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McCain revives campaign with scrappy smarts

By Jim Wooten | Friday, August 1, 2008, 08:59 PM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Updated 8:30 a.m. Monday

The entire country noticed the week that the John McCain campaign sprang to life. The polls confirm it. Both the Gallup and the Rasmussen tracking polls released Sunday put the race with Barack Obama as essentially tied. Gallup has Obama 45, McCain 44. Rasmussen has Obama 47, McCain 46.

Obama, starting certainly with his “we are the ones we have been waiting for” speech back in February has solidified an image as somebody who sees himself as larger than mere mortal — a messiah, says Rush Limbaugh.

That continued, certainly, with the knock-off presidential seal that made a brief campaign appearance and with his European tour. McCain is taking note. With humor. His latest Internet commercial captures Obama’s grandiose statements and concludes with Moses (Charlton Heston) parting the Read Sea in Cecil B. DeMille’s 1956 movie “The Ten Commandments.”

View the video

This is clearly a race John McCain can win.

For months, I’ve thought Barack Obama has a problem he’s incapable of overcoming. He doesn’t know when to quit talking. He’s really not disciplined, especially when he’s before a like-minded crowd. And he is arrogant. As we saw through the Democratic primaries, he does not wear well. It’s infatuation at first eye-lock. But then, when the potential partners start sizing him up for long-term commitment, the flash fades.

Ummmn, no, don’t think so.

McCain nailed him last week, picking up immediately something the American people clearly sensed from his Berlin rock-star tour: Obama is a celebrity of the Britney Spears/Paris Hilton variety who just says things. Sometimes they sound insightful. Sometimes they hint at profoundity. Always, when prepared in advance, they are a beautifully written script. Connecting Obama to politically dilettantish Hollywood and by inference the Hollywood left is an indication that the McCain organization can get it together and mount a smart, aggressive campaign over the next three months. “He’s the biggest celebrity in the world,” the McCain ad asserts, “but is he ready to lead?”

Obama’s assertion that we won’t need to drill for oil if we just put more air in our tires is a Hollywood-starlet alternative to a national energy policy.

McCain affirmed his intention to play hardball, too, in his response to Obama’s casual use of the race card. After referring to President Bush and to McCain, Obama had said: “What they’re going to try to do is make you scared of me. You know, ‘He’s not patriotic enough, he’s got a funny name, you know, he doesn’t look like all those other presidents on the dollar bills.’”

McCain responded immediately, expressing his disappointment that Obama had chosen to play the race card — the only possible inference to be drawn from his observation that he “doesn’t look like all those other presidents.”

Obama’s a tough guy to run against for any Republican. The hit squads of the left are positioned on the periphery of the campaign battlefield to pounce at the first use of a word or phrase that can be interpreted as calling attention to Obama’s race. Republicans are stereotyped. Even straightforward efforts to curtail voter fraud like, for example, requiring legitimate proof at the polls of a potential voter’s identity has created a cottage industry among Democratic partisans determined to establish it as evidence of racism.

Be prepared: Any clumsy or stupid utterance by anybody who ever voted Republican that can be interpreted as racism between now and election day will be represented as an extension of the McCain campaign. It’s standard drive-the-vote business.

McCain, in any event, demonstrated that he’ll not allow this advantage to be one-sided. Calling Obama’s hand early on the use of the race card is a signal that he won’t be intimidated on the issue.

McCain recovered well, too, on the issue of higher taxes. For a Republican to indicate an openness to higher taxes with a Democratic Congress is suicide. McCain appeared to do precisely that in speaking with reporters on the campaign bus and later in an ABC interview.

When asked whether he would support higher payroll taxes to fix Social Security, he responded that nothing is off the table. “Nothing” includes, of course, higher taxes.

McCain thus appeared to have given away the franchise. Any Republican who agrees to a dollar of new taxes with this spendthrift Congress will get a thousand.

McCain quickly recovered.

When asked on Tuesday by a young girl in Sparks, Nev., whether he would raise taxes as president, McCain gave a one-word reply: “No.”

He’d promised that repeatedly, before appearing to drift away. The simple, emphatic “no” is the correct answer.

It was a good week. He can win.

Permalink | Comments (198) | Post your comment | Categories: Column

Comments

By ron

August 4, 2008 9:40 AM | Link to this

Good morning Jim,McCain can win,but only if every Republican in America votes for him.As I’ve said before,People that are going to dabble in the fringe parties are going to go a long way toward electing Obama.If Republicans are interested in winning,their votes have to go toward their candidate. McCains campaign has scored some big hits lately and contrary to some opinions,these are the issues.Is Obama only a celebrity?Is Obama black and what is that going to mean?These are real issues that are being played out here. Obama is right about one thing.He doesn’t look like the Presidents on the American money.He doesn’t resemble a President at all.

By GOPs got to go

August 4, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Jim, If you think that pathetic attempt at name calling McCain put out is actually going to change any voters minds, then I believe you may have bumped your head recently. I did have to LOL when I saw the ad, like I said before, pathetic. You know I actually liked McCain before this election and was happy when he won the Republican nomination. I though I can live with him. Then he started pandering to the Right Wing Christians. When will they ever get that there are more than just their own opinions on things. Do they honestly believe that the most advanced country in the world will step back in time 30 years and take back women’s right to choose? Do they really believe that Intelligent Design should be taught in place of Evolution? As an ex-Catholic, I am completely through with having a man, elected by men, think they are in charge of my reproductive system. Especially hypocritical ones that turn a blind eye on child rapists, but tell me I am going to Hell for taking birth control pills and voting for Kerry.

Obama draws crowds for one very good reason, he is a gifted speaker and has new ideas, ideas which are highly needed in the tired city of Washington. So no matter how much lip stick you smear on John McCain, he still is the OLD established Washington Senator who no one cares to listen to anymore. That being said, if he does, win at least he can speak English with more eloquence than Dubya.

