White House row shocks Spain as rivals clash in first television debate

MADRID
SPAIN became embroiled in a political row yesterday as the two front runners in the race for the White House clashed over terrorism and foreign policy.

Millions watched the candidates' first televised debate, but politicians in Madrid were mystified why Spain should become one of the rivals' most contentious issues during a heated discussion about rogue states. Republican John McCain slated Democrat Barack Obama for his willingness to enter negotiations with leaders of countries like Iran and North Korea without any pre-conditions.

However McCain's apparent inflexibility on foreign issues bought an angry backlash from his rival, who accused the Republican of being unsure about Spain's status as an ally. “He even said he wouldn't meet with the prime minister of Spain,” alleged the democrat.