Blog Comments

We love to receive comments, and to post them, whether they agree with positions of the posts or not. However, we will not post personal attacks, profanity of any sort or just plain old nastiness. We're posting this just as a result of a comment from a reader who had something to say about Palin's experience. Unfortunately, it also included comments that we don't deem appropriate for intelligent discourse. We invite comments and hope anyone on any side of the political spectrum will feel free to share thoughtful arguments, support, comments and facts.

Just as another note, we don't publish comments that seem to be promoting a website or product.

- Editor,
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"A Reform Ticket"

"For starters, we'd say Governor Palin's credentials as an agent of reform exceed Barack Obama's." -- The Wall Street Journal

"A Reform Ticket"
Editorial
The Wall Street Journal
August 30, 2008

If any doubt remained that former fighter pilot John McCain loves to take unconventional risks, he put them to bed Friday by picking Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. Introduced in Dayton by Mr. McCain, Governor Palin swung the bat pretty well. We'll now see if she can hit curve balls.

It's a daring pick because Mrs. Palin has never faced national scrutiny and hasn't had to deal with foreign policy. Most VP choices are designed to do no harm, and we tend to agree with the maxim. Democrats are already saying they can't wait for Mrs. Palin's debate against "statesman" Joe Biden. On the other hand, the record shows that Sarah Palin's political career is a case study in taking on the big boys. We suspect her record of fighting the status quo was uppermost in John McCain's decision.

Barack Obama aside, Senator McCain's biggest problem is a Republican brand that has suffered -- both among independents and the GOP base -- from the party's business-as-usual mentality in Washington. The public wants change. This pick could prove Mr. McCain is serious about changing his party.

Sarah Palin's reform resume would be remarkable in any political career. She entered politics at 28, winning a seat on the Wasilla city council as an opponent of tax increases. After she defeated Wasilla's three-term incumbent mayor four years later, she swept the mayor's cronies out of the bureaucracy.

In 2003, Alaska Governor Frank Murkowski appointed her to the state's Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. Bear in mind that Mr. Murkowski had already served as junior U.S. Senator from Alaska for 22 years. Mr. Murkowski was junior senator for so long because Senator Ted Stevens (who was recently indicted for corruption) had lifetime tenure in the senior post.
Shortly after joining the oil and gas commission, Mrs. Palin commenced an ethics probe of the state's Republican party chairman, Randy Ruedrich, involving conflicts of interest with oil companies. The probe resulted in a $12,000 fine for the party chair.

She crossed party lines in 2004 to join a Democratic representative's ethics complaint over an international trade deal against the Republican Attorney General Gregg Renkes, who had ties to the Murkowski machine. Mr. Renkes resigned.

In late 2005, Mrs. Palin announced her run for Governor before then-Governor Murkowski had announced his intention to stand for re-election. In a three-way primary, Mrs. Palin got 51% to Mr. Murkowski's 19%. At the center of this campaign was a debate over competing proposals to build a natural gas pipeline across Alaska.

These columns wrote about Gov. Murkowski's smashing defeat by Mrs. Palin, noting that his pipeline proposal had been tainted by reports of sweetheart deals with energy companies. The editorial ended: "If Republicans are run out of Congress in November, one big reason will be that, like Mr. Murkowski, they have become far more comfortable running the government than reforming it." That is what happened, as disgusted GOP voters turned away from their own party and ceded control of Congress to the Democrats.

Against the odds, Mrs. Palin won that 2006 election against the state's former Democratic governor Tony Knowles. Most recently, she promoted the effort of her GOP lieutenant governor to unseat U.S. Congressman Don Young, who with Senator Stevens created the earmark that sank the GOP, the notorious "bridge to nowhere."

Experience?

For starters, we'd say Governor Palin's credentials as an agent of reform exceed Barack Obama's. Mr. Obama rose through the Chicago Democratic machine without a peep of push-back. Alaska's politics are deeply inbred and backed by energy-industry money. Mr. Obama slid past the kind of forces that Mrs. Palin took head on. This is one reason her selection -- despite its campaign risks -- seems to have been so well received by Republicans yesterday. They are looking for a new generation of leaders.

Don't expect this remarkable personal Palin narrative to get an Obama-like break from the national media. Their main focus will be her lack of experience, claiming it undercuts Mr. McCain's criticism of Barack Obama. One mispronounced foreign leader's name, and she's going to be hammered.

If she can survive this gantlet, Governor Palin could help Mr. McCain with some liabilities of his own. The alternative would have been a ticket of two familiar GOP names in a political cycle where the Democrats have seemed to be the party of energy and freshness. A self-described "hockey mom" with a commercial-fisherman husband, Governor Palin will have more credibility with families than a Mitt Romney or Mike Huckabee. With energy supplies and prices one of the top issues, Alaska's Governor also should bring some first-hand realism to the debate over drilling and the environment.

* * *
Senator Obama's acceptance speech made it clear that his campaign strategy is pegged to linking Mr. McCain to the Beltway Republicans and the struggling economy. It's a powerful argument, and John McCain needs an answer to Mr. Obama's list of Democratic bromides. The vulnerability in the Obama plan is there's little in it that is new. He'd mostly replace one status quo with an earlier status quo of government spending schemes. Joe Biden is no help on that.
Mr. McCain's instinct clearly is to offer himself to voters as a reformer. With Sarah Palin, a genuine reformer, Mr. McCain may have found the right idea and the right person to make his run.

Read The Editorial
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McCain Picks Sarah Palin, Alaska Governor as VP

U.S. Senator John McCain today announced that he has selected Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate and to serve as his vice president.

Governor Palin is a tough executive who has demonstrated during her time in office that she is ready to be president. She has brought Republicans and Democrats together within her Administration and has a record of delivering on the change and reform that we need in Washington.

Governor Palin has challenged the influence of the big oil companies while fighting for the development of new energy resources. She leads a state that matters to every one of us -- Alaska has significant energy resources and she has been a leader in the fight to make America energy independent.

In Alaska, Governor Palin challenged a corrupt system and passed a landmark ethics reform bill. She has actually used her veto and cut budgetary spending. She put a stop to the "bridge to nowhere" that would have cost taxpayers $400 million dollars.

As the head of Alaska's National Guard and as the mother of a soldier herself, Governor Palin understands what it takes to lead our nation and she understands the importance of supporting our troops.

Governor Palin has the record of reform and bipartisanship that others can only speak of. Her experience in shaking up the status quo is exactly what is needed in Washington today.

John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Tiny"

8/27/08 Today, U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign released its latest television ad, entitled "Tiny." The ad highlights Barack Obama's belief that Iran "doesn't pose a serious threat" even though they support terrorism, are developing nuclear capabilities and repeatedly threaten to eliminate Israel. If Barack Obama doesn't consider those "serious threats" then he is dangerously unprepared to be president. The ad will air in key states.

VIEW THE AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhH2q6h7_Ow
Script For "Tiny" (TV :30)

ANNCR: Iran. Radical Islamic government. Known sponsors of terrorism.
Developing nuclear capabilities to "generate power" but threatening to eliminate Israel.
Obama says Iran is a "tiny" country, "doesn't pose a serious threat".
Terrorism, destroying Israel, those aren't "serious threats"?
Obama -- dangerously unprepared to be president.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

AD FACTS: Script For "Tiny" (TV :30)

ANNCR: Iran. Radical Islamic government. Known sponsors of terrorism. Developing nuclear capabilities, to "generate power" but threatening to eliminate Israel. Obama says Iran is a "tiny" country, "doesn't pose a serious threat". Terrorism, destroying Israel, those aren't "serious threats"? Obama -- dangerously unprepared to be president.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

· In May 2008, Barack Obama Called Iran A "Tiny" Country That Doesn't "Pose A Serious Threat To Us."

OBAMA: "Strong countries and strong Presidents talk to their adversaries. That's what Kennedy did with Khrushchev. That's what Reagan did with Gorbachev. That's what Nixon did with Mao. I mean think about it. Iran, Cuba, Venezuela -- these countries are tiny compared to the Soviet Union. They don't pose a serious threat to us the way the Soviet Union posed a threat to us. And yet we were willing to talk to the Soviet Union at the time when they were saying we're going to wipe you off the planet. And ultimately that direct engagement led to a series of measures that helped prevent nuclear war, and over time allowed the kind of opening that brought down the Berlin Wall. Now, that has to be the kind of approach that we take. You know, Iran, they spend one-one hundredth of what we spend on the military. If Iran ever tried to pose a serio us threat to us, they wouldn't stand a chance. And we should use that position of strength that we have to be bold enough to go ahead and listen. That doesn't mean we agree with them on everything. We might not compromise on any issues, but at least we should find out other areas of potential common interest, and we can reduce some of the tensions that has caused us so many problems around the world." (Sen. Barack Obama, Remarks, Pendelton, OR, 5/18/08)

· Watch Barack Obama: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ew5qP2oPdtQ
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Bill Clinton On "Candidate X" And "Candidate Y"

"For example, you're a voter, and you have Candidate X and Candidate Y. Candidate X agrees with you on everything. But you don't think that person can deliver on anything. Candidate Y disagrees with you on half the issues, but you believe that, on the other half, the candidate will be able to deliver. For whom will you vote?" -- President Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton
Remarks
August 26, 2008

President Bill Clinton: "For example, you're a voter, and you have Candidate X and Candidate Y. Candidate X agrees with you on everything. But you don't think that person can deliver on anything. Candidate Y disagrees with you on half the issues, but you believe that, on the other half, the candidate will be able to deliver. For whom will you vote?"

Watch Bill Clinton's Comments
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John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "3 a.m."

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest television ad, entitled "3 A.M." The ad highlights Hillary Clinton's serious questions about Barack Obama's lack of experience and judgment to handle an international crisis -- the "3 A.M. moment." The ad will air in key states.

VIEW THE AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yYlzX2ZOLM
Script For "3 A.M." (TV :30)

CLINTON AD: It's 3 a.m. and your children are safe and asleep.

Who do you want answering the phone?

ANNCR: Uncertainty. Dangerous aggression.

Rogue nations.

Radicalism.

HILLARY CLINTON: I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience that he will bring to the White House.

And, Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002.

ANNCR: Hillary's right. John McCain for President.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approve this message.

