Sen. John McCain slammed Donald Trump on Monday for his criticism of the Muslim parents of a slain American hero and demanded the GOP presidential nominee start representing the Republican Party.
"In recent days, Donald Trump disparaged a fallen soldier's parents. He has suggested that the likes of their son should not be allowed in the United States — to say nothing of entering its service," McCain said in a statement released by his office.
"I cannot emphasize enough how deeply I disagree with Mr. Trump's statement. I hope Americans understand that the remarks do not represent the views of our Republican Party, its officers, or candidates."
McCain added: "It is time for Donald Trump to set the example for our country and the future of the Republican Party. While our Party has bestowed upon him the nomination, it is not accompanied by unfettered license to defame those who are the best among us."
The Arizona lawmaker is no stranger to the billionaire real-estate tycoon's controversial comments on those who've served in the military.
A prisoner of war in Vietnam for more than five years after his fighter plane shot down, McCain was stung last year by Trump's statement: "He was a war hero because he was captured. I like people who weren't captured."
In statement obtained by
NBC News, McCain also issued a personal message to the Khans:
"Thank you for immigrating to America. We're a better country because of you. And you are certainly right; your son was the best of America, and the memory of his sacrifice will make us a better nation — and he will never be forgotten."
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