Poor Ben, I guess you just have it in for Obama! What a outrageous statement! Obama will be blamed for everything if elected President.

The New York Times motto: Don't let the facts get in the way of a good story

Ben needs to do some research before he blames Obama for Mccains mess. Don't try to put this off on anyone but thge news paper who broke this story.

Well, so much for my NYT subscription… never again will I order, or read, that trash

Samantha, I am glad you read the whole NYT article, because so many bloggers obviously have not. But did you notice it is part of a series of "Long Run" articles about the character and backgound of the candidates, and its point is NOT that he an affair, but that he is often so convinced of his own integrity that he sometimes gets into trouble. That point is why it was not, as some say, an excuse to "rehash" the Keating 5″ — and isn't rehash another word for history — but to give important examples of what the Times sees as a part of his character. The same series was also tough on Obama, and rehashed his youthful drug use, then said he probably made some of his drug use up to spice up the book.

We respect McCain for having given so much to this country, being a POW and all. But he is imperfect and stubborn.

The Keating 5 scandal almost killed his career. It did so for 3 other senators. He admitted in his book that was a dark moment in his life that still haunts him today. But he has learned from that and turned around and made ethics reform his mission in life. Good for him.

Sometimes the appearance of impropriety could do just as much damage. McCain might not think he has done anything wrong flying around on Paxson's corporate jets. But he needs to mean what he says and walk the talk.

NYT has the duty to report McCain's connections to lobbyists when he claims lobbyist reform is his moral center.

NYT is not doing it for Obama. If anything, NYT has endorsed Hillary and time and time again acts as an eager megaphone for negative spin coming from her camp.

For those that accuse Obama of behind this, obviously without basis, question yourself why!

AKC February 21st, 2008 10:46 am ET

"But I have to say this, while I don't agree with John McCain's politics, I DO NOT believe that he is a dishonest man. I don't feel that he would have had any type of relationship with this lobbyist that was inappropriate."

Keating 5.

Even though I'm an obama supporter, I do not believe that John McCain is guilty of this..

I'm waiting for the movie, also the court battle and maybe just a smidgeon of evidence before I decide about the matter, re Duke lacrosse teams trouble from false accusations. I take anything a politician says with a large boxcar of salt. Time will tell and hopefully the truth will win out in the end.

its called karma. he unfairly attacked obama with silly nonsense arguments, because he wants hilary to win so he could beat her.

what goes around comes around.

I just read that this story may have been put out there to rally the conservatives together behind McCain. Interesting point of view, I wonder, hmmmm.

subject macain back in the 80s he wanted to turn the u.s.a. in to a big gamblng house . is that lib or con. i dont know. buddy w

Let's see….Keating 5, cheats on his dying wife, lies about supporting tax cuts when he actually voted against the Bush tax cuts, sings "Bomb bomb Iran". I don't know about the rest of you, but this guy is practically my clone. I hope he becomes president since he would obviously represent us the best.

Ron Paul '08

GOPers, the party of values. Typical behavior for these profiteers who feed at the public trough. Mac is just another GWB. We need change, but sadly, it probably won't happen.

How long will it be before we see McCain pointing his finger at the television cameras and saying, "I did not have sex with that lobbyist."

McCain surely isn't a 'super clean' politician. Just google his name with a guy named Keating. Very interesting stuff - that I'm sure will be brought up in the general election. The guy isn't good news for the country. He reminds me of Nixon and Bush (the son) put together. That's a terrible combination.

of course they will deny it, does anyone think he would want to loose part of his wife´s money……….what happened to rudy with 911 and his escapades?……where is he now?

the republican party has a lot of skeltons in their closet

Here we go again , this wrong, why would the New York Time bring this up at this time? Why wait until now? NY Time is trying to slow Sen NcCain down. Smear campaign all the way. After reading some comment why say Sen Obama would have to do with this New York Time endorsed Sen Hillary Clinton. IT TIME FOR CHANCE. Get out and vote. But Former McCain political adviser John Weaver confirms to CNN that he did approach lobbyist Vicki Iseman about eight years ago, during McCain’s first presidential run, and told her she was threatening to undermine the heart of McCain’s campaign – that he is a reformer.

Ben: Unfortunately they have "evidence" that points to supicious behavior here. That's not Obama's doing. Sorry

The same story is on the Washington Post website by a group of other reporters. Where there is smoke there is fire. I also understand there are other publications that have had the same story for a while. I don't believe the Times would go with this unless they didn't have more. Another shoe will drop shortly.

It makes a lot more sense that the McCain campaign was worried about the perception of doing favors for a lobbyist than McCain having a romantic relationship with this woman. I mean McCain was 71 at the time and Iseman was 40. Iseman is pretty and McCain definitely is not. The ick factor is way off the scale.

For some it's about Status, Power and Money,
Also we all have work buddies, poor choice on his part.
I think the NY Times article was Insightful.
just a thought.

Obama 08

Hey, does anyone remember Keating? Any of you who think that McCain doesn't get down in the dirt should do a search for this scandal. Isn't it interesting that McCain received contributions from this guy, and was the only elected official not convicted or ousted by this seedy affair.

If Rove has taught us anything it is that anyone is fair game, even a wounded war hero.

And to the poster who wrote that this story is from the Obama campaign - that is just less than uninformed.

Advantage Obama again! There are too many skeletons in the Clinton closet to even open their mouth on this one.

What is really sad and shameful is that people like McCain and his wife can stand on national television, as if they are impervious. "It's the same old politics" (quote Obama), to show good face to the nation ever behind a lie. Did you see McCain on Larry King, he could not even successfully and honestly straight forward even answer certain tough questioning from Larry. Got to love that Larry King. I am sure who ever saw the show, would even consider switching over from the republican party to democratic party. He did it and the NY Times would not have place the article out there, if he did not. The high and powerful people always have advisers and political advisers and sly dogs to cover up their mistakes, so that they are untraceable. McCain is a born LIAR and unfit to lead.

