Don't tell Joe Scarborough that John McCain's the stronger Republican candidate because he can attract voters in the middle. The Morning Joe host has depicted McCain as unelectable because of the opposition to him of two key conservative leaders, Rush Limbaugh and James Dobson.
Scarborough's comments during the opening segment of today's Morning Joe were prompted by an article in today's New York Times that included this line [emphasis added]:
Since his victory in the Florida primary, the growing possibility that Mr. McCain may carry the Republican banner in November is causing anguish to the right. Some, including James C. Dobson and Rush Limbaugh, say it is far too late for forgiveness.
JOE SCARBOROUGH: There are a lot of conservatives that I've heard grousing that have said "I would rather a Democrat win then John McCain."
View video here.
WILLIE GEIST: That's amazing.
SCARBOROUGH: Well, their feeling is, a failure, another Republican president who goes in there and fails, is devastating. [NB: Scarborough had early clarified that by failure he meant a president with Pres. Bush's poll ratings.] Not only in the short term but also in the long term. Some cynically say: "give us another Clinton and we'll have Congress back in two years." Well, it's the truth!
MIKA BRZEZINSKI: Well, here's the problem though that the Republican party faces now, and that is that [McCain] may be the only one who can win.
SCARBOROUGH: Win what?
BRZEZINSKI: The election?
SCARBOROUGH: Which election?
BRZEZINSKI: How about even the nomination?
SCARBOROUGH: The general election? I think that is highly unlikely when you see people like the most powerful conservatives --
BRZEZINSKI: You think it's unlikely that he'll win the nomination?
SCARBOROUGH: No, I think he can win the nomination; I'm talking about the general election. A Republican [presidential nominee] cannot win -- I see two names at the top of this New York Times article. A Republican president cannot be elected in 2008 if Rush Limbaugh and James Dobson are opposed to him in the way they are.
I hear a lot of liberals attacking James Dobson and Rush Limbaugh. I hear a lot of people who live in New York City attack James Dobson and Rush Limbaugh. I hear a lot of people in Georgetown and West L.A. attacking Rush Limbaugh and James Dobson. But brother, let me tell you something: if you want to be elected anything in the Republican party from dogcatcher to President of the United States, the first two people you want on your side are Rush Limbaugh and James Dobson. John McCain has neither.
—Mark Finkelstein is a NewsBusters contributing editor and host of Right Angle. Contact him at mark@gunhill.net.
Comments Policy
John McCain is John Fn Kerry
February 1, 2008 - 08:41 ET by Red JeepJohn McCain is John Fn Kerry Part 2. Viet Nam hero, ultra rich wife,
liberal values. Why would any conservative vote for him? Now both
parties have Democrats running for CinC.
FOR ONCE SCHMOE IS RIGHT
February 1, 2008 - 08:43 ET by Der AlteAs much as I hate to say it Morning Schmoe is right! Not having Rush in his corner is going to hurt McCain in November. I have been a Republican since 1968 and for the first time in my life I have serious reservations about supporting the party's candidate and I know there are others who feel the same way. I am ready for the train to come off the tracks in order for the GOP to get back on track! Lord help the party of Lincoln and TR!
Ann Coulter said on H&C that
February 1, 2008 - 08:51 ET by motherbeltAnn Coulter said on H&C that she would vote for Clinton over McCain...she said hell, she'd campaign for Clinton (but I'm fairly sure she was kidding...)she said that at least Clinton hasn't said she would close Guantanamo, she thinks she will find that we have to stay in Iraq, and she actually lies less than McCain.
→ Right MB
February 1, 2008 - 08:54 ET by Cool ArrowThis once, I don't think Ann was saying anything in parody or jest.
♣ a seal
I think she was kidding only
February 1, 2008 - 09:09 ET by motherbeltI should have been clearer....I think she was kidding only about "campaigning" for Clinton, not voting for her.
the RNC delegates will have
February 1, 2008 - 12:54 ET by TruthMongerthe RNC delegates will have to decide - the message from the base rejecting McCain is loud and clear:)
if they nominate McCain/Huckster we will lose the presidency to a junior senator with no legislative or executive experience to speak of...
and if that doesn't get the enemies of the free world smiling I don't know what else will:)
you're right. We just won't
February 1, 2008 - 15:18 ET by Conservative in the Artsyou're right. We just won't vote because we don't want Libs to use our votes against Mclame as proof of how popular she is.