Quotes from the Shrub:

“We got an issue in America. Too many good docs are gettin’ out of business. Too many OB/GYNs aren’t able to practice their — their love with women all across this country”

“This notion that the United States is getting ready to attack Iran is simply ridiculous. And having said that, all options are on the table.”

“I want to thank the President and the CEO of Constellation Energy, Mayo Shattuck. That’s a pretty cool first name, isn’t it, Mayo. Pass the Mayo

I think Natalie Mains has been vindicated.

By Ga Values

August 4, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

The Wall Street Journal A GOP Choice: Tom Coburn or Ted Stevens By JOHN FUND August 2, 2008; Page A11

The Republican Party is facing what Ronald Reagan called “a time for choosing.” A real argument is raging over how much it should turn its back on the bad habits that cost it control of Congress in 2006.

Just after that debacle, Alaska’s Sen. Ted Stevens, the father of the infamous “Bridge to Nowhere,” encountered Oklahoma Sen. Tom Coburn, the antipork crusader who had held up many of the projects so many members believe are the key to their re-election. Mr. Stevens said, “Well, Tom, I hope you’re satisfied for helping us lose the election.” Mr. Coburn replied, “No, Ted, you lost us this election.”

Martin Kozlowski The data favored Mr. Coburn: 2006 exit polls revealed that corruption in government was second only to the Iraq war as the driving force behind the Democratic takeover. A major part of that corruption was earmarks — pork projects members often secure in secret. Earmarks were at the heart of the scandals that sent Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff and former Calif. Rep. Duke Cunningham to jail.

This week’s events further discredited the earmark culture. On Tuesday, Mr. Stevens, ranking Republican on the Appropriations Committee, had to step down after being indicted for failing to report over $250,000 in gifts from a firm that sought earmarks from him. The day before, Republicans enjoyed a rare success when they beat back an attempt by Majority Leader Harry Reid to ram through an earmark-laden omnibus bill that Mr. Coburn had refused to help pass by the often-abused “unanimous consent” process.

Mr. Reid had wanted to get the $10 billion package passed without debate. But while containing some worthwhile projects, the “Tomnibus” bill — a name picked to mock Mr. Coburn — was also stuffed with money for the Smithsonian’s orchid collection, a $5 million museum in Poland and a traveling exhibit on the War of 1812. Mr. Reid claimed his package merely authorized the spending of money rather than appropriated it and thus “doesn’t cost a penny.” Republicans ridiculed that logic and stood by Mr. Coburn, who says earmarks serve as “a gateway drug on the road to spending addiction.”

Mr. Coburn notes that many members feel compelled to vote for bloated spending bills, fearing their local projects will be stripped out. But he says that with each new scandal, the political value of earmarks goes down: “If only one-tenth of one percent of the 15,000 earmarks we have involve corruption, that’s 15 headlines a year Congress can’t afford.”

John McCain won the GOP nomination and retains support from independent voters today in part because he vows to veto any bill containing pork-barrel projects. Arizona Rep. Jeff Flake, Mr. Coburn’s antiearmark counterpart in the House, thinks voters in GOP districts are now disgusted enough to make the political costs to a member seeking pork greater than the benefits.

One reason Congress now has even lower approval numbers than in 2006 is the failure of Democrats to make good on their vow to clean up the earmark process. A “moratorium” on earmarks has been quietly set aside; and the Congressional Research Service has been directed by Congressional leaders to no longer respond to requests from members on the size, number or background of earmarks. “Democrats claim the earmarks will now be transparent, but they’re taking away the very data that lets us know what’s really happening,” says South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint. Democratic earmark reform, concludes Mr. Coburn, “not only failed to drain the swamp, but gave the alligators new rights.”

Mr. Coburn’s main point on earmarks is that senators must choose between a culture of parochialism and a culture that puts the national interest first. He stipulates that few members are corrupt, and that most go with the flow. He has even offered to release his holds on earmarks — if their sponsors will propose reducing federal spending elsewhere, so “we aren’t just dumping more debt on our kids.”

His offer hasn’t been popular. Included in the Reid package was $1.67 billion for ocean and coastal programs that were pet projects of Mr. Stevens. But the Alaska senator has refused to even discuss spending offsets to pay for what he calls “Stevens money.” In 2005, there was so much “Stevens money” that Alaska snared almost $1,000 in earmarked federal funding for every resident, 30 times what went to the average state, based on population.

Mr. Stevens was a big reason the earmark culture had such a grip on Senate Republicans: Few dared risk his wrath. When he became chairman of the Appropriations Committee in 1997, he proudly proclaimed, “I’m a mean, miserable Edited to Remove Profanity ——Edited to Remove Profanity ——Edited to Remove Profanity ——.” When Mr. Coburn dared challenge his $228 million “Bridge to Nowhere” in 2005, Mr. Stevens warned fellow senators “if we start cutting funding for individual projects, your project may be next.”

In the House, GOP Rep. Don Young of Alaska — the former Transportation Committee chair who stuffed the last highway bill with over 6,000 earmarks — played a similar intimidation game. “Those who bite me will be bitten back,” Mr. Young warned Rep. Scott Garrett last year. Mr. Garrett, a New Jersey Republican, had tried to kill a $34 million earmark sponsored by Mr. Young.

Now Mr. Stevens is almost certain to lose his Senate seat — either through defeat or conviction on felony charges. And Mr. Young is trailing in Alaska’s August 26 primary to Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell, a protégé of Alaska’s reform Republican Gov. Sarah Pallin. Here’s hoping the removal of both men from Capitol Hill stiffens the spine of more Republicans to forswear the earmark culture.

They may not like it, but Mr. Coburn is showing Republicans how the GOP can return to its small government roots. Consider Ronald Reagan, who in 1987 vetoed a highway bill because it had a mere 121 earmarks in it.

Reagan quoted a letter that Thomas Jefferson wrote to James Madison in 1796, warning that allowing Congress to spend federal money for local projects would set off “a scene of scramble among the members (for) who can get the most money wasted in their State, and they will always get most who are meanest.” Reagan didn’t think that represented good government or good politics. Republicans today should heed his warning.

