Sen. John McCain got some backlash for a "joke" he tweeted at the president of Iran's expense Monday.

Iran's Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said he hopes to be the first Iranian in space.

McCain then tweeted, "So Ahmadinejad wants to be first Iranian in space -- wasn't he just there last week?" He then linked to an article about Iran launching a monkey into space last week.

Rep. Justin Amash (R-Mich.) lashed out at the "racist" joke. McCain responded, "Re: Iran space tweet -- lighten up folks, can't everyone take a joke?"

Carcinogens found in West Islip … LI jobless rate on the rise … LIRR IOU invoices Credit: Newsday

Urologist sexual abuse case ... Carcinogens found in West Islip ... Lab results for Bethpage park drums ... Rangers win game 2

Carcinogens found in West Islip … LI jobless rate on the rise … LIRR IOU invoices Credit: Newsday

Urologist sexual abuse case ... Carcinogens found in West Islip ... Lab results for Bethpage park drums ... Rangers win game 2

Latest video

Newsday LogoSUBSCRIBEUnlimited Digital AccessOnly 25¢for 5 months
ACT NOWSALE ENDS SOON | CANCEL ANYTIME