I think AC was kidding.. but
February 1, 2008 - 09:23 ET by Jack BauerI think AC was kidding.. but I'm guessing she'll sit it out.
Last Day to Witness the Crucifiction.......
February 1, 2008 - 13:12 ET by RovinIt's the Last Day to witness the CRUCIFICTION OF JOHN McCAIN by the "puritan conservatives". Be sure to step up to the cross and heave a spit on the old man that some here are claiming Hillary is more conservative than McCain------what a load of horse manure.
With the Superbowl taking over the media frenzy and silencing the likes of Limbaugh, Hannity, Coulter, et all, maybe rational heads will come down from their "Pontius Pilot" thrones and realize there is NO POLL showing that Romney can defeat Hillary or Obama, (in fact he is losing by double digits to both of them in most polls), while the same polls show McCain defeating either Democrat by 9-15 points. Take McCain and the points and re-focus on the BIG GAME, which is defeating the Democratic nominee.
Or do "conservatives" really want to gamble with putting Hillary and Bill back on the throne?
Latest Gallop national tracking poll: McCain 37% Romney 22%
Disclaimer: Yes, I do have many issues with McCain of great concern that does not please me as much as others here. Neither of the two remaining viable candidates fit into the mold of the pure principals of conservatism. The "my party has left me" faction have valid points. But fracturing the party to the point that allows another eight years of a Clinton Dynasty would be the ultimate sin. Eight years of higher taxes, entitlements ballooning, and maybe up to three liberal Supreme Court justices appointed ------- roll the dice------but please remember, everything's in the pot, including your children and grandchildren's future.
Oh, and I like the Giants + the points.
Rovin
McCain cannot win without the Conservative Block
February 1, 2008 - 13:23 ET by SouthJersey1953Speaking of horse manure.....why should we abandon our principles so that McLame becomes the nominee? Getting him is will be almost as bad as Hellary. Little tougher on defense, but other than that one issue.......
No RINOs in '08
Actually, it's worse ...
February 1, 2008 - 15:06 ET by masslibertarianRe "Getting [McCain] will be almost as bad as Hellary" - I think we're actually worse off with McCain.
If Hillary winds up winning, all the wrongheaded stuff that happens will provide ammo to Republicans (I'm talking about real, conservative Republicans here, not RINOs) in future elections. If instead it's McCain pushing essentially the same policies she would, and arriving at the same failing result, what good does that do us?
Rush is right that the parallels to '76 Ford vs. Reagan are uncanny. The left wing of the Republican party gave us Ford in '76. Ford's nomination (o.k., and Watergate, Vietnam, etc.) gave us 4 disastrous years of Carter. Carter gave us Reagan (all hail Ronaldus Magnus).
As I said in a previous post, all you people pushing McCain because "he's the only one who can beat Hillary" are advocating what will ultimately be a Pyrrhic victory if it comes to pass.
Looking at the long-term ramifications for conservatism and little "l" libertarianism, I would much rather nominate a conservative and lose to Hillary than nominate a liberal and win.
Your argument flys right
February 1, 2008 - 16:02 ET by RovinYour argument flys right out the window after Clinton appoints two liberal Supreme Court justices before you even get the next round in your gun. You want to wait 30 years to rectify that? McCain WILL NOT APPOINT LIBERAL JUDGES!
Rovin
No?
February 1, 2008 - 16:07 ET by RJHe said he thinks Alito is too conservative. Add to that his desire to please Democrats and I see liberal appointments from him....not just for SCOTUS, but think of all the opportunities for appeasing his "friends" with the 180 or so Federal judges he'll appoint....
He will likely appoint
February 1, 2008 - 18:35 ET by BDHe will likely appoint selected judges in order to find his "Legal Masterpiece" of MCCain-Feingold constitutional when it is clearly NOT.
As a resident of Arizona, I can tell you that McCain long ago ceased being the Senator from here, but rather became the Senator from the press.
I think J McCain might have a hard time running for Senator next election if he continues on the path he is currently on. He is going to have a hard time winning the border counties due to his insistance of abandonement of Border First enforcement last summer.
I am sadly certain he will win the AZ primary, but a lot of that will simply be pride points much like South Dakota voting for its hometown boy, McGovern. When he is not up for Pres next time he will be jettisoned.
Beat you to the punch on
February 1, 2008 - 18:42 ET by masslibertarianBeat you to the punch on this one, Rovin. Read a little further down for my views on what kind of judges McCain is likely to appoint.
