April 28, 2008
Posted: 09:31 AM ET

From

ALT TEXT

Sen. McCain was joined by his wife, Cindy, at a Florida press conference Sunday. (AP Photo)

(CNN) — Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, didn't waste a lot of verbiage reacting to the New York Times report on his use of a private jet belonging to his wife's company for campaign trips — at less cost than normal charter flights

At a news conference in Coral Gables, Florida, McCain used just eight words to respond to a reporter's question before moving on. "What we did was perfectly legal and appropriate," McCain said. The Arizona senator didn't answer the part of the reporter's question about whether the use of plane contradicted McCain's stance on campaign finance reform.

There is nothing illegal about what McCain did. Under a law which McCain supported, presidential candidates are now required to pay charter rates rather than just less expensive commercial first class rates when they use corporate jets. But under an FEC exemption, candidates don't have TO reimburse full costs if the plane is owned BY a candidate, a candidate's family, or by a privately held company controlled by a candidate or a candidate's family member. (The FEC has tried to end the family exemption, but didn't have enough sitting commissioners to change the rule, according to the Times report.)

The Times story said McCain used the jet over a 7-month period starting last summer, mostly for campaign trips. The campaign paid $241,149 for the trips.far less than the cost for normal charter trips.

Why are some raising questions over it? The Times reported some campaign finance experts said using the exemption goes against the spirit of the new law, and McCain has championed campaign finance reform. McCain had also said he didn't plan to use his wife's wealth to help with the campaign last summer.

Filed under: John McCain


Joe from Nebraska   April 27th, 2008 7:01 pm ET

the mccain logo reminds me of the worldcom logo

Marie in California   April 27th, 2008 7:05 pm ET

Much ado about nothing.

Tunde   April 27th, 2008 7:06 pm ET

There are a host of things that are legal but unethical. The elite don't like to be questioned when they violate the spirit of the law. Thus, they say things like it's perfectly legal.

Walter, Long Beach   April 27th, 2008 7:07 pm ET

Seems to me this link to the campaign makes Mrs. McCain's finances a legitimate point of discussion. Therefore, her tax returns should be released to the public as have those of the other candidates AND their spouses.

But I don't expect the media lap-dogs to press him on it. After all, he's a 'hero' so anything goes!

spinners   April 27th, 2008 7:11 pm ET

Get rid of the surrgogates and lets debate.

david   April 27th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

and this is news how? Give me a break. the law is the law and it say it is okay. So why the big fuss. You all are acting as if he took free flights from Rev.Wright.

Slowpoke   April 27th, 2008 7:12 pm ET

McCain looks like a rock star in this picture.

bill pike   April 27th, 2008 7:13 pm ET

AND obama is talking bad about the poor people. they just plane don't get it.

Grif   April 27th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

When you use the family car, to take the kids to school. Only DIctator's are homing in on this??? John McCain…. John McCain, was just useing the Family Car. Maybe he can help some other, get a little More Education…

Carl Sloan   April 27th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

He made these comments at the Biltmore in Miami and he claims that Obama is "out of touch" with ordinary Americans? Oh, the irony is killing me…

Franky   April 27th, 2008 7:15 pm ET

Do you know what I'm waiting??? To be honest, Senator McCain has not gotten that point where he has REALLY got upset. As a matter of fact, he has showed signs of frustration and exasperation but trust me, one day he's gonna have a day where the pressure is just burning…..I'm just waiting for that day.

Ratgurl   April 27th, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Even Cindy looks like she doesn't believe him!!!

Grant   April 27th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

YAWN, who cares!!!! Geez, must be a really slow news day, or does McCain have it soooooo easy nowadays?

You could fill the NYT from front page to back page from all the financial shenanigans the Clintons have used…..

Allen In NC   April 27th, 2008 7:17 pm ET

If the jet good enought for her then it's good enough for me…..

Keith Smith   April 27th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Hypocrite. The Capitol has been McCain's private Mount Olympia. Although he moved to switch parties twice in the last 8 years, he left the Republican party long ago.

Ron L   April 27th, 2008 7:18 pm ET

Senator McCann is an OLD-SCHOOL politician JUST LIKE Hillary. He tries to play both sides of the fence and from time to time and he gets caught!!! He will make an average President…WE NEED MUCH MORE…

He along with Hillary is the PAST..Senator Obama is the FUTURE…it REALLY is that simple..

Allen In NC   April 27th, 2008 7:19 pm ET

I like the way she's looking at him…… Lier!… Can you see it? :)

American   April 27th, 2008 7:22 pm ET

=======Elitist???

Kathy   April 27th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

It's sad that McCain and Hillary go out of their way to paint Obama as an elitist.

McCain and Hillary are the epitome of Rich Aristocrats, tied to power.

Jerry   April 27th, 2008 7:23 pm ET

kind of like the keating five?

Juan Grain   April 27th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

It does not matter, McCain even knows that Barack Obama is going to be the next President of the United States. And if he has any doubts, all he has to do is ask Chris Wallace ;)

chris isner   April 27th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

good luck trying to get away with that sort of response after Obama wins the nomination. then again, with slow news until may 6, maybe the press will rip him.

wwake-New York   April 27th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

Can you spell flip-flop. If this was Obama he would be called a fraud! They say their finances are separate "for tax reasons" then he shouldn't be allowed to use her money for the campaign! I wonder if there will be a double standard here.

Never ever support Obama   April 27th, 2008 7:25 pm ET

New York times rating is now 0 So now the time for us ignore NYT
Hillary 08

American   April 27th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

==Lets air the dirty laundry from all members of Congress, including the Chimp, and his master so "Our Government of the people can for once be cleansed.==

Toiletsnake   April 27th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

It would be nice if this article contained the reporter's question.

I hope the admission was an accident.

