Wolf,

The American people deserve to know if we have a "wolf in sheep's clothing" in candidate McCain. Is he really in the pockets of special interests while proclaiming to be the "pure one"?

Is he morally corrupt, after all wasn't he married when he got together with his current trophy wife Cindy? Perhaps Old John had tired of Cindy and wanted some new "Young Woman" and why not get one with a good paying client?

Yes Wolf, this story has legs and the media needs to do their job and let the American people know how candidate McCain really operates so we can make an informed decision on election day!

Watching the Democratic Debate. Why is it that the more Clinton talks, the more strident she becomes? Obama speaks slowly, rationally, relatively quietly…pleasantly. Clinton is like a wind-up doll that runs amok…the more she talks, the more rapidly the words come, and the louder the tone, until it's a shrill sound. Very unpleasant.

Well, isn't it interesting how all the rabid rightwingers on this forum have turned this into a story about Obama? This is actually about the hero you all love to hate, McCain, and the fact that he was indeed sanctioned by the Senate Committee for inappropiate behavior. The media did not make that one up; Senator McCaine was reprimanded by the Senate. What was he reprimanded for? He wasn't reprimanded by the Senate for dropping soup on his tie. He was reprimanded for inappropriate behavior involving conflict of interest: receiving favors from parties and businesses whose interests were under consideration by the committee that he chaired.
Mr. Weaver who worked for Senator McCaine was the informant for the NYT story, and Mr. Weaver confirms that when he gave the interview in December, he copied his email of the interview to the McCain campaign so as to let them know what he told the NYT. That was 3 months ago. The McCain campaign did not accuse him of lying. They did not challenge the authenticity of his claims. They kept quiet. Why? Because he was telling the truth and they knew it, and they kept hoping that the story would go away, or that the New Republic would publish a counter story before the NYT did. Even now, nobody in the McCain campaign has said that Mr. Weaver is lying because he is not. Instead they blame the media. Saint McCain says "it's not true". Which part is not true? That he had no romantic relationship with Ms. Iseman. But that's not the charge. Of course we know he did not. He might have imagined it, but of course she wouldn't let him into her pants. He simply got taken by a flirty, flashy young woman who boasted of her access to the chairman. And he got rides on airplanes and got donations to his campaign. And he wrote letters on behalf of his benefactors. Those letters are a matter of record. So, which part of the story again is "untrue", Saint McCain? Our hero here is just another crummy Washington politician who'd dish out favors in exchange for crumbs from the tables of the rich and mighty. Same old, same old. And the conservatives are angry. You wonder; why are conservatives so comfortable with corruption? It's amazing. And they want to talk about someone else, and not about the fact that this hero is a corrupt sinner.

Ahhh… The poor Senator is getting a little bit of his own Medicine and he doesn't like it. Poor, poor guy. I feel so sorry for him. I like how Huckabee is not jumping on this. Isn't this what he was hoping for? I think this tells you that Huck is running for VP and not Pres. This is by far the 4 worst Choices we have for President. I mean some on.

McCain - WAR WAR WAR
Huckabee - HORRIBLE JOKES, HORRIBLE PLANS
Obama - JUST WORDS, NO PLANS OR DETAILS
Clinton - POWER TRIPPIN FEMINIST

Next 4 Years are going to be worse than the previous 4 with any of these clowns.

I have no plans of voting for McCain, but there is something with the release of the 8 year old McCain - female lobbyist story that just plain stinks, and ranks right up there with the Wilson / Plame - Libby / Cheney mess. And the smell does not appear to be coming from the McCain side. The truth in this is bigger than the story itself, and I hope that those working in the shadows behind this story become well lit with the truth.
CNN, you have a good opportunity at tonights Obama - Clinton debate to help people decide who to vote for by bring out the facts. If you dwell on the issue of "words" used by Obama, and play into this Clinton sideshow, then shame on you. I want to see facts, not childish fighting and bickering. You control the game, and I would "really" like to see the real differences between these two candidates. The ball is in your court………………….

NY Times just placed themselves on the same level as any trash magazine by doing this.

This story just smells of Rove & Co so much.

I have no plans of voting for McCain, but there is something with the release of the 8 year old McCain - female lobbyist story that just plain stinks, and ranks right up there with the Wilson / Plame - Libby / Cheney mess. And the smell does not appear to be coming from the McCain side. The truth in this is bigger than the story itself, and I hope that those working in the shadows behind this story become well lit with the truth.
CNN, you have a good opportunity at tonights Obama - Clinton debate to help people decide who to vote for by bring out the facts. If you dwell on the issue of "words" used by Obama, and play into this Clinton sideshow, then shame on you. I want to see facts, not childish fighting and bickering. You control the game, and I would "really" like to see the real differences between these two candidates. The ball is in your

Our family was most upset last Tuesday when CNN cut away from Senator Clinton's speech in order to listen to what Senator Obama had to say…for 45 minutes. You had started Sen. Clinton's speech and should have finished it BEFORE going to the Obama speech. We thought it was tacky to do such a thing. Clinton was speaking and her message was no less important than the Obama delivered. It was a discourtesy to Senator Clinton and we were most surprised that CNN pulled that sort of nonsense. I would expect it from FOX news, but never from your organization.
Also, someone needs to reign in Carl Bernstein. His comments are so off the marrk, you often wonder what the heck he is talking about. So he wrote a book about Hillary Clinton? Does that give him the right to make obnoxious comments? I don't think so. The rest of the Republicans don't do that.
We all need to respect both Democratic nominees. They are running for the most important job in America and one will be our future President of the United States.

Who really cares? Bill Clinton set the standard for acceptable behavior when he was the president elect.

Every politician has a ghost in their closet including Obama ……the pundits who are so gleefully drooling over Obama will eventually have to wipe the slobber off their faces and be forced to do their job….

or maybe not. I am not sure there are any ethical journalists left.