AD FACTS: Script For "3 A.M." (TV :30)

CLINTON AD: It's 3 a.m. and your children are safe and asleep. Who do you want answering the phone?

ANNCR: Uncertainty. Dangerous aggression. Rogue nations. Radicalism.

HILLARY CLINTON: I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience that he will bring to the White House. And, Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002.

ANNCR: Hillary's right. John McCain for President.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approve this message.

· Hillary Clinton: "I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience that he will bring to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002." (CNN's "Situation Room," 3/3/08)

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Statement by John McCain on U.S.-Iraqi SOFA Negotiations

8/22/08 U.S. Senator John McCain today issued the following statement on the U.S.-Iraqi negotiations for a Status of Forces Agreement:

"I am pleased that, following the surge strategy led by General David Petraeus and our brave men and women in uniform, security in Iraq has improved to the point at which we can responsibly talk with our Iraqi allies about U.S. troop withdrawals. Because of the hard-won success of this strategy, the Iraqi security forces are able to take on ever greater responsibility for security in their country. We should not forget that this is possible only because of the surge -- a strategy many predicted would fail and that some cannot, even today, recognize as a stunning success.

"While negotiations with the Iraqi government are ongoing, reports indicate that all dates included in the draft security agreement are aspirational goals, based on conditions on the ground. Conditions-based withdrawals of U.S. troops are the precise opposite course of that advocated by Senator Obama. Senator Obama seeks to withdraw all U.S. combat forces regardless of the consequences for Iraq or for American national security, and in disregard of our commanders' best counsel. Had we followed his course, Iraq could have easily descended into chaos and America would have suffered a catastrophic defeat. Instead, we are today negotiating a conditions-based agreement that will enable us to withdraw troops in victory and with honor."
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John McCain's Weekly Radio Address

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released the text of John McCain's weekly radio address for tomorrow morning. The text and audio file are embargoed until tomorrow at 7:00 a.m. EDT.

DOWNLOAD THE AUDIO FILE HERE:

http://www.johnmccain.com/Downloads/082208_B.mp3

John McCain's Weekly Radio Address:

Good morning, this is John McCain, speaking to you at the end of an eventful week in the presidential campaign. All the talk today is about my opponent's selection of his running mate. To his new running mate, my congratulations and I'll get back to you real soon on your debating opponent.

The week began with a debate of sorts between Senator Obama and me at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California. In case you missed it, the discussion yielded the line of the week, and maybe even of the campaign, when Pastor Rick Warren asked my opponent a very serious question. He wanted to know at what point, in my opponent's view, does a baby have human rights? Senator Obama thought about it for a moment, and came back with the reply that the question was, quote, "above my pay grade."

Here was a candidate for the presidency of the United States, asked for his position on one of the central moral and legal questions of our time, and this was the best he could offer: It's above his pay grade. He went on to assure his interviewer that there is a, quote, "moral and ethical element to this issue." Americans expect more of their leaders.

There seems to be a pattern here in my opponent's approach to many hard issues. Whether it's the surge in Iraq that has brought us near to victory, or the issue of campaign reform, or the question of offshore drilling, Senator Obama's speeches can be impressive. But when it's time for straight answers, clear conviction, and decisive action, suddenly all of these responsibilities are -- well, as he puts it, "above my pay grade." As mottos of leadership go, it doesn't exactly have the ring of "the buck stops here."

Often, too, Senator Obama's carefully hedged answers obscure more than they explain, and this was the case in his conversation with Rick Warren. Listening to my opponent at Saddleback, you would never know that this is a politician who long since left behind any middle ground on the abortion issue. He is against parental notification laws, and against restrictions on taxpayer funding for abortions. In the Illinois Senate, a bipartisan majority passed legislation to prevent the horrific practice of partial-birth abortion. Senator Obama opposed that bill, voting against it in committee and voting "present" on the Senate floor.

In 2002, Congress unanimously passed a federal law to require medical care for babies who survive abortions -- living, breathing babies whom Senator Obama described as, quote, "previable." This merciful law was called the Born Alive Infants Protection Act. Illinois had a version of the same law, and Barack Obama voted against it.

At Saddleback, he assured a reporter that he'd have voted "yes" on that bill if it had contained language similar to the federal version of the Born Alive Infants Protection Act. Even though the language of both the state and federal bills was identical, Senator Obama said people were, quote, "lying" about his record. When that record was later produced, he dropped the subject but didn't withdraw the slander. And now even Senator Obama's campaign has conceded that his claims and accusations were false.

For a man who talks so often about "hope," Senator Obama doesn't offer much of it in meeting this great challenge to the conscience of America. His extreme advocacy in favor of partial birth abortion and his refusal to provide medical care for babies surviving abortion should be of grave concern to reasonable people of goodwill on both sides of this issue. There is a growing consensus in America that we need to overcome narrow partisanship on this issue for both women in need and the unborn. We need more of the compassion and moral idealism that my opponent's own party, at its best, once stood for. No one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection.

Upholding these principles, and bringing Americans together on the side of life, is the work of leadership. And I can assure you that if I am president, advancing the cause of life will not be above my pay grade. Thanks for listening.
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Statement by John McCain on Barack Obama's Freudian Slip

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today issued the following statement from Ben Porritt, McCain spokesman:

"Barack Obama sounded as though he turned over the top spot on the ticket today to his new mentor, when he introduced Joe Biden as the next president. The reality is that nothing has changed since Joe Biden first made his assessment that Barack Obama is not ready to lead. He wasn't ready then and he isn't ready now."

Background On Barack Obama's Freudian Slip

Barack Obama: "So let me introduce to you the next President -- the next Vice President of United States of America, Joe Biden!" (Barack Obama, Remarks, Springfield, IL, 8/23/08)

· Watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RElChQ6g2Io
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John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Passed Over"

Today at 3:00 a.m., U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign released its latest television ad, entitled "Passed Over." The ad highlights Hillary Clinton's serious questions about Barack Obama's plans for America, judgment in key situations and negative campaigning in the Democratic primary. The ad will air in key states.

VIEW THE AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3NrQ36Djf2E

Script For "Passed Over" (TV :30)

ANNCR: She won millions of votes.

But isn't on his ticket.

Why?

For speaking the truth.

On his plans:

HILLARY CLINTON: "You never hear the specifics."

ANNCR: On the Rezko scandal:

HILLARY CLINTON: "We still don't have a lot of answers about Senator Obama."

ANNCR: On his attacks:

HILLARY CLINTON: "Senator Obama's campaign has become increasingly negative."
ANNCR: The truth hurt. And Obama didn't like it.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

AD FACTS: Script For "Passed Over" (TV :30)

ANNCR: On his plans: HILLARY CLINTON: "You never hear the specifics."

· Hillary Clinton On Obama's Plans: "You Never Hear The Specifics." "You know, when President Bush, coming off his '04 win, came in and said, We're going to privatize Social Security, I'm really proud that I was one of the leaders who said, No, we're not going to let that happen. You may have this new capital because you're now the re- elected president, but this is a fight worth having. We're not going to let this occur. So when I hear Senator Obama talk about that, I wonder which fights he wouldn't fight. Would he have not fought to get to a balanced budget and a surplus and help create 22 million new jobs? Would he have not fought to get assault weapons off the street and get them out of the hands of, you know, criminals and gang members? You never hear the specifics. It's all this kind of abstract, general talk about how we all need to get along. I want to get along, and I have gotten along in the Senate. I will work with Republicans to find common cause whenever I can, but I will also stand my ground, because there are fights worth having. Universal health care is a fight worth having. Senator Obama has decided it isn't. He won't present a plan for universal health care. That's a big difference between he and I, and it's a big difference between me and the Republican Party." (Hillary Clinton, WJLA Channel 7 Washington and Politico.com Interview, www.politico.com, 2/12/08)

ANNCR: On the Rezko scandal: HILLARY CLINTON: "We still don't have a lot of answers about Senator Obama."

· Hillary Clinton On Obama's Shady Dealings With Tony Rezko: "We Still Don't Have A Lot Of Answers About Senator Obama And His Dealings With Mr. Rezko." "And, in fact, you know, our financial situation has probably has been more investigated than anybody who's ever been in public life in America. We still don't have a lot of answers about Senator Obama and his dealings with Mr. Rezko. So I don't mind answering questions, but I find it only fair that we have questions going to the other side as well, and I don't see that happening. You know, we have been on the front line of full disclosure. I've been examined one side up and the other side down. I'm more than happy to have that. But I think it's fair that we have the same standards apply to my opponent." (Hillary Clinton, WJLA Channel 7 Washington and Politico.com Interview, www.politico.com, 2/12/08)

ANNCR: On his attacks: HILLARY CLINTON: "Senator Obama's campaign has become increasingly negative."

· Hillary Clinton On Obama's Negative Campaign: "There Has Been A Relentless Series Of Attacks Coming From The Other Side. Senator Obama's Campaign Has Become Increasingly Negative." "There has been a relentless series of attacks coming from the other side. I've spent the vast majority of this campaign giving very specific speeches about the solutions that I offer on all of the important issues facing our country. And, in fact, the press that covers me on a regular basis, I think, is kind of bored, because I just talk about solutions and what we're going to do to get more jobs and get health care for everyone and make sure we have a clean, renewable energy future and all of the other concerns that voters talk to me about. But in the last, you know, couple of weeks, Senator Obama's campaign has become increasingly negative. He says one thing on the stump and his campaign does something else." (Hillary Clinton, CNN 's "Larry King Live," 4/21/08)
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John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Recipe"

8/8/08 U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest radio ad, entitled "Recipe." The ad highlights Barack Obama's record of voting to raise taxes on middle class families and his proposals for painful tax increases that will only hurt Americans in these tough economic times. The ad will play in key states.

LISTEN TO THE AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5iDkg_clAsI

Script For "Recipe" (Radio :60)

ANNCR: Life in the spotlight must be grand for Barack Obama. But is he ready to lead in tough economic times?

Official records document, Barack Obama has a history of raising taxes -- even on middle class Americans making just $42,000 a year.

If elected President, Obama's promises would mean even more taxes on income, electricity, oil, small business, seniors, your life savings, your family.

Painful taxes when times are tough enough.