Someone on MSNBC said last night, it's another good reason to support Hillary Clinton - ending hundreds of years of MALE Presidents!!!!

I agree it's ridiculous to suggest Obama's camp had something to do with this. Why isn't anyone suggesting the Huckster? He's been saying all along, "You just never know…something might happen to change the course of this election…" HMMMMM…

Will Romney jump back in, since he only suspended his campaign?

GO HILLARY!

This is another tabloid journalism piece from the newspaper that published the General Betrayous ad. John McCain and people like him are always going to be targets of the liberal left wing newspaper.

John McCain is an honorable decent man and will win against the
candidate of hope and dreams, but no substance.

This also reminds me about the case Dan Rather printed on a news paper and again came out on TV reafirming his report on Bush,later it turned out the document backing Rathers' editorial was false not by him but by the editors who aproved the report. There are always two sides to the coin so it is a mayor to dig for the truth in the matter at hand about McCain. "And the truth shall make you free" quote.

MCHENRY,

You are correct, they did endorse Hillary..people get your stories correct before you go ahead and post things that are not accurate.

McCain is dirty he was cheating on his first wife with his current bimbo. The republican party is always saying that they are the party of respect, honesty..YEAH RIGHT. I'm glad this is out at the right time.

OBAMA 08

Hey Ben

I beg to differ. This has conservative Republicans written all over it. As a matter of fact the trail can be traced back to a conservative group who wondered why the NY Times was sitting on the story. Do some research you will find out who's behind this. It is definately not Obama.

Conservative February 21st, 2008 10:05 am ET

Since John McCain is no longer a viable candidate, It's important that we Republicans get behind Ron Paul now….

McCain? Paul? it is all good. Either way the Republicans will be out of the White House and that is all that matters.

What is really sad and shameful is that people like McCain and his wife can stand on national television, as if they are impervious. "It's the same old politics" (quote Obama), to show good face to the nation ever behind a lie. Did you see McCain on Larry King, he could not even successfully and honestly straight forward even answer certain tough questioning from Larry. Got to love that Larry King. I am sure who ever saw the show, would even consider switching over from republican party to democratic party. He did it and the NY Times would not have place the article out there, if he did not. The high and powerful people always have advisers and political advisers and sly dogs to cover up their mistakes, so that they are untraceable. McCain is a born LIAR and unfit to lead.

this ben guy is either hallucinating or just trying to be plane stupid,the ny times endorsed hillary and not obama,so get ur facts straight and stop spreading hate, we americans are tired tired of this hate

Ben Please! February 21st, 2008 10:06 am ET

"Research for this article started in Nov. of 07″ It's a NYT article period.

An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about.

Obama 08

I just want to know who ordered this story to go to print, and missing so many details at that. Why also, is Mitt Romey's campaign only suspended? What is going on?

So what … Eisenhower had a girl friend back in WWII. He wanted to divorce Mamie and marry his jeep driver (Kay Somersby) until General Marshall talked him out of it.

What is really sad and shameful is that people like Mccain and his wife can stand on national television, as if they are impervious. "It's the same old politics" (quote Obama), to show good face to the nation ever behind a lie. Did you see Mccain on Larry King, he could not even successfully and honestly straight forward even answer certain tough questioning from Larry. Got to love that Larry King. I am sure who ever saw the show, would even consider swtiching over from republican party to demorcratic party. He did it and the NY Times would not have place the article out there, if he did not. The high and powerful people always have advisers and political advisers and sly dogs to cover up their mistakes, so that they are untraceable. Mccain is a born LIAR and unfit to lead.

Smear campaign?

Okay, let's look at the facts. From what has been gathered by Senator McCain's denials and the NYT story.

He hasn't denied knowing and conducting business with this female lobbyist.

He hasn't denied - in fact admitted - contacting government regulators on her behalf. His campaigns have released the letters he wrote.

He hasn't denied the meeting in Miami. Nor flying on the corporate jet of Pax Communications with this lobbyist.

However, he did deny their was an affair with this lobbyist.

The alleged affair isn't really the horrible part of the story. The horrible part that Senator McCain has engaged in behavior that is a hard reminder of his behavior during the Keating 5 Savings and Loan Scandal(Message then and now: If you just do a little wrong, it's okay).

If you're running a campaign based on ethics and moral uprightness, you better be living your own values.

That's the problem here.

I don't care if it's 5, 10 or beyond years ago. Your stated principles should have always been your principles from the get go.

Do I think there is more to the story? Absolutely. Will we hear it? I'm not sure. However, I do agree the NYT needs to expand on the details a little more.

Yeah, I see it now, it's a smear campaign.

It's not.

Unlike the Current Democratic Socialists seeking to the Presidency….

McCAin…has never employed spin POLICE because his record has been so pristine as to not require it.

Go figure…a politican who has no slime on his butt….must be quite a change from what the Clintons…and the OprahBamas are used to.

200 years of capitalistic success and social achievement–cannot be frittered away towards a humming march into socialism. Change doesn't mean destruction of American ideals and principles.

I'm left-wing nutjob, but I really think this NYTimes article is better suited for the gossip column. There are no facts here other than some impressions from McCain's staff. Why would the Times print an 8 year old story with no facts to back it up?

I'm not as much of a conspiracy theorist as some, but I definitely think this was poor judgement on the part of the Times's editors.

To Zoe: Yes NYT endorsed John McCain prior to Super Tuesday. McCain won the winner-take-all delegates in NY on Super Tuesday. I wish the NYT would make up its mind to endorse or to smear.
Drew, I like your posted comment. Take care.

Let the truth come out wichever it may be. Remember the Clinton-Mocica affair? he denied everything to later come out with the everybody known facts and of course the real hard rock truth.

Why even acknowledge Ben? Clown. McCain is one dude I would never back. He is a one big lie. What a guy???