I'm not voting for Sen. McCain either
February 1, 2008 - 09:17 ET by Iowa BoyNot ever. Not ever. Not ever. Not even if he wins the nomination and selects Gov. Romney for his running mate. Since 1980, I have always supported the party's nominee but, I'll write-in before I vote for Sen. McCain for President.
"That's just my opinion. I could be wrong." - Dennis Miller
Scarborough finally understands Juan "Mexico First" McAmnesty
February 1, 2008 - 09:50 ET by PopularTechOpen borders advocate Juan Hernandez has joined the McCain campaign (HotAir)
Juan Hernandez, McCain Advisor: Mexico First! (Video) (4min)
McCain Would Sign Amnesty Bill as President (Video)
Joe finally gets it!
"give us another Clinton and we'll have Congress back in two years."
The Anti 'Man-Made' Global Warming Resource
Maybe Poptech - but you'll also have 2 lifetime SC appointments
February 1, 2008 - 12:36 ET by Dee Bunkmore liberal than Ginsberg. And don't forget Clinton was re-elected.
If Obama gets in then it will be even worse. We may not even get Congress back.
→ SCOTUS appointments
February 1, 2008 - 12:41 ET by Cool ArrowAnd historically it's common knowledge the wimpy Republicans won't put up a fight regardless of the offering Bambi or Hillary provides.
♣ a seal
Right Cool Arrow
February 1, 2008 - 12:50 ET by Dee BunkRight Cool Arrow. Because Republicans follow established traditions. The only thing we can hope is that the Dem unprecedented filibuster will make them feel free to do the same. Most Republicans are not as contentious though.
→ Established traditions
February 1, 2008 - 12:55 ET by Cool ArrowThat's always ticked me off. The Dems believe in "any means possible", But to me, it seems Republicans stop just short of "well, that kinda isn't fair"
I think Speaker Gingrich proved a lot when his House forced a Democrat President to limit Welfare.
♣ a seal
They better be ready for the consequences
February 1, 2008 - 09:52 ET by funkdomeIf Rush undercuts McCain and we end up with Obama or Clinton, he will be on my shit list forever. Same with Coulter.
These two rigid partisans are about to get us a screaming liberal President, all because they aren't getting their way. They are splitting the party due to their own selfishness.
Medved was right. Rush is acting like a big liberal baby. Wahhhhh!
What is Rush wrong about
February 1, 2008 - 10:04 ET by motherbeltWhat is Rush wrong about with regard to mcCain?
Do you think it's better to have a screaming liberal Republican in the White House? Is the R after the name so important?
Hell Michael Bloomberg "calls himself" a Republican.
→ Maybe MB
February 1, 2008 - 10:16 ET by Cool ArrowMaybe all we're going to get out of this election cycle is a clear definition between Conservatism and that which Republicanism has become.
Way too many people have come to know Uncle Sam as a soft touch with deep pockets. I just hope I can insulate myself sufficiently against the day all the bills come due. And that means self sufficiency without all the Government promises made to me toward my retirement.
Somewhere within the next administration we will have bowed so subserviently to foreign slavemasters we'll be nothing more than another France.
♣ a seal
Difference
February 1, 2008 - 10:26 ET by funkdomeAre you really telling me that you think there is no difference between Obama and McCain? Are you telling me they have the same views on Iraq and terrorism? The same views on the role of government? The same views on wealth distribution?
I am not saying that McCain is a perfect candidate (although the idea that he is a screaming liberal is a joke). What I am saying is that only a fool sees no difference between him and the Dem candidates and that a Romney candidacy will lead to one of those Dems driving the boat the next few years.
The GOP lost the independant vote with the poor performance of the GOP congress and the anti-Bush propoganda put out by the MSM. A traditonal conservative like Romney can not win in 2008. McCain is the best we are going to do this year and he is a far better choice than Obama or Clinton.
McCain is marginally better
February 1, 2008 - 10:30 ET by RJthan Clinton or Obama, not "far better."
Well
February 1, 2008 - 10:40 ET by funkdomeLooks like we disagree. I could see that position if a precipitous withdrawl from Iraq, a nuclear Iran, a massive wealth redistribution program, a union resurgence and the imposition of "village" to raise my child didn't bother me so much.
There is no doubt that McCain dropped the ball on immigration. But, as Bush learned, that battle will be won or lost in Congress.
