McCain Turns Tables On Times

by Jonathan Martin and Mike Allen - February 21st, 2008 - Politico

The piece about McCain’s friendly relations with a telecommunications lobbyist — long-discussed in political circles and planned for weeks by McCain operatives — was the first test of his ability to confront a public-relations crisis since becoming the GOP’s presumptive nominee.

But the reaction may have said as much about the mindset of the conservative movement on the brink of the general election as it did about McCain and his team.

“Even if they want to quibble within our own tribe, they’ll circle the wagons when we’re attacked by the Times,” said McCain campaign senior adviser Charlie Black.

I love it. A 71 year old Republican with a gorgeous rich wife is accused of having a sexual relationship with a young woman half his age. Just the idea that John McCain is a sex symbol made my day. Conservatives rule!

Even better, after the waffling refusal of George Bush to ever get combative with the press, the way John McCain responded is awesome. He came out with all guns blazzing. It is time Republicans stopped tip toeing around the media acting like their accusations have to be treated with respect. They are biased liars and adversaries and need to be treated as such.





CNN included these photos of John with his wife Cindy (top), and Vicki Iseman (the reported lobbyist) with their story.