SAXBY plans to KEEP the $15,000.00 Stevens gave him.. guess which side Saxby Special Interest Chambliss is on.

By Dutchman

August 4, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

From an investment article ([Seeking Alpha])(http://seekingalpha.com/article/88816-canadian-oil-sands-penn-west-energy-protected-on-the-downside?source=yahoo)

“A potential punitive windfall profits tax that would unfairly discriminate against U.S. producers may drive up oil price further to the benefit of Canadian and non-U.S. producers.”

With so few US producers, seems we are targeting the wrong folks, With BP and Shell having free rein to earn profits and reinvest, I guess BHO just doesn’t like US producers.

By @@

August 4, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Uh Jim? According to OBlahMa, “words matter”. Are ‘ya sure you wanna use the words “scrappy” and “racism” in the same column. What with scraps from the table and all that it could entail.

His problem is he doesn’t know when to stop talking.

Amen!

During a town-hall-style event on Florida’s so-called space coast, the Democrat said he no longer favors slashing NASA’s budget, declaring that the U.S. “cannot cede our leadership in space.”

Obama had previously supported delaying NASA’s manned missions in order to pay for early childhood education programs. Aides say he has now found other means to pay for his education plans.

John McCain’s campaign immediately jumped on the announcement labeling it a flip flop. “Barack Obama once again demonstrated that his words don’t really matter,” the campaign said in a press release.

An Obama aide calls the criticism “a complete exaggeration” saying Obama found an alternative means of payment through reducing earmark spending and reforming federal contracting procedures. This frees the Illinois senator up to say he would continue to fund the space program.

Now correct me if I’m wrong, but wasn’t John McCain talking about reducing earmark spending, and hasn’t he already intervened on some federal contracting issues before OBlahMa decided it would be a good idea?

And another thing……..wasn’t Hillary calling for Florida and Michigan’s votes to count during the primaries? OBlahMa objected. Seems now that he has the nomination, he’s all for it. Something about unity and blah blah blah.

Lanny Davis, a Clinton supporter is a little late to the game.

The only answer is that the words “rational,” “sensible” and “fair” are usually oxymorons when associated with the phrase “the Democratic Party’s presidential nominating system.”

Seems like the dems have a lot to learn from Republicans. They’re just slow in getting started.

By Josh

August 4, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

I can’t believe Obama finally stooped to low levels and played the race card the other day by sayin “i don’t look like the other presidents on the dollar bills.” I was waiting for the day he finally played the card, and he played it from the bottom of the deck. Also, why is he so scared to debate McCain more than the usual 3 times?

Ok all you obamamaniacs…start defending your man.

McCain ‘08

By BFKaJ

August 4, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Dear Mrs. Godzilla @ 9:27, I think you err in asserting that McCain avoids the issues.

McCain has no difficulty calling the “surge” a success, and certainly his perspective is clearer than Obama’s convoluted view.

McCain has no difficulty saying taxes are a bad idea, his single instance of waffling last week notwithstanding; I don’t know yet how Obama came to believe that higher taxes are a good strategy for a weak economy, but I am anxious to learn.

McCain smartly talks about the types of justices and judges he would appoint - I think he always cites Roberts and Alito (even though I think he expressed reservations about Alito at the time of appointment.) I have yet to hear anything from Obama about the judges he admires, although he did go out of his way to praise the Roberts - Alito - Thomas minority view (written by Scalia) in the child rape case. Does that mean he would appoint justices like Roberts and Alito and Thomas and Scalia? I have a nagging doubt.

Indeed, it is Obama’s blank slate that has opened the way to McCain’s humorous ads. That McCain (“Bomb, bomb, bomb. Bomb, bomb Iran) has a Reaganesque sense of humor is still arguable, but Obama’s thin skin is not. Temperament may matter, but not in the way I envisioned during the primaries.

By AJC/DNC Management

August 4, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

Buh-bye barry:

The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Monday shows the race for the White House is tied with Barack Obama and John McCain each attracting 44% of the vote. However, when “leaners” are included, it’s McCain 47% and Obama 46%.

Bwa.

By Common Sense

August 4, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

McClain cannot win this race. Only people who cling to something that the Replubican believe is going to be taken away will vote for McClain.

No one is going to take away your guns!

Mr. Obama is the best choice instead of a 71 year old acting like a child. I don’t get enough television coverage.

Just run a good campaign and more people would have faith in you!

It is disappointing that a 71 year man is going with the usually denigrating politics when this country is in real trouble.

Mr. McClain sounds like my niece when she wants something,

I will not raise taxes, I might raise taxes. I will not drill off-shore, I will drill off-shore.

It so much it’s a waste of time to list of the flip flopping the Senator does on major issues.

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Also Josh, don’t forget Obama skipping the visit to Germany to visit wounded troops. Who cares what people think, visit wounded troops. They are the ones fighting for our freddom you moron!

alright, i’m getting the popcorn and watching people excuses for Obama. let the fun begin.

McCain ‘08.

By BFKaJ

August 4, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

The most interesting issue is developing now. The conservative republicans are holding a talkathon on the empty house floor. We now have two competing mantra – Pelosi’s “More drilling will not make any difference in the supply of energy” vs. the conservatives’s “Drill, everywhere, now.” I think the shorter phrase likely to register – it has the virtue of making sense. Even Chauncey is pulling the run out from under Nancy.

By Chaz

August 4, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Obama’s a coward. He can’t handle hard questions (pleease can we replay the Charlie Gibson debate?) and is running from an ongoing dialog between candidates, leaving us to another 3 months of ‘attack ads’ where the two of them just maneuver their positions and shout past each other.

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss.