HaHa, this is funny. I love it! I am now addicted to politics. Its better than reality TV!! Wow, the scandals. I am a Obama supporter, but in all fairness lets see proof before we convict McCain. Just the mere mention of scandals and people believe whatever rumors they here. Lets be smart voters and do the research. If its true, it just shows that some Reps and Dems are just hypocrites. Claiming to be religious and perfect but having skeletons like this. Why are all McCain's wive's so young?HEHE Leave Obama out of this mess. McCain's smirk is gone??

What is really sad and shameful is that people like Mccain and his wife can stand on national television, as if they are impervious. "It's the same old politics" (quote Obama), to show good face to the nation ever behind a lie. Did you see Mccain on Larry King, he could not even successfully and honestly straight forward even answer certain tough questioning from Larry. Got to love that Larry King. I am sure who even saw that would even consider swtiching over from republican party to demorcratic party. He did it and the NY Time would not have place the article out there if he did not. The high and powerful people always have advisers and political advisers and sly dogs to cover up their mistakes, so that they are untraceable. Mccain is a born LIAR and unfit to lead.

This could be a diversion from the NYT.
Honestly, there is another story in NY I'd like to hear more about.
The media - including NYT - has been pretty mum about it.
As a matter of fact I'd bet this comment gets "moderated" and doesn't make it through.

February 19, 2008 — Mayor Bloomberg charged yesterday that "fraud" was behind the unofficial results in the New York Democratic presidential primary that produced zero votes for Barack Obama in some districts.
"If you want to call it significant undercounting, I guess that's a euphemism for fraud," said the mayor.
Barack Obama's primary-night results were strikingly underrecorded in several districts around the city - in some cases leaving him with zero votes when, in fact, he had pulled in hundreds, the Board of Elections said yesterday.

Unofficial primary results gave Obama no votes in nearly 80 districts, including Harlem's 94th and other historically black areas - but many of those initial tallies proved to be wildly off the mark, the board said.

This story about McCain sounds like a diversion by the NYT.
Thoughts ?

Where there's smoke, there's usually fire…

BEN, BEN, BEN, "An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about."

ATTACKING OBAMA FOR ANY REASON…YOU'RE SO OBVIOUS.

there is more to this story….McCain is saying read my lips: this story is not true!

but there is no smoke without a fire. more of John MCain the War Hero, defender of the universe will be coming out of the closet soon.

the republicans can try to spin this all they want, but once LOBBYIST Ms. Vicki Iseman comes out that she had an affair with dirty grand pa McCain, game over!

haha!!!

IIIICCCCKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!!!! It's enough to turn your stomach!
Please, can't we talk about something else? You know, like whom Obama will choose for his cabinet!! And one thin more, could you ask Cruelle Deville that Disney wants her for the next 104 Dalmatians!!!

I am very anti-McCain, but I dont care about this story.
It's McCains political views that scare me, not his behaviour.

Ron Paul has never been involved in such controversy.

Any REAL republicans would vote for Paul. McCain is a Democrat.

At first I thought it was a sex scandal, but now it seems more about currying favor, which is far worse. I still fail to see any solid evidence though, so I'm not sure why the story is a story without the requisite facts. I'm not voting for McCain, but I really don't see much to this "story."

There is proof given in the times article regarding McCain writing letters to government agencies to benifit the people who are giving him money and treating him like a rock star!

The article is more about how McCain's people were worried about the image of inappropriate behavior. There is no claim by the NYT that there was an affair. But who cares we know he has had affairs in the past.

Its just particularly disgusting that he holds himself up as a moral superior and does the same favors for money that everyone else is guilty of.

This is really outrageous

1) The NYT was aware of these "anonimous" allegations since
October but disd not publish it,

2) Obviously, they did not believe them, as THEY ENDORSED Mc
CAIN between other PRECISELY DUE TO HIS HONESTY.

3) Inspite of the many months delay, they do not make any concrete
allegation nor cite any source.

4) Their contact with Mr. Weaver is explained by himself

So why they publish it now ?? Possibly only to make some money
by scandalmongering

I do not think that the Clintons are the culprits, even if we know their
relation with the NYT. Obviously not Obama.

If somebody outside the NYT is involved, it would be Rush Limbaugh
and Company.

ANYWAY, IF SOMEBODY MUST BE INVESTIGATED, IT IS THE NYT

TOM

Now McCain will stop pretending to be a super hero. This story will bring him on earth. He has been flying too much these recent days.

He ran an empty campaign. Frankly, He was just lucky that was no good candidate on the Republican side this time.

I don't see how McCain could be a good President for America. I really don't see it.

Honestly, there is another story in NY I'd like to hear more about.
The media - including NYT - has been pretty mum about it.
As a matter of fact I'd bet this comment doesn't make it through.

February 19, 2008 — Mayor Bloomberg charged yesterday that "fraud" was behind the unofficial results in the New York Democratic presidential primary that produced zero votes for Barack Obama in some districts.

Thoughts ?

To those conservatives voting for Ron Paul.

He couldnt't get elected even if he were the only candidate!!

Gandalf is dead.
Griffyndor doesn't exist.
Get a grip.
We need a government.
Government must be funded.
Government must protect nations interests.
People must be able to rely on safety nets from government.

Libertarians–are not part of the Republican Party.
Perhaps you guys, and Ron Paul are competing in the wrong party and in the wrong country.

LIne up…or leave.

How can they say this:
“It is a shame that The New York Times has lowered its standards to engage in a hit-and-run smear campaign. John McCain has a 24-year record of serving our country with honor and integrity. He has never violated the public trust, never done favors for special interests or lobbyists, and he will not allow a smear campaign to distract from the issues at stake in this election."

Don't insult the American public's intelligence. We just read the article about McCain being involved in a series of scandals. This might not be news to "Baby Boomers" but its news to the NEW VOTERS. This election has a new cast of new voters and McCain cannot afford to have this type of news break on him. Because our perception of him is that he is an honorable, ethical vietnam vet. This article and factual information detailed today tells us he is a "New Born" politican. For the McCain camp to say words like "NEVER" or "24 year record of serving our country with honor and integrity", now is not the time to pull the "Military Card." Now is the time to be honest to the general public. YOU WILL LOSE SUPPORT that's a guarantee. If you havent noticed new voters are the reason for the high turnout, but they will not be turning out for a dishonest man.

can we really believe Sen. McCain? the man has a proven track record of infidelity by his own admission. and my cousin has some stories on him from when he was a videographer on the McCain bus during the 2000 campaign of how he likes the pretty ladies. he's a punk liar and always has been. the man serves his corporate masters so don't expect any change.

