America 'slipping away', says Obama

In a thinly veiled criticism of President George W Bush’s rhetoric after the 9/11 attacks, McCain said he was troubled that Americans had been asked to go shopping to stimulate the economy rather than being called on to “devote ourselves to causes greater than our self-interests.”
Warren also queried the contenders about the role Jesus Christ has played in their lives.
“I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and I am redeemed through him,” Obama told Warren. “That is a source of strength and sustenance on a daily basis.” McCain said he had been “saved and forgiven” through his belief in Christ.
Referring to marital issues, both candidates said they believed marriage should only be between a man and a woman, but Obama said he believed that was an issue that should be left up to individual states, while McCain said he would support a federal constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage if a court ruled that one state would have to accept same-sex marriages from another state.
As the two candidates spoke, people against the Iraq war marched outside the event, demanding an immediate withdrawal of US troops from Iraq.
The protesters caused no problems and no arrests were made, said Jim Amormino of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
The event took place under heavy security, with helicopters whirling above and sharpshooters on the roof.