HH   April 27th, 2008 7:26 pm ET

More straight talk.

I think all the wheels fell off of the bus and is riding on the rims.

This is turning into the second coming of Bob Dole himself.

All John didnt accomplish yet is falling off of a stage and looking like a fool when you dont get up after 30 seconds.

Tony   April 27th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

For Pete's sake, so what? I know this will get all the Republican haters agitated and making crappy little statments, but it's legal, folks, pure and simple. Move on.

paul   April 27th, 2008 7:27 pm ET

As an Obama (originally Biden) supporter I don't have any problem with this. Let's talk about the real issues that matter.

Arun Shroff   April 27th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Sure. Hypocrite alert.

onecandidate   April 27th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Will the Times investigate what his campaign and the Nevada GOP did to thier own convention yesterday? They knew they had lost the delagates to the real conservative Republicans & the Ron Paul campaign, so they closed the convention, and rescheduled it. They needed a closed convention to ensure they wouldn't lose the whole state to the people.

Hell I bet CNN won't even report on the Nevada Convention.

MSM is destroying this country by not reporting the truth.

Pat Va   April 27th, 2008 7:28 pm ET

McCain (and McCainites)…you're going to find many, many, MANY more questions of this nature when what you've said does not add up to what you've done.

Stay tuned for more McCain stumbles and bumbles along the way! He's already made a pretty good start of it.

RT in Toronto   April 27th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Oh I get it now…and Obama is the elitist….what a joke. I guess Hillary and McCain have a definition of elitist that must not include being whitebread multimillionaires who use the rules hey proclaimed but includes others not of their kind.

Grif   April 27th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Boy! When I think about the iresponsible people, who waste fuel. Just to break some stupid Record, Dream. Waste thousands, and Public Money Looking for these Idiot's… John McCain Paid his own Gas Bill…

Mary   April 27th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Wow, John McCain is almost as good a liar as Hillary!

Don Hiller   April 27th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

Since when does the NYT have a solid basis for determining what is ethical???

Philip   April 27th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Just because it was legal doesn't mean it was right.

Philip   April 27th, 2008 7:31 pm ET

Just because it was legal doesn't mean it was ethical.

tango   April 27th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

McCain is trying to out smart the system. In same breath accusing Obama for being insensitive to the poor for objecting to McCain's so called gas tax holiday?? Hello? what is his plane running on if not fuel? hot air? like him?

Barbara - 65 yr old white female in NC   April 27th, 2008 7:35 pm ET

Wow - maybe a way for the little people to get a tax break - elect him and make him use his wife's private jet !

Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 27th, 2008 7:36 pm ET

What could one expect from somebody like McCain. Nothing about him has changed and it won't.

Ann, MI   April 27th, 2008 7:37 pm ET

I can't wait for more of this stuff to come out in the general election.

I used to like Senator McCain because he seemed so different than the Washington power elite, but he has obviously sold his soul to get the Republican machine behind him.

What happened to the Straight Talk Express?

Jack   April 27th, 2008 7:39 pm ET

Looks like John knows all the loop holes and intends to use them since he was instrumental in creating the loopholes as a Senator.

John McCain is just another "Bush" league politician and he can't be trusted.

Kim   April 27th, 2008 7:40 pm ET

No no no. McLame is a warmonger with no economic expertise. But he is not a crook.

Steve, Lyons, CO   April 27th, 2008 7:44 pm ET

Sure thing, Greasy John, you just keep pretending you're not another corporate thug.

KW   April 27th, 2008 7:50 pm ET

In my experience, whenever someone points out that what they did was "perfectly" legal, they forget to point out how it was so borderline……or even so 'completely' unethical.

Which is exactly why they have to point out that it was so "perfectly" legal.

CA   April 27th, 2008 7:51 pm ET

When you have to plead "It was perfectly legal!" it's usually a sign you're on the wrong track.

DL   April 27th, 2008 7:53 pm ET

How is this even a story?

The only positive point I can see to CNN paying attention to this non-issue is that at least CNN is now acknowledging that there is a nominee for president other than Clinton and Obama.

Zack S   April 27th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

Well, you are quite the elitist, aren't you, Sen. McCain?

Anon   April 27th, 2008 7:54 pm ET

This is the most poorly set up and poorly phrased story in the history of news. Way to go, CNN.

Carolyn Grace   April 27th, 2008 7:55 pm ET

Your delegate count for Senator Obama is not correct. He is now 290 delegates away from securing the nomination. You need to update it. Stop favoring Hillary. Everyone knows you are the Clinton News Network.

Mark   April 27th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

Even his skeletal wife doesnt believe this. "What we did was legal!!" The last refuge of the republican.

BL   April 27th, 2008 7:59 pm ET

HE SAVED MONEY PEOPLE!!!

carolinas   April 27th, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Hypocrite John Mccain, you are a lier and abuse the system with a fune legal words…and not at all honest as you look. Shame to your age of 71..you should show the moral and ethical example rather clinging to fine legal words…you are elite and outof touch lier.

Obama,,,,2008,,!!!

mitch from ark.   April 27th, 2008 8:01 pm ET

and who's the elitist?

Sandy   April 27th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

Another looser politician who preaches but never follows.
Do as I say but not as I do.

bubba   April 27th, 2008 8:02 pm ET

What you see…is what you get.

It doesn't matter who says it…,everyone does it.

So…who you goning to vote for?

John? …flush him down the toilet!

Hillary? …no way 'cause she can't control Bill!

Barack? …sorry, but everyone thinks that he's a…!

We're in for 4 (or even 8) more years of the same old BUSH..BS!

Mike Lorain, OH   April 27th, 2008 8:04 pm ET

Sounds like Hillary…change the rules of the game when they benefit you or if you're out of money.

