(Agencies)
Updated: 2008-10-19 09:29

CONCORD, N.C./ST. LOUIS - Republican presidential candidate John McCain compared Barack Obama to socialist leaders in Europe on Saturday, saying his rival wants to raise taxes on the wealthy to give money to the poor.

US Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama (L) and Republican presidential nominee Sen. John McCain shake hands after their presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York October 15, 2008. [Agencies]

McCain, an Arizona senator, tried to erode the advantage Obama has built on the issue of the economy as he spent the day campaigning in traditionally Republican states that are now up for grabs -- North Carolina and Virginia.

Obama drew 100,000 people to a rally at the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, his biggest crowd yet, according to his campaign, which cited a local police official.

Obama accused McCain of mischaracterizing his tax plan. He also said the Republican's economic program put the interests of the well-connected above those of waitresses and janitors.

In a radio ad, McCain said Obama would raise taxes on some people in order to give government checks to others.

"Barack Obama's tax plan would convert the (Internal Revenue Service) into a giant welfare agency, redistributing massive amounts of wealth at the direction of politicians in Washington," the Republican candidate said.

"At least in Europe, the socialist leaders who so admire my opponent are upfront about their objectives. They use real numbers and honest language. And we should demand equal candor from Senator Obama," McCain said.

McCain was referring to Obama's promise of a tax cut to families earning less than $250,000. Some workers who do not earn enough to owe federal income taxes would get a refund on money they contribute in Social Security payroll taxes.

The Obama campaign pointed out that the tax credit at the center of McCain's health care plan is also refundable for low-income workers.

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