Journalist shouldn't let up until the whole story is told and all McCains' skeletons are exposed. Some of these politicians are corrupt when elected into office and it doesn't make sense to keep them in office. John McCain's corruption started with the Keating 5 S&L scandal. Keating and his son got prison time and John McCain political career continued. Americans paid the costs resulting from this Savings and Loan swindle.

Thanks Wolf…

I believe part of all reputable media's obligation is to bring the subjects to light for any and all candidates.

Each politician should then have to answer to the questions.
We may not like it when "our" candidate gets picked on (cause it sucks to find out your person is actually snowing you) but at this historic crossroads its of the utmost importance to address all questions, large and small.

Any politician who fears this, is the wrong person for the nomination. Any party who fears this, prefers to remain partially in darkness.

We the public can make common sense judgments on their (the candidates) actions. The public is known to be forgiving and at least understanding of those who have the courage to tell the truth. We can all relate.

This is a part of what makes the system great.

An enlightened public is a stronger America.

Eight years old NEWS???
It's sound like a very slow news day for CNN.
Nothing new happening today that we need to dig that deep?
Sorry CNN,but you sound beyond ridiculous.

If introducing over 800 pieces of legislation, most of it bipartisian, over his years in elected office is not a sign Obama can get things done, then the naysayers will not be convinced of it unless the heavens themselves opened up and proclaimed him the Messiah. And even then, they would wonder whether he had the experience for the job!

Hey all you twisted hate mongering bloggers(not the sensible bloggers)
You really missed your chance to jump in with more of your ridiculous
accusations and outright lies.
The name Iseman is a jewish name. Now you could jump all over
this by claiming it is a plot by jews to take over American politics.
I know this is stupid, but so are your insane pointless remarks

i may be mistaken but there seems to be some uncanny resemblense between Ms Iseman and Mrs McCain.
Just a thought

What does Obama have to do with this story?
Stick to the issue at hand, which is McCain.

This is a good time for Viagra to endorse McCain!

Obama will be the president.
Because president represent us.
We are stupid so is he.

We are making history.

It is great haveing the president tah is worse than G.W.Bush.

"YES WE CAN"

It would be far better to allow my comments about Wolf to be directed TO Wolf. Since you are dtermined to censor me, my comments will go on my blog and the 67 others I contribute to. What are you worried about? Authentic dissent is the origin of all truth. You have broken the trust by "guiding" the response. Think about that as you cancel the thoughts of genuine interest, you cancel the interest in genuine thought.

The story is that McCain's own aides don't believe he uses good judgment.

In my opinon Obama seems to escape the watchful eye of the media. When are we going to hear more of his shortfalls and how he voted in the senate. He talks about change and working with democrats and republicans but his voting record really tells the truth.There seems to be a double standard between Obama and Hillary. I would like to know more about Obama than shallow speeches with no substance. The media has really been one sided when it comes to these two candidates

This is the kind of story McCain was waiting for, it will make him unite the rep. party. The gloves are off and now they will look for eveything they can find on Obama . Brace your self for a war.

Ya know, we as a nation accepted an incumbent President who had an in office act of misconduct and allowed him to remain in office so what's the big deal? The press should focus on the issues of the campaign and quit derailing trains!

my english is not good But wolf you are a ugly Pig. and every one that
works for CNN are Pigs.

Goooooooooo! Hillary

Wow. I was surprised at the NY Times (who endorsed HIllary) story. I believe it. Where there's smoke, there's generally fire, and McCain was never this innocent person he tries to portray. He's done this type of thing all along.

What most surprised me about the story, though, is that it didn't come straight from Hillary's camp, and that's not proven yet. This is more along the lines of her snake-like tactics, although I'm happy that the Times put the story out. It had enough "smoke" and I hope the media gets to the bottom of the story before people waste their votes on him.

Dana, of course they do. It is just that he doesn't have these skeletons in his closet. You're obviously just bias based on liking another candidate. But the plagarism thing and Michelle Obama being called unpatriotic sure sounded like criticizm to me…

Let's face it, ALL the candidates have to deal with it. The criticism just happens to hinge on the candidates past and their personality. And, GASP, Obama doesn't really do as many foolish things. Gee, I wonder why they say he's less polarizing…

And John, did you borrow 4 million from public financing
to fund your run for president of the USA.

what goes comes around.

Let's talk about the real scandal, John McCain's involvement as one of the Keating Five in the 80's.

Hey Sean, I'm actually from Illinois, and I've followed Obama's career since he was a community activist here in Chicago. Do you know anything at all about his platform, other than what you've read in the USA Today?

I think that this is BIG new for a candidate that is running as the Anti Lobbyist repub.

His own fomer campaign people are speaking out of turn THIS IS THE REPUBLICAN EATING THEMSELVES ALLIVE BECAUSE THEY DONT LIKE MCCAIN.

This country of ours is skewed so far off the mark, it doesn't know right from wrong anymore. We've got childhood actors, still acting in Hollywood,from cradle to grave ,and senators/house members in congress doing the same. What gives folks? The journalist feed us the same" brain food " that the Politicians /Hollywood have been feeding us for forty years! Guess what ? We love the swill and can't get enough. John McCain and the Republican Party are going to pay for Bill Clinton's ridiculus drummed up excuse for impeachment, and just think ,the American people are oblivious to it's ramifications down the road a peice! " BRAVO DEMOCRACY"

If the New York Times continues to stick with their story, then there should be some element of truth in it but they should be prepared to reveal their sources. Continuing to hide their sources in a shroud of anonymity reeks of a plot to unjustly attack McCain.

The truth is not hidden but if their allegations are true then McCain can kiss his pie in the sky presidential ambitions goodbye. But if on the other hand the New York Times is found to be in error, that would greatly tarnish their journalistic credibility especially in a time such as this.
But this will NOT be easily swept under the rug - for sure.

What's the real problem here? Spell it out or move on.

And this is more important to the media than so many other issues including world terror and a faltering U.U economy. Is this ratings week?