Iraq is the only thing we agree on, funkdome
February 1, 2008 - 10:50 ET by RJIraq is the only thing we agree on regarding McCain's positions. He dropped the ball in far more than immigration (by the way, as President, he WILL push for the same thing all over again)
Do you think his attack on free speech would stop at McCain-Feingold? Look for an assult from President McCain on talk radio. He's a petty, vindictive man, and I have no doubt he would support the "Fairness Doctrine" because of the attacks he's currently receiving from the right.
No wealth redistribution? Think you'll ever see tax cuts from a man who voted against Bush's wildly successful tax cuts?
"I really like Mike Huckabee." -uber lib Mika Brezinski
Ditto
February 1, 2008 - 15:33 ET by masslibertarianWill someone please tell me with a straight face that they believe McCain won't impose a McCain-Feingold litmus test on his SCOTUS nominees?
There is no such thing as a "constructionist" (think Thomas, Scalia and Alito) who wouldn't completely toss MF as an unconstitutional prior restraint on free political speech. No matter what McCain says on the campaign trail, his appointees will not be cut from the Thomas-Scalia-Alito mold and are much more likely to be reminiscent of Kennedy or Souter at best.
The fact that McCain, who has been taking an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States since he was a fourth class midshipman, conducted the greatest full frontal assault on the freedom of political speech guaranteed by the first amendment in the history of this country is the reason I, like Ann Coulter, will NEVER vote for him!
Here! Here! MassL and RJ.
February 1, 2008 - 15:38 ET by bigtimerHere! Here! MassL and RJ.
funkdome, I asked you one
February 1, 2008 - 10:56 ET by motherbeltfunkdome, I asked you one question, and instead of answering that, you responded with questions to me.I didn't say anything about views on terrorism etc.
What is Rush wrong about with McCain?
Juan "Mexico First" McAmnesty cannot win in 2008
February 1, 2008 - 11:03 ET by PopularTechBush won in 2004 overwhelmingly. And Congress got voted out for not acting on immigration and Bush not replacing Dumsfeld before the 06 elections. Romney can not only win but he is the only candidate left that can unite conservatives. McCain cannot win because too many conservatives will stay home at the polls if he is nominated. Pandering to Independents is a sure solution for Juan "Mexico First" McCain's policies via a Hillary Clinton presidency which are unacceptable:
John McCain: The Democrats' Favorite Republican (Video) (1min)
"I believe my party has gone astray. I think the Democratic Party is a fine party, and I have no problems with it, in their views and their philosophy." - John McCain
McCain Calls Conservative Leaders 'Agents of Intolerance' (The Wall Street Journal)
"Neither party should be defined by pandering to the outer reaches of American politics and the agents of intolerance, whether ... on the left, or Pat Robertson or Jerry Falwell on the right." - John McCain
McCain's Age (Townhall)
Age: 71
- McCain graduated 894th out of 899 in his class at the United States Naval Academy
Betrayal, deceit, corruption and John McCain (The U.S. Veteran Dispatch)
"While still married to Carol, McCain began an adulterous relationship with Cindy. He married Cindy in May 1980 - just a month after dumping his crippled wife and securing a divorce."
John McCain: The Geraldo Rivera Republican (Human Events)
McCain: I'll Respect Hillary (NewsMax)
"I Have No Doubt That Senator Clinton Would Make A Good President." - John McCain
The Real McCain Record (National Review Online)
Abortion:
John McCain Supports Embryonic Stem Cell Research (Audio)
McCain Softens Abortion Stand (The Washington Post)
"But certainly in the short term, or even the long term, I would not support repeal of Roe v. Wade, which would then force X number of women in America to [undergo] illegal and dangerous operations." - John McCain
Anger Issues:
McCain Criticized for Slur (San Francisco Chronicle)
Andy Card: I Have Seen John McCain's Anger (NewsMax)
John McCain: I Have Anger Issues (NewsMax)
John McCain's Temper Preceded Vietnam (NewsMax)
McCain Goes Nuts Near Senate Floor (NewsMax)
McCain's Out-of-Control Anger: Does He Have the Temperament to Be President? (NewsMax)
Vanity Fair Tiptoes Around McCain's Explosive Temper (NewsMax)
Endorsements:
Juan Hernandez, Open borders Advocate Endorses McCain (HotAir)
Republicans for Al Gore (Environmental Protection) Endorses McCain (Press Release)