By BFKaJ

August 4, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

The most interesting issue is developing now. The conservative republicans are holding a talkathon on the empty house floor. We now have two competing mantra – Pelosi’s “More drilling will not make any difference in the supply of energy” vs. the conservatives’s “Drill, everywhere, now.” I think the shorter phrase likely to register – it has the virtue of making sense. Even Chauncey is pulling the rug out from under Nancy.

By Copyleft

August 4, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

Right-wing drivel is always amusing, but McLame’s latest “celebrity” jab was especially funny.

See, he posed the argument that Obama is too popular to win. That’s right—so many people LIKE Obama, that it’s making him unelectable!

Oh, that’s a knee-slapper, that one! Why bother to parody the fascists, when they do such a good job torpedoing themselves?

(snicker)

By Inspector Clouseau

August 4, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

JOSH..You copied Exactly what Rick Davis (karl Roves)protege stated! Any original thoughts JOSH?

As for the debates, again you state the obvious “THE USUAL 3”

The leader, in this case OBAMA doesn’t need to give McCain an extra sounding board!

Obama will draw the crowd wherever he goes .. McCain won’t!

So what would be the point, JOSH?

By BFKaJ

August 4, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Dear Common @ 10:19, “Only people who cling to something that the Replubican believe is going to be taken away will vote for McClain.” Right. Freedom. Money. Peace of mind. Even Walmart – is there anything more American than Walmart? - warned its managers about the risks of democrats.

By Tuffy, The Airborne Soldier

August 4, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Jim,

Sorry Buddy. But I have to agree with Rona and GOPs Gotta Go. Ms. Godzilla, sorry but you and Jim’s hope of having a GOP white house is fading as fast as my jeans. For McCain to suggest these petty ads as being humorous and non attacking is as Ludacris as Ludacris. These tactics obviously renews hope in people who think like you and Ms. Godzilla, but, to be sure, the American Public wants comment on substantive issues. Not humour at the electorates expense. Mccain has said nothing on the economy. Nothing on the mortgage meltdown, healthcare, education, race relations, the defecit, etc., etc. We’ve had bumbling, mis-communications, confusing positions. This is the McCain Campaign. And you see him Presidential?? I think the American people have had quite enough of the GOP. I for one have.

By Gary Indian Jones

August 4, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Obama 08: We’ll always have Paris.

McCain 08: Wet start this, old man…..ew…..run!

By Gary India Jones

August 4, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Obama 08: We’ll always have Paris.

McCain 08: Wet start this, old man…..ew…..run!

By Drew

August 4, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Oh haven’t you heard? Obama now says he might ‘have a role’ for off-shore drilling… that reversal will be seen as somehow different (as in more pure and wise) than McCain’s reversal on the issue… if anyone questions it at all. Just watch.

By Mrs. Godzilla

August 4, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

McCain can say the surge worked till he’s blue in the face….however it didn’t.

Benchmarks dude, benchmarks!

McCain stance on taxes is just as you noted this or that or maybe this again. What I can’t figure out is how anybody supported the only war time tax decrease ever? What a great thing that has turned out to be for economy!

McCain talks about the judges he wants to appoint….problem is most Americans still support a woman’s right to choose.

McCain, I think, is the man of thin skin. Look at his temper! Obama continues to elevate the discussion.

Sorry, BFKaJ….I think you are dead wrong.

By fearless fosdik

August 4, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

PEADAWG..AKA JOSH,

Or is it pea brain…Get out your popcorn!

I don’t know how many times you’re going to reitirate that now DEBUNKED fairy tale about Obama not visiting the wounded at Landstuhl hospital..Got anything new to add?

By hillbilly ragger

August 4, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Drew @ 10.31, what Obama’s saying about offshore drilling is exactly what I’d advocated (and what got reprinted in the dead-tree edition, actually) on this here blog.

You want to drill in protected areas? Fine. Just agree to extremely painful conservation measures first. And put a ton of effort into alternative energy sources, preferably those that can be done on a micro level (personal solar/wind/geothermal) as well as gridwise.

Show you’re serious about that, and then by all means, let’s see about developing more on public lands. But not before.

Obama seems open to that. Good for him.

By Dennis

August 4, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Give it up, Mr. Wooten. Unless something really earth shaking happens, Obama is already the next president.

Now the issue is, will he be successful or another corrupt disaster like George W. Bush?

Having heavily criticized Bush with my comments on here, I’m now ready and willing to criticize Obama.

Unlike a conservative who must follow the script, being liberal allows me to do that.

Being a conservative as you are, you aren’t allowed to say your boy, George W. Bush, has been a DISASTER.

And you know what? Although Obama has a long, long way to go to catch up with George W. Bush, he’s already flip-flopping.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By hillbilly ragger

August 4, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Dear Big Fooking Kludge, who asks: “is there anything more American than Walmart?”

yeah. Representative democracy, unions, and a strong middle class, among hundreds if not thousands of other things, you whiny, no-account dolt.

By Fix-It

August 4, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Finally America is coming to its senses, they are listening to the issues not the baloney. Do away with earmarks and drill is enough to elect the next president.

By Time for Wooten's Nap

August 4, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

YAWWWWWWN!

This column paid for by citizens for McCrusty and more of the same s—t.

By dirty harry

August 4, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

DENNIS…You are right on spot with your comment at 10:38 AM.

I am not sure about Obama, but, I’ll NEVER, ever vote for McCain!

And, when the hens come home to roost, and Obama is president, and if he proves to be as incompetent, and corrupt as these idiots we now have occupying the white house I’ll be the first to say Ah Sh!!t!

By hillbilly ragger

August 4, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Anyway, to get back on topic (and I apologize for first responding to other commenters rather than to Jim’s actual column—mea maxima culpa): sure, McCain can win.

He’s got corporate media management on his side; a lot of reporters have publicly professed genuine fondness for the guy. He’ll be able to attack Obama and, generally, behaving like a guy who’s looking to lose by around 60-80 electoral votes according to a lot of statewide polling, without really getting called out on it.

And Obama could make a mis-step whilst Campaigning while Black. You never know what is going to upset Joe Voter’s delicate widdle ego.