Shirley-Ohio   April 27th, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Keeping the money in the family, smart, but at whose cost.

Scott C   April 27th, 2008 8:06 pm ET

I want to hear McCain call Obama an elitist while zipping around the country on his own private jet.

This, along with the public financing thing he is being, or was sued for… Prove that he is a total hypocrite when it comes to campaign finance reform, either that or he thinks it should apply to everyone EXCEPT him.

shan   April 27th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

just because something is legal doesn't make it right.

christi   April 27th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Oh God CNN!!! When are you going to start diggin in the archives to show what a flip-flopper McCain is - this is a typical NON-Story.

sk   April 27th, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Perhaps she will buy him his own plane for his birthday or something.

Cecile   April 27th, 2008 8:19 pm ET

So this is the man who call Obama "elistist " and "out of touch". He travels by private jet ! lol

Ladyleo   April 27th, 2008 8:21 pm ET

I guess riding around in a private jet while others can not even afford gas shows how McCain is in touch with the people as far as the economy is concerned.

Anonymous   April 27th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

no surprise at all. just another republican, elitist, hypocrite. I say "eat the elite." They're fat and buttery. Better get ready for the revolution, it's on the way

Steve   April 27th, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Why is this news? This is a non-issue. If no laws were broken, then what is the problem? It's not like he attends Rev. Wright's church, or lies to the world like Hillary.

karen from va   April 27th, 2008 8:25 pm ET

So what?

tom, Boston   April 27th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

McCain is the Biggest hypocrit of all, worse than GW, who stands for no principle any way LOL.

Nate   April 27th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

This is just the beginning of McCain's shady practices, hipocracy, and unsuitability for office. So, why won't he disclose his wife's tax returns??? Wow, I wish Romney was still here.

James   April 27th, 2008 8:26 pm ET

Gee another example of two faced John McBush. Shocking, just shocking.

Steve, Cedar Rapids, Iowa   April 27th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

With this comment Senator McCain sounds more like Bush.A vote for McCain is sure sounds like four more years of the same..

AA For Change   April 27th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

The times is a reckless paper, which is doing nothing else but attempting to throw dirt.

ron   April 27th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

I hope the IRS reviews the companies tax records. You know how those busness expences are. A trip to the Bahamas for a dental convention

Gottlieb Schlittenfahrt   April 27th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

Legal? maybe, but was it ethical?

probabilityzero   April 27th, 2008 8:28 pm ET

While not technically illegal, it's still arguably immoral and goes against what McCain generally claims to stand for.

Mike in Seattle   April 27th, 2008 8:29 pm ET

If this is the best dirt the NYT can throw at McCain he is going to have a cakewalk to the White House!

Ron, Racine, Wisconsin   April 27th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Obviously John McCain uses the system as much as anyone, but wants us to believe that he is mister ethical. He's conforming himself to be more acceptible to Republicans because his main goal, as it's always been, is to be president.

A poor taxpayer, Corning OH   April 27th, 2008 8:32 pm ET

Your vote to invade another country was legal, also. Was it right?

SVALPHA   April 27th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Cant believe the speech by Obama's former pastor…Now for sure I will not vote for him…go Mccain!!!

JOHN   April 27th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

SO YOU SAY JOHNNY MC. BUT THAT'S NOT GOOD ENOUGH.

jeremy   April 27th, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Shame! Shame, i am sure there is going to be more coming our way Johnny me Boy, Skeletons always love coming out of the closet…This is just a premier of what were going to find out! bwah ha HA

Joe - CA   April 27th, 2008 8:34 pm ET

"I can't afford a plane ticket, so I took my wife's private plane". WHAT?

yo yo   April 27th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

yo yo yo

Robert, Detroit, MI   April 27th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

If he wants to sponge off his wife, why not?

Ike DeLong   April 27th, 2008 8:36 pm ET

McBush has spoken!!
The truth ain't in you, or your party!

Kris from AZ   April 27th, 2008 8:39 pm ET

This is truly pethetic. I am a democrat and think this is stupid. Issues poeple not stuff like this..the difference in stances are what is being debated not how he gets from point A to point B. come on…………..

paul oregon   April 27th, 2008 8:40 pm ET

sounds like a clinton mccain-bush expanation

Eric Thornley   April 27th, 2008 8:41 pm ET

Do we really want this guy as president? I don't. Another conservative hypocrite.

ck   April 27th, 2008 8:42 pm ET

Unlike Hillary, who is in debt and probably will stiff her campaign employees while she goes home to her 109 million. LOL

Report on news that matters please.

Mike N   April 27th, 2008 8:43 pm ET

Lotsa things are legal - but not necessarily "prudent."

Gino   April 27th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Do as I say not as I do.

Darryl   April 27th, 2008 8:44 pm ET

Like Senator Clinton, Senator John McCain both broke the FEC election law owever, the news will not report this……

Why is that?

buffalo   April 27th, 2008 8:45 pm ET

Pure Hypocracy at its best. Mcshame.

former hillary supporter   April 27th, 2008 8:47 pm ET

hypocrite

mccain a man for the people? not unless you are very, very rich.

Roberto   April 27th, 2008 8:50 pm ET

Trust McCain at your peril.

Binh   April 27th, 2008 8:52 pm ET

Is this surprising? No. So much for straight talk! Not that I blame him though. Why not take advantage of marrying into wealth and spending Barbie's money?

Tam   April 27th, 2008 8:55 pm ET

I don't know about you Cindy McCain is proud to be a America that can skirt around laws. Know whose the elicits.

lou   April 27th, 2008 8:59 pm ET

Sounds like typical old style Washington Double talk. Please turn the page on the old guard. Clinton /mccain are the past. Obama is our bridge to the future and back to a Booming Country.

