I cannot believe the things that are being said here about Cindy McCain being above reproach and how a first lady really needs to be perfect. After all she will not be the president and lets take a look at some of the men who have been president. Need I name first Clinton--oh yes he is perfect-- but a perfect what. Then others such as Kennedy, Roosevelt and so on.Even here there is a double standard and it isn't even for the same job. Forget it and get over it. At least she was honest and admitted it instead of saying " well I put the pills in my mouth but didn't swallow. "

Sue, Childersburg, USA, aL.

Cindy McCain stated today that she is proud to be an American. Would Cindy be so proud of her country if her country had prosecuted her and she had gone to jail for illegal drug use? Does Cindy not realize that not everybody in America gets these breaks?

Ann , Bel Air, MD

John and Carol McCain WERE NOT SEPARATED when he began an affair with Cindy- that's the spin they are trying to put out there. According to an interview in which his SON participated, the marriage ended BECAUSE of Cindy. They began their affair in April of 1979. McCain didn't leave Carol until early 1980- securing a divorce in April of that year. He and Cindy were married just six weeks later! I don't know... for a guy running on his integrity.........

Angela, Greenville, SC

Yes! She is human-but as a potential first lady her name as well as her reputation should be above reproach. It's seems that she has neither a good name and her reputation is anything but flawless. It just seems that people today want it all and maybe that too is human-but should we not want more for our children? A first lady that can be admired with a track record of being honest and straight forward-and stealing drugs to support the habit she got into-seems like if your daddy has as much money as is noted that they certainly could have afforded proper medical treatment and support. As far as John McCain is concerned what kind of president would he make if he can't even keep his marriage together let alone keep the vows that he made as a husband? This is all really a sad situation.If America really wants God to heal our land then we need to start in the white house.

judy, West Linn, USA OR

so it has come to this!? another heiress trophy wife , it worked for Kerry all these years, why not McCain? I just did not know he was a gigolo like Kerry who knew?

Barb, Columbus,

Wow, She's Normal. Had problems, You Dont?

jackie, tx, tx

Wow, a real person. That makes a change for American politics, she actually has had a past and admits it.

richard, louth, England

When Mrs. McCain was caught stealing the drugs and she was caught.....the issue went away like it never happened.

And yes some poor smuck who did the same would have paid a much heavier price....I'm sure!

Now it will finally receive a full venting.

Stay tuned!

RM, PHOENIX, ARIZONA

What a poorly written and discombobulated piece. What exactly is the point of this article?

Chris, Arlington, VA, USA

I always find it odd that Americans will post away on a UK blog as if they are in America speaking only to Americans, but to make the claim that America is "the beacon of freedom and the hope of all mankind" without intending to be humourous -- that is truly bizarre.

The hope of all mankind? Seriously? You Americans actually believe that the other 95% of the planet thinks this about your country? That is so very funny and strange.

Joseph, Canada,

Regards Ron Paul being President-they said David could not kill Goliath either-nor Gideon take on their enemies and see them flee for their lives. Believe this piece of factual knowledge-It is God who sets up Kings (Presidents) and it is God who will take them down-the Clintons were a warning to the believers in America to repent and get their act right before God and for those who would remove God's name from America-get this-the God of Israel whom our forefathers really worshipped without using His Hebrew name,will be your enemy-remember Sodom & Gomorah-remember it well. It can happen to this countrey-911 is a wake up call!

William, Holland, MI

I wonder whether an ordinary person - especially a black poor person - would still be serving time for what she did. And from her charity!

roldo bartimole, cleveland heights , usa ohio

Why don't we all calm down... this is an article about the wife of a candidate. It has nothing to do with ending the war. He's a candidate for the republican party. We haven't even had the primary yet and yes, there will be a republican *candidate.

Michelle, Chicago, IL

People have to get over the fantasy that ending the war is the answer to all the U.S.'s ills. It is nonsensical to want to prematurely recall the troops in a spasm of contrition. While the hubris and mistakes made are shocking in their magnitude, compromises with the Iraqi government, and a proportionate withdrawal of our forces are the only tangible proofs left of our earnest desire to get the Iraqis back on their feet.

We have blamed the Iraqis for not trusting us, for looting and destroying their own resources and for boycotting the very democratic instrument meant to replace their former government. They have been slow to change and accept their role in