But Jim, seriously, that ain’t the way to bet. And keep in mind, Obama hasn’t really gone after McCain yet. He’s mildly criticized some of McCain’s latest campaign oddities, but Obama’s generally remained above that fray (and his surrogates haven’t exactly gone around calling McCain “McSenile”, either.)

Obama’s assembled a scary-smart ground team, he’s poised to do battle in states like Indiana that haven’t gone Dem since 1964, he may very well take VA and NC. Should Obama decide to kneecap McCain with personal attacks—and there is plenty in McCain’s political and personal history to go after—McCain will likely never recover.

Yeah, the national polling numbers are still kinda close. But have you been watching the state-by-state polls? Whole ‘nother story.

By Paul

August 4, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Mrs. Godzilla 10:33

[[McCain can say the surge worked till he’s blue in the face….however it didn’t.

Benchmarks dude, benchmarks!]]

Something for your calendar - a few months from now - if you could please pencil in “Obama’s benchmarks for victory in Afghanistan” to answer if Obama’s surge strategy worked.

Think he’ll let us know what those benchmarks are before November?

As far a judges, my impression is Rep senators vote “Aye” if the nominee is qualified. That’s why McCain voted for Justice Ruth Bader-Ginsburg. Even though the Rep right was aghast. Dem senators put in the litmus test, which is why Sen Obama voted against Edwards and Alito - so the Dem hardLeft wouldn’t be aghast (‘course, he hadn’t secured the nomination and was still appeasing the MoveOn crowd. Or perhaps it’s a core belief. Who knows?).

By Get Real

August 4, 2008 10:53 AM | Link to this

I guess if you call ads about Britney and Paris, and not talking about this issues springing to life then yeah he has. What Wooten isn’t saying is that McCain also said that EVERYTHING in on the table to get social security back on track. An increase in payroll taxes is also in there. Don’t let Wooten fool you, he know Republican’s resume this year is really thin, so the only way McCain, can yes win, is if the issues are put to the side and it becomes a mud fest.

By dirty harry

August 4, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

Paul…May I ask who is “EDWARDS”?

Or do you know?

By GMAN

August 4, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

I am quite amused at the call by Old Man McCain for debates BEFORE the conventions. There have NEVER been debates between opposing party candidates before and why start now? Maybe its because Old Scarface wants more facetime without having to pay for it. Ya think? The next thing you know Old Methuselah will want to dictate the location, date, time, and questions. What a BLEMISH on society!

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

dirty harry

Shoulda been Roberts. Must’ve been listening to the latest news on the radio while typing -

but I don’t know if it’s true or not - he’s not saying.

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

GMAN @ 11:05 AM

That’s your best excuse for not wanting to go ahead and debate? Why not start now? Could be interesting but it looks like Obama is a cowardly dog with his tail between his legs. He can’t think for himself…he gets all of his advisors to write his material for him.

By dirty harry

August 4, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Paul..It seems you need a little hint to answer my last question because there is no EDWARDS .. At (my last count) on the supreme Court!

Could you have meant John Roberts?

Jeez do conservatives get anything right?

By Fix-It

August 4, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

Hey Dennis, I know a brain surgeon that is 143 days into med school; do you want him to operate on you? Why would you think Osama, I mean Obama would not be more of a disaster that Bush?

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

GMAN

According to the Associated Press:

“In May, when a McCain adviser proposed a series of pre-convention appearances at town hall meetings, Obama said, “I think that’s a great idea.”

“When the idea first came up from the McCain campaign that May, Obama was still battling Hillary Rodham Clinton for the Democratic nomination. Obama said then: “Obviously, we would have to think through the logistics on that, but … if I have the opportunity to debate substantive issues before the voters with John McCain, that’s something that I am going to welcome.”“

Obama then went on to counter with an offer of a different format for the debates. Obviously, the timing wasn’t an issue. As far as what’s traditionally been done with timing, don’t forget the mantra: “Change.”

By Scraps of What

August 4, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten blew a serious gasket on this one. He finally broke down and started talking about McCain’s loyal base and how he panders to them. That’s what he really means with his line about scrappy smarts. McCain’s clowns throw out scraps to his base and his base eats them up like they were bits of bacon and all of a sudden they’re all smart and knowledgeable on subject matter that they never even heard of during their 5 years of schooling. Scrappy smarts it is. Even McCain starts drooling when he sits and listens to it. Of course, that could just be a sign of other issues.

By RW-(the original)

August 4, 2008 11:21 AM | Link to this

The story about The Dunce not visiting troops in Germany has been debunked????

Some people are insanely gullible in this country. It was on his schedule and he didn’t go once he found out that his campaign staff couldn’t accompany him and he was reminded that the press couldn’t go although he says he already knew that part and planned to leave them sitting in the plane on the tarmac. Why he intended to bring them, but leave them in the plane remains unexplained since if that was the plan they could have stayed in Berlin. Debunk that.

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Fix-It:

Obama’s advisors wouldn’t be that big of a disaster. They are all probably very smart and do Obama’s work for him since he don’t know shyt :) I 100% agree with you on the brain surgeon thing. Obama was a 2yr junior senator that got nothing done.

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

dirty harry

Pls see my response posted six minutes before your last -

By FRANKLEEDARLING

August 4, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Anything can happen with this election stealing GOP machine.All the more reason that anyone who wants to see positive progress in this country must go to the polls vote and pay close attention to what is going down at the polls .THE GOP WILL TRY TO CHEAT. IT IS THEIR ONLY HOPE.

By dirty harry

August 4, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

“Can’t think for himself”

At least Obama knows the difference between the Sunni and Shiite tribes…Obama knows there is not a country called chekoslovakia…Obama knows that al-Qaeda is not going into Iran and receiving training.

By all accounts McCain thinks so. Until his advisors whisper in his ear, and say not so JOHN!

By Curious Observer

August 4, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

When are people going to understand that polls of the national sentiment are meaningless? If the national popular vote elected a president, Al Gore would be finishing his second term right now.