The Las Vegas Review-Journal calls Obama's ideas "a recipe for economic disaster".

The Washington Post says Obama's policies are "poorly crafted" and will result in "higher prices at the pump."

And The Wall Street Journal reports Obama's plans will "stunt small business" and threaten "America's economic competitiveness."

More taxes. Higher gas prices. A recipe for economic disaster.

That's the real Obama.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

ANNCR: Paid for by John McCain 2008.

AD FACTS: Script For "Recipe" (Radio :60)

ANNCR: Life in the spotlight must be grand for Barack Obama. But is he ready to lead in tough economic times? Official records document, Barack Obama has a history of raising taxes -- even on middle class Americans making just $42,000 a year.

· Barack Obama Voted Twice In Favor Of The Democrats' FY 2009 Budget Resolution. (S. Con. Res. 70, CQ Vote #85: Adopted 51-44: R 2-43; D 47-1; I 2-0, 3/14/08, Obama Voted Yea; S. Con. Res. 70, CQ Vote #142: Adopted 48- 45: R 2- 44; D 44- 1; I 2-0, 6/4/08, Obama Voted Yea)

· FactCheck.org: The Budget Resolution Would Have Allowed Most Of The Provisions Of The 2001 And 2003 Tax Cuts To Expire, Effectively Raising Taxes On Those Making $41,500 In Total Income. "What Obama voted for was a budget resolution that would have allowed most of the provisions of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts to expire. In particular, the resolution would allow the 25 percent tax bracket to return to its pre-2001 level of 28 percent. That bracket kicks in at $32,550 for an individual or $65,100 for a married couple. But as those of you who have filled out a 1040 know, that's not actually how income taxes work. We don't pay taxes on our total earnings; we pay them based on our 'taxable income.' The Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center's Eric Toder told FactCheck.org that 'people with taxable income of $32,000 would have a total income greater than that.' In 2008, anyone filing taxes with single status would be entitled to a standard deduction of $5,450, as well as a personal exemption of $3,500. So to have a taxable income high enough to reach the 25 percent bracket, an individual would need to earn at least $41,500 in total income, while a married couple would need a combined income of at least $83,000." ("The $32,000 Question," FactCheck.org, http://www.factcheck.org, 7/8/08)

· FactCheck.org: "Obama's Votes Indicate A Willingness To Raise Taxes." "Certainly Obama's votes indicate a willingness to raise taxes, and Obama has not been shy about saying explicitly that he will raise some taxes." ("The $32,000 Question," FactCheck.org, http://www.factcheck.org, 7/8/08)

· Obama Campaign: Barack Obama Voted For A Budget Resolution That Wouldn't Have Increased Taxes For Any Taxpayers Making Less Than $41,500. ROSEN: "Campaign aides to Senator Obama today, called the charge that he voted for tax hikes on people making only $32,000 a year, quote, 'bogus.' They circulated an analysis stating that the resolution that Obama had voted for would not have increase taxes on single taxpayer making less than $41,500 a year in total income." (Fox News' "America's Election Headquarters," 7/30/08)

· The New York Times: Barack Obama's "Vote Was On A Budget Resolution To Raise Taxes On People Making $41,500 A Year." "FactCheck.org, a nonpartisan Web site, said the vote was on a budget resolution to raise taxes on people making $41,500 a year; the $32,000 figure, it said, was the amount of taxable income those people had." (Michael Cooper, "McCain Goes Negative, Worrying Some In GOP," The New York Times, 7/30/08)

· The Associated Press: Budget Resolution "Would Have Allowed Tax Rates To Return To Pre-2001 Levels, Meaning That An Individual With Taxable Income Of About $32,000 Would Have Faced A Tax Increase." "At issue is Obama's vote on a non-binding budget resolution in March that called for President Bush's tax cuts to expire. Such a step would have allowed tax rates to return to pre-2001 levels, meaning that an individual with taxable income of about $32,000 would have faced a tax increase. Taxable income is what's left after taxpayers account for deductions." (Liz Sidoti, "Obama Dismisses Conservative Criticism," The Associated Press, 7/12/08)

· In June 2008, Obama Said "The Senate Voted To Stand Up For Working Families In Illinois And Throughout The Nation" By Passing The Democrats' Final Budget Resolution. Obama: "Today the Senate voted to stand up for working families in Illinois and throughout the nation by rejecting the failed policies of the Bush Administration and moving our country back on track to fiscal discipline. ... Our country needs change, and this budget is an important step in the right direction. I commend House and Senate leaders for working together to move this legislation through Congress." (Sen. Barack Obama, "Statement Of Senator Barack Obama On The Senate 's Passage Of The FY 2009 Budget Resolution," Press Release, obama.senate.gov, 6/4/08)

· In March 2008, Obama Hailed His Vote For The Budget As Making "Significant Progress In Getting Our Nation's Priorities Back On Track." Obama: "The budget passed by the Senate tonight makes significant progress in getting our nation's priorities back on track. ... We need change in this country, and this budget is an important step in helping bring it about." (Sen. Barack Obama, "Obama Statement On The Senate's Passage Of The FY 2009 Budget," Press Release, obama.senate.gov, 3/14/08)

ANNCR: If elected President, Obama's promises would mean even more taxes on income, electricity, oil, small business, seniors, your life savings, your family. Painful taxes when times are tough enough.

· Barack Obama Has Called For Higher Income Taxes, Social Security Taxes, Capital Gains And Dividend Taxes, And Corporate Taxes, As Well As "Massive New Domestic Spending." "Obama's transformation, if you go by his campaign so far, would mean higher income taxes, higher Social Security taxes, higher investment taxes, higher corporate taxes, massive new domestic spending, and a healthcare plan that perhaps could be the next step to a full-scale, single-payer system. Is that what most Americans want, someone who will fulfill a Democratic policy wish list?" (James Pethokoukis, "Barack Hussein Reagan? Ronald Wilson Obama?" U.S. News & World Report's "Capital Commerce" Blog, www.usnews.com, 2/12/08)

· Barack Obama Would Raise Social Security (Payroll) Taxes On Families. "Obama's proposal would impose social security taxes on income above $250,000 per year. He would continue to exempt income between $102,000 and $250,000 from social security taxes." (Teddy Davis, Sunlen Miller, and Gregory Wallace, "Obama Kisses Billions Goodbye," ABC News' "Political Radar" Blog, blogs.abcnews.com, 6/18/08)

· Barack Obama Would Raise Income Taxes. Obama: "[I] would roll back the Bush tax cuts for those making over $250,000." (Sen. Barack Obama, CNN Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Manchester, NH, 6/3/07)

· U.S. Department Of Treasury: Small Business Owners "Are Frequently Subject To The Highest Individual Income Tax Rates." "Changes in the individual income tax affect most businesses in the United States. That is because taxes on business earnings are often paid through the individual income tax when 'passed-through' to business owners. The business income from sole proprietorships, farm proprietorships, partnerships, S corporations, etc., is all taxed at the owners' individual income tax rates. This year 34 million business owners are expected to receive this type of income and pay tax on this income through the individual income tax. These businesses are typically small and often entrepreneurial in nature, and a source of innovation and risk-taking in the economy. Moreover, these business owners are frequently subject to the highest individual income tax rates." ("Topics Related To The President's Tax Relief," U.S. Department Of Treasury, http://www.ustreas.gov/press/releases/reports/president_taxrelief_topics_0508.pdf, May 2008)

· Barack Obama Told A Texas Newspaper: "What We Ought To Tax Is Dirty Energy, Like Coal And, To A Lesser Extent, Natural Gas." ("Q&A With Sen. Barack Obama," San Antonio Express-News, 2/19/08)

· Coal Is The Largest Source Of Electricity In America, Accounting For Nearly 49 Percent Of U.S. Total Net Generation In 2006. (Energy Information Administration Website, www.eia.doe.gov, Accessed 6/9/08)

· Natural Gas Is The Second Largest Source Of Electricity In America, Accounting For 20 Percent Of U.S. Total Net Generation In 2006. (Energy Information Administration Website, www.eia.doe.gov, Accessed 6/9/08)

· Barack Obama Is Proposing A Windfall Profits Tax On Oil Companies That Could Raise Taxes By $15 Billion A Year. "Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama's proposal for a windfall profits tax on oil companies could cost $15 billion a year at last year's profit levels, a campaign adviser said." (Daniel Whitten, "Obama May Levy $15 Billion Tax On Oil Company Profit," Bloomberg News, 5/1/08)

· Los Angeles Times Editorial: Funding Rebate Checks By Taxing Oil Companies "Could Ultimately Cause Oil Prices To Rise Even Further." "He also wants to send working families a $1,000 'energy rebate' funded by new taxes on oil companies, a move that would slow the oil giants' investments in research, exploration and recovery and thus could ultimately cause oil prices to rise even further." (Editorial, "Obama's Energy Boost," Los Angeles Times, 8/5/08)

· USA Today Editorial: Barack Obama's Plans To Tax Oil Companies "Plays Well On Te Stump, But It Would Only Reduce The Companies' Resources For Expanded Drilling And Exploration." "Unfortunately, in his energy speech in Lansing, Obama undercut his grudging acceptance of offshore drilling by calling for a windfall profits tax on oil companies to finance $1,000 energy rebates for families. That plays well on the stump, but it would only reduce the companies' resources for expanded drilling and exploration." (Editorial, "Our View On Energy Policy: Obama Joins McCain In Offshore Drilling Reversal," USA Today, 8/5/08)

· The Non-Partisan Congressional Research Service Found That The Windfall Profits Tax In The Past Reduced Domestic Oil Production And Increased Our Dependence On Foreign Oil By As Much As 13 Percent. "From 1980 to 1988, the WPT may have reduced domestic oil production anywhere from 1.2% to 8.0% (320 to 1,269 million barrels). Dependence on imported oil grew from between 3% and 13%." (Salvatore Lazzari, "The Crude Oil Windfall Profit Tax Of The 1980s: Implications For Current Energy Policy," Congressional Research Service, 3/9/06)