It would be interesting if John McCain and the New York Times planned this. After all, the New York Times endorsed John McCain and they both would benefit from this. The New York Times by selling a lot of papers and John McCain by drumming up votes. Digging up your own selected dirt to be displayed as you wish? This may be unethical but is it illegal?

There are no angels in politics. Where there's smoke, there's usually fire…

Long live freedom of the press…without it…there goes American's right to know exactly what is going on in our country…we certainly cannot count on the politicans/government to give us an honest answer regarding just about everything. A liberal newspaper is just fine with me, the only newspaper/media I take offense at is one that will not/refuses to print the truth due to politics.

It would be interesting if John McCain and the New York Times planned this. After all, the New York Times endorsed John McCain and they both would benefit from this. The New York Times by selling a lot of papers and John McCain by drumming up votes. Digging up your own selected dirt to be displayed as you wish? This may be ethical but is it illegal?

Wolf, yes the story has legs, but what other choice do the republicans have? RON PAUL would be nice, so who else do they have? The always faithful maybe not so much, depending on where those legs where pointing..

In this great election year, finally Mothers and Fathers all across America can turn to their children and say, "see honey, you could be anything you want to be" and really mean it. With an African American, a Woman, and an American War Hero all having tremendous support, it gives great hope to almost every segment of our society. Race doesn't matter, gender doesn't matter, all that matters is that your work hard and serve your country and you can go as far as anyone. Senators Clinton, Obama, and McCain have all served their country well and deserve our respect and admiration.

For the NYT to tarnish a man's good name with gossip and innuendo is a terrible thing and I think the New York Times should be ashamed.

Dear Mr. Blitzer,

I have decided that you are tolerable to listen to. The difference is that you cover a story and Jack doesn't. I must start with that statement.

This story about McCain will not go away as quickly as he would like it to. He will always have this story attached to him. Forever.

Comparing watergate to this is funny Wolf, the idea that sources weren't used in some of the reports was at that time something that wasn't the norm, and frowned upon by those in the industry. And just as liable.

The journalistic community shouldn't let up. They owe the American people this. Let's get to the bottom of this.

Just because McCain denies it doesn't mean there is no truth to the story. And less so when his reaction is so swift and vicious.

Fact is McCain did fly multiple times on the corporate jet of Paxson, one of Eisman's clients. Fine, just some convenience. And no advantage to Paxson by borrowing their jet for a few hours.

But what about pushing the FCC as the chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee for an expedited review of a Paxson TV station deal, naming Paxson specifically in two letters. Then chairman of FCC considered such a move "highly inappropriate".

BTW. Don't blame it on Obama. NYT endorses HRC. NYT started working on this story last year way before the primary season.

I applaud the NYT for publishing this article. I hope they have added a few staffers to find more stuff. This is exactly what the American people need to see and hear. As they need to know exactly who is running for the Presidency. Too many times we forget the lost stories. McCain has been an elected official and because he has been around awhile he knows he must "pretend" to be offended. Come on people this is more of the same ol same ol. Even when a politician is caught Red Handed and IN The Act as the case of Senator Craig oh whats his name, they call foul. They rarely jump up and take full responsiblity for their actions. Responsiblity and Accountability. Lets ask Congress what those words really mean?Wake Up America its time to take One Huge STEP into the Future!

The American people will start saying, "Thats ok, no one is perfect". Thats pathetic, we have become so use to bad politicians lying to us and making false promises just so they can have their turn in the big seat. When is this S–T going to stop. I agree with you David, the government needs to be for the people. Hey, if McCain wins, lets guess how rich he's gonna get like Bush and Cheney have. We all have our little ghost in the closet but if your gonna stand up their and say how America needs to change and your the man to do it then swish back and forth about taxes, no, never raise, yes maybe a little, I never in hailed, I really did serve, reserves for two weeks, CHANGES, I was with congress for two years but I worked in allot of inner cities, white water prove it.

My babble is just like congress.
I rest my case

As a registered democrat and self proclaimed liberal i am appalled by both the story about McCain and the medias handling of it…

Unfortunately all that is left is "sensationalism"… Please Look at the "facts" of the story and not the innuendos.

The republicans, the "right wing", and every US Citizen should be appalled….

To quote David "We need change from Corporate Government to Government for the people! Like it USED TO BE in this country"

Anyone that has the time to know the facts and character of John McCain can't help but be impressed, no matter which side of the aisle you are on!!

It is time for the media to stop with the sensational headlines.!!!!

Scandalous!

Wow, it's like that TV show, "Big Brother"! The one with the hidden cameras that watch your every move! This is better than cable! Oh, wait . . .

What is good for the goose is good for the gander.

I'm not a McCain supporter I feel that this is so unfair and by the NYT to print this story and Obama has a Civil Suit filed in Minnesota District Court by Larry Sinclair no mention of the case by NYT or any news media.

Yes, the NY Times endorsed McCain. And the evidence given by many reporters is that they knew a hit piece on McCain was being worked on during the very time the TIMES was endorsing McCain.There is something that smells like a rotting corpse here—and the corpse is that of the Grey Lady.

The amount of air time you're giving this issue is obnoxious. You're making fools out of yourselves. It's a simple story with clear, obvious lines. Get over it and report some news.

Has anyone notice the simalarities in appearance this Vicki woman has to Mccain’s wife. I believe this man was very attracted to this woman look at his wife; the two favor each other perhaps just a younger version
I’M so sick of my hard earn money, tax money, going towards clearing up the mess of dirty, and horny politicans. It just the same old thing, all over again. American are sick and tired. Does anyone believe in marriage ? Does anyone believe in not mixing business with pleasure ?
Don’t think for once that the New York Times would published this if they didn’t have a story. They are simply protecting those who came forth in return for the story. The New York Times is the one of the best if not the best paper ever……. MCCAIN IS GUILTY…..

Republicans wake up do not vote for this man. Mccain will costs you way more than you’ve bargained for……….. DON’T VOTE FOR MCCAIN ! !