The New York Times Endorses John McCain and Clinton (Reuters)
Foreign Policy:
McCain considers setting benchmarks for Iraqis (Arizona Daily Star)
McCain falls asleep during the State of the Union Address (Video)
McCain: No 'Torture' for 9/11 Mastermind (NewsMax)
McCain to Close Gitmo: "The first day I am President" (Video)
McCain: Torture Worked on Me (NewsMax)
Global Warming:
McCain and Lieberman Push for New Anti-Global Warming Legislation (The National Center for Public Policy Research)
Senators McCain and Lieberman Propose Energy Tax (The National Center for Public Policy Research)
"No drilling in ANWR, nor in the Everglades, nor off the coast of Florida... To think that drilling in ANWR is the solution to our incredible energy needs is frankly, is not keeping in the reality of what's there, and what it would take to get it out." - John McCain
"I always have a glass of ethanol before breakfast every morning" - John McCain
Illegal Immigration:
Open borders advocate Juan Hernandez has joined the McCain campaign (HotAir)
Juan Hernandez, McCain Advisor: Mexico First! (Video) (4min)
McCain Would Sign Amnesty Bill as President (Video)
John McCain gets a 'D' on his Immigration Voting Report Card (Americans for Better Immigration)
- McCain favors business lobbyists’ desires for foreign workers vs. protecting American workers’ wages and jobs
- McCain’s hopes of giving millions amnesty will saddle American taxpayers with huge costs of $20,000 per illegal per year
- McCain has taken the pro-amnesty position in nearly two dozen votes
- McCain only promises to make 2 million of the 12-20 million illegal aliens go home
John McCain Praises Pro-illegal Protests (NewsMax)
McCain aide touts 'Mexico first' policy (WorldNetDaily)
McCain: "Americans Will Not Pick Lettuce for $50 an Hour" (AFL-CIO)
McCain called plan 'amnesty' in 2003 (WorldNetDaily)
"I think we can set up a program where amnesty is extended to a certain number of people, Amnesty has to be an important part..." - John McCain, 2003
McCain: U.S. Should Welcome Illegal Immigrants (FOXNews)
McCain Voted For Illegal Immigrants To Collect Social Security (UC Daily News)
Michigan Crowd Boos McCain On Illegal Immigration (Video) (1min)
U.S. Border Patrol Agents Angry with McCain (NewsMax)
Marriage:
Christian Leader James Dobson says 'no way' to McCain candidacy (WorldNetDaily)
"I think that gay marriage should be allowed if there's a ceremony kind of thing, if you wanna call it that. I don't have any problem with that." - John McCain
McCain: Same-sex marriage ban is un-Republican (CNN)
Taxes:
"I'm going to be honest: I know a lot less about economics than I do about military and foreign policy issues. I still need to be educated." - John McCain
McCain: For and Against Tax Cuts (Video)
McCain Boasts That He Voted Against The Bush Tax Cuts (Video)
McCain Would Vote Against Tax Cuts Again (The Club for Growth)
- McCain sponsored and voted for an enormous 282% tax increase on cigarettes in 1998
- McCain was one of only two Republican to vote against the $1.35 trillion tax cut in 2001
- McCain was one of only two Republicans to twice vote against permanent repeal of the death tax in 2002
- McCain was one of only three Republican to twice vote against the $350 billion tax cut in 2003
McCain’s Costly Tax on Energy (National Review Online)
- The EPA Estimates Sen. McCain's Plan Would Hike Gas Taxes By 68 Cents Per Gallon
- The EPA Estimates Sen. McCain's Plan Would Reduce United States GDP By As Much As $5.2 Trillion
McCain Rejects Anti-Tax Pledge (CNSNews)
Veterans:
McCain Can't Buy His Way Out of Votes Against Funding for Veterans
- McCain Voted Against $19 Billion for Military Hospitals
- McCain Voted Against Amendment to Provide $2.8 Billion For Veterans' Medical Care
- McCain Voted Against 2005 Amendment to Provide Guaranteed Funding Stream for Veterans' Health Care
- McCain Voted Against Establishing $1 Billion Trust Fund to Provide Improvements to Military and Veterans' Health Facilities
- McCain Voted Against Adding $1.5 billion to Veterans' Medical Services in FY 2007 by Closing Corporate Tax Loopholes
- McCain Voted Against Mandatory Funding of $6.9 Billion in FY 2007 and $104 Billion Over Five Years for Veterans' Health Care
The Anti 'Man-Made' Global Warming Resource
Wow PT! Did ya stay up
February 1, 2008 - 14:31 ET by RovinWow PT! Did ya stay up all night working on this? Now go spend a few hours and show us all how Hillary would stand on these same issues.