Tanya Kujath   April 27th, 2008 9:01 pm ET

He is another example of the POOR leadership that we have with bush. One rule for him and another for others. Hillary or Obama, Democrats unite!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

blinky   April 27th, 2008 9:02 pm ET

what next, will the NYT nail them for claiming legal deductions on their taxes, just because they are so dang rich? seems like he followed the law to me.

Mary   April 27th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

"The Arizona senator DIDN'T ANSWER the part of the reporter's question about whether the use of plane CONTRADICTED McCain's stance on CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM"

lol……..there goes all that "straight talk" out of their own private jet window!!!

gman   April 27th, 2008 9:06 pm ET

Hey if MCain can get around the law…don't he dare say anything Obama decides to forgo public financing for the GE. He has just lost that arguement.

D. Seats   April 27th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

I didn't really think much of the issue till he dodged the reporters question. It reminded me of something President Bush would say. Kind of a take it or leave it answer… as in…it's legal because I say so… next question!

Mike   April 27th, 2008 9:07 pm ET

Who cares? I mean really, who cares…. I am still voting for Obama anyway.

Paris   April 27th, 2008 9:08 pm ET

He is absolutely correct.
Show me one law that he has gone against.

Greg P.   April 27th, 2008 9:09 pm ET

Legal & appropriate doesn't always equal ethical & moral.

Herman LA, CA   April 27th, 2008 9:09 pm ET

McCain is out of control and the media is just letting him get a way with murder. He says things and gets away with it and no one is speaking out on it why America? Why?

John   April 27th, 2008 9:12 pm ET

Seems legitimate to me. Obama probably gets his airline costs covered via Oprah Airlines

George   April 27th, 2008 9:13 pm ET

Hypocrite, hypocrite, hypocrite. McCain is a hypocrite.

After further review,Texas   April 27th, 2008 9:15 pm ET

Old goody two-shoes doesnt need our money as long as he has his sugar mommas dough.

EG FROM TORONTO   April 27th, 2008 9:21 pm ET

WITH HIS SHORT TERSE ANSWERS MACAIN IS STARTING TO SOUND LIKE DICK CHENEY, AND THE LATTER'S NOW FAMOUS "SO" RESPONSE.

John   April 27th, 2008 9:22 pm ET

So?

A. Sims   April 27th, 2008 9:27 pm ET

McCain if elected president will continue George Bush's philosophy of help only the wealthy elite, the rest of the American population are just human capital and dont matter in the least.

Jed in Texas   April 27th, 2008 9:29 pm ET

Well if thats ok then it should be ok to see her taxes and other financial interests since this is a joint venture.

Rodney-Dallas TX   April 27th, 2008 9:30 pm ET

CNN according to a straw poll on AOL. Clinton is leading nationally with 68%. Why are you not reporting that?

Christian, Tampa FL   April 27th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

This certainly isn't devastating, but it's one more indication that McCain isn't quite as honest as he says he is.

Isn't it kind of elitist to use your wife's corporate jet?

Bridgette   April 27th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

I don't believe it something about McCain. Now you will probably not hear about this again. But if this were Obama or Clinton it would be a week long story. He is the one that has gotten a free ride.

Sick and Tired, OH   April 27th, 2008 9:31 pm ET

Surprise, surprise!

Blayze Kohime   April 27th, 2008 9:32 pm ET

Yes he did promise not to use his wife's wealth, which apparently doesn't include her lavish aircraft. Seems McCain is every bit as honest as Bush, I wonder what else he's lied about.

SWING STATE FAMILY   April 27th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

Fishy! The straight talk express lost another wheel.

steve   April 27th, 2008 9:35 pm ET

This is typical for the NY Times. Throw red herrings at conservatives, and throw smoke screens for liberals.

mike   April 27th, 2008 9:37 pm ET

This candidate is calling Barack Obama an elitist? What a joke. Maybe it wasn't illegal, but how many people do you know that can borrow their wife's corporate jet? I would say a very small percentage of the population can do that. That's right, the elite few!

W. J. Godfrey   April 27th, 2008 9:37 pm ET

Willy from Canada

I am now watching for the second time and listening to your analysts about Reverand Wright's speech. How can you have a fair perspective when both were mentioned in the speech, at least, twice and anyone who has watched your station for the past few months know that they are strong Obama supporters. In Canada, we call this a "Snow Job". How about some fairness.

Luis   April 27th, 2008 9:38 pm ET

Wow, Mccain not playing by the rules?

He is taking cues and being groomed by BUSH so,
no, im not surprised!

Please dont elect this guy into office,
he will ONLY continue the Republican Monarchy rule.

Rules dont apply to these Kings, or haven't you been around
to experience this during the BUSH Reign?

Michael   April 27th, 2008 9:41 pm ET

News flash: John McCain is a politician, the rules apply to the other guy.

Femi in Minneapolis   April 27th, 2008 9:44 pm ET

Em…..see the question was not about the legality of your actions Pa Mcain! it was about your ever so potent rethorics matching your rash actions. You hate lobbists, but your league of top advicers head lobbying firms. You think the government under bush was a failure to the people of New Orleans: because Bush did'nt land a plane in the midst of the caos, but you were with him on a plane cutting birthday cakes during that same moment. Your wife claims shes a patoit, especially when compared to Mrs Obama, but wont release her tax returns showing how transparent her husband is. she claims she needs to protect her children. Didn't Mechelle Obama, the Un-patriot release hers? so lets be clear here Senior McCain, you do things very legal…..but they dont say what or who you are.

A.   April 27th, 2008 9:45 pm ET

Even if the price is less than commercial flights, it is one more example of elitism. The corporate jet is suppose to make people feel better? What happened to McCain in Viet Nam is undeniably wicked, but let's not confuse the war hero with the man who has become an embittered political elitist and doesn't even realize it. He is out of touch with the people who have been most hurt by his party. If he wants to win, he has to make great strides to distance himself from Bush politics, not follow him around like tumbleweed.