· The Tax Reduced Domestic Oil Supply And Increased Demand For Imported Oil. "The WPT had the effect of reducing the domestic supply of crude oil below what the supply would have been without the tax. This increased the demand for imported oil and made the United States more dependent upon foreign oil as compared with dependence without a WPT." (Salvatore Lazzari, "The Crude Oil Windfall Profit Tax Of The 1980s: Implications For Current Energy Policy," Congressional Research Service, 3/9/06)

· The Wall Street Journal: The Windfall Profits Tax Reduced Domestic Oil Production And Increased Prices At The Pump. "The last time Congress imposed a form of the windfall tax was the final gloomy days of Jimmy Carter, and the result was: a substantial reduction in domestic oil production (about 5%), thus raising the price of gas at the pump; and a 10% increase in U.S. reliance on foreign oil. A windfall profits tax is the ultimate act of economic masochism because it taxes only domestic production, while imports and foreign oil subsidiaries bear almost none of the cost." (Editorial, "Windfall Accounting Tax," The Wall Street Journal, 11/30/05)

· Heritage's Ben Lieberman: The Windfall Profits Tax Ended Up Harming Consumers With Increased Energy Prices. "The track record for punitive measures like the windfall profits tax shows that they usually harm consumers along with the targeted industry. In the end, the tax hurt consumers more through higher energy prices than it helped them through higher tax revenues, which turned out to be far lower than originally predicted because the tax discouraged production." (Ben Lieberman, "Raising Taxes On Oil Companies Is No Way To Reduce Gas Prices," www.heritage.org, 3/1/06)

· Barack Obama Would Raise Capital Gains And Dividend Taxes. "Sen. Obama wants to raise the long-term capital-gains rate for families making more than $250,000 to around 20 percent or somewhat higher but not above the 28 percent level it reached during the Reagan presidency, an Obama economic adviser says. The same rate would apply to most dividend income for these investors." (Tom Herman, "Tax Report Your Tax Bill: How McCain, Obama Differ," The Associated Press, 6/18/08)

· In 2006, Over 26.7 Million U.S. Taxpayers Reported Capital Gains Income. (Internal Revenue Service Website, "Individual Income And Tax Data, By State And Size Of Adjusted Gross Income, Tax Year 2006," www.irs.gov, Accessed 7/30/08)

· In 2006, Over 31.5 Million U.S. Taxpayers Reported Dividend Income. (Internal Revenue Service Website, "Individual Income And Tax Data, By State And Size Of Adjusted Gross Income, Tax Year 2006," www.irs.gov, Accessed 7/30/08)

· Tax Policy Center: Barack Obama Would Raise Taxes On One Out Of Every Three Senior Households. "Even though Senator Obama's plan eliminates individual income taxes for seniors with incomes less than $50,000, his plan would raise taxes for almost 10 million senior households, over a third of the total (not shown in table). On average, seniors would face a tax increase of about 2 percent of income." (Burman et al., "A Preliminary Analysis of the 2008 Presidential Candidates' Tax Plans," The Tax Policy Center, 6/11/08)

· Tax Foundation: Seniors "Rely Most On The Stable Flow Of Income That Dividends Provide." "Most debate over whether to extend the reduced rates on dividends and capital gains has focused on the tax benefits of these cuts to high-income taxpayers. What has been largely ignored is the impact these tax policies have on corporations' decisions on how best to distribute their income to shareholdersincluding senior citizens, who rely most on the stable flow of income that dividends provide. A recent Tax Foundation analysis illustrated that a large number of those benefiting from dividends are seniors and those on the verge of retirement (See www.taxfoundation.org). A further analysis of these seniors earning dividends reveals that lower-income seniors who file tax returns depend more heavily on dividend i ncome than high-income seniors." (Gerald Prante, "The Importance Of Dividend Income For Low-Income Seniors," Tax Foundation, http://www.taxfoundation.org/news/show/1354.html, 2/8/06)

ANNCR: The Las Vegas Review-Journal calls Obama's ideas "a recipe for economic disaster".

· The Las Vegas Review-Journal Calls Barack Obama's Tax Proposals "A Recipe For Economic Disaster." "[Obama] wants to the raise tax rate on the top income bracket from 35 percent to 39.6 percent, nearly double the tax rate on capital gains and dividends, and eliminate all tax breaks for the gas and oil industries and private equity firm managers. Talk about a recipe for economic disaster." (Editorial, "More Class Warfare," Las Vegas Review-Journal, 9/20/07)

ANNCR: The Washington Post says Obama's policies are "poorly crafted" and will result in "higher prices at the pump."

· The Washington Post Said Barack Obama's $80 Billion Tax Proposal Is "Poorly Crafted, Lavishing Tax Goodies Where They're Not Needed." "Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama proposed $80 billion or so in tax cuts for middle-class taxpayers. These are the sort of have-a-cookie proposals that sound great to voters, especially Democratic primary voters, so they might be smart politics. That doesn't make them smart policy. Even if it made sense to spend all this revenue to shift tax burdens rather than deal with other problems, the Illinois senator's proposals are poorly crafted, lavishing tax goodies where they're not needed. Mr. Obama says he wants to help families squeezed by stagnant wages, but this is an awfully expensive Band-Aid." (Editorial, "Mr. Obama's Cookie Jar," The Washington Post, 9/25/07)

· The Washington Post: Barack Obama's Tax On Oil Companies Will Only Lead To "Higher Prices At The Pump." "But to add a five-year tax increase on top of that to pay for a one-year gift to voters would, indeed, increase the cost of doing business. That cost would be passed along in forgone investment in new production, lower dividends for pension funds and other shareholders, and higher prices at the pump -- thus socking it to the consumers whom the plan is supposed to help. If oil prices fall, there might be no windfall profits to tax. Then the Obama rebate would have to be paid for through spending cuts, taxes on something else or borrowing." (Editorial, "Tapping Tired Wells," The Washington Post, 8/6/08)

ANNCR: And The Wall Street Journal reports Obama's plans will "stunt small business" and threaten "America's economic competitiveness." More taxes. Higher gas prices. A recipe for economic disaster.

That's the real Obama.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

ANNCR: Paid for by John McCain 2008.

· The Wall Street Journal Said Barack Obama's Plan To Raise The Top Income Tax Rates Would "Stunt Small Business." "The clear implication is that raising the U.S. personal income tax rates would also stunt small business entrepreneurship. Yet this is precisely what all of the Democratic Presidential candidates, and even Mr. Rangel, propose." (Editorial, "Corporate Tax War," The Wall Street Journal, 12/4/07)

· The Wall Street Journal: Our High Business Tax Rates Compared To Those Of Many Other Nations "Pose A Threat To America's Economic Competitiveness." "What American CEOs understand, but most in the media and political class so far refuse to acknowledge, is that the U.S. is far behind the rest of the world in reducing corporate tax rates. The U.S. corporate income tax rate is the world's second highest after Japan's among developed nations. In recent years, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Vietnam, Poland and Singapore, among many other nations, have either cut or proposed to cut their business tax rates. These lower rates are attracting more investment and capital, and they pose a threat to America's economic competitiveness if Washington fails to act." (Editorial, "Corporate Tax War," The Wall Street Journal, 12/4/07)
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John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Praising McCain"

8/7/08 U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest web ad, entitled "Praising McCain." The ad highlights major Obama supporters praising John McCain's record of working across the aisle to get results for the American people. If we are to move America forward, we need a President who will put partisanship aside to do what's right for the American people.

VIEW THE WEB AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSpcxkKlEFA

Script For "Praising McCain" (WEB 1:00)

CHYRON: John McCain is a Maverick. Just ask Democrats.

SEN. DASCHLE: He can work with Democrats on key issues whether it's campaign finance reform or tobacco policy. He's worked with us.

SEN. BIDEN: John McCain is a personal friend, a great friend and I would be honored to run with or against John McCain.

SEN. KERRY: I have enormous respect for him. He's a courageous, patriotic American who stands up for what he believes.

HOWARD DEAN: I admire Senator McCain greatly, he's one of the people we modeled our campaign over because he is very direct, very blunt, and nobody has to guess at what he's thinking.

SEN. FEINGOLD: I love John McCain, he's a great guy.

CHYRON: Even Barack Obama has praise for the maverick.

SEN. OBAMA: Since coming to Washington, I've believed that the right approach begins with the proposal put forward by Senator Lieberman and Senator McCain.

CHYRON: Let's let Hillary Clinton have the final say.

SEN. CLINTON: I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience he will bring to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002.

CHYRON: John McCain - Country First

AD FACTS: Script For "Praising McCain" (WEB 1:00)

CHYRON: John McCain is a Maverick. Just ask Democrats. SEN. DASCHLE: He can work with Democrats on key issues whether it's campaign finance reform or tobacco policy. He's worked with us.

· Senator Tom Daschle (D-SD): "Well, John McCain has always been influential in the Senate, in part because of the positions he holds. I don't think influence is determined necessarily just by position; he's obviously influential out of recognition of his chairmanship of the Commerce Committee. But he's also influential because he can work with Democrats on key issues, whether it's campaign finance reform or tobacco policy. He's worked with us, and that has made him, I think, a source of great influence in the Senate." (Sen. Tom Daschle, Press Conference, 3/10/00)
SEN. BIDEN: John McCain is a personal friend, a great friend and I would be honored to run with or against John McCain.

· Senator Joe Biden (D-DE) Said He'd Be Honored To Run With McCain. Comedy Central's Jon Stewart: "You may end up going against a Senate colleague, perhaps McCain, perhaps Frist?" Sen. Biden: "John McCain is a personal friend, a great friend, and I would be honored to run with or against John McCain, because I think the country would be better off -- be well off no matter who..." Stewart: "Did I hear, Did I hear with?" Sen. Biden: "You know, John McCain and I think" Stewart: "Don't become cottage cheese my friend. Say it." Sen. Biden: "The answer is yes." (Comedy Central's "The Daily Show" 8/2/05)

SEN. KERRY: I have enormous respect for him. He's a courageous, patriotic American who stands up for what he believes.

· Senator John Kerry (D-MA): "What I do know is that John McCain is a close and dear friend of mine. I have enormous respect for him. He's a courageous, patriotic American who stands up for what he believes and I'm proud to call him my friend." (CNBC's "The News," 4/7/04)

HOWARD DEAN: I admire Senator McCain greatly, he's one of the people we modeled our campaign over because he is very direct, very blunt, and nobody has to guess at what he's thinking.