Rovin
Rigid partisans? Well at
February 1, 2008 - 11:35 ET by Ryan Mc.Rigid partisans? Well at least you show your stripes.
Ryan
February 1, 2008 - 11:40 ET by DelsaWhat is a rigid partisan? Is it a person with principles? Would you explain it to me please.
delsa
February 1, 2008 - 11:46 ET by candancerigid partisan = anyone who disagrees with funk.
Thanks Candance
February 1, 2008 - 11:47 ET by DelsaNow I get it.
Rush just happens to agree
February 1, 2008 - 12:51 ET by bigtimerfunk...
Rush just happens to agree with a lot of us conservatives, we think on our own...he isn't splitting the party...McCain and the powers that be in the repub party are splitting the party...
Rush is right.
→ Yes, bigtimer
February 1, 2008 - 13:00 ET by Cool ArrowConservatism doesn't change. It's a school of discipline.
Republicanism obviously can follow the trade winds if it so chooses.
♣ a seal
liberal "D" or liberal "R"
February 1, 2008 - 13:26 ET by SouthJersey1953What a choice that is!!!!
STILL time to vote for Mitt.....it ain't over yet.
No RINOs in '08
JUAN MC CAIN...
February 1, 2008 - 10:08 ET by danybhoyI don't think I could vote for McCain either, has nothing to do with Dobson or El-Rushbo though.
In my opinion, McCain sucks on taxes, the border & illegals, global warming, & on free speech. He has been is Washington way too long, & has been running for President way too long. I don't trust anyone who want it as badly as McCain, or anyone running this year for the Dems, esspecially Hillary Rotten...
Yea, I know he's a war hero, & I thank him for his service to our nation & would never wish upon anybody(even BathTubBoy)what he went through as a POW. But his record should be cut into 1/3, his military record, the first half of his Senate career, & the last 10 years of his Senate career. He's on the decline in my opinion, his last 10 years sucks, & he is too old now. He reminds me of the old guy who would yell at me if I went into his yard to get my football when it went into his yard, bitter & angry.
"Some of us are wise, some of us are otherwise" Mark Levin
So long as Romney keeps
February 1, 2008 - 10:15 ET by LeonSo long as Romney keeps flip-flopping, McCain doesn't need Rush or anyone to win.
Last night's debate was another great example of Romney's utter lack of principles.
States should have the right to regulate their own emissions policies. Makes perfect sense to me.
And last night, it made perfect sense to Romney:
Q: Just so I’m clear, you said you side with the states. That means you side with Governor Schwarzenegger —
ROMNEY: I side with states being able to make their own decisions, even if I don’t always agree with the decisions they make.
But of course, as he has done with almost every major issue, Romney changed his mind hours later, and flip-flopped. Another great example of man with ZERO principles. This is really who you want for President? Wow.
it makes more sense to have one set of Federal rules to address CO2 emissions from vehicles rather than a patchwork of different State regulations.”
But, uh, Mitt, didn't you just say, literally a few hours ago, that this was up to the states? Did you just lie for the debate? What's your deal?
Zero Principles Leon ?
February 1, 2008 - 11:15 ET by JayTeeThat's weak, a Complex issue simplified to a zero Principles conclusion. You move faster than the speed up light, Leon.
Slow down and read the signs.
Stimulis: Congress and the president are now agreed on remedies that will not work, expending money they do not have, to fix a problem that may not exist. Steve Chapman
JayTee, I'm not
February 1, 2008 - 11:50 ET by LeonJayTee,
I'm not following
Did he not say it was up to the states during the debate, then completely change his position several hours later?
I'm pretty sure that's exactly what happened.
I'm not following your conclusion, Leon
February 1, 2008 - 12:02 ET by JayTeeZero Principles
Requires proof on how you reached the conclusion. I just don't see it. There are Lots of instances of State Laws and Fed Laws governing the Same Issue. Just look at the Pot Machines in Calif. as another Example of state/fed drug laws policing the same issue. There are many cases where you can't black and white State/Fed Laws as belonging to either one or the other.
EPA overlap, State/Fed laws, It's a reality that Calif. is pursuing all the way to the Appeals courts and beyond. You can't convict Romeny of "zero Principles" on just this one issue...but that's my opinion.
JayTee,That's because
February 1, 2008 - 12:09 ET by LeonJayTee,
That's because you wilfully ignore Romney's 180 degree turn on every single major social issue.