You see? This is all politics of the past! The washington of old! In the new Washington, after the Barack Obama movement, we will work across party lines and there will be no divisiveness. Republicans will vote with Obama's Democrats where they disagreed before - they will now finally support gay marriage, abortion rights, stem cell research, tax hikes for rich people and companies, ending the war in iraq, reforming immigration, ending faith-based funding, ending the death penalty, having strict gun control, encouraging affirmative action, having sweeping environmental reforms to head off global warming (which by the way, they will now agree exists), and they will read up on evolution and agree its ok to teach in school …. the problem with the washington of old was that no one could inspire people. But now that we can inspire people, Republicans will change their entire platform and join us. We are changing Washington. No more divisive politics. We will all work together and be hopeful together. Make sense?

Hmmm. Cnn is saying something about John McCain and a woman? Ok, this is a joke already. You've stopped talking for 3 seconds about the witch and the King. So what is this??

Ok I GET IT. You are now going to pretend you care about the Republican campaign and what some moron at the New York Times says about McCain. Gotcha.

Ok, now go back to Obama glorifying and Clinton demonizing, so I can recognize you.

All I want to know is: WHERE WAS THE MEDIA DURING THE 2000 PRIMARY? Why were you so afraid to dig up any negatives in GWB's background when you had a plethora to choose from? The media elects our leaders now, with every word spoken, written, and OMITTED.

This is an obvious attempt to drum up support for a shagging candidate and his shagging campaign. He, McCain, is no more and no less a letch than Bill Clinton, and that is saying a lot. Big Bill got himself in big trouble poking around. Let's see if McCain can avoid big trouble.

Hillary Clinton has accused Barak Obama of "stealing" words in his speeches.
Clinton is always saying that she is "Ready on Day One"

This was Eliot Spitzer's mantra when he ran for governor over a year ago.

Who has the most to win from the John McCain story in the New York Times? How about Mitt Romney. He and McCain do not like each other and after McCain is trashed again by someone in his own party , Mitt can come in and save the day like he supossedly did for the Olympics. Don't count him out. He said he suspended his campain, he did not say quit. All of the news agencies said quit. I believe he is waiting in the wings to be asked to save the day again.
What a farce that would be.

lobbyist- see what happens

John McCain just lost the general election.

By the way Wolf, Clemens probably comitted perjury but he is getting away with it. Marion Jones did the same thing and she is behind bar,
How fair is that?

I am not a supporter of McCain, but I feel sorry for this mess.. I think all of the candidates need to stop with all the smearing and run a clean race because that is what is going to matter the most.

It is not a stretch to believe this story when you look at McCain's history.
He cheated on and ditched his first wife (who was badly injured) for heiress Cindy who stole pills from her own charity. (Google it)
I'm sick of the way he acts so self righteous…

After this season of journalistic smear of Clinton, I doubt the people care what the media has to say any more.

CNN hearts Obama.

Judging from the wave of response there is no room in journalism for questions. Only opinions. I am now smeared personally by a pack of readers who dont like my questions. I guess this is what is called "New Journalism". Opinion without facts or questions.

Wolf,
I wander why you guy's in the media keep saying what HRC needs to do in order to come back rather than what Obama needs to do in order to seal the deal. A few weeks ago you guy's were talking about issues, issues, issues and why today you are talking about tactics or negativity?

If Barack Obama was down by 11 you whould have asked him to drop out, why dont you ask HRC to drop out?

Obama will stay above the fray, stick to his message of hope, talk about the issue that we care about, and show the american people that he has a track record of making change.
"Fired Up and Read To Go."
Obama 08

I continue to hear Senators McCain and Clinton go on and on about the lack of experience Senator Obama has to offer. I may be wrong, but I'm sure I'm not, but none of the candidates have presidential experience. Yes, Senators McCain and Clinton have more experience as Senators, but this is a race for the presidency. Secondly, experience only means exposure, it does not mean you did it right. Lastly, why are Senator Clintons supporters comparing Former President Clintons record to Senator Obama's? Whose name is on the ballot Hillary Clinton or Bill Clinton? When did Senator Clinton balance the budget? I know it may seem that I am a Obama supporter, but I am a registered Republican.

They don't criticize Obama.

Wolf,
Your are so right, "where there's smoke, there's fire". McCain should just except the fact that this has came to light, and deal with it, not lie about it, as one lie will need another one, and so on. Every time we hear something about a public figure, it always turn out to be something to the story.
If these people are going to be in public life, they need to keep the "devil" out of their backyards, or stop trying to smear other's when they know things are not all top shape in their house.
We went through this with Bill Clinton, we don't need another Leader with this kinda of garbage.
We all can be forgiven for mistakes we make in life, but make sure we don't always bring up the minor errors of others.

Only in America are we so preoccupied with peoples sexual habits and functions. I'm actually rather surprised we haven't had arguments about which way a candidates wipes - front to back or back to front. Mating habits have nothing to do with character. Any first year biology student or Antropology student, or even sociologist, will tell you this. The evangelicals need to take thier pre-historic rhetoric and thinking and and understand that "Leave it to Beaver" went off the air half a century ago.

What does the Clintons and the Mc Cains have in common?
Cheating husbands.

Wolf:

You know as well as anyone that "legs" isn't a sufficient justification for a high profile front page story. You know the DC way - innocent until its in the media. The cost to the campaign and to the debate over real issues is high. Had it contained basic evidence, it would have been worth publishing. Clearly they are abusing the media's ability to use annoymous sources. This should infuriate you as a prominent journalist. Further, the omission of clear evidence that calls the article's validity into question should raise a lot of flags. And the articles timing - quite suspicious.

It's not a question of letting up. No one wants to see that. This country has varying ideals, but we are all American's first and foremost and our sense of justice is precise. This is not justice. Not justice to the Presidency, to McCain, to journalism, to the election process and to the American People.

Interesting timing. Right after McCain makes a slight criticism of Obama after the primaries this week, NY Times breaks this story. Looks like another case of the media doing everything it can to ensure an Obama victory in November. Disgusting.