Paco   April 27th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Right. And he is calling Obama elitist? Thank you to the NY Times for pointing this out.

WJS   April 27th, 2008 9:49 pm ET

In the larger scheme of things, when you consider the amount of money Obama has collected/spent so far, this is small potatoes. At least McCain's honest about it. Obama acts like he's God's gift to clean politics, while single-handedly making this the most expensive Presidential race in history.

Marissa   April 27th, 2008 9:50 pm ET

sounds like something Bush would say

ed fl   April 27th, 2008 9:51 pm ET

typical of you old right wing kooks .everything is bad unless it is one of the GOP nuts. Your turn is coming old man

Coloradan   April 27th, 2008 9:55 pm ET

McBush.

I REALLY look forward to the Presidential debates when Obama pushes his buttons and he flies off the handle!!!

That's Reality   April 27th, 2008 9:57 pm ET

"Why are some raising questions over it? " because they're having a hard time finding something to criticize McCain for.

Montana is Obama Country   April 27th, 2008 9:58 pm ET

What an ELITIST…..

D Gran   April 27th, 2008 9:58 pm ET

Who cares? This is coming from a democrat!!!!!!!!!!

shaun   April 27th, 2008 10:07 pm ET

I don't see a blog yet on Rev Jeremiah wrights powerful speech yet…whats up with that CNN?

This Speech completely alters the negative view of this man and his message, so why won't you make light of that?

Does the media want to take every opportunity to divide us through race?…oh yeah..

see how perception is altered when you play something in its entirety?

duh

charlotte   April 27th, 2008 10:08 pm ET

Rich people always use the law to jump through loop holes. It is called being smart. Can't blame him for the loop hole..

wordsseldomsaid   April 27th, 2008 10:15 pm ET

as a leftist i can't see the big deal here…what is wrong with saving money?…this is a stupid thing to be upset about..i would all politicians found ways to save all us money…

the things poepl wish to fuss about…sheesh…

charlotte   April 27th, 2008 10:16 pm ET

Rich people always use the law to jump through loop holes. It is called being smart. Can't blame him for the loop hole

CL   April 27th, 2008 10:17 pm ET

This is a non issue.

charlotte   April 27th, 2008 10:20 pm ET

This will no doubt run for days.. All of these politicains have way more money then most of us do. Well, maybe not more then the Obama-bots.

NObama   April 27th, 2008 10:23 pm ET

Hmmm he used his wife's company plane…Why is this even a story?

Oh it's because Obama needs to deflect attention from his minister talking crap again….

Goodbye Obama!!!

Obama 08   April 27th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

And he's not an elitist? Wow!

-Never McCain

Bayou Joe   April 27th, 2008 10:30 pm ET

Go McCain tell these NY Times Liberals off. They need to ask Obama where his funding is really coming from not how you use your own resources. For those of you who don't know. Arizona is a community property state. It is his property too…and he can do whatever he pleases with.

Dennis   April 27th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

McCain is targeting Obama on economic issues. Must be a small target because Obama's ecomonic policy has little substance and all talk.

Goog luck John, you will need a microscope to study Obama's plans. Better make a copy of his policies because Obama has tendency of changing plans on the fly.

Pete   April 27th, 2008 10:34 pm ET

WOW CNN

thanks for the news.

i'm sure that his using of a non-government plane with non-government funds will have everything to do with the campaign this fall.

great reporting.

FNJ in Pa   April 27th, 2008 10:36 pm ET

HE IS A WAR VET! He can do whatever he wants to!

Whatever John!

Obama 08

clintons out of control   April 27th, 2008 10:37 pm ET

come on CNN and the biased media………..waht about Clinton using a private jet???why none reports on that//
leave Senator McCain alopne, he is honest………………….

why does not CNN focus on what clinton has been doing, all the illegal things?

clintons out of control   April 27th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

whyis cnn not publishing my comments, because I said you are biased and not saying a thing about the clintons using private jets???

leave senator McCain alone, he is at least honest…………….

Mary   April 27th, 2008 10:38 pm ET

Straight talk?

"The Arizona senator DIDN'T ANSWER the part of the reporter's question about whether the use of plane CONTRADICTED McCain's stance on CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM"

lol……..there goes all that "straight talk" out of their own private jet window!!!

Travis   April 27th, 2008 10:39 pm ET

Maybe because he saved some money is why everyone is upset?

Dawn   April 27th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

To wordsseldomsaid:

Agreed. although I am an Obama supporter, this is nothing. Let's keep our eye on the ball, not on non-issues.

GT in CA   April 27th, 2008 10:44 pm ET

The Straight-Talk Express lost another wheel…

Luke Brown, Charleston SC   April 27th, 2008 10:47 pm ET

Hey, how about some fairness here!

Has CNN even tried to find out how much Barack pays when he uses Michele's jet?

Cynthia   April 27th, 2008 10:48 pm ET

And he and Senator Clinton have the nerve to call Senator Obama an elitist. Go figure!

Daniel P. Christopher from New York   April 27th, 2008 10:50 pm ET

I don't see anything illegal, unethical or immoral here. i won't vote for the man but that's for other reasons.

Jim   April 27th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

And with that answer the press will not approach the subject again, just like they dont with his pastor problems, his temper, his stance on torture, taxes………I mean come on he has good BBQ,

David Goldman for OBAMA   April 27th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

MCWARS CAMPAIGN FINANCE REFORM IS HE CAN DO IT,

BUT THE OTHER CANDIDATES CAN'T, IN A NUT SHELL.