· Howard Dean: "Well, first of all, let me say that I admire Senator McCain greatly, he's one of the people we modeled our campaign over because he is very direct, very blunt and nobody has to guess at what he's thinking, which I think is--people--people would like to see a lot more of that in politicians around this country." (CBS's, "Face The Nation," 1/5/03)

SEN. FEINGOLD: I love John McCain, he's a great guy.

· Senator Russ Feingold (D-WI): "You know, I love John McCain. He's a great guy. The fact is we do disagree on Iraq, but I think that on the overall fight against terrorism and that that's the number one priority there's a lot of agreement. John and I have been to Baghdad together twice and talked about this at length so obviously I'm gonna be supporting a Democrat for president of the United States, but I have a very high regard for John McCain, and this is just an area of disagreement. We agree tremendously on reform and worked together well and I'm proud to serve with him in the Senate." (ABC's, "This Week," 8/13/06)

CHYRON: Even Barack Obama has praise for the maverick.

SEN. OBAMA: Since coming to Washington, I've believed that the right approach begins with the proposal put forward by Senator Lieberman and Senator McCain.

· Senator Barack Obama (D-IL): "Since coming to Washington, I've believed that the right approach begins with the proposal put forward by Senator Lieberman and Senator McCain, a proposal they've been pushing for years, and I thank them again for their leadership on this issue. The Lieberman-McCain Bill establishes limits for greenhouse gas emissions well into the 21st century. To remain below these limits, the bill encourages the market to determine how best to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, rewarding cost effective approaches using a system of tradable allowances." (Sen. Barack Obama, Hearing, Committee On Environment and Public Works, U.S. Senate, 1/30/07)

CHYRON: Let's let Hillary Clinton have the final say.

SEN. CLINTON: I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience he will bring to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002.

· Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY): "I think that I have a lifetime of experience that I will bring to the White House. I know Senator McCain has a lifetime of experience that he will bring to the White House. And Senator Obama has a speech he gave in 2002." (CNN's "The Situation Room," 3/3/08)

CHYRON: John McCain - Country First
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John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Broken"

8/5/08 U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest television ad, entitled "Broken." The ad highlights John McCain's record of taking on the special interests in Washington. The ad will air in key states.

VIEW THE AD HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylJkmMR8Fek

Script For "Broken" (TV :60)

ANNCR: Washington's broken. John McCain knows it. We're worse off than we were four years ago.

Only McCain has taken on big tobacco, drug companies, fought corruption in both parties. He'll reform Wall Street, battle Big Oil, make America prosper again. He's the original maverick.
One is ready to lead -- McCain.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

AD FACTS: Script For "Broken" (TV :60)

ANNCR: Washington's broken. John McCain knows it. We're worse off than we were four years ago. Only McCain has taken on big tobacco, drug companies, fought corruption in both parties.
· The New York Times' David Brooks: "McCain Has Fought One Battle After Another Against Lobbyists And Special Interests." (David Brooks, Op-Ed, "The Real McCain," The New York Times, 2/26/08)

· Public Citizen's Joan Claybrook: "John McCain has fought for 14 long, hard years for reforms that seriously limit lobbyists' power ... He has fought for campaign finance reform, limits on gifts and travel from lobbyists, and extensive public disclosure of lobbyists' activities all of which limit the influence of lobbyists and the companies that hire lobbyists in Washington, D.C." (Public Citizen, "One Thing Overlooked In Flap Over McCain And Lobbyists: His Record On Reform," Press Release, 2/26/08)

· The Boston Globe: "McCain Took On The Tobacco Industry." "Ten years ago, Senator John McCain took on the tobacco industry, saying he would never back down from legislation to regulate the industry. ... McCain's decade of work on tobacco, one of the most significant efforts of his congressional career, has earned him enmity from the industry and from some fellow Republicans over the years." (Michael Kranish, "McCain's Stand On Tobacco Is Put To Test," The Boston Globe, 3/26/08)

· McCain's Championing Of Anti-Smoking Legislation "Faced Furious Opposition From The Tobacco Lobby." "In 1998, McCain championed anti-smoking legislation that faced furious opposition from the tobacco lobby. McCain guided the legislation through the Senate Commerce Committee on a 19-1 vote, but then the tobacco companies struck back. They hired 200 lobbyists and spent $40 million in advertising (three times as much as the Harry and Louise health care reform ads). Many of the ads attacked McCain by name, accusing him of becoming a big government liberal. After weeks of bitter debate, the bill died on the Senate floor." (David Brooks, Op-Ed, "The Real McCain," The New York Times, 2/26/08)

· In 2004, John McCain Co-Sponsored Bipartisan Drug Reimportation Legislation. "At a press conference today, Sen. Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine) introduced breakthrough bipartisan, consensus prescription drug reimportation legislation, the Pharmaceutical Market Access and Drug Safety Act, with Sens. Byron Dorgan (D-ND), John McCain (R-AZ), Ted Kennedy (D-MA), Tom Daschle (D-SD), Trent Lott (R-MS) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI)." (Sen. Olympia Snowe, Press Release, 4/21/04)

· John McCain Fought To Allow The Importation Of Cheaper Drugs Which Was "Adamantly Opposed By Industry Lobbyists." "McCain said he wanted the government to be able to negotiate lower drug prices and import cheaper drugs from Canada, both ideas that were adamantly opposed by industry lobbyists, and which ultimately failed." (Eamon Javers, "Is John McCain Good For Business?" Business Week Online, 2/7/08)

· A John McCain Bill To Make It Easier For Cheap Generic Drugs To Come Onto The Market Drew "Strong Opposition From The Pharmaceutical Industry." "The most public front was active last week, with the Senate passing a bill intended to make it easier for cheap generic drugs to come onto the market. The bill, sponsored by Sens. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., and John McCain, R-Ariz., drew considerable support in Congress and strong opposition from the pharmaceutical industry." ("Insurers' 'Counter' Attacks Aim To Boost Generic Drugs," Grand Rapid Press, 8/11/02)

· McCain Passed Campaign Finance Reform Which "Was A Direct Assault On Lobbyist Power." "In 2002, McCain capped his long push for campaign finance reform by passing the McCain-Feingold Act. People can argue about the effectiveness of the act, but one thing is beyond dispute. It was a direct assault on lobbyist power, and earned McCain undying enmity among many important parts of the Republican coalition, who felt their soft money influence was being diminished." (David Brooks, Op-Ed, "The Real McCain," The New York Times, 2/26/08)

· John McCain's Investigation Into The Boeing Tanker Deal "Exposed Billions Of Dollars Of Waste And Layers Of Contracting Irregularity." "In 2004, McCain launched a frontal assault on the leasing contract the Pentagon had signed with Boeing for aerial refueling tankers. McCain's investigation exposed billions of dollars of waste and layers of contracting irregularity." (David Brooks, Op-Ed, "The Real McCain," The New York Times, 2/26/08)

· John McCain Led The Congressional Investigation Into Jack Abramoff. "In 2005, McCain led the Congressional investigation into the behavior of the lobbyist Jack Abramoff. The investigation was exceedingly unpleasant for Republicans, because it exposed shocking misbehavior by important conservative activists." (David Brooks, Op-Ed, "The Real McCain," The New York Times, 2/26/08)

ANNCR: He'll reform Wall Street, battle Big Oil, make America prosper again. He's the original maverick. One is ready to lead -- McCain. JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

· John McCain Will Be Vigilant In Holding Corporate Abuses To Account. "Americans are right to be offended when extravagant CEO salaries and severance deals bear no relation to their company's success or shareholders' wishes. As president, John McCain will see that wrongdoing of this kind is called to account by federal prosecutors. Under his reforms, all aspects of a CEO's pay, including severance arrangements, must be approved by shareholders." (John McCain 2008, "A Leader We Can Believe In To Help Small Businesses," Press Release, 6/11/08)

· John McCain Has Called For The Immediate Formation Of A Justice Department Mortgage Abuse Task Force. "The Task Force will aggressively investigate potential criminal wrongdoing in the mortgage industry and bring to justice any who violated the law. The DOJ Task Force will offer assistance to State Attorney Generals who are investigating abusive lending practices." (John McCain 2008, "John McCain's Economic Plan," Press Release, 4/15/08)

· John McCain Believes We Must Understand The Role Speculation Is Playing In Our Soaring Energy Prices. "Congress already has several investigations underway to examine this kind of wagering in our energy markets, unrelated to any kind of productive commerce, because it can distort the market, drive prices beyond rational limits, and put the investments and pensions of millions of Americans at risk. John McCain believes that where we find abuses, they need to be swiftly punished. To make sure it never happens again, we must reform the laws and regulations governing the oil futures market, so that they are just as clear and effective as the rules applied to stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments." (John McCain 2008, "Securing Our Energy Future," Press Release, 6/17/08)

· John McCain Voted Against The 2005 Energy Bill. (H.R. 6, CQ Vote #152: Motion Agreed To 92-4: R 53-1; D 38-3; I 1-0, 6/23/05, McCain Voted Nay; H.R. 6, CQ Vote #158: Passed 85-12: R 49-5; D 35-7; I 1-0, 6/28/05, McCain Voted Nay; H.R. 6, CQ Vote #213: Adopted 74-26: R 49-6; D 25-19; I 0-1, 7/29/05, McCain Voted Nay)

· John McCain Criticized The 2005 Energy Bill's "Handouts To Big Business And Oil Companies," Calling Them Irresponsible. McCain: "This bill does little to address the immediate energy crisis we face in this country. The handouts to big business and oil companies are irresponsible and will be disastrous for people of Arizona. I cannot in good conscience, vote to pass legislation that does not adequately address issues related to energy efficiency, security, and energy independence." (Sen. John McCain, "McCain, Kyl Say No To Flawed Energy Bill," Press Release, 6/28/05)

· John McCain Has Proposed A Comprehensive "Jobs For America" Economic Plan To Make Our Country Prosperous Again: http://www.johnmccain.com/economicbriefing/
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McCain: "Obama's Energy Plan Is Fueled By Populism"

The latest additions to Sen. Barack Obama's energy plan, outlined during an appearance in Lansing Monday, may win the Democratic presidential candidate some votes from disgruntled consumers in November, but they'll do nothing to answer the nation's long-term needs." -- The Detroit News

"Obama's Energy Plan Is Fueled By Populism"
Editorial
The Detroit News
August 5, 2008

The latest additions to Sen. Barack Obama's energy plan, outlined during an appearance in Lansing Monday, may win the Democratic presidential candidate some votes from disgruntled consumers in November, but they'll do nothing to answer the nation's long-term needs.
The Illinois senator called for releasing the nation's strategic oil reserve to provide temporary relief from high gasoline prices, and also promised to lift the profits from Big Oil to give Americans a $1,000 energy rebate check.