If an appearance of impropiety is the only thing that NY Times has, then I would suggest that every single Politician can be covered with that story. Every politican EVER has had an aide or partner that may have had an appearance that someone, somewhere could infer something more than reality. Are you people really taking this serious? Look, the simple fact is, those who support Obama or Clinton (with some exceptions) look at this story and immediately point fingers. Those who support a Republican candidate other than McCain will immediately say their candidate is more qualified due to this moral condundrum. The McCain supporters will immediately state that this small issue is just plain slander or a smear tactic. What has the story really changed? Nothing. This story is a non-issue and it hasn't clouded the political landscape, or caused anyone to change views or sides one iota. Let's just move on. Wayne Smith

Anyone remember Frank Keating? He epitomized the S&L scandals of the 80's, the Good Ole Reagan Days. John McCain's personal view of his integrity, like most Honorable Republicans, doesn't always match up to the reality.

Even better idea….maybe the Democrats can get up a Congressional Committee to investigate this!

Ben February 21st, 2008 10:06 am ET

An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about.

The New York Times endorsed McCain.

((Ben)) Don't show the www just how simple your thinking is. Reserve that for those closest to you.
This story was reported because people that claim to be close to Mccain made statements. How can you or any sensible person blame the Obama camp?
Makes you wonder why a respected news organization like the New York Times would print a negative story on a candidate they endorsed?????

Hey NYT, Jayson Blair pen this story for you? :rolls eyes: One has to be seriously mentally or judgmentally deficient to believe any so-called "investigative" reporting done by the Times. Their track record speaks volumes.

This just goes to show how backwards our society is. McCain is labeled as the “loyal” and “honorable” candidate on the GOP side. For the record, this would be affair #2 for him. Yet, Romney (who has been loyally married to his wife for 35 years) is labeled as the disingenuous fake. Crazy!

I don't think we can really judge either way unless the NYT can back it up. No one really knows anything yet. I did learn a few things about McCain that I didn't know before. I didn't know about the old issues. I didn't know he was considered "reformed" from anything. But, in all fairness, until there's proof, we can't jump on this. I've never supported McCain, because I don't agree with him on a lot of issues. I won't jump on him for unproven allegations though. That can happen to any candidate. It's a different story, however, if evidence follows. I support Mike Huckabee, and most who support him, from what I've seen so far, aren't reveling in this. Just wondering if there is truth. No one knows yet. It doesn't really change much on our end. In fact, some news personalities think this will help McCain. Not sure if I follow that logic. If it's a strategy, it's quite risky.

The important part here is how McCain responds to this mud slinging. I do not think McCain is a very good/strong speaker and in his speech this morning, he flubbed a little and corrected himself. This doesn't incriminate him by any means but it certainly doesn't help in making this thing go away quickly.

No matter Hillary or Obama on Dem. side, either will have a field day during the general election debating as both are much much better speakers than McCain (and not affiliated with our highly unpopular republican president).

Im Sure Obama is behind this.

As always I love the Ron Paul supporters who are so enthralled with him and are unable to realize how little support he has outside of those on the far right and those who think 9/11 was a scam. You would think that he would have learned from his last presidential run that you can't run and win on the basis of over hauling and dismantling every government agency. Changes to bring the government back in line with the Constitution will be a gradual change and will require a Conservative party. Those types of changes will never happen with a Republican party of Democratic party calling the shots.

McCain may be stupid when it comes to realizing you can't win an election without you base. However he still has more integrity in one finger then the majority of the politicians on both sides of the aisle.

Paul for president, Huckabee for vice-president.

First of all, where is Barack Obama or any of his surrogates even mentioned in the article? Second, Romney is the one who stands a chance at benefitting from the story, after all, he only suspended his campaign. I'll bet Romney tipped of the NYT to the story.

Anybody but a Republican in 08′

I never have had a lot of respect for the NYT but I never would guess that they would be the first to take this thing down the gutter.

kp - just because someone you don't like denies something doesn't automatically make them a liar

unite the democratic party - my question is, what is wrong with you? McCain is nothing like Bush. HRC looks more like Bush:
- exaggerated sense of entitlement, leading to…
- over self confidence and cavalier attitude leading to…
- poorly conceived and short sighted planning, leading to…
- bad strategy, no risk plan, no plan B, leading to…
- ‘mission accomplished’ when it is not, leading to …
- not being ready on day 1 after super tuesday, leading to…
- losing, leading to…
- not being able to admit you a wrong, leading to…
- lies and deceit, leading to etc. etc.

As a Democrat, I don't think the issue is whether he had an affair with this women. It is the fact that the Company she was lobbying for donated $20 thousand dollars to McCain's 2000 campaign! And that McCain used this guys private jet on many occasions! This is the type of "Change" the people are talking about. Lobbyist and special interest groups have more pull than the American people. This has to change.

Also, lets face it, If anyone, including Obama, spent 30 years in Washington they are bound to have scandals it is/was the nature of the game.

Obama '08

Anybody think about Huckabee smearing McCain?

First of all ….only idiots start making accusations and comments about something they know nothing about. (Guess that includes me because I am responding to the idiot's remarks!)

Politics has always been a dirty sport, however, since Clinton`s inaguration the Republicans ( Neo-Cons especially) took "down-and-dirty" politics to a new depth. Just shows you how much money can be made in Washington.—- Both White House and Congress need a GOOD ENEMA !!!!!!!!!

