Little known beyond his family and small circle of friends, McCain has a softer, compassionate side that co-exists with his temper. Those who have seen him in private moments and in personal relationships say the Arizona senator has demonstrated extraordinary kindness, bringing to the political realm a human dimension often obscured by the heat of the moment.
Critics have questioned McCain's temperament, including his suitability to be commander-in-chief, since his first run for the presidency in 2000. In January, Republican Senator Thad Cochran of Mississippi told the Boston Globe that ``the thought of his being president sends a cold chill down my spine. He is erratic. He is hot-headed. He loses his temper and he worries me.''
Taming His Temper
McCain, 71, has acknowledged his temper, saying he ``works all the time'' at taming it. ``Every time I lose my temper, I've regretted it,'' he said in a 1998 interview.
Critics have questioned McCain's temperament, including his suitability to be commander-in-chief, since his first run for the presidency in 2000. In January, Republican Senator Thad Cochran of Mississippi told the Boston Globe that ``the thought of his being president sends a cold chill down my spine. He is erratic. He is hot-headed. He loses his temper and he worries me.''
Taming His Temper
McCain, 71, has acknowledged his temper, saying he ``works all the time'' at taming it. ``Every time I lose my temper, I've regretted it,'' he said in a 1998 interview.