As political pandering goes, Obama's proposals rank right up there with Sen. John McCain's call for a temporary suspension of the federal gasoline tax. They also equal McCain's gas tax holiday both for their worthlessness as a permanent policy solution and their potential for causing more harm than good.

The 707 million barrels of oil in the strategic reserve are there to protect the country from disruptions in its oil supply. It's essential for the United States to have such an insurance policy, considering that it gets much of its imported oil from some of the worlds' most volatile places.
The stockpile was last tapped after Hurricane Katrina cut off oil supplies from the Gulf of Mexico. President Bush, under pressure from Congress, stopped filling the reserves earlier this year in hopes of easing fuel prices.

Draining the reserve would drop consumer fuel costs for the short run, as would any sudden increase in supply. But then what? Once the reserves are gone, prices would go back up, and perhaps even higher because the reserves ultimately would have to be replaced.

Oddly, although Obama's proposal shows he recognizes the impact of supply on prices, he remains hesitant about lifting the congressional ban on off-shore drilling. Credit Obama for moving slightly away from the hard-line no drilling position of the Democratic congressional leadership by saying he'd consider "limited" coastal drilling if it were packaged with big increases in government subsidies for alternative energy development.

But at the same time, he proposed taking away any incentive oil companies would have to expand drilling and increase supplies by pushing a windfall tax on Big Oil's profits to fund the $1,000 rebate checks.

Perhaps the senator is hoping the checks will make Americans forget, as he apparently has, about what happened when Presidents Nixon, Ford and Carter played the price and profit limiting game the 1970s.

As the pay-off for oil exploration dwindled, so did oil supplies, driving up fuel prices and creating long lines at the pump. There's no reason to think Obama would be any more successful in executing this dubious redistribution strategy.

His plan also would give the state-owned oil companies in places like Saudi Arabia and Venezuela a huge advantage over domestic companies, since they'd be beyond the reach of Obama's profits grab.

Gasoline prices have been falling in recent weeks as demand has decreased and hopes have risen that the United States may be prepared to allow expanded drilling.

Taking steps to keep demand in check while assuring a steady supply of oil is a much better energy policy than populist promises.

Read The Editorial
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McCain Campaign Conference Call On Barack Obama's Energy Positions

"And I believe that what we will see today is Barack Obama attempting to paint a picture of an energy plan that frankly is not based on developing more American energy supply. I believe that anyone who says that we can achieve energy independence in this country without that, without more nuclear power without more offshore drilling, without more clean coal, doesn't have the experience to understand the problem we are faced with or isn't being straightforward to the American people." -- Rep. Eric Cantor

8/4/08 Today, U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign held a press conference call with Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA) and Doug Holtz-Eakin, McCain Campaign Senior Policy Adviser, on Barack Obama's energy positions:

Rep. Eric Cantor: "We are here on the call today to really begin to look at what we are going to hear for the rest of the day, which is the unveiling of Barack Obama's energy plan for the future. I think it comes at a time when everyone looks around and sees that the American people are really hurting. I know here in my home state of Virginia I have talked to seniors on fixed incomes who just cannot deal with $4 a gallon gas. We've got police forces, school systems, small businesses that are really buckling up under the pressure of the sky-high gas prices.

"So it is clear that this is an issue that is very important to our economy and to the families of America. And I believe that what we will see today is Barack Obama attempting to paint a picture of an energy plan that frankly is not based on developing more American energy supply. I believe that anyone who says that we can achieve energy independence in this country without that, without more nuclear power without more offshore drilling, without more clean coal, doesn't have the experience to understand the problem we are faced with or isn't being straightforward to the American people."

...

Doug Holtz-Eakin: "I think the case has been very well laid out and I will simply echo two things. The first is that when John McCain put together his Lexington Project to eliminate America's dangerous dependence on imported oil, he used what the experts said was the best possible tactics -- to put everything into the plan: comprehensive domestic drilling and oil and natural gas; nuclear power expansion -- we only use 20% in our electricity grid, we could use a lot more; coal powered power plants that were cleaner than our old ones and which will use our most abundant resource while building capacity for clean coal technologies of the future and carbon caps and sequestration. It's a comprehensive effort that was realistic about the ability to move the United States away from the dangerous reliance on imported oil toward cleaner technologies and cleaner energy in the future.

"It's an aggressive plan and his goal is to leave our dependence by 2025. The Obama assertion that he can take off the table new natural gas, take off the table new oil supplies, take off the table nuclear power, take off the table building coal powered power plants and somehow in ten years will relieve the United States of its reliance of imported oil is utterly unrealistic. And I think as the Congressman said, he either doesn't understand what he said or he's not being straight with the American people.

"It's time for leadership on this issue. That is what Senator McCain has presented the American people with a path forward so that we're no longer held hostage to foreign oil markets. It's an aggressive plan. Senator Obama has shown no leadership on this issue, indeed his tendency to just go along is one on which he has a track record of in the U.S. Senate -- sticking with the party line, not bucking his backers or his party to cast tough votes and provide leadership on real issues for the American people. So this is more of the same for Barack Obama."

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Statement by John McCain Welcoming Missile Defense Pact with Poland

Today, U.S. Senator John McCain issued the following statement welcoming the missile defense pact with Poland:

"I welcome the announcement that the United States and Poland have agreed on a missile defense plan for Europe. As I noted during my meeting last month with Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski, this constitutes an important step forward in protecting European nations from a growing threat -- missile attacks from states like Iran. While I have welcomed U.S. offers to work with Russia on this system and share in its benefits, I was disappointed in Russia's reaction to the announcement. Threatening attacks against Poland, a NATO ally, is a wholly inappropriate response to an agreement that is not aimed at countering Russia.

"Rather than exchanging charges over missile defense, I would urge Moscow to comply with the ceasefire in Georgia and immediately begin withdrawing its forces from sovereign Georgian territory. I welcome Secretary Rice's visit to Tbilisi and believe that the entire international community should do its utmost to bring aid to the Georgian people."
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McCain Campaign Conference Call On Barack Obama's Tax Increases

"I think today's op-ed from the Obama campaign is yet another example of the stark difference between the reality of Obama's record and his rhetoric. And it is also an example of Obama's shifting rhetoric over time." -- Carly Fiorina

Today, U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign held a press conference call with Carly Fiorina, former CEO of Hewlett Packard, John Taylor, Mary and Robert Raymond Professor of Economics at Stanford University, and Doug Holtz-Eakin, McCain 2008 senior policy adviser, to discuss Obama's record of higher taxes:

Carly Fiorina: "I think today's op-ed from the Obama campaign is yet another example of the stark difference between the reality of Obama's record and his rhetoric. And it is also an example of Obama's shifting rhetoric over time.

Let me begin with a couple big-picture points. The reality of Barack Obama's record is the following: He has voted to raise taxes 94 times in his short time as a senator. Most recently, he has voted to raise taxes on people making as little as $42,000 a year. And when he voted in favor of that budget resolution, he indicated that he thought it was a great step in getting our priorities back in the right place.

"The reality of his record is also that, in his short time in the U.S. Senate, he has asked for almost a billion dollars in earmarks. That equates to roughly a million dollars for every day he has served in office.

"And finally, he has proposed almost a trillion dollars in new spending programs -- $863 billion of new spending programs to be precise, spending programs that range everywhere from free mandatory preschool education for every child in America to government-mandated health care. So, the reality of Barack Obama's record is that he is for both higher taxes and much higher spending.

"Now, what we have seen is shifting rhetoric over time. His rhetoric has shifted on taxes. He has said that he would raise taxes on the top 1% of the American people. He had said he would raise taxes on the top 2% of the American people, he has said he would raise taxes on the top 5% of the American people. I'm talking income taxes now. The rhetoric on whose taxes would be raised has shifted over time.

"The rhetoric on what he would do with capital gains taxes has shifted over time as well. It has been as high as 20%, 28%. In some cases he has said he would exempt certain people from capital gains taxes. Recall that 100 million Americans have some investment in the stock market, which would be taxed under his capital gains increase tax plan.

"His rhetoric has also shifted around payroll taxes. He has said on more than one occasion that he would be willing to raise all payroll taxes in order to deal with Social Security. He has now proposed in some cases a 'donut hole' exemption. But, the reality is that his rhetoric has shifted on what, exactly, he would do on taxes, on capital gains, and on payroll tax, just as his rhetoric has shifted on how he really feels about trade; and its important to remember that a great number, between 20% and 25% of all the jobs in America, depend to some large measure on exports.

"I think what we have here is once again a shifting rhetoric over time driven by his ambition to become President of the United States and a stark difference between the reality of his record and that shifting rhetoric."

...

John Taylor: "Even with the huge credibility problem that has arisen because of the shifting positions of Senator Obama on taxes, the current proposals would hurt the economy. First of all, the U.S. economy is in a weak state. We have a credit crunch. We have high oil prices. This is not the time to be raising anybody's taxes. It's exactly the wrong direction. Economists have studied that, history, theory, everything you can name.

"Second, his proposals, even as laid out today, will increase taxes on millions of small businesses, millions of small businesses that create jobs. And that's not the way to improve the economy or to increase people's incomes or jobs.

"Third, the payroll tax increases are still there, still part of the problem, and payroll taxes do reduce jobs, reduce take-home pay.

"I would really emphasize, as Carly has, that the proposals laid out now leave a big hole in the budget. It's just not credible without any demonstration on how to hold spending in check, without any record of how to hold it in check with the record on earmarks that existed. It's just not credible that this will come into balance. And that is in great contrast to Senator McCain's plan which is a package of both tax cuts to stimulate the economy, create jobs and a credible plan to keep the growth of spending down. I think that if you look carefully at John McCain's plan, the focus is creating jobs. That's why there's a proposal to reduce taxes, to make American firms more competitive.