Look at the state polls. Include Barr and Nader in the tally—strangely, both Barr and Nader draw votes away from McCain. Then you will have a better idea of where the race stands.

By Chicago

August 4, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

**Anncr VO: Every time you fill your tank, the oil companies fill their pockets.

Now Big Oil’s filling John McCain’s campaign with 2 million dollars in contributions.

Because instead of taxing their windfall profits to help drivers, McCain wants to give them another 4 billion in tax breaks.

After one president in the pocket of big oil… We can’t afford another.

Barack Obama… A windfall profits tax on big oil to give families a thousand dollar rebate.

A president who’ll stand up for you.

Barack VO: I’m Barack Obama and I approve this message.**

RW, I wonder if you were a reporter would you let the plane that brought you to Europe leave you in Berlin, while the plane takes off. Use common sense man. He saw injured troops in Iraq, and at here in the states. The exact same thing happened to McCain on his trip to Iraq and Europe as well, but that seems to not be important.

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:30 AM | Link to this

dirty harry

and what have I said that you label as “conservative”?

Or do you subscribe to the ideological lockstep of “if you point out any inconsistencies or shortcomings in our party, principles, or candidates, you’re the enemy!” (Rather the same thinking as Pres Bush’s “You’re with us or against us.” ) Ain’t diversity and the free exchange of ideas great?.

By FRANKLEEDARLING

August 4, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Not visiting the troops is a non starter.Total BS blown up out of proportion from lack of real substance from Mclame, he should seek endorsement from Depends. Dried up old loser.

By RW-(the original)

August 4, 2008 11:34 AM | Link to this

Paul,

Actually I think you’re right about Obambi voting against Edwards. There’s a pretty good chance that every time Edwards does a Benny Hill routine to keep from facing reporters while he’s visiting his mistress Obambi votes him further down the chain of relevance in an Obambi administration.

By Common Sense

August 4, 2008 11:37 AM | Link to this

To Bkjabc:

McClain has stated he wants to institute several spending programs. I have not heard one idea as to how we the government would pay for his federal programs.

Can you tell me what senator McClain has proposed to pay for his federal programs.

Since Mr. McClain just flip-flop on taxes recently how is he going to fund his programs?

By fearless fosdik

August 4, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

Yes RW…DEBUNKED..DEBUNKED..DEBUNKED

These allegations against Obama were almost immediately debunked. NBC News chief foreign affairs correspondent Andrea Mitchell, who accompanied Obama on his overseas trip, reported on the morning of July 25 that Obama met with wounded soldiers in Iraq “without photographers” and that the plan for the Landstuhl visit had been to “leave the press corps on the tarmac.” Mitchell and others would revisit the allegation several times, each time declaring it to be “false” or without factual basis. Nevertheless, the claim that Obama canceled the Landstuhl visit because he could not bring the media along continued to drive media coverage.

Enough said about this topic…

WERE YOU THERE?

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:42 AM | Link to this

Curious Observer 11:29

[[When are people going to understand that polls of the national sentiment are meaningless?]]

You need to change your name to “Astute Observer.” Every once in a while we see a poll where people are asked a question based on feelings or sentiments, such as “are you for protecting the environment” or some such. Then the followup question: “Would you be willing to pay $N more in taxes to make this happen?”

The sentiment goes out the window.

RW-(the original)

Another good point. It seems a couple of sources would cover this story only from the standpoint of “Has this ruined Edwards’ VP chances?”

If this is true, ya’ gotta wonder what the child support is. So, will a liberal committed to “fairness” take the standard court formula of “this is my worth, this is what child support should be” and pay that without being ordered to by the court?

Alas, we’ll never know…. too much secrecy…

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

To Common Sense:

We know how Obama will pay for his programs…just like every other democrat…by taxes the living hell out of everyone!

By Dutchman

August 4, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

I just wish one liberal would give me one good reason - and not a sound bite - to vote for this inexperienced, 3 year senator?

His policies regarding the economy are disastrous, his litany of new rights is dangerous - imagine, college is going to be a free ride and a right??? who shall pay? Health care the same thing - all glitz and no way to pay for it.

What will happen when most small businesses find their tax burden sky rocketing - increase taxes on income over $250 k. Most small businesses are not incorporated and are single proprietary run. income from the business is filed on owners tax forms.

It is all spend, spend and more spending - and that means more taxes taken from the working man.

By RW-(the original)

August 4, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Chicago,

Yes. If he told the press they weren’t allowed to go they would have no choice, but he could also have just ditched them like when he sent them to Chicago while he had his late night meeting with Hillary. let’s see some documentation as to your claim that McBushie did the same thing.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Look what I just won!

We are delighted to inform you that you are one of the THREE LUCKY WINNERS whose e-mail address won the sum payout of £500,000 pounds.(Five Hundred Thousand Pounds Sterlings Only)

Good thing I’m not one of you fool moonbat(ic)s® or I might answer the email.

By @@

August 4, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

McCain’s campaign made fun of Obama’s energy proposal Monday by distributing tire pressure gauges to McCain’s traveling press corps.

The gag was meant to mock Obama’s remark last week that “making sure your tires are properly inflated” could help conserve gasoline.

Before departing for Pennsylvania, Mark Salter, a top McCain adviser, told the press on board McCain’s plane that campaign staffers had brought along copies of Obama’s energy plan for reporters to study on the flight.

After takeoff, Salter re-emerged with his punch line, passing out the pressure gauges reading “Obama’s energy plan” to the journalists on the flight.

The Republican National Committee said McCain supporters in Michigan were planning to distribute the same gauges at Obama’s energy speech in Lansing today.

Well it isn’t the racist “oreos” that liberals found funny at a Michael Steele appearance.

It’s FUNNY.

Gauging OBlahMa’s gas.