Mr. Blitzer:

All is fair in love and politics, having a hundred lawyers line up on your behave means nothing and McCain knows it. When has has any politician stood up and says opts, the press is right? Hey even when they do they change their minds and life goes on. This will not go away, one person in an audience asks a question and the press and cameras are on McCain front and centre….

Pour it on baby. We can take it. Bring us together behind a real winner not a whiner.

As we say in India Satyameva Jayate…..loosely translates to "Truth Will Out". I think the American electorate is now sufficiently well-read enough to sift thru all the facts, print matter and communications put out there by everyone and judge for itself. All I can suggest is, if there is evidence of lobbyists influencing policy to the detriment of the average American, we need to take a stand on it…..it's now or never. Saying this is how Washington does business just doesn't cut it any more….I don't care if the politician is Republican or Democrat, politicians should remember….."by the people, for the people etc etc"……

Wolf,
What ever happened to unbiased reporting?

Wolf, its time the garbage surfaces about McCain, just as it starting for Obama and has all along for Clinton…what can the media possibly dig up about the preacher Huckabee? I can hardly wait to see what the media digs up to mire the profession of journalism even more. By the way, I'm so glad you won't be narrating the debate tonight. The last Obama/Clinton debate you orchestrated solidified my continued disgust at the media coverage of this election. Basically, you're the worst. Why can't you just report the news and stop the spinning. Who cares what you think?

This is an obvious attempt to drum up support for a shagging candidate and his shagging campaign. He, McCain, is no more and no less a leach than Bill Clinton, and that is saying a lot. Big Bill got himself in big trouble over this issue. Let's see if McCain can avoid big trouble.

All you had to do was look at McCain's face and his expressions this morning and without a doubt he was telling a big lie. Any time he gets questioned about his life all he can say is that he served this country for twenty four years, it he is talking about his time in the Senate then all I can say is that he has been well paid to do nothing. It would be like drawing a large welfare check and that not only applies to him but most of the members of congress.

It is the media's responsability to follow up on any and all stories of interest about every Presidential candidate, be it McCain, Obama, Clinton or whomever. Although I am an enthusiastic Obama supporter, I welcome and request in-depth follow-up investgative reporting on the Larry Sinclair Obama story, Michelle's comment about pride in her country, Hillary's new swift-boat organization, and McCain's possible extramarital relationship(s) and ties to lobbyists, etc. All are relevant and important. This is what a free and open press and democracy are all about!

I think McCain survive this, but you're right, Wolf, this could be on the front page for a while unless some evidence comes up that suggests otherwise. Or worse, the story turns out to be true–a lot of factors point to this. NYT endorsed McCain weeks before this story and credible people worked on this story. The key question is will this information be dug up soon? Also, are they waiting for McCain to pull a "I did not have sexual relations with that woman" and then NYT pulls out the smoking gun. Either way, this could be nothing or everything.

Good report, Wolf, always love your blog posts and the Situation Room.

Another Much Ado About Nothing. If the pundents think Obama will use that story against McCane they really don't know the character of the man from Illinois.

This is an obvious attempt to drum up support for a shagging candidate and his shagging campaign. He, McCain, is no more and no less a leach than Bill Clinton, and that is saying a lot. Big Bill got himself in big trouble over this issue. Let's see if McCain can avoid big trouble. My heart goes out to poor Cindy, the only thing she can do is stand their, watch, and shake her head and while her man explains how he was just friends to such a beautiful and young woman.

I think that this is good change with the way everyone's been attacking obama recently. Just like with everything they've brought up against Obama, this means really nothing. McCain and his camp really should see what it's like on the defending side for a change. I would also like to say that obama hasn't insulted anyone yet and is already doing his part to clean up politics.

Obama 08…….

I have a gut feeling there is more to this. McCain flatly denied everything. Pretty strong stance. Now, let's see who comes out of the woodwork. They are likely to trip him up. There, in the least, is smoke.

We must have read different versions of the article, Wolf, because the article I read had just a pinch of content with a heavy dose of insinuation and innuendo thrown in. I'm not claiming that McCain is a saint, I just think the NY Times made a very poor and unethical decision to post an article which does not contain enough hard evidence of wrongdoing by McCain. The timing for the release of this article is also intriguing to say the least.

Senator John McCain is a tired old man. Instead of running around he should devote his sunset years to spending more time with his family.

It's insane that a 71 year old thinks he is capable of running a country.

I'm not a republican and will not vote for him. But I think this is stupid. Who cares if he did and who cares if he didn't what does this have to with education? I'm sick of everyone fighting so dirty.

They endorsed McCain because they wanted a weak Republican
that's easy for the Democrats to beat. McCain, who is distrusted
by many Republicans, serves their purpose. Would you have
believed these same allgations aimed at Romney? Think.

The liberal press desires an end to the Reagan Revolution
and a weakened, controversial nominee like McCain lends
itself to that agenda.

Do you really think that we will elect Senator McCain to be our next President? Have you listened to any of his speeches? He has emphatically stated, that the tax cuts for the rich will remain and we will continue this war without an end in sight. How will anyone vote for Senator McCain whom will continue to execute in the same manner as the current President George Bush?

Our Country is at its worst state. Nevermind the "No Child Left Behind Act". Our entire country is being left behind in terms of jobs, housing, economy, shools, crime, infrastructure, and our environment. We are in a crisis and we need someone who can bring our conuntry together…not divide it. Barack is that person. If you can't see that, something is seriously wrong. He has brought together the most diversed group of citizens and challenged them to stand for real change in not only our government…but within ourselves.

There is a movement happening. Hillary talks about Change…However, Barack is change. Think about it!

Obama 08′

The New York Times Editorial Page endorsed McCain. I hate to split hairs, but there is a difference.

With the exception of Weaver, who is still an unpaid adviser to Mac's campaign, everyone has plenty of reason to fudge. Aides from the 2000 run may have a bone to pick, current staff, well, duh. And of course, McCain himself.

