Where they stand

Election 2008

MCCAIN- Supports Roe v. Wade. Criticized the Supreme Court decision that upheld Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act. Supports federal funding for stem-cell research. Opposes a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage and has called for the repeal of Defense of Marriage Act, which denies federal recognition of same-sex marriages and allows states to refuse to recognize them.

Iraq / Afghanistan

OBAMA - Voted in 2002 to authorize invasion. Was a major advocate of the troop increase. Opposes any timeline for withdrawal but has said, if conditions warrant, troop levels could be cut in half by the end of his first term as president. Supports a boost in U.S. forces in Afghanistan but has not said how many.

MCCAIN- Opposed invasion from the beginning and opposed the troop increase. Would withdraw combat troops from Iraq and have all of them out within 16 months after he takes office. Would transfer about 7,000 troops from Iraq to Afghanistan.

Iran

OBAMA - Calls for multilateral sanctions and a worldwide divestment from companies doing business with Iran. Opposes direct talks with Iranian leaders.

MCCAIN- Favors direct diplomacy with Iranian leaders. Would impose economic sanctions unless Iran agrees to abandon its nuclear program.

Source: Los Angeles Times; Photos: Associated Press