OLD MEN GETTING THIER FREAK ON….
WITH LITTLE BLUE PILLS…
GET YOUR FREAK ON OLD MAN…YEAHHHHHH BOYYYYYYYYEEE

You people give Obama way too much power. Unbelievable. This is McCains mess. Nothing to do with Clinton or Obama.

Obama '08

TO BEN: "An obvious smear by the Obama campaign." YOU'RE THE OBVIOUS ONE. HATING ON OBAMA IS ONE THING BUT BEING IGNORANT IS ANOTHER. perhaps you should not vote since you can't make an informed decision.

IF HILLARY LOSES THEN I VOTE OBAMA IN THE FALL.

DEMOCRATS 08

Yeah right Ben……………. must have been the Obama people.
Sheeesh…. give me a break, if anything it would have been Hillary's campaign not Obama's. When will people wake up and realize that Obama is the real deal, not just another career politician that's been there, done that! The people of this country want CHANGE not the same old crap they've been forced to endure for the last eight to sixteen years (and yes, I'm including Bill Clinton).

Ben - what is your point? Because the NYT endorsed McCain it has no right to do any reporting on any appearance of impropriety. And how would the Obama campaign influence this? That is a ridiculous analysis. Believe me, I'm not saying this as a supporter of either of the Democratic candidates, but if McCain did get unduly influenced by a lobbyist, that is very critical news. Not so much the affair thing - once again, people are hung up on the wrong issues.

It wouldn't be the first time for McCain - remember the Keating scandal (for which he was not "exhonerated" as someone remarked, but wasn't convicted and he acknowledged his gross misjudgement). You can be sure if this story was about Clinton - or Obama for that matter - the right wing hate machine would be going crazy.

It is one thing to "report" this story, but was it really worthy of a front page spread in the NYT? Silly.

I don't think that John McCain would risk everything like that….he is NOT a Clinton.

Simply look at McClain's wife and I can understand. From an overpainted "Barbie" to a more reasonable looking lady.

Wow, look at the spinning going on now. Will it never end? What is with this, it's typical politics at work. Doesnt any one get it, America is so very tired of this crap, and it needs to stop. All the little school yard name calling, Johnny did this, Obama did that, and Clinton did it too….. gezzzz stop already. True or not true, it was 8 years ago, and it looks like the republicans have rallied around their man, so let it be will ya. Let the republicans fight it out with in their own house, let them settle it to their satisfaction and leave it alone.

Unite the Democratic party
WHATS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE????????????????
What IS wrong with you people!!!! Your candidate is a hollow gasbag indoctrinated with the usual 60's commie crap. Sometimes I almost think it would be a great service if a majority of stupid Americans put this creep in office. A perfect excuse to pursue revolution and the restoration of conservative values in this country.

Lets all get it together and put these leftist anti-American slime in their place.

Hey CNN where did my post go??? It's too bad you liberal pathetic sheep can't actually "moderate" a view from both sides. You should move your corporate office to Berkely, I think they have a parking space and a few copy editors for you out there.

the NYT is just digging up a non-story 8 years after it was resolved. Those who love McCain will say he's clean, those who hate him will say he has something to hide or is "another George Bush", and those who are on the fence will say "So what?" It just the sorry state of politics (its been like this since Rome people) and the medias part in this sordid play.

Well, I must say that McCain no longer has my support….

can someone tell me something why are the gop jumping ship all political suicides the retirements. is there something in the wind us blind simple Americans do not know? for McCain to deny everything he is backed into a corner with nowhere to go if little part is true where doe's he go? so back to my main ? what is going on?

Ben…The New york times endorsed Clinton, not Obama.

I personally like McCain as a guy but his alignment with conservatives was always his political deathbed.

People that openly proclaim they are conservatives as some kind of badge of honor are nothing but hypocrites deep down inside.

However the final story goes, there is some credibility to it which has been corroborated by his former campaign staff. Obama is exactly what the USA needs at this point.

Ben, the NY Time endorsed Hillary not Obama. What does he have to do with this?

Think long and hard on this accusation. This is a man who stayed strong for the US as a POW, who suffered and did not break. He is not the typical politician, just because of that. I really don't know who to vote for, but it is very easy to point at all politicians and say we know you have power and take advantage of it with women. It has been done time and time again. But this is a POW who knows more about inner strength, faithfulness, and the power to overcome than the rest of us. Give him credit for that.

I just read the entire story in the New York Times. This is trash for "Inside Edition," not worthy of the New York Times. Advertising revenues must be down, that's all I can think of. If the Times really thought there was a story here, they shouldn't have endorsed McCain.
Clearly, this is about money and publicity for the Times itself.

OK…First of all I am a liberal democrat, so needless to day I won't be voting for any Republican candidate. But I have to say this, while I don't agree with John McCain's politics, I DO NOT believe that he is a dishonest man. I don't feel that he would have had any type of relationship with this lobbyist that was inappropriate. I do believe however that a lobbyist would insert themselves into the campaign/life of a powerful senator in order to appear that she had favor with him. I don't, in a million years, want John McCain to be elected President (I think 8 years of GWB and the like are all this nation can handle), but I don't think this story should be held over his head and I really don't give much credence to what the NYT says in this case.

I dont care who you like for this election ,I believe this is the lowest of the lowest I'm not a republican but I think McCain is the kind of person who spells intergrity and honesty, I have a strong feeling this was a work of the obama campaign I hope they find out who was the person who did it, shame on them ,just be careful they better remember the saying that goes like this *what goes around comes around* and God will do justice
And the person *unite the democratic party* shame on you for your divisive comments we dont need this negative campaign! we have enough negativity in our society !

In response to Zoe: The right wingers are so quick to accuse, if the rest of the media isn't in lock step with Fox news' view of the world. I'm calling this afternoon, to restart my NYT subscription.

Hmmmmmm….this would explain why Huckabee has remained in the race. He's just been biding his time until this scandal came out, and he could use it to his advantage. It all makes perfect sense now. Well played Huckabee, well played indeed.