But from what we know, Weaver has no reason to lie.

The story wasn't finished. The NYT wanted a smoking gun before publication. But The New Republic forced their hand.

I agree with Wolf on this — though the Times piece is no ringer, the rest of the press corps is going to be on this. And say what you will about the Times, the authors are squeaky clean and the Times can't afford another Yellow Cake. They know it and we know it. For that reason alone, I have to believe there is something to this that we don't have.

Next question — does the press make this a sex thing or a lobbyist thing?

That's sort of up to you, Wolfy!

Stay tuned.

The New York Times running a negative story about a Republican? What a shock!! That paper is a complete joke and so are the people who consider it any different from the Post or the Daily News.

And one more thing everyone should take very seriously. The exodus of American businesses are going to excel in the next couple of years should we crown King Obama. He is proposing to give tax breaks to companies that are here and yet proposing to tax conglomerates that are here as well. It makes no sense.

He is also proposing that people who make less money should pay less for the system that benefits them. I don't completely disagree, but I don't think it is healthy. All I know is that there will be more welfare, less work, less responsibility. I know it is to complex for King Obama to understand, but it is what it is.

I think that the news media need to stay with the issues and quit trying to sway the election unfairly by focusing on topics that are not affecting the general public. We have bigger problems as a nation than who McCain may or may not have had a fling with or any special favors she may or may not have received. No one knows for sure, so get back to the issues, the ones that have valid verifiable facts and give objective coverage rather than slanted. The news media really sucks this election as far as the view they portray with Obama being Teflon and everyone else be put through the ringer and hung up to dry for any little thing. It's absolutely ridiculous.

Yes, this is gutter politics, and it's written because it sells. People eat it up. Some want dirt on Hillary Clinton. Some want dirt on Barack Obama. Some want dirt on John McCain. Some want dirt on Mike Huckabee. If it doesn't exist — just make it up or make a mountain out of a molehill and then commence shrieking bloody murder. Policy specifics get lost in these screaming matches. It's a race to the bottom and it's fueled by us, the people who don't demand integrity in journalism.

I have a preference among these candidates, but I don't buy into the madness that the candidate that I support is a saint and that the others are therefore invariably demons from the pits of hell. The reason that our election cycles always descend into hateful identity politics, push polling, and attack media methods is well illustrated in the vitriolic posts so commonly found on message boards such as these.

Feeding into this sensationalist tabloid media culture is a disservice to our country. We deserve better.

Well, the way McCain attacks good people, he is not a
saint afterall. When he makes a mistake he defends himself
by saying, I served my Country. Well, since he has lived on
taxpayers dollars. You have to be a good person even after
you served our Country. Maybe He and Cindy will leave Michelle
Obama alone for a while, now.

The coronation of King Obama.

If the reporters love change so much, why don't they for a "change" focus on this guy. There is some alarming stuff in his past that I don't think he completely understands.

Wolf…you know that it takes courage to stand up and speak up, it takes courage to sit and listen…'wilson churchil' wow…after carefully wacthing Mcain live denying all accusations and re-calling and apologising…there goes the smoking gun, what about the rolling stones!!!, 'our hero's past, vacstion history of the clinton's…i did not touch that woman… American's can not be decieved anylonger…

Blah, blah, blah. I wish the news could find something good to report about.

@ David, Don't blame the woes of America on the Christian right, put the blame where it belongs, on bad policy, and bad representation, but here is the mind twister, we voted them in.

I am a Christian democrat that has a lot of respect for the Christian conservative base, I don't agree with some issues they build on, but I don't agree with every issue my wife builds on, go figure that.

So, I guess I am one of the Christians that have learned to disagree without being disagreeable.

You know, with John McCain all ready to trounce on
Obama, he better clean house. WELL, since we are
talking about cleaning house, let's get some real
people that care in the White House and the evangelicals
should not vote.

There is nothing like a scandel to unite the republican party. They band together to attack someone, and when it's one of their own they band together to defend. The truth is irrevelant.

What good is an endorsement if you run with a hearsay smear like this, eight years old, and no meat on the bone ? Meanwhile, where's the NYT on Huma Abedin and Hillary ? We've already seen the misquotes and spin by the NYT against McCain. NYT circulation continues to go down … some surprise there !

Hey Wolf,
You ought to be ashamed, well really all of you should. I haven't seen one negative thing today on the Obama story today. Where's the Michelle Obama comment. You guys would never have let Hillary or Bill get away with that. We would have heard about it for days. But then, you're distracting the public with McCain today. That should take the pressure off. You guys have just about elected you a president. The people in this country don't have any say in this country. You all have taken that away. This is democracy? All of you have sold out. None of you have any integrity as far as I can see. I hope all those gals there (black and white) realize that they would have no TV jobs today if it hadn't been for the Hillary Clintons of this world. They ought to really be ashamed.

Wow: and that is how Huckabee became a Republican Presidential nominee folks.

Hey CNN, Are you going to do to McCain what you did to Hillary Clinton? Many of Hillary's supporters have turned you off and tuned you out because of CNN's extreme bias toward Obama. This really creepy media obsession and the cult like behavior of the Obamabots will be exposed for what it is. Many of the worst dictators in history started out with a small fanatical following. I'm really frightened for this country if this guy manages to get elected.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
This TRUE CONSERVATIVE thinks John McCain is a liar and an adulterer and a cheat and I don't believe a word he says and Gov. HUckabee should know better! Jesus saves.

Sean February 21st, 2008 4:48 pm ET
Here is an idea for ya Wolf….. Why not look into Obama's left wing platform and explain how it’s going to "reach across pary lines" and end partisanship?

==============================

Obama couldn't even unify the left - check out who won the main blue states such as NY, NJ, MA and CA. It certainly wasn't Oprahs boy…. He is creating partisanship.

I wish there was ONE news outlet that would tell it how it is.