"This is a global economy we're in. You need to take into account the fact that other countries have lower taxes, and if we don't do the kind of things John McCain is proposing, it's going to hurt the economy, especially if we go in the direction of what Senator Obama is proposing.

"Finally, I'd just like to mention on the international trade part, which Carly mentioned, which is so important right now. In the Second Quarter, the only reason we had growth at all was because of strong export performance. So to turn your back on international trade, to question trade agreements at any time is exactly in the wrong direction. It's the most important stimulus we have now, far more important than any new stimulus proposals that are coming out."

...

Doug Holtz-Eakin: "I think Carly has given a very succinct summary of the character of the record, the continual shifting on the position of taxes. This is not new for this particular area. This is a candidate who said he would take public financing and join John McCain in that effort. This is a candidate who promised to join John McCain in the town halls, face the American people, listen to their concerns, take their questions and debate on the issues and has refused to do so. This is a candidate who ensured his followers that he would filibuster the FISA bill and in the end simply supported it. And this is a candidate who has simply chosen positions of political expediency on the issues that affect jobs, the single most important American concern today, positions of political expediency on NAFTA which affect our trading partners, on taxes, on every aspect of his policies.

"Today's op-ed by Austin Goolsbee and Jason Furman is simply not to be taken seriously. It's simply the next iteration of positioning for political purposes and quite frankly it is not surprising that he would not want to reveal the agenda that his record suggests is the accurate agenda. An agenda that John Taylor said is damaging to the American economy and that is an agenda that is unpopular with the American people."

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McCain: "We Are All Georgians"

"This small democracy, far away from our shores, is an inspiration to all those who cherish our deepest ideals. As I told President Saakashvili on the day the cease-fire was declared, today we are all Georgians. We mustn't forget it." -- John McCain

"We Are All Georgians"
John McCain
The Wall Street Journal
August 14, 2008

For anyone who thought that stark international aggression was a thing of the past, the last week must have come as a startling wake-up call. After clashes in the Georgian region of South Ossetia, Russia invaded its neighbor, launching attacks that threaten its very existence. Some Americans may wonder why events in this part of the world are any concern of ours. After all, Georgia is a small, remote and obscure place. But history is often made in remote, obscure places.

As Russian tanks and troops moved through the Roki Tunnel and across the internationally recognized border into Georgia, the Russian government stated that it was acting only to protect Ossetians. Yet regime change in Georgia appears to be the true Russian objective.

Two years ago, I traveled to South Ossetia. As soon as we arrived at its self-proclaimed capital -- now occupied by Russian troops -- I saw an enormous billboard that read, "Vladimir Putin, Our President." This was on sovereign Georgian territory.

Russian claims of humanitarian motives were further belied by a bombing campaign that encompassed the whole of Georgia, destroying military bases, apartment buildings and other infrastructure, and leaving innocent civilians wounded and killed. As the Russian Black Sea Fleet began concentrating off of the Georgian coast and Russian troops advanced on one city after another, there could be no doubt about the nature of their aggression.

Despite a French-brokered cease-fire -- which worryingly does not refer to Georgia's territorial integrity --- Russian attacks have continued. There are credible reports of civilian killings and even ethnic cleansing as Russian troops move deeper into Georgian territory.

Moscow's foreign minister revealed at least part of his government's aim when he stated that "Mr. Saakashvili" -- the democratically elected president of Georgia -- "can no longer be our partner. It would be better if he went." Russia thereby demonstrated why its neighbors so ardently seek NATO membership.

In the wake of this crisis, there are the stirrings of a new trans-Atlantic consensus about the way we should approach Russia and its neighbors. The leaders of Poland, Estonia, Lithuania, Ukraine and Latvia flew to Tbilisi to demonstrate their support for Georgia, and to condemn Russian aggression. The French president traveled to Moscow in an attempt to end the fighting. The British foreign minister hinted of a G-8 without Russia, and the British opposition leader explicitly called for Russia to be suspended from the grouping.

The world has learned at great cost the price of allowing aggression against free nations to go unchecked. A cease-fire that holds is a vital first step, but only one. With our allies, we now must stand in united purpose to persuade the Russian government to end violence permanently and withdraw its troops from Georgia. International monitors must gain immediate access to war-torn areas in order to avert an even greater humanitarian disaster, and we should ensure that emergency aid lifted by air and sea is delivered.

We should work toward the establishment of an independent, international peacekeeping force in the separatist regions, and stand ready to help our Georgian partners put their country back together. This will entail reviewing anew our relations with both Georgia and Russia. As the NATO secretary general has said, Georgia remains in line for alliance membership, and I hope NATO will move ahead with a membership track for both Georgia and Ukraine.

At the same time, we must make clear to Russia's leaders that the benefits they enjoy from being part of the civilized world require their respect for the values, stability and peace of that world. The U.S. has cancelled a planned joint military exercise with Russia, an important step in this direction.

The Georgian people have suffered before, and they suffer today. We must help them through this tragedy, and they should know that the thoughts, prayers and support of the American people are with them. This small democracy, far away from our shores, is an inspiration to all those who cherish our deepest ideals. As I told President Saakashvili on the day the cease-fire was declared, today we are all Georgians. We mustn't forget it.

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John McCain On Georgia

"The situation in Georgia remains perilous. ... The President's statement of support for Georgia at this time is of critical importance not only to the Georgian people but to all countries that are closely monitoring Russian activities and actions." -- John McCain

John McCain
Media Availability
Birmingham, MI
August 13, 2008

John McCain: "The situation in Georgia remains perilous. I am pleased by President Bush's statement this morning, and I support the various steps he outlined including the dispatch of Secretary Rice to Georgia and Europe, the delivery of humanitarian supplies to Georgia by sea and air, and U.S. insistence on Russian compliance with the terms of the ceasefire, which includes the withdrawal of all of its military forces from Georgia. The President's statement of support for Georgia at this time is of critical importance, not only to the Georgian people but to all countries that are closely monitoring Russian activities and actions.

"I welcome President Sarkozy's mediation and that of the European Union. I am concerned that the ceasefire agreement omitted any reference to Georgia's territorial integrity. And, it's clear that Russia is continuing military operations against Georgian targets despite the agreement, including in areas far from South Ossetia. I am deeply disturbed by reports of looting, burning villages, and killings of civilians that are in areas under Russian control. Anyone committing human rights abuses or acts in violation of the laws of war should be held accountable.

"At a time of high energy prices and instability in global markets, it's important to understand that events in Georgia -- part of a strategic energy corridor -- affects individual lives far beyond the Caucasus. Because of the fighting, the Baku-Supsa oil pipeline has been shut down at a time when the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline is also closed. Those pipelines are critical for transporting oil from sources in the Caspian to points west.

"The United States has canceled a planned joint military operation with Russia, but we will now need to review the full range of our relations. With our NATO allies, we must address the future of the alliance's relationship with Russia and with our G7 partners. We should discuss whether it makes sense for Russia to continue its participation in the G8. We'll also need to review Russia's aspiration for membership in the World Trade Organization.

"In addition, I urge discussions about an international peacekeeping operation, including canvassing nations for possible contributions to such a force. NATO should also begin anew, the discussions about a membership track for both Georgia and Ukraine. After the events of the past six days, no one should wonder why countries on Russia's periphery so ardently seek the security guarantees that alliance membership represents.

"The situation in Georgia remains fluid and dangerous. As soon as possible, my colleagues Senator Lieberman and Senator Graham will be traveling to Georgia. They're both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. I hope that other members of the Armed Services Committee in the Senate and they will go together and receive an assessment of the situation and what we need to do in the future to avoid further escalation and also to protect the independence and freedom of the people of this brave democratic ally, the country of Georgia.
Thank you."

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Statement by the McCain Campaign on the Obama Campaign / Kremlin Attacks on Senior Policy Adviser

8/9/08 Today, McCain 2008 spokesman Tucker Bounds issued the following statement on the Obama campaign and Kremlin attacks on McCain senior foreign policy adviser Randy Scheunemann:

"The Obama campaign's attacks on Randy Scheunemann are disgraceful. Mr. Scheunemann proudly represented a small democracy that is one of our closest allies in a very dangerous region. Today, many are dead and Georgia is in crisis, yet the Obama campaign has offered nothing more than cheap and petty political attacks that are echoed only by the Kremlin. The reaction of the Obama campaign to this crisis, so at odds with our democratic allies and yet so bizarrely in sync with Moscow, doesn't merely raise questions about Senator Obama's judgment--it answers them."

Background:

Today, The Politico Reported That "A Public Relations Firm Working For The Russian Federation Pointed Out Scheunemann's Lobbying Past To Reporter... As Did Obama's Campaign."
"A public relations firm working for the Russian Federation pointed out Scheunemann's lobbying past to reporters -- a sign that McCain's stance is not, for better or worse, being welcomed in Moscow -- as did Obama's campaign. 'John McCain's top foreign policy adviser lobbied for, and has a vested interest in, the Republic of Georgia and McCain has mirrored the position advocated by the government,' said Obama spokesman Hari Sevugan, noting that the 'appearance of a conflict of interest' was a consequence of McCain's too-close ties to lobbyists." (Ben Smith, "Invasion Of Georgia' A '3 A.M. Moment,'" The Politico, 8/9/08)

The Politico's Jonathan Martin: John McCain's Statement On Georgia "Met With Campaign-Style Pushback Not Just From Obama And The DNC, But Also From The Kremlin."