THESE TWO ARE JANKIE. HIS WIFE USED OTHER PEOPLES

PRESCRIPTION PILLS, WITH ALL HER MONEY. SHE HAD

TOROBED THE POOR, & GOT AWAY WITH IT.

GOOGLE MCWAR.

Neutral   April 27th, 2008 10:52 pm ET

Obama uses private jet paid for by his campaign donors, McCain uses private owned by his wife and it is LEGAL!

Are you Obama koolaid drinkers envious Cindy McCain is filthy rich?……ROTFLMAO!

Prior to that, McCain uses commercial flight while campaigning.

Use private jet John, that is LEGAL! I am ALL for it!!

JuleS, Chicago   April 27th, 2008 10:53 pm ET

The War Hero apparently puts himself above others in many more ways thasn we will ever know. Between his separately filed tax return and promises to keep our sons and daughters in Iraq forever, and now this, McCain is proving himself to be as much a poltician as those he criticizes.

He's a pathetic figure already and now just bastardizing whatever legacy he might have left, by making this tired gasp for one last moment in the political sun.

Nikole   April 27th, 2008 10:55 pm ET

WJS—You are criticizing Obama b/c people who have NEVER donated to a Presidential campaign before actually want to donate to him? Wow…….you know you're doing well when people start hating on you for no good reason.

Glenn   April 27th, 2008 10:56 pm ET

Yeah, right! McCain is no Mister sqeaky clean.

David in Canada   April 27th, 2008 11:00 pm ET

Release your wifes taxes McCain, this is one example of why this must happen. Also, the public must be sure that there have not been large "favours" that will have to be paid back.

georgia   April 27th, 2008 11:00 pm ET

And Madam Billary is helping him attempt to discredit the candidate
who wants to run an honest campaign.
Voters stay alert & focused. you will see many sleight of hands & smoke screens !!

Gaby   April 27th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

McCain is old politics

Grif   April 27th, 2008 11:04 pm ET

You Begat what you Get.. THis is Not the Beginning of the end, But it's close.. A Melting Pot… Without the Pot..

Umpire   April 27th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

But, didn't McCain help write the law that contained the particular loophole he has taken advantage of? Not every candidate has a spouse who has a jet to lend.

Rational Thinker   April 27th, 2008 11:07 pm ET

I can think of word starting like "hyp" and ending in "crite" to describe JM

Coleman R. Brice, Asbury Park, NJ   April 27th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

Obama's out of touch?

WT   April 27th, 2008 11:09 pm ET

If it was legal and cheaper……BRAVO!!!………..the man is using "good sense". That's the kind of man this country needs to lead it.

Ohio Citizen   April 27th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

It certainly was perfectly legal……and elitist.

Jason from Colorado   April 27th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Hmmm…. and Obama's the elitist?

McCains' Net Worth: 45 mil
Clintons' Net Worth: 41.4 mil
Obamas' Net Worth: 1.3 mil

Am I missing something?

Jason   April 27th, 2008 11:10 pm ET

Wow, it must be a slow day on the McCain campaign trail.

Isn't there some other more interesting incendiary anti-Republican soundbyte the media can play up?

Fly Boy   April 27th, 2008 11:14 pm ET

Good for him. Go ahead and use the plane.

Jonathan   April 27th, 2008 11:16 pm ET

I agree with charlotte.

You cannot blame Senator McCain for saving money. He is a smart man and will be the next President regardless of who the Democrats nominate.

Relevant   April 27th, 2008 11:20 pm ET

This man has no chance of winning the election, no matter who the Democrats choose as their candidate.

Susan   April 27th, 2008 11:22 pm ET

So, is this going to be part of his publicly financed campaign?

More GOP hypocrisy. What's the news here?

John Elite McCain   April 27th, 2008 11:23 pm ET

Wow- once again McCain shows how he is different than everyday people. How can we expect him to see and believe what is important to Americans? One more example of how close he is to corporate america.

DWB   April 27th, 2008 11:23 pm ET

McCain thought no one would catch him flying free on his wife's jet / What else should we know about him . Everyday there is somethin new with McCain . He is not the same person that he was when he ran against Bush in 2000. Why does Cindi always look depressed or angry at McCain ? She does not look like a happy person . Why does she look and dress like the Barbi doll ? Strange

Intelligent In CA For Obama   April 27th, 2008 11:24 pm ET

Mr. McCain please go away and take your wife with you! You and your republican buddy Hillary will NEVER receive the vote of intelligent people who can think for themselves. You are an adulterer and I will NEVER respect you on that basis alone or vote for you!

Unshrub   April 27th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

Maybe it was legal, but it was a loop-hole that allowed McCain to circumvent the law. What about his violation of the campaign financing laws he did violate by first accepting and then rejecting funds for the primary. THAT WAS A VIOLATION OF THE LAW.

Steve   April 27th, 2008 11:25 pm ET

Let's see, John McCain says that Sen. Obama is insensitive to the plight of poor people? His hubris is, at once laughable and pathetic.

Stop playing Wright   April 27th, 2008 11:29 pm ET

Please stop playing Wright. You have to know this is hurting Obama. You have to know this is hurting Democrats. For once, do your usual biased reporting. I would never vote for Obama and even I say.. please stop. It is just so sad.

Mirta   April 27th, 2008 11:30 pm ET

Big deal….it is like using her car.

Hillary or McCain…NOBama!!!!

Carl Sloan   April 27th, 2008 11:31 pm ET

He made these comments at the Biltmore in Miami and he claims that Obama is "out of touch" with ordinary Americans? Oh, the irony is killing me…

Lisa GA   April 27th, 2008 11:35 pm ET

Already scheming? Can't even wait….. MCINSANE… NOOOOOOOOO….

April Campbell   April 27th, 2008 11:38 pm ET

It may be perfectly legal, but it's also perfectly wrong.