Hey Ben, how is this in any way indicative of an Obama smear? The Obama campaign does not run on negativity, that why they are destoying the Clinton camp, and that is why McCain will fail to be the victor in November. It is not about attacking people, it is about bringing people together.

It must be remembered that the New York Times endorsed John McCain! Senator Obama has run a positive clean campaign! Perhaps one of McCain's rivals could have planted the story?

"An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about.

The New York Times endorsed McCain."

Ben, are you serious? Why does it have to be Obama or Hillary or Huckabee? Why can't it just be that our media is not the media it use to be? It's all entertainment now. If a major network, FOX, CNN, MSNBC, goes on the air and tells me the sky is falling, I'm not going to believe it until something hits me in the head.

These "journalist" act without conscience or discrepency, and there is no more unbiased media in this country. So until i see some good hard evidence on anything, the only thing i trust for information more than 75% of the time is the Fort Worth Star Telegram.

Lie,lie something is left…. Maquiavelo wrote one day ( I do give credit to the source,even in Spanish spelling)
The New York Times as many liberal media and pundits are realizing that the Clintons are in their way out and now they will have an empty armour in Obama so they are tryng to hurt Mc Cain
FIRST IS TOO OLD,NOW IS A LOVER BOY…. GIVE ME A BREAK

We the people are not that naive…
I will vote for Mc Cain

This is a smear by the Republicans who don't want McCain.

Didn't the New York Times endorse McCain and Hillary Clinton?? Hmmm

conservative LOL no longer a viable candidate? come on this is the same trash used in south carolina. It was debunked then and has been now. You guys have to have a few screws loose if you believe that tripe.
Oh wait a minute you support Ron Paul *G*

Be, what has Obama got to do with this issue? Some Independents, like me, are shocked at the "stupidity" and "lack of deceny" of some of the Hillary supporters.

Hillary is looking evry, very old these days, Well, let us read on
No Substance to Obama? here is what Shane from NY wrote:

"Ok Obama was involved in the Senate's drive for improved border security and immigration reform. In 2005, he co-sponsored the "Secure America and Orderly Immigration Act" introduced by Sen. John McCain(interesting right). I'm just starting, he was also involved in adding three amendments to Comprehensive Immigration Reform Act in 2006.

There was "Lugar-Obama" which expands the Nunn-Lugar cooperative threat reduction concept to conventional weapons, including shoulder-fired missiles and anti-personnel mines. There was the "Coburn-Obama Transparency Act" which provided oversight for our government website and where funds were being allocated(keeping them honest).

He is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee which focused on trying to curb wmd's. Obama worked with Russ Feingold to eliminate gifts of travel on corporate jets by lobbyists to members of Congress and require disclosure of bundled campaign contributions under the "Honest Leadership and Open Government Act". Sounds like he is just talking about fighting lobbyist.

He also introduced the "Iraq War De-Escalation Act" to put a cap on our troops. He sponsored 2008 Defense Authorization Act which provided safeguards for our disabled veterans(he cares about our troops). So I think we can stop talking about his experience now. Seems like he did a lot in Congress"

Still ignorant? If so, pleast go the Obama's webpage. With all her years in the Senate, Hillary has not had a single solution to any real needs of this nation!!!

They need to keep their mouths off of "good" and "decent" people for the expressed purpose of political gain at the personal expense of another. Everybody has some dirt under their rug. That being said, a petty and unwarranted sword attack on anothers character and integrity has a double-edge. It cuts both going and coming. "Mirror, mirror on the wall."

How can anyone blame Obama for THIS? He wasn't even the frontrunner in December! How could he have gotten any advantage? Remember, the NYT endorsed Clinton.

So far this just looks like a thief claiming that he got a special treatment from a judge without any proof and media just juicing it up. Either NY times should back this up with a proof or apologize to McCain. If the first case is true then McCain should just get out of the presidential race. If NY times can't prove it, they should fire the reported and the editorial staff and acknowledge their mistake on the first page.

This will end well.

Ben your comment doesn't make sense. This story has nothing to do with Obama. Focus on the topic at hand. This ticker story is about McCain.

Ben ..please do not be naive and /or stupid….Obama's Campaign has nothing to do with this..get real….McCain has a tough task getting conservatives to like him ..y do u think Huckabee is in the race till the convention!! He knows McCain can quickly kill his own campaign with his own flip-flopping and or indiscretions

Is someone who dances and sings to the tune..bomb..bomb bomb Iran trustworthy as the leader of the free world?

No way !!

"An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about."
-Ben

Why attack or blame Obama? This is straight from the New York Times who endorsed Hillary , not Obama, for the Democratic nomination. Obama isn't anywhere near this story. Chickens coming home to roost is what it is.

Yeah Ben it's so obvious …now how about some evidence to back up that silly oustanding accusation? I thought the Republicants were the master spinsters and smear-n-fearers anyway?

If marital infidelity were a political sin, a high percentage of Presidents have overcome that sin….in more recent times FDR, Eisenhower, JFK….even Jimmy Carter acknowledged that he had "lust in my heart". BUT, if John McCain did favors, as alleged and responded to, for her clients that would be a big problem.

since this wouldn't be the first time McCain had an inappropriate relationship with a woman, I believe the story. As some may recall, McCain had an affair with his current wife while his first wife was sick and dying…he left the sick wife for his current plastic faced trophy wife. Now, can some republican tell me how that makes him a man of integrtity worthy of the highest office in the land? You can't so dont' try.

I don't know why more lobbyists aren't women. It puts every male politician into a catch-22. All she has to do is suggest she's got him, and everyone in the world wants to believe it.

I'm not a McCain backer…I will, hopefully, have the opportunity to vote for Obama in the general election. That being said, I think the NY Times has done some shoddy reporting with this story. I really don't think there is any fire to the alledged smoke in this story.

John McCain is it all you get? 100 years in Iraq dumb as it sounds; INAPPROPRIATE RELATIONSHIP WITH A LOBBYIST, No knowledge of economics, heroic service SO WHAT!! millions of us have serve as well so what's the big deal.