"Ben Smith, who knows from the Continent, has a smart story up today looking at the difference between how Obama and McCain reacted to the sudden conflict in South Ossetia. Most remarkable, perhaps, was that McCain's tough talk against the Russians was met with campaign-style pushback not just from Obama and the DNC, but also from the Kremlin. Well, perhaps Putin himself didn't order it up, but I got a phone call yesterday from a Washington, D.C.-based public relations representative working for the Russian Federation. The message, delivered 'on background,' was to the point: You know, reminded the source, that Randy Scheunemann, McCain's top foreign policy adviser, previously lobbied for Georgia, right? Nothing like a little international political hardball." (Jo nathan Martin, "Russia Plays For Keeps," The Politico, 8/9/08)
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Gov. Bobby Jindal On John McCain's Strong Response To The Georgia/Russia Conflict

"I think this is another example during these uncertain times, where we need experienced leadership. We need somebody like Senator McCain who will take a stronger view, a more experienced view, when it comes to international security and protecting America's interest." -- Gov. Jindal

Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-LA)
ABC's "This Week"
August 10, 2008

ABC's Jake Tapper: "When you heard me mention to Governor Richardson the Obama campaign attack against Senator McCain when it comes to the Russia/Georgia crisis, I want to now read you comments from the McCain campaign against Senator Obama: 'The Obama campaign has offered nothing more than cheap and petty political attacks that are echoed only by the Kremlin. The reaction of the Obama campaign to this crisis, though at odds with our democratic allies and yet so bizarrely in sync with Moscow, doesn't really raise questions about Senator Obama's judgment; it answers them.' I'll put it to you. I didn't really get an answer out of Governor Richardson, but I'll put it to you. Is that really an appropriate response to a crisis this severe?"

Governor Jindal: "Well you know, Senator McCain first went to Georgia back in 1997. He, as soon as this crisis emerged in no uncertain terms, said that Russia should withdraw its forces, observe a cease-fire, suggested that there needed to be true international peacekeepers there. I think this is another example during these uncertain times, where we need experienced leadership. We need somebody like Senator McCain who will take a stronger view, a more experienced view, when it comes to international security and protecting America's interest.

"I think during these kinds of uncertain times you want somebody with Senator McCain's record of bringing real leadership, real reform to Washington. As one example, even fighting his own Administration, his own party, he stood for the surge in Iraq when it wasn't popular to do so. Senator Obama, I think he'd have a lot more credibility if now he'd admit that the surge had actually worked. There's nothing wrong with him saying he was wrong about it.

"So when it comes to the Georgia crisis, I think this is another good reason why the American voters are going to choose Senator McCain's leadership. Not just political rhetoric. You know Senator Obama condemned the violence, and that's a good thing, but we need to go beyond condemning the violence and actually offer solutions."

Tapper: "So you don't think that Senator Obama is echoing the Kremlin and has views that are bizarrely in sync with Moscow? Is it fair to say you don't share that?"

Gov. Jindal: "I agree with what you asked Governor Richardson. I think it was wrong for Senator Obama to try to focus on a McCain adviser, rather than actually listening to what McCain had to say about the policy, rather than recognizing McCain's years and years of experience when comes to international affairs. You know, this is a very serious international crisis. I think the administration has correctly sent word to Moscow, this is not acceptable. Georgia is a stalwart ally of ours, as you noted, they've sent troops to Iraq. They're applying for membership to NATO. NATO has indicated that they would like them to become a member. They're an example of Senator McCain's push to spread democracy in that part of the world. There's a very important advance of America's interest as well as being good for international stability. So instead of trying to detract from the central issue, I wish Senator Obama had actually confronted the issue no t trying to detract our attention by focusing on a McCain adviser."

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John McCain "Prescient" On Russia And Putin

"It's particularly a moment where John McCain can claim to have been prescient." -- The Washington Post's David Broder

The Washington Post's David Broder: "It's Particularly A Moment Where John McCain Can Claim To Have Been Prescient." NBC's DAVID GREGORY: "David Broder, is this a 3 a.m. moment for foreign policy for these candidates?" WASHINGTON POST's DAVID BRODER: "It is and it's particularly a moment where John McCain can claim to have been prescient. Because in his basic foreign policy speech two months ago and in an interview that I did with him last week, he draws a very sharp line when it comes to Russia. He says these people are being aggressive and imperialist. There is no confusion, in his mind, about the character of the Putin-Medvedev government and he is prepared, I think, to make the case that this is a demonstration of exactly what he has been arguing for." (NBC's "Meet The Press," 8/10/08)

· Watch David Broder This Morning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlwSigcsK5U

The Politico's Jonathan Martin: John McCain "Appears To Have Been Ahead Of The Curve In His Assessment That Moscow Was The Bad Actor Here." "When violence broke out in the Caucasus Friday morning, John McCain quickly issued a statement that was far more strident toward the Russians than that of President Bush, Barack Obama and much of the West. But, as Russian warplanes pounded Georgian targets far beyond South Ossetia this weekend, Bush, Obama and others have moved closer to McCain's initial position. It has been a rough few weeks for McCain on the foreign policy front -- paging Dr. Maliki -- but he appears to have been ahead of the curve in his assessment that Moscow was the bad actor here." (Jonathan Martin, "McCain Prescient On Russia?" The Politico, 8/10/08)

Chicago Tribune's Jill Zuckman: "It's Not Just This Part Of The World, But Senator McCain Has Been To So Many Exotic Places Like Waziristan And South Ossetia, And He's Very Comfortable With These Issues. He Knows What He Thinks." "And it's not just this part of the world, but Senator McCain has been to so many exotic places like Waziristan and South Ossetia, and he's very comfortable with these issues. He knows what he thinks. He's been in contact with the leaders involved in these places for many, many years. So it's really sort of a perfect thing for him. And so the question is each time something like this pops up randomly, we may see a cautiousness on the one hand by Senator Obama who has not been dealing with these things for years and maybe a little more aggressive voice from Senator McCain. And I'll just tell you his favorite thing to say about Vladimir Putin is, When I look into his eyes, I see a K, a G and a B. ' He's been very, very tough on Putin for quite some time." (Fox News' "Fox News Sunday," 8/10/08)

The Weekly Standard's Bill Kristol: "McCain Was Right About Putin." "McCain was right about Putin. He warned about Russia under Putin's ambitions. He wanted Russia excluded from the G-8." (Fox News' "Fox News Sunday," 8/10/08)

· Click Here To Read More About John McCain's Trip To South Ossetia In 2006: http://georgia.usembassy.gov/ev_0826292006.html

· Watch Jill Zuckman And Bill Kristol This Morning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6W0BywD-zY

The Washington Post's George Will: "Certainly Their Initial Responses, They Were, As You Say, Different. Mr. Obama's Initial Response Was To Say That Both Should Show Restraint: The Invader And The Invaded. That's Not What's Going On Here." "Certainly their initial responses, they were, as you say, different. Mr. Obama's initial response was to say that both should show restraint; the invader and the invaded. That's not what's going on here. What is going on here is an enormous world historic moment. Ballistic missiles, according to the United States administration including... plus a naval blockade, tanks, heavy artillery, and strategic bombers operating by Russia against a European nation." (ABC's "This Week," 8/10/08)

· Watch George Will This Morning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46KykNEGo7Y

The New York Times' Matt Bai: McCain "Does Understand What's Happening In That Region." "I know from my own reporting, he does understand what's happening in that region. He's been in Georgia. I know he's met with opposition leaders in Georgia." (ABC's "This Week," 8/10/08)

· Watch Matt Bai This Morning: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=feBxJb4a6TQ

The Politico's Ben Smith: World Leaders And Barack Obama Coming To John McCain's Position On The Russia-Georgia Conflict. "McCain came out strong against Russia almost as soon as the crisis in the Caucasus ignited. Now, more world leaders are there, including Bush and Obama, whose new statement casts the blame more clearly." (Ben Smith, "Condemning Russia," The Politico, 8/9/08)

FLASHBACK: McCain Prescient On Russia And Putin In 1999 and 2000

John McCain, 1999: "The Mindless Slaughters Being Conducted By A Russian Military That Seeks To Reassert Itself Not Only In The Former Soviet Union, But Also To Extend Its Reach Throughout What Used To Be The Former Soviet Union In An Attempt To Fold Back Into The Russian Empire Those Countries That Have Broken Away From It, Most Notably Georgia."

"First, let's talk about Chechnya. The Chechen people are now subjected to a level of slaughter and massacre that we have not seen in Europe, perhaps since World War II. The mindless slaughters being conducted by a Russian military that seeks to reassert itself not only in the former Soviet Union, but also to extend its reach throughout what used to be the former Soviet Union in an attempt to fold back into the Russian empire those countries that have broken away from it, most notably Georgia, which is headed by one the great men in the history of the world, Mr. Shevardnadze. Also, t his obviously has a great effect on the next election in Russia. The Russian Prime Minister now is playing this to a great political gain. The Russians must be told that they will not only not be anymore IMF funding, there will not be any more export/import funding, and the United States will gauge its relations on the treatment of the Chechnans because what is happening right now is an unconscionable set of circumstances which if allowed to continue will then encourage Russia and the military to continue to this kind of expansion into the region and overthrow the embryonic nations that are there. The Russians have to understand that this is not something that we can turn a blind eye to, and we must have it stopped. Otherwise, it will have severe implications for our relations for years to come." (Republican Presidential Debate, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, 11/21/99)

· Watch John McCain On Russia And Putin In 1999: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jdyPSH027I

John McCain, 2000: "I'm Very Concerned About Mr. Putin. I'm Afraid Mr. Putin Might Be One Of Those Who Wants To Make The Trains Run On Time." CNN's LARRY KING: "Senator, would you meet with, assuming Mr. Putin is elected in March, would you want to meet with him as a candidate? Other candidates have gone overseas while running for office, or right before the campaign begins."

JOHN MCCAIN: "I'm not sure that would be necessary, might be an interesting experience, because I know what's going on in Russia, so do a whole lot of my friends ... Well, we know he was a Apparatchik, we know he was a member of the KGB, we know that he came to power because of the military brutality and massacre that is taking place in Russia today -- I mean in Chechnya today. We know that he worked a deal with Yeltsin so that Yeltsin would have immunity and he would be assured the presidency rather than basically a contested. I'm very concerned abo ut Mr. Putin. I'm afraid Mr. Putin might be one of those who wants to make the trains run on time. So, yeah, I would meet with him as a candidate, but I think that what I would really like to do is send a message to Mr. Putin that we expect certain behavior out of the Russians and particularly what's going on in Chechnya today, a cessation of that brutality, and that it's a very important strategic part of the world for us." (CNN Republican Presidential Debate, Columbia, SC, 2/15/00)

· Watch John McCain On Russia And Putin In 2000: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kc7kL2Ix4VI
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