American recognition of the 1915 Armenian genocide is one of the issues that divides Barack Obama and John McCain in this election.

McCain’s position:

McCain refuses to pledge recognition of 'Armenian genocide'.

In his long career in the Senate, McCain has consistently refused to back Armenian genocide resolutions.

Republican Presidential candidate Sen. John McCain said that he would not support a congressional resolution calling on the government of Turkey to acknowledge the 1915 Armenian Genocide.

However, On September 29 Senator John McCain issued an open letter to Armenian American voters, seeking their support for his presidential campaign, but failing to outline his stands on core Armenian American issues, reported the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA).

 Obama’s position

   “ I share with Armenian Americans – so many of whom are descended from genocide survivors - a principled commitment to commemorating and ending genocide. That starts with acknowledging the tragic instances of genocide in world history”.

 “As a U.S. Senator, I have stood with the Armenian American community in calling for Turkey's acknowledgement of the Armenian Genocide”.

 Armenian Genocide is not an allegation, a personal opinion, or a point of view, but rather a widely documented fact supported by an overwhelming body of historical evidence. The facts are undeniable. An official policy that calls on diplomats to distort the historical facts is an untenable policy.

 “As a senator, I strongly support passage of the Armenian Genocide Resolution (H.Res.106 and S.Res.106), and as President I will recognize the Armenian Genocide”.

 “America deserves a leader who speaks truthfully about the   Armenian Genocide and responds forcefully to all genocides. I intend to be that President.” (Barak Obama)

Armenian Americans are issue voters, and look to the candidates seeking their support to be clear about their views and values – particularly on issues related to the Armenian Genocide, Nagorno-Karabagh, the strengthening of Armenia, and the growth of U.S.-Armenia relations."