator McCain did not leave a public letter explaining his choices for his funeral arrangements, but through discussions with his family and close associates, his wishes regarding the funeral's proceedings, including his choice of eulogists, were made known.
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