By Common Sense

August 4, 2008 11:49 AM | Link to this

To Pea Brain,

What has a 25 year Senator done? Voted for the war and the surge? Should we give him credit him for the war strategy? You are very funny you want to give the old guy credit for being a 25 year senator and a war hero who was captured and tortured.

Quite a few of the Replublican guard has mention Mr. Obama is a brained washed mulsim but Mr. McClain was capture and tortured and we are suppose to believe captain hot head is O.K.

Their is not way I would trust someone who has been torture and a hothead with the button!

Wake-up America it time to take this country in a different direction.

By AJC/DNC Management

August 4, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

IT has been a tough year for the high priests of global warming in the US. First, NASA had to correct its earlier claim that the hottest year on record in the contiguous US had been 1998, which seemed to prove that global warming was on the march. It was actually 1934. Then it turned out the world’s oceans have been growing steadily cooler, not hotter, since 2003. Meanwhile, the winter of 2007 was the coldest in the US in decades, after Al Gore warned us that we were about to see the end of winter as we know it.

Fear and ignorance, Hume concludes, are the true source of superstition. They lead a blind and terrified public to embrace any practice, however absurd or frivolous, which either folly or knavery recommends.

The knaves today, of course, are the would-be high priests of the global warming orthodoxy, with former US vice-president Gore as their supreme pontiff.

Nothing more than a kult of Godless heathens, creating their own perverted religion so that they can have meaning in their shallow, empty, sorry little lives.

There are plenty of things out their for these spineless wonders to “fight,” Islamic terrorism, rogue dictatorships, but notice how these sissies find a fake problem to man up against, stupid, worthless cartoon warriors.

Fools all.

By SaveOurRepublic

August 4, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this

Of course “McAmnasty” could win…especially with the aid of those rig-prone Diebold (Premier Election Solutions) voting machines. By that notion, so could Globalist Elite shill #2, “Bacrock Obummer”.

That being said, the GOP’s chances of winning have greatly been reduced since the Neocons sold out the (true) conservative base (over the last 8 years). Instead of embracing real conservative principles of less government, protection of American jobs/middle class, defending U.S. sovereignty & borders, limiting foreign aid & entanglements & ridding us of the private Fed & the un-Constitutional IRS, the Globalist Elite controlled GOP/Neocon “leadership” has gone in the opposite direction. Many Republicans I’ve spoken too are leaning towards a 3rd party candidate (Bob Barr or Chuck Baldwin) or not voting at all…it’s this aspect that may cost the GOP in November. Conversely, many well-meaning folks will surely be duped into the “voting for the lesser of two evils” fallacy & casting a vote for “McAmnasty”. So, it largely depends on how many of the GOP’s (real) conservative base will sit out the election or vote a 3rd party candidate (as will I).

As I’ve said many times on these blogs, there is no true difference between “McAmnasty” & “Obummer”…they are controlled by the exact same Internationalist ma$ters & are two sides of the same coin!!! I’d strong suggest anyone who cares about saving the last remains of our (quickly fading) Constitutional Republic, check out Constitution Party nominee Dr.Chuck Baldwin (who’s platform is nearly identical to patriot Ron Paul’s)…

http://www.baldwin2008.com

By Dutchman

August 4, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Question to all liberals

If BHO is so good and will make everything perfect, why can’t he pull ahead of a 71 year old man? I mean, John McCain served 23 years in the military and served in Congress for almost that long.

Surely, BHO can convince folks that his vision is too good to be true.

By Skeptic Tank

August 4, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

What rankles me beyond words is that you would herald such a hollow victory, Mr. Wooten. Republicans will have to hold their noses when they pull the lever and vote for McCain. You know it, I know it, and the rest of the planet knows it. The man only espouses conservative values when he’s pandering to the likes of YOU. Your partisan grandstanding merely shows your utter abandonment of your core conservative values. It’s all about winning, isn’t it, Jim? Good luck trying to sleep at night.

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Common Sense:

Stop bringing up all the muslim bs talk. I know Obama’s a christian, seen the video of him being sworn in on the Bible, not the koran. I’m not voting for McCain b/c Obama’s black or “muslim”. I would vote for Mrs. Rice or Mr. Powell in a heartbeat over McCain or Obama.

i’m voting for McCain b/c he shares my christian views. He is opposed to gay marriage, opposed to abortion(murder), and will not tax us into poverty.

By Soothsayer

August 4, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Hello all. I have to leave after this post so you can respond but I will not be here to answer.

This post is about the rise of the Right in this country. I know that every person who considers themselves conservative also considers themselves to be good and honest and decent persons.

However, as you listen to your talk radio, I want you to be aware of some goals and ideals that were advanced some years ago. They were advanced by one of the greatest propandists of all time—Adolph Hitler. Maybe you’ll hear some of these on the radio:

Create external enemies (Islamic fascists) Create internal enemies (Liberals, etc.) A need to fight for one’s nationality Create territorial and ethnocentrism Create the appearance of aggression against our country. Need to defend our culture against [Islamic fascists] Intolerance of views different than your own Strong central government and control over media

“I will provide a propagandistic casus belli (cause for war). Its credibility doesn’t matter. The victor will not be asked whether he told the truth.” —Adolf Hitler

One of the most central themes of Nazi propaganda was that all problems were someone else’s fault.

Will this country ever “tip?” Something to think about.

By RW-(the original)

August 4, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

ff,

You just said the same thing I did, so how exactly is that debunking the statement…..He scheduled the visit and then didn’t go?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Obumbler is speaking right now and he just repeated his insane claim about meeting some guy that couldn’t afford gas to go look for a job. Where did he meet this guy and how did the guy get there?

He also just said he doesn’t want to make the perfect the enemy of the good. Where have I heard that before?

By AJC/DNC Management

August 4, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

The main lesson is that Barack Obama’s record, throughout his career, demonstrates conclusively that he has never been a reformer, that this image of “change and hope” that he projects is really a great lie. In fact there’s never been a single time in Senator Obama’s political career where he did something that was difficult and would cost him politically for the sake of needed reforms and change.