I've already discussed his lack of principles ad nauseum with evidence. See abortion, gays, or healthcare. That should be a good start.
I hear what you're saying about the state laws v. federal laws, but that's not what Romney was talking about.
McCain's enemies
February 1, 2008 - 10:19 ET by candanceWe were discussing this very topic in the chat last night. Even if McCain gets the nod the Clinton machine will come after him with every scandal and accusation they can, driving down those moderate and independent votes he needs. When the casual voter learns how he cheated on his wife, barely passed his classes at the Naval Academy, basically took a bribe from Keating, has a temper worse than Hillary, refused to vote on ending the war and flip flopped his stand on taxes, they're going to think twice about voting for him.
And when all of this crap starts hitting the fan the influencial people on the right will not defend him. He'll be left to stand on his own.
Don't blame them for that. When McCain runs around calling ministers "agents of intolerance" and saying Rush Limbaugh is not important any more, why should the right speak up for him?
→ candance
February 1, 2008 - 10:26 ET by Cool ArrowYou're right. He's got this honeymoon going with the Black Widow. "She loves me, she really loves me"
And there is no major news outlet sufficiently rehashing McCain's drawbacks to make any difference.
It's a pathetic tango.
♣ a seal
Joe isn't even a real
February 1, 2008 - 10:29 ET by wiwfJoe isn't even a real conservative (but he plays one on TV), and even he's making more sense than Juan McC***!
The Rocky Mountain Collegian: Illustrating Idiocy
Candance, That's
February 1, 2008 - 10:29 ET by LeonCandance,
That's ridiculous. There's nothing more to learn about McCain. He has no more skeletons in his closet.
The Republican party has already stripped this guy to the bone. There isn't anything left for the Clinton 'machine' to attack.
McCain has already stood on his own. He already faced down the most powerful slime machine in the history of American politics, the Bush campaign in 2000. They brutalized him.
He's been there, done that. He'll be the nominee and you can either cry about it or support your party. Choose one.
um okay Leon
February 1, 2008 - 10:36 ET by candanceIf the cat is already out of the bag, how come the MSM is being so quiet about it? You really believe no one on the left will start bringing up his flaws again? Hillary interviewed Obama's kindergarden teacher for dirt. She's going to attack McCain every way she can.
And LOL Bush beat up on McCain. Apparently you heard McCain's lie that Bush was playing dirty but missed the part where Bush proved his innocence.
And I really can't believe you said "in the history of American politics." When you compare this to the hate against Abe Lincoln, FDR and Andrew Jackson it makes your statement look pretty naive.
Candance, 1) The reason
February 1, 2008 - 10:44 ET by LeonCandance,
1) The reason the MSM is quiet about it is b/c everything you could possibly attack McCain about is OLD NEWS. It's been done.
2) Bush's treatement of McCain was disgraceful in 2000. Bush proved his innocence? No, he was out of line and went for the jugular. Hey he was trying to win, I get it, but it was still disgraceful.
3) Abe Lincoln? Hmmm. Ok. Rove et al. are the biggest slime machine ever.
Wow Leon
February 1, 2008 - 10:52 ET by candanceIs there any level you would not go to in your efforts to impede Republicans? Karl Rove's attack on John McCain was worse than the assault on Lincoln in 1864? You mean Rove printed cartoons portraying McCain as Satan, held mock executions for him, printed phoney indictments in newspapers?
Well, no, but Rove talked bad about his love life. Yeah that's worse than anything any other candidate has had to go through.
Leon you are full of it
February 1, 2008 - 10:54 ET by DelsaMcCain was the guy behind his so called smear in the carolinas.
Bush had nothing to do with it. You just can't see past your bias against Romney.
Candance is RIGHT!!!!!
Leon, he may not have any
February 1, 2008 - 10:44 ET by motherbeltLeon, he may not have any more skeletons in his closet, but the media certainly hasn't been talking abou the ones already exposed. You can bet the Clintons aren't going to be using the term "old news" when it comes to them. That alibi only applies to them and their scandals. And you can raise the bet, because the same MSM that downplays flaws while he's running against Republicans will be only too willing to tar and feather him with them when he is running against their Democrat darling.
→ Leon
February 1, 2008 - 10:46 ET by Cool ArrowThe Conservative attacks on McCain are nothing without the necessary reporting by the MSM to disseminate the information to the electorate.
