McCain compares Obama to European socialists

CONCORD: Republican presidential candidate John McCain compared Barack Obama to socialist leaders in Europe on Saturday, saying his rival wants to raise taxes on the wealthy to give money to the poor.

McCain, an Arizona senator, tried to erode the advantage Obama has built on the issue of the economy as he spent the day campaigning in traditionally Republican states that are now up for grabs - North Carolina and Virginia.

Obama drew two huge crowds in Missouri, a battleground state that backed Republican President George W. Bush twice.

About 100,000 gathered at the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, according to Obama's campaign, which cited a local police official. It was his biggest U.S. event, the campaign said.

At least 75,000 to 80,000 people attended a later event in Kansas City, according to a local official.Obama accused McCain of mischaracterizing his tax plan. He also said the Republican's economic program put the interests of the well-connected above those of waitresses and janitors.

In a radio address, McCain said Obama would raise taxes on some people in order to give government checks to others.

Sunday, REUTERS