Oh for peats sake, why these childish claims all the time, let's stick to the facts, people, do you think McCain would risk this at this stage of the election?

Give yourselves a break and bring your minds back to the real question of this election…..who can run this country in these troubled times…..that is the real question?

Stop already with the distraction!!!!

Ben,
How DARE you suggess that the reporting of YOUR GUY'S dirt is linked to Obama.

This is STRAIGHT from the Republican playbook!
That being said…..

I had intended on posting words to the effect of "I am an Obama supporter and I hope all of his supporters do NOT leap into the fire with joy and glee on ALLEGATIONS. This is EXACTLY the "gotcha" politics that WE IN THE MOVEMENT are trying to turn the page AWAY from".

I really don't think that people want another administration filled with deciet and lies. I really feel that the most apparent Democratic presidential candidate will improve our relationship with the rest of the world. Will help to rebuild our reputation.

McCain seems to be ok with torture, and is apparently another warmonger. I don't want a president more worried about what the weapon and oil industries tell him.

I want one with moral fabric and a mind of his own.

Smart people for Obama 08.

Why isn't anyone talking about the circumstances in which he met his wife Cindy? Although it was a long time ago, I think many would think that it shows a flaw in his character.

I canceled NYT subscription after General betray us thing! I regret that I can not cancel it again!
They say that they had all this info back in December, but just month ago they endorsed McCain???? Whose integrity are we talking about now: McCain's or NYT's?

Jack Cafferty had a question on his blog as to whether or not negative campagining would be occurring during the primaries. It so sad to see how low individuals will go to to smear a candidate. Bob Bennett stated that the allegations were investigate and that McCain had not betrayed his position, trust or service to his country. We could not impeached a pot smoking, draft dodger, womanizer when he was President. How dare the question McCain trust and service to his country. It is a wonder why anyone would want to be President of this nation. God help us all. Sometimes people will do and say anything to ensure that their candidates makes the final cut.

Yeah, Lets talk about the sell of political influence..

Bill Clinton has gotten himself a new best friend in Canadian mining mogul, Frank Giustra, who just happens to have a big private jet. Bill uses it to fly to paid speeches, fly to fund-raise for Hillary and fly to raise millions for the Clinton Foundation. CO2 emissions? Whats that?? And even thought it costs thousands per hour to operate a private jet, Giustra evidently isn't counting.

But Giustra has been trying to move along a half-billion dollar deal with Kazakhstan to mine uranium fields in that country. And his new best friend, Bill Clinton, who uses his jet all the time, just happened to know the president of Kazakhstan. So they fly off to Kazakhstan and have dinner with president Nazarbayev, who also just happens to be one of the most corrupt leaders in the world.

Well, low and behold, Giustra's half-billion dollar deal comes through and shhhh, Bill got a half-million dollar check for his Clinton Foundation. God only knows what the president of Kazakhstan got.

All this and not one word from the corrupt media. It's nice to know that the new york times is interested in political corruption, isn't it…

Typical Republican, and they have the nerve to talk about Bill Clinton.

That is the pot calling the kettle black.

He wasn't upset when he got his liberal endorsement from the NYT. Why is he mad now, unless it is true. And considering his record…it probably is.

So Obama skips "smearing" Climton and goes straight for McCain? That makes as much sense as you can expect from someone who supports McCain I guess.

please we should give McCain the chance to defend himself. He needs to have our respect for the loyal soldier he was. even if it turns out he was bopping this *itch is that really a reason to turn against him?

This is all the New York Times has? This is all CNN has? One named source who claims that a lobbyist was saying she had influence with the Senator when she didn't? The real reason this story went out is to spread gossip and create doubt. No wonder lots of good people want no where near politics.

Unite the Democratic party?

I did not see anything about Obama in this Article.

Ben,

This story has been around for months and the New York Times has had it since at least December when Matt Drudge was talking about it. Evidently, it was given to the NYTs by a couple of disgruntled McCain staffers. (Whether the story is true or not is a different matter. Frankly who knows) But to blame this on Obama? Good lord. What are you, a Hillary Supporter? If Obama is so good that not only could he have found out about months ago when the McCain campaign didn't look so hot and then bribe McCain former staffers to talk about it, you're right, he shouldn't be President, he should be head of the CIA. Or maybe he's Valdemort

Hey Ben - McCain and the NYT admit they have been in communication about this story since December 2007 (when no one knew who the nominees would be). Obama is smart - but he can't predict the future. Nice try.

Nice try Ben. Anyone who can read knows that this did not come from the Obama campaign and this is the opposite of what Obama is all about.

So the question is are you a liar or an idiot?

kp February 21st, 2008 10:06 am ET

Deny, deny, deny! Maybe it will all go away!

———————————————–

thats the Michelle Obama strategy. stop the cult of obama.

Untie the Democratic party sez….

" You john mccain supporters need to pull your head out of the sand ……………..and smell the 'CHANGE' that americans are calling for!!! WHATS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE??????????? "

… thats just it… we CAN smell it.

Ben -
OMG….you're blaming the Obama campaign for this mess……now thats funny.

OBAMA '08

Sorry Ben, this is not Obama's style. Besides, why would he push for news like this today to upstage the news of him winning the election of Democrats Abroad? Go think!

Hey John..the wheels are coming off the wagon….better move quickly…can you say Madame President Clinton?

First of all when a "tabloid" newspaper like The NYT starts spreading the muck around you know McCain has ruffled some "special interests" feathers.

The NYT has created this image either deliberately or otherwise of being Liberal. Which helps it generate the readership it needs to rake in the money.

This is pure tabloid journalism.

McCain, whom I personally don't support, strikes me as being a man likely to ruffle and break quite a few unawanted feathers both home and abroad. It is likely he'll attack Iran but I doubt he'll bow down to pro Israeli interests like Bush does.

I see dark days ahead if such filthy journalism is allowed to taint the election process.

We the people should mean "we" not a few journalsits at a newspaper slandering an old man who no matter what your line of thinking has sacrificed much for his country.