The MSM are holding back the flood of "hard hitting expose' " until such time as it's necessary. Right now it's necessary for McCain to be the (R) candidate. After he gets the nod, he's a fat fish in a small barrel come general election time.
♣ a seal
Vote McCain! - He Hates the Gooks!
February 1, 2008 - 11:19 ET by PopularTechWrong, Leon there is something new everyday...
McCain Criticized for Slur (San Francisco Chronicle)
The Anti 'Man-Made' Global Warming Resource
→ Actually PopTech
February 1, 2008 - 11:26 ET by Cool ArrowActually, that story isn't new, but you're right, the gook remark is going to be one of those "little things" that suddenly gets mountainous only after he gets the Republican nod and is pitted against the Darling Dem.
♣ a seal
And Bird for VP! He hates the N[bleep]S!
February 1, 2008 - 11:54 ET by BritcomSen. Robert Bird (D) WV
Older than McCain
Used to cavort about in white sheets with his fellow Klansmen.
Swings a mean cane.
</sarc>
→ Possibly Britcom
February 1, 2008 - 12:00 ET by Cool ArrowIt's possible McCain uses the term "gook" to refer to the North Vietnamese rather than all Vietnamese.
I know growing up I wouldn't have even considered correcting an Iwo Jima veteran on their references.
♣ a seal
Those G**ks he says he still hates
February 1, 2008 - 12:10 ET by BritcomThis page has some pics of McCain hating his captors. Link >>
The man is insane.
Britcom
February 1, 2008 - 12:32 ET by DelsaGreat link. Thank you
I just saw a national poll
February 1, 2008 - 10:37 ET by motherbeltI just saw a national poll on MSNBC a few minutes ago...I got so mad I can;t even remember the exact numbers, but it had McCain over Romney by 15 points or more.
I'm so angry and depressed this AM I can't even see straight. All I'm seeing is RED!! (and I don't mean red states!)
mb... I saw the same poll
February 1, 2008 - 12:19 ET by bigtimermb...
I saw the same poll too...Gallup/USA or some such...they are doing what their agenda has been from day one with McCain with oodles of help from the powers to be in the repub party...
I am sick to death of the attempt to cram the piece of work McCain down our throats...well he won't be crammed down mine, like I said yesterday or the day before..never in a million years did I ever think McCain would be who we end up with...hell, he is even against Romney for his wealth...I thought only phony leftists played that role....tells you tons about McCain, but nobody ever mentions the wealth of his own wife.
Motherbelt do not be depressed
February 1, 2008 - 10:51 ET by DelsaMotherbelt, do not be depressed. If you haven't voted yet and you have a chance, vote for Romney.
And what ever you do DO NOT PAY ATTENTION TO POLLS. The are meant, in our case, to depress our turn out. If all else fails, go to the polls and skip the presidential part.
almost not a dimes worth of difference between mccain and the obama's and clinton's of the world. He will distroy our party and Dobson and Limbaugh are liberal BUZZ words.
Keep the faith.
I do not think i will watch Fox. Only Mccain and Clinton this Sunday.
I'm tryin, delsa, but it's
February 1, 2008 - 12:05 ET by motherbeltI'm tryin, delsa, but it's hard. PA's primary is not till April, No way would I stay home, and I am talking to everyone I know (that's a republican...the people I worked with are all bigitime liberals...) to get out and vote for Romney. I'm a full-time caregiver for my husband now, so i can't do it, but if I could I would go out and pound the pavement for Romney. Maybe I can volunteer to do phone calls from home or something.
A vote for anyone other than Romney is
February 1, 2008 - 11:01 ET by DelsaA vote for anyone other than Romney is vote for McCain. Rush has been absolutly correct
regarding McCains positions.
clear distinction
February 1, 2008 - 11:12 ET by candanceMost of us who are talking about a write-in candidate are not talking about the primary. We are fully behind Romney and are willing to help him overcome McCain. If Romney cannot overcome McCain, then we're talking about a plan B that does not include McCain.
And for everyone who thinks McCain is better than Hillary - dig a little deeper please. He has changed his story on several issues to hoodwink people, including his support for the military and the war.
So glad PopularTech has chimed in
February 1, 2008 - 11:05 ET by DelsaA voice for Reason. So glad you are here
→ Right Delsa
February 1, 2008 - 11:07 ET by Cool ArrowIt makes me glad I've got a wheelmouse. Otherwise my shoulder would certainly go out.
♣ a seal