Johnson:

You hope the news orginizarions don't give up. They are claiming this was happening in 2000 during, McCains first run at the presidency. Why pray tell have they waited seven years to put the story out? is there something suspect in the timing of this? Like the Obama, they had a dream, now they too are all wet.

When these "reporters" spend a few years getting beaten in a POW camp, they can attack McCain, otherwise they should keep their pinko-comie mouths shut!!

I don’t believe this will hurt McCain in the short run. What this will do will make it harder for McCain to swiftboat his opponent in the future, after complaining that it had been done to him.

The "story" so far is that aides thought it would look bad for McCain to be seen with her because she is a lobbyist and, evidently because she is a young woman.

Isn't it wrong to write about stuff like this with only innuendo.

No one looking at the most liberal candidate Barak Obama. He promises change by working across the aisle, but he hasn't done that since coming to Washington. Mr. Obama has been one of the most dependable partisan vote in the Senate. If McCain or Clinton question Obama on his eloquent but empty call for change the media jumps all over them. Don't you think it time to Question Mr. Obama on his authenticity, credibility, record and fitness to be leader of the free world?

Sean,

What does Obama have to do with this story?
Stick to the issue at hand, which is McCain. Shesh!

sean, because obama is about uniting us on common causes, not dividing us on religious intolerances, which is what we have had forced down our throats since reagan.

Well Wolf, I'm glad you "suspect" the story has legs… nothing like hearsay and conjecture to throw more gas on the fire.

Every politician everywhere has connections to lobbyists by trade. Just because he knows a lobbyist and is on friendly terms with her doesn't mean anything improper is going on. I am professor, and by trade I know my students and am friendly with them. This does not mean I have improper relations with them. If I was concerned that someone might get the impression of impropriety with a particular student I too would take additional steps to distance myself and make it clear that that was not the case.

How about instead of baseless suspicions you lead the charge to rally against unsubstantiated smear politics, on both sides? Oh, but wait, then what would you have to report…

Republicans talk something but do something exactly opposite….Against government spending and for small government ..But Bush created the largest budget deficit . No ethics ,moral or standard….

Personally i think there is something to this story. McCain is good at talking out both sides of his neck.

Do we not as a country deserve the truth

to Raf,

They endorsed him because of all the republican candidates, they thought he was the weakest against the dems. You won't see a hint of support from now until November now that he's clearly the republican nomination.

The harsh light of discovery and truth should be shined on McCain and I hope he gets a proverbial sun burn from it.

The man is not trustworthy. He's inconsistent. He is a true flip flopper.

During this horrendous administration he took many stands only to back down whenever Dubya came around. I don't know if they had blackmail on him or what, but it's pathetic that he never followed through on standing up to King George II.

I think McCain left his spine in Hanoi.

McCains camp can holler all they want about this so called smear campaign; in my neck of the woods, it's not a smear campaign if its true.

NYTimes is such a crock. They've disgraced themselves more than enough in the last few years. Reporting stories concerning national security secrets…?

This entire story is heresay. You don't put out a hit job like this on a presidential candidate without EVIDENCE. Heresay is NOT evidence.

Lobbyist hang around politicians all the time, it's their job. The story has not ONE shread of evidence that the Senator acted inappropriately. The lobbyist may and probably did, but not the Senator. So until the media can find some evidience to bring against him, this is disgusting whether you support his candidacy or not.

Wolf–I agree. This thing probably does have legs. But the truth, whatever that might be, needs to come out soon. We need to get it all out on the table. Deal with it (whatever that entails) and continue with an election. The New York Times seems to have left us all twisting in the wind here. If there were an ax to drop, I wished they'd have dropped it already.

McCain fell for the trap. NYT has more information. Given that McCain denied everything, so when the other shoe drops, McCain will be a goner,

Welcome to Micke Huckebee for the nomination

No, they should not let up on the McCain story, and Why should they?? He is not exempt, the people have a right to know if he is not what he professes to be, very pure and never any wrong doings, (Ha, what a joke)

An article based on rumors this is not news. I cant beleive how americans just suck up this garbage. A make believe marital affair… and tying in issues from 20 yrs ago.

Wolf,
I have been an enthusiastic viewer of yours for most of your career, but I cannot agree re the NYTimes McCain article. It was based on anonymous tips and a discharged employee. I am a lifelong Democrat and NYTimes subscriber, but this article is a shameful example of poor reporting about a distinguished servant of his country. Unfortunately the Times is not the newspaper it once was.
Jane Davis

We'll be watching how the "Best Political Team treats this story in relation your treatment of Clinton's –Bill, that is — missteps….just as we watched how you treated Obama's plagiarism in relation to Biden's of Neil Kinnock's piece, which led to Biden dropping out of the 1988 race for the White House.
Try to be impartial — or end up as Fox.
Try to retain some of your dwindling credibility as political commentators.
Remeber what Begala said…he's the only Clinton supporter at CNN!!

White the media is scrutinizing McCain. How about doing the same with Obama and his deals in Illinois. You also might consider looking into the millions coming from the internet. The internet is World Wide. Hello, Overseas money. That would really make a good story. With the poor people supposedly supporting him, where is the real money coming from. CNN can't have it both ways.

As someone who disagrees with McCain on just about EVERYTHING (i'm a leftist liberal)…the NY Times should be ashamed of themselves. *IF* that is all the evidence they have…their article is slander.

We MUST end corporation control of our media….democracy is dying.

Wait unitl McCain blows a gasket on the air since he isn't well known for controlling his temper! That'll make for good T.V. A real reality show at it's finest and unfortunately darkest hour.

Can we please have another helpin' o' that Republican self-righteous indignation? You gotta hand it to 'em. They learnt one thang real well from Bubba!!!

With you and all other CNN people pushing for Obama, I'm sure it will hurt him.

I just hope that as reports unfold, there is clarity between this woman's claims of influence as a lobbyist (which Weaver asked her to stop making) and the Time's INFERENCE of an improper personal relationship - which Weaver is clear HE was not inferring.