Matter of fact, the Wingnuts have written a book about it:

Happy Birthday, Barack! Swift Boat publisher Regnery is sending Barack Obama a huge unwanted birthday present today…

Can you say done dealing?

By Hillbilly Deluxe

August 4, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

Anything more American than WalMart? Hell everything in there is made in China. Remember when Sam Walton prided himself on selling US made goods? If you know a longtime WalMart employee, ask them how things changed after Sam died.

By fearless fosdik

August 4, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this

By Paul

August 4, 2008 11:30 AM

NO, Paul I subscribe to no “ideological lockstep!” I vote, with what I think is the countrys best interest!

That’s why I voted against Bush Twice. You want to know why?? The guy is an absolute moron, incompetent at best, and corrupt down to his cowboy boots!

If you look back at his past history it’s not hard to understand this pinhead…Without daddy’s help this guy Couldn’t get a job at the local Dairy Queen.

But, having said that. I’ve voted republican before..But, on all accounts most turn out to march to the “ideological lockstep”with which you mention.

Over the years I have found most democrats march to their own tune..A tune which is good for the people, the economy and the country!

What was the defecit when BUSH took office? What is it now?

What was the Dow when Bush took office? What is it now?

You don’t have to be a Mensa candidate to figure it out Paul…..

By AJC/DNC Management

August 4, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

There is a hurricane headed towards oil country and the price has dropped $4 a barrel??

Say what?

Oil falls $4 after weak US spending report, blah, blah, blah-Alternative Universe Press

Gee, I wonder if it has anything to do with all thee talk of drilling, hmmmmmm?

By hillbilly ragger

August 4, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

Well, Peadog, if you’re stupid enough to believe that a blastocyst is an autonomous human being, and vile enough to believe that a women’s uterus belongs to the state and not to herself, and out-of-touch enough to deny gay Americans equal rights (a solid majority disagree with you) then you probably deserve a President McCain.

However, I do want to take issue with your notion that Obama will, as you hilariously put it, “tax the living hell out of everyone”.

Where did you get this idea? Please post it.

By Common Sense

August 4, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

See Dutchman,

Supporting a candidate does not mean we think Mr. Obama is the messiah as you incredibly simple minded replublicans or whatever you call yourselves want to paint.

We support Mr. Obama because he has assembly a great team and we know Mr. Obama is willing to listen and work with other replublicans to get this country back on track.

Now I know one person in 4 year is not going to solve the incredible mess the United States is in but Mr. Obama has shown poise, confidence and the ability to organize plus make good decisions when it comes to policy.

Let’s face it you can talk tax increase all you want but if McClain wins he will have to raise taxes. The life blood of this country is the middle class and according to Mr. Obama that is where his tax break will go to.

Their is not going to be a tax for the small business person.

By AmVet

August 4, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

This neo-con infested GOP is undeniably sliding down the toilet as we speak.

The evidence is overwhelming and the facts irrefutable.

And alll but the most brain-dead on the right wing’s lunatic fringe know it.

Yet ALL they can do is bash the mulatto.

Their own scandal ridden house of cards is about to come crashing down, yet NONE of the power brokers, chickenhawks and paid off wh0res in that party seems to be able to even admit it, much less change their sorry ways.

My gawd, wake up, Republicans!

You are going to get absolutely hammered yet again this fall. All over the country. Do you honestly believe that is NOT going to happen?

And even if the RINO is the next CIC, he can’t (and probably wouldn’t if he could) change that.

Unless you want ANOTHER forty years on the outside looking in, you had best have an epiphany and soon.

And in the meantime, how about growing a pair?

By Brad Bishop

August 4, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this

The worst part about all of this is that as much as people bicker back and forth about these two, they’re actually really close in stance on most issues (if you can track their changes).

Neither one of them really stands for anything but what the crowd they’re talking to that day wants to hear.

I’d much prefer someone who stands up and just says it outright what their beliefs and ideologies are and then let me decide based on that. Then I have something to work with.

Obama has gone back and forth on many issues, so has McCain (“reaching across the aisle”). While I’d love to say, “Yeah, Obama/McCain changed their mind on that topic and it was because they really thought it through,” the more likely scenerio is that they saw the poll numbers on that topic that day for the people they were about to speak to and then started spewing out whatever matched the poll numbers.

That’s not a leader, that’s a follower.

The both stand for nothing.

Worse, the citizens of this country wouldn’t accept them standing for anything. They’d be ‘extremists’ if they did.

By FRANKLEEDARLING

August 4, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

Yes MCcain has been compromised and broken. no telling what they put in his head in Korea. talk about your manchurian candidate

By fearless fosdik

August 4, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

By Dutchman

August 4, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Question to all liberals

DUTCHMAN … Can you spell the word C-O-L-O-R!

Answer your question?

By GOPs got to go

August 4, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

I have heard enough about the experience needed for the Presidency. There has been a President with as little, or possibly less, political experience as Senator Obama, a President who led this Country in the time of greatest difficulty, Abraham Lincoln. You see it can be done, and done well. I want to hear what the man has to say, not what is said or insinuated about him in some juvenile ad.

By Paul

August 4, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

fearless fosdik/dirty harry 12:03

Thanks for the clarification. Your original comment was in response to one of mine pointing out McCain would vote for someone for the Supreme Court who didn’t share a litmus test ideological view while Obama wouldn’t. Then I erred in naming a Justice.

your 11:12 read “Jeez do conservatives get anything right?”

I just asked why that made me a conservative and wondered if ultraliberals still followed the “with me or against me” line of thought.

But your 12:03 was a diatribe against Pres Bush.

So I still don’t know the answer.

By Peadawg

August 4, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

hillbilly ragger:

so a woman can kill a child whenever she wants…ok makes sense lol.

gay’s can have equal rights, no problem. but it’s a civil union or something, not marriage. marriage is for 1 man and 1 woman. i got no problem w/ equal rights, just don’t call it marriage.