Kurt Cusanovich   April 27th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

Okay all you people who say "Good for McCain", if this was Hilary or Obama what would you being saying now?

There's a word for that: "Hypocrite"

Katrina Spivek   April 27th, 2008 11:39 pm ET

I would like to know as McCain "brushes" this off if he will also "brush" off the issues that may or may not arise from his rivals.

Pam   April 27th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

Hmmmm…who's the elitist now?

why worry   April 27th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

thank you cnn

why worry   April 27th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

cnn do you have a $billion suit coming up? Now moderate me all the way

Monica, Texas   April 27th, 2008 11:43 pm ET

WJS-

The only reason McCain has not spent more $$$$ is becasue he has raised less $$$$ than Obama. It's not about honesty it's the number of folks that have contributed to each of their campaign.

why worry   April 27th, 2008 11:44 pm ET

cnn you are without a doubt the worse political network

Undecided in PA   April 27th, 2008 11:46 pm ET

His wife's company plane, that sounds pretty elite and out of touch to me!

s.positive   April 27th, 2008 11:52 pm ET

THIS COUNTRY IS IN TROUBLE IF THIS MAN IS ALLOWED TO THE WHITEHOUSE. GOD FORBID IT…

Jeff   April 27th, 2008 11:56 pm ET

Hey Shaun, refer to the comment above you, only in reverse.

sophia nyc   April 28th, 2008 12:02 am ET

Just retire old man.

Tom, Atlanta   April 28th, 2008 12:03 am ET

Grandpa McCain makes the rules, we have to get used to that.

Pete in Indiana   April 28th, 2008 5:56 am ET

Perfectly ILLEGAL sounds more like it! Shame on you John McCain! SHAME ON YOU! Oh yeah, shame on Hillary too! Why? Just because!

OBAMA '08

BCNU purple state, usa   April 28th, 2008 5:59 am ET

More tabloid info from the Times. Is this what politics has become? Let's smear anyone with a different agenda than ours, dig up any kind of dirt.
Pathetic.

Kerry   April 28th, 2008 6:03 am ET

If Hillary can lend her campaign 5 million bucks with interest, then McCain can use his wifes jet.

close hi lies piehole   April 28th, 2008 6:06 am ET

McCain we are waiting for another senior moment we all know we won't have to wait that long .
Fly that plane back to Arizona and park it .

close hi lies piehole   April 28th, 2008 6:15 am ET

Who is an elitist ? Come on John and fess up then people go figure that statement out with their own jet calling other people elitist perhaps he dont know meaning of elitist or another senior moment " he just forgot they own their own jet" .

Lori   April 28th, 2008 6:15 am ET

Senator McCain used a family vehicle. No one would say a word if that vehicle had been a four-wheeler. Why would anyone take the time to criticize an individual who made the good financial decision to save money by using his family's plane rather than chartering something more expensive. Senator McCain used common sense.

Kimberly in Texas   April 28th, 2008 6:19 am ET

McSame….do as I say, not as I do.
And who is the elitist?

And was is this I hear about Cindy's fondness for painkillers?
Since we able to get in the gutter…Hamas, Wright, and all that BS.

close hi lies piehole   April 28th, 2008 6:19 am ET

What happened to his first wife McCain was cheating on ?
Did Cindy have a face lift with her barbie doll turtle neck outfits ?

Independent_me   April 28th, 2008 6:21 am ET

Well, well,well!
Do as I say, but not as I do! How elitist!
And as he flies around in his wife's private jet he calls Obama "elitist"?
Talk about the pot calling the kettle black!

I still can't believe that I used to be a Republican!

Wayne Messer Orange Park, FL   April 28th, 2008 6:24 am ET

Non-Issue move on.

Ranger7   April 28th, 2008 6:29 am ET

We all know McCain is seedy!! and a follower…wo is not president material..!!

geney   April 28th, 2008 6:35 am ET

Can someone tell me what did McCain has done to have the title of war hero should this title belong to the 40044 who has lost there lives to this usless war

Robb   April 28th, 2008 6:38 am ET

The poor old thing has signs of dementia already. All he's qualified to do is the "help I've fallen and can't get up " commercial.

WisconsinFirst   April 28th, 2008 6:49 am ET

It's legal, get over it!

Nando   April 28th, 2008 6:50 am ET

MCCSHAME!!!!!

Tyler   April 28th, 2008 6:56 am ET

Why should you, just becuase you are a nominee. Have to pay full charter price for a jet. If you or someone close to you owned it why shouldn't you be allowed to use it for the price they set.

Keith   April 28th, 2008 7:14 am ET

Yes, it is all very apparent. A vote for McCain is a vote for the Republican Politburo. Remember the Politburo of the Soviet Union? Party rule is never in freedoms best interest or the peoples best interest.

Mickey, NY   April 28th, 2008 7:21 am ET

Back to your bamboo cage McBush! No soup for you!

Sean   April 28th, 2008 7:27 am ET

It was by the rule idiots. Can people not read on hear? Do you really want a candidate that wastes money?

CWatson   April 28th, 2008 7:31 am ET

The Slppery Talk Express take wings ? At the pace John has been going, he's going to overtake Hillary's lead in flip-flops.

Steve   April 28th, 2008 7:31 am ET

Please, like this is even an issue. Try all you want, liberals, but McCain will be the next president. You guys are doing such an amazing job of self-destructing that the guy doesn't even really have to campaign to beat your candidate come fall.

Ardnuas   April 28th, 2008 7:31 am ET

FIRST he refuse to release his wife's tax returns, and NOW THIS!!!
Voters….. Be SMART he is just like the CLINTONS….. they lie with ease!!! This man will start a WAR with Iran within his first DAY in office

Tom Swift, Shopton USA   April 28th, 2008 7:32 am ET

`

What's the difference between using (and paying for) your wife's company jet… and lending $5,000,000+ to your own campaign ?

