[cnn-photo-caption image= http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/04/05/art.mccain.mav.gi.jpg caption ="In an interview with Newsweek, John McCain said he doesn't consider himself a maverick."](CNN) - Play word association with the name "John McCain" and "maverick" is certain to pop up.
After all, McCain's presidential campaign repeatedly dubbed the Arizona Republican "the original maverick" and late last month McCain's former running mate, Sarah Palin, urged a crowd in Tucson to "send the maverick back to the Senate!"
But there's only one problem: McCain, who faces a difficult primary challenge from the right, says he's no maverick.
"I never considered myself a maverick," the senator told Newsweek this week. "I consider myself a person who serves the people of Arizona to the best of his abilities."
McCain faces a primary challenge from former Rep. J.D. Hayworth and has come under criticism for being too moderate on a variety of issues, including immigration. Several leading Tea Party activists in Arizona have decided not to endorse McCain or Hayworth, criticizing both of their records while serving in Congress.
Palin, who remains popular with the conservative voters McCain is hoping to court, campaigned with the Arizona senator last month. It was the first time the two appeared publicly since their 2008 bid for the White House came to an end.
Following Palin's recent appearance for McCain, the senator's campaign released a 90-second video of the two .
Liberals don't get it he can be both Maverick or Not. One thing the man has stature and has always stood by what he believed in unlike our puppet President. His strings are controlled by Reid and Pelosme.
He probably can't remember what he had for breakfast!
You've served you country well, Senator McCain. Now it's time to retire.
This is a joke right? We'll miss the oldl McCain. Without the Maverick all it is left is a caricature of what he was. Even if he wins and keeps his seat in the senate he will be a bad joke walking around. I wonder if the Arizona people are willing to have such a caricature represeting their state. He is damaging his legacy as much as when he chose Palin. Poor guy.
So he, too, is a liar.
Time for the pasture!!
Flip-Flop. He's a privileged rich boy who will say anything to retain his life of privilege in the US Senate.
John McCain will say or do anything to save his own hide...it's that simple.
It's one thing to sincerely admit you were wrong–it's true! You aren't a maverick and never were. It's just plain stupid to deny the persona you showcased for the better part of two years.
It's another beautiful example from the republican party that reality doesn't matter.. what's in the past doesn't really exist, even if it's caught on film numerous times.
McCain gives seniors a bad name.Just go away.
1. "I never considered myself a maverick." I agree with that. Never thought you were one either.
2. "I consider myself a person who serves the people of Arizona to the best of his abilities." Good and I am glad that you are working on serving them again because you are not qualified to serve the whole country.
By the way, aren't you the same guy who in 2008 said you are great at bipartisanship and now are saying that you are out to stop Obama and the Dems? Aren't you the same guy who thinks the government health insurance is good enough for you, but not the American people?
Hows that "Hopey, changy, kinda thing workin for ya! Dontchaya know! You betcha! Please retire!
So the Geezer is flip-flopping again (imagine what he would have been like had he ever made it to the white house) and the Dingbat is about as clueless as she's always been about it. Figures. Dizzy loozers.
The one and only Maverick is the very handsome James Garner.
Politicians = Say whatever to get elected
Geez John.....I rarely agree with your politics but I used to respect you as a person and patriot. Now you twist your views almost daily to match the prevailing wind. It's revolting. Instead of selling your soul, why don't you just retire?
WOW it may just be time for McCain to retire
Flip flopping like a freshly gaffed yellowfin tuna on a long range fishing boat. Come on John, be a man. Just a year and a half ago you and your hillbilly sidekick were "two mavericks" being all mavericky and stuff together.
wow...What a snake! He will say anything to get elected.
mccain should retire to one of his 7 homes if he can remember where they are
It's sad when people get old and forgetful, my heart goes out to his family.
I was saddened at McCain's apparent encroaching senility as evidenced by his selection of Palin as a running mate. At least I HOPE it's senility – because otherwise he's just another amoral politician. I always respected him (I am a Democrat) and this really bothers me.
RRRIIIGHT.....sure you don't...those are some pretty neat flip-flops you've got on there John.
The more he associates with Sarah Palin, the more trouble he seems to get into...
As Ronald Reagan would say, "Here we go again!"
It seems John McCain can't keep his stories straight or anything else to get reelected. What else is he going to reverse himself on?
If this a sign of indecision, flip-flopping, or signs of dimentia????
What's going on with all these Republicans running from their records, previous positions, and self-endorsed characterizations? It was great news feed for 2008, What happened in two years??
If John McCain doesn't get re-elected, then J.D. Hayworth will likely win, unless a moderate Democrat gets into this race.
If J.D. wins, you'll see crazy. This guy is an idiot.
On the up-side, Sen. J.D. will make Sen. Kyl look reasonable and well-thought-out.
Phoenix, AZ