Shame on us all.

P.S. this happened years ago. so why the big fuss now?

LOL! What does this have to do with Obama Ben? Furthermore, when was hte last time Obama directly attacked McCain??
I think if you actually read anything you'd realize that all the attacking/smearing is ocming form everyone BUT Obama. …which is why he seems to be doing so well.

Ben,

What evidence (if any) do you have to accuse the Obama campaign of what you characterize as an "obvious smear?" Firstly, let me point out that if the accusations prove to be true, it would not be a smear. Secondly, let us remember the New York Times supported Hillary Clinton, not Barack Obama. Under your lack of rationale, it could have easily been Clinton's campaign as it could have been Mike Huckabee (who surprisingly has stayed in the race even though its mathematically impossible for him to win) or it could have been Ron Paul etc. Or, GASP, it could have been good independent, investigative journalism! The shock, the horror. Ben, get your facts straight.

It is very clear that Iseman benefits in her profession by saying she has unusual access to McCain. A no brainer to figure out. I can say that whatever the case is, McCain does keep company with women who are a lot more attractive than those that Bill Clinton is drawn to. Does that say something positive about values, self confidence and judgement?

Where is the character in this man! He is an adulterer who used his power to safe his trophy wife from criminal charges stemming from her drug addiction!! You can not be President if you are not welcome into the house of the Lord Jesus. Adultery is a sin and you are a liar!

Jesus will install Gov. Huckabee as President of the United States of America Under God!

WHERES FRED THOMPSON when you need him , Can someone call him and get him off the set of Law and Order!!!!

She is a "friend." Is there something wrong with being friends with Lobbyists? McCain does not do favors for anyone (even his constituents.

Let's keep to the facts!

Listen we need troops in Iraq for another 100 years at least. We need to conquer the region to get a hold of all that oil. There are a lot of companies and jobs tied into, and it would economically devastating if we pull out. We just can't let these Muhammed believers live. We are America and need to crusade against the Saracens!

Economically everything will be solved if we can eliminate all taxes on everyone making over $200,000. This will free up all of this money they are wasting on CPA's and etc…. to get them out of taxes. They then can reinvest in America's companies. We can pay for this loss of tax revenue by eliminating government funded healthcare for any family making under $150,000. They are poor and don't really contribute to the economy anyway.

We also need to spend more on Defense, we need to be able to nuke the planet at least 1 million times or non-Americans might attack us.

It is also recommended that everyone in this country should attend Protestant churches all day Sunday and Wednesday night minimum. This will improve our morals here in America. Immigrants should be allowed to work for a period up to 12 weeks of the year in the country under the armed guard. After that, they need to be returned to their home country. For each word spoken in their foreign language they should be docked 1% of their pay. With the limit being 500% (this will increase tax revenue).

McCain '08

To Ben:

How you derived that this is a smear by Obama is proof that certain people should have their constitutional right to vote revoked!!!!!!!!!

Unite the Democratic party (poster) represents the overwhelming tone of Obama supporters and is a reason why many democrats are walking away in droves rather than support obama.

Good luck sorting out your party Republicans.. Ours is done.

To Ben:

" An obvious smear by the Obama campaign. So petty, so unprofessional—but that's what Obama is all about."

What an ignorant and false statement. What has Obama campaign got to do with the NYT publication? Do you have any facts to prove that?

First let me state that I am a supporter of Mr. Obama, and admit I got a certain pleasure out of reading the article simply because of the way Mr. McCain, his wife, and MSM recently twisted Ms. Obama's words. That being said I think the only part of this we should be concerned aobut is did it affect his votes, his private life is just that PRIVATE, and of no concern. The evidence, looking at the voting record of this time, suggest that it DID NOT therefore this is a non-story and should be ignored, the fact that it was brought up, without ANY prosecutable FACTS, is much more disgusting than if he had an affair or not. Mr. McCain is an honerable man, and just because I do not agree with ALL of his policies, I see no reason for him to have to deal with this! This is why people hate politics, no facts here just inuendo, should not have been covered at ALL unless evidence is found!

Ben,

You claim this is an Obama smear? You big dork! The NYT endorse your girl. Get a clue.

No "blue dress" … No problem!

Conservative February 21st, 2008 10:05 am ET

Since John McCain is no longer a viable candidate, It's important that we Republicans get behind Ron Paul now. It will take time to unite the party, but Dr Paul has a very energized base and he has the amazing ability to raise money. Let's set our mild differences aside and do what's right and get behind the only Conservative that can beat the democratic nominee

Unfortunately, 1) you are the only person that thinks this means that McCain is no longer viable and 2) Paul is a libertarian, not a conservative…

BEN!!!!!! How in gods name can you bring Obama in to this. It could be Huckabee or what ever his name is that set this up. Thats why he is still in the race. Did you think about that. Good GOD!!! you are exactly whats wrong with this country. By the way I'm a republican.

McCain is lying. He cheated on his last wife with Cindy. Now he is cheating on Cindy. Man, that John McCain is a really fiesty old dude.

At least he kept the alleged affair proffessional…

Unlike some person we know….>.>

MCCain cheated on his first wife with Cincy McCain. No Surprise here!!!

Ron Paul 2008

Obviously McCain likes blondes.

This McCain story has it's roots in the 2000 election. That was the election which Bush and McCain engaged in some nasty politics. My question is if Carl Roves fingerprints are to be found on this? This nasty story has all the hallmarks of the nasty type of smearing which the Republicans are famous for.

gee was'nt somthing like this expected get-it make way for obama. only the ones that are not educated should get it.

Romney unsuspend you campaign pick Huckabee as your running mate and send Mccain on his way, Mccain you should be ashamed, who knew you had so much in common with the Clintons. Romney/Huckabee08 save us from the aldultrous Mccain.

Oops, Wasnt McCain claiming he can do a better job then anyone on securing us from threats. He is a war veteran. Well he proved he isnt that good. Hey get a hot girl who could be working with terrorists and she will get