These things tend to get muddied in the heat of the moment, and I hope that the press is more responsible than usual.

How bout the news actually report news… not make news please. I think this is absurd, thats all they've got on mccain.

The voters do not know much about Senator Obama's private life besides his admission that he used drugs during his younger days and recently that he quit smoking to run for the presidency. He seems too perfect but one thing I know for sure is that saints do not get involved in politics. Senator Obama is too charismatic to be spared by other ladies!

well thats all she wrote for MCCAIN and the 1000 Years of WAR MONGERING!!!!!!!!!

Ahhh… The poor Senator is getting a little bit of his own Medicine and he doesn't like it. Poor, poor guy. I feel so sorry for him. I like how Huckabee is not jumping on this. Isn't this what he was hoping for? I think this tells you that Huck is running for VP and not Pres. This is by far the 4 worst Choices we have for President. I mean some on.

McCain - WAR WAR WAR
Huckabee - HORRIBLE JOKES, HORRIBLE PLANS
Obama - JUST WORDS, NO PLANS OR DETAILS
Clinton - POWER TRIPPIN FEMINIST

Next 4 Years are going to be worse than the previous 4 with any of these clowns.

Didn't the New York Times endorsed John McCain as the Republican nominee!

The news reporters NEED to stay on this story……. WE ARE TIRED OF THE SAME OLD POLITICS……. WE NEED SOME NEW PEOPLE IN WASHINGTON !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Obama/Edwards08 Si Se Puede

It's always amazed me when news organizations use unnamed sources to run a story..This practice from what I've observed was made popular by the likes of cnn and msnbc, and it only makes sense it would filter down to the newspapers as well. How many stories that are on cnn right now have unnamed sources? Also why do we as the public pay any attention to stories that have unnamed sources? Without anyone to go on the record all we are really reading is a story. Once it actually has someone on the record it then becomes news. When did we as a society lose sight of this?

Wolf, I believe the story will help McCain, McCain is no Clinton! and everybody knows it. The man was going to run for president down the road, I don't think this man with his back ground would jeopardize something like the presidency. Thanks

McCain sez, "I did not have sexual relations with that woman — Ms. Iseman."

Yeah, right.

That is why the media has pushed so hard for McCain to be the Republican nominee so that they could destroy any chances Republicans had in capturing the White House in November of 08. That is exactly why the liberal media didn't want Romney to be the Republican nominee because they didn't and couldn't have had any dirt on him.

America is doomed with Obama as president.

no matter who you support as our next president, this type of smear campaign that offers no proof or facts is completely wrong. i'm not a mccain supporter. i imagine that this story if it were directed at clinton or obama would have TONS of mccain supporters commenting on morals and how terrible it is that they would do something like this no matter how unfounded or ridiculous. so i hope everyone will step back and think before jumping on the negative bandwagons that the media gives us that are created to divide us. are we such lemmings that we are so easily distracted and led? come on, let's get smarter. or at least pretend to be!

So Wolf…IF and ONLY IF Its true, then does he get the Bill Clinton treatment?

Missouri

yes, they need to scrutinize him alot more to than what he is putting up…

You know I am done with all media!!! The Obama negaitve stories get 2 minutes of press and then the stories are thrown aside and given no merit. If it is Clinton or especially a Republican the story is more negative and last as long as the media wants it to. The Media is giving or better yet handing the nomination and if they can the General election to Obama. It is one of the most frustrating things I have experienced since becoming a voter 27 years ago. And there is nothing I can do but cast one vote and blog. At that most of my blogs don't make don't make it. Go figure since most of my blogs have been a protest of how Obama is getting great treatment form the press.

First of all I am extremely sick of all the mud slinging. It reminds me of a little league game where the parents are not happy with the way the game is going and they conduct themselves in the most unbecoming manner imaginable. Let get it together. Now, I need to point out that I am seriously appalled with the timing of this article. If is important to bring out now, it was important a long time ago. Shame on you NY Times!!! However, I don't think this needs to go away until answers are known. McCain's whole platform in based on integrity and his experience and his attack on the other candidates speaks of their lack of integrity and their lack experience and leadership. This is so serious. If this is true, the inappropriate behavior as well as the alleged favors, he should be held accountable. However, if the New York Times doesn't have the guts to lay it on the line and provide proof (names), they need to stop. To just lay it out there and say the story speaks for itself is unfair and completely reckless. Where's the beef???

I strongly suspect that John McCain is as guilty as sin, and he knows it. He's only denying the allegations because he's banking on the theory that The New York Times doesn't have any credible evidence to prove their allegations.

I suspect that this story will dog McCain all the way to the November elections. If a person can't keep an oath with their spouse, then they sure as heck can't keep an oath on behalf of the American people. If the allegations are indeed found to be true, then it's obvious that Mr. McCain isn't presidential material.

Regardless, my personal vote in November will be for Senator Barack Obama, so that this country can move significantly forward, and not backwards. And so far, all McCain can talk about is his ability to unite his own republican party, well what about UNITING the country? The undeniable choice is Obama in 2008!

Why would anyone let up on McCain.

Shoot! Bill's been out of office for how long and nobody's letting up on him.

McCain has baggage, he needs to go through the security check like everyone else.

I don't get this.

Rush Limbaugh criticizes the NYT for doing a "drive by" smear piece on McCain, even though he himself has attacked McCain for things as trivial as his age.

Meanwhile, everyone else who condemns the "liberal newspaper" conveniently ignores the fact that the NYT endorsed McCain in the first place.

Here is an idea for ya Wolf….. Why not look into Obama's left wing platform and explain how it’s going to "reach across pary lines" and end partisanship?

The courage of a hero is unrivaled.

We need change from Corporate Government to Government for the people! Like it USED TO BE in this country, before the so called Christian Right took control of the Republicans, now everything from insurence companies and banks as well as obviously all the oil industry serve themselves and their wealth at the strangling expence to everyone else!