None.

Wayne, Greenville TX   April 28th, 2008 7:41 am ET

Let's let the Federal Election Commission decide whether Gramps McCain's use of that jey was legal - however, I suspect that it was not.

Laura   April 28th, 2008 7:44 am ET

Who cares? This is a non-issue.

tom, Boston   April 28th, 2008 7:44 am ET

CNN i dare you to sensor this:

you are the worst, worse than fox that is at least honest about their bias.

your neo-con masters' spin shows all over whatever you say.

Dave   April 28th, 2008 7:47 am ET

Legal doesn't mean it was ethical. McCain is a hypocrite who has always said one thing and done another.

Rupe   April 28th, 2008 7:48 am ET

CNN is digging deep to save their golden child Hussein Obama from the fallout of the (Ir)reverend Wright.

Donald from SC   April 28th, 2008 7:49 am ET

I guess straight talk does not relate to straight walk. This testifies to John McCain's moral values.

Western Voter   April 28th, 2008 8:01 am ET

Reminds me of my mother's old saying, "Do as I say, not as I do!" The reformer proves himself once again to be in need of reform…but hey, why reform when spin will do the trick

James   April 28th, 2008 8:06 am ET

Do you now how many other rich people in this country get away with far worse? This is not even an issue. Next problem.

Ian   April 28th, 2008 8:06 am ET

I'm not feeling the straight talk John.

american   April 28th, 2008 8:09 am ET

stop picking on McCain while you give that black muslun a free ride!!!!!!!!!!!!

Lisa   April 28th, 2008 8:14 am ET

Who cares?

G   April 28th, 2008 8:14 am ET

Oops, "did NOT disclose it as was required by him."

Dan   April 28th, 2008 8:15 am ET

Illegal?….no. Why not save a buck, everybody else would. Including every one making neg. comments and crying about nothing.

william spivey   April 28th, 2008 8:21 am ET

Senility creeps in. Cindi who am I ?

Susan Hendrick   April 28th, 2008 8:22 am ET

Just another reason not to vote for McBush. Some things never change. Perfectly legal and perfectly moral are two different things in my book. Republican$ never do anything immoral until they are caught with their hands in the cookie jar.

Kevin   April 28th, 2008 8:27 am ET

Of course he would not find anything wrong with it……he's a Replblican, coming from the same man who said that inflation is down and employment is up……….geeez, brains do not run a long way on the Republican side…..

Hillary or McCain - NObama!   April 28th, 2008 8:30 am ET

I'm starting to LOVE Reverend Wright - that screeching, jumping nut job is the best thing to happen for Hillary.

Keep bringing him on, CNN - the more the better!

Scott, Newport KY   April 28th, 2008 8:33 am ET

He did something that's perfectly legal. Where's the news here???

Frank Lee   April 28th, 2008 8:36 am ET

Her eyes are burning a hole in him right about now. Creepy.

Tom Huntington,NY   April 28th, 2008 8:36 am ET

He flies around on a private jet and HE calls Obama an elitist ???

Who does he think he is kidding?

DEE in fla   April 28th, 2008 8:36 am ET

Well i have a BIG problem with it////// Wre the people wanted to see CINDY tax returns….but she didnt want to show them because they said that there finances are seperate, so if they are seperate, then they should not be used for CAMPAIGHN reasons…. BILL and MICHELLE both showed their tax returns and displayed them to the american people……even though BILL CLINTIN wont release the names of the donors of the Clinton musem …

HE has to play fair and that is not fair…. IF he wants to use her plain for Campaighn resons, then she needs to expose her tax returns

OBAMA 08

John Starnes Tampa Florida   April 28th, 2008 8:37 am ET

Since he wants to "Bomb bomb Iran" I saw he does it himself using her jet and let our pilots remain safe.

Justme   April 28th, 2008 8:39 am ET

For the so-called american: learn to spell!

There will be no fallout from Rev Wright…"what men (the media and seething racist whites) meant for evil…God has turned to good".

We will see that black christian in the white house come January 09.

John Starnes Tampa Florida   April 28th, 2008 8:39 am ET

Since he wants to "Bomb Bomb Iran" I say he do it himself using her jet and keep our pilots safe.

kell   April 28th, 2008 8:39 am ET

This isnt a good thing. this man will push breaking the law..Do we really want this kind of person running this country? NO!

satya   April 28th, 2008 8:42 am ET

testing

Julie   April 28th, 2008 8:43 am ET

Did CNN outsource its online editing to India? At least the most of the spelling is correct in this one…

Stepehen McDowell, Shippensburg, PA   April 28th, 2008 8:45 am ET

Hey what do you expect! The law only applies to democrats. Republicans are above it. Ask Baby Bush and Chainey. Hell they've been wiping there but on the Constitution for 8 years now.

Mike   April 28th, 2008 8:49 am ET

Way to go McCain. That's the type of president we need, one who will saves on expenses at every level.

Ton de Korte   April 28th, 2008 8:50 am ET

What's would a 72 years old man do in your white house?

You better give him a one way ticket to an old people's home!

JB   April 28th, 2008 8:53 am ET

McCain and Hillary have more experience than Obama…evading ethics violations!

John   April 28th, 2008 8:56 am ET

I'll tell you why the NYT ran the article - its because they are a political rag of a news organization, just look at their track record.

Chuck   April 28th, 2008 8:58 am ET

John McCain and his wife are ordinary people??????

Tom Eyemdaman   April 28th, 2008 8:58 am ET

"Why are some raising questions over it?"

Probably because they can't hang anything else on him. People will be grabbing at any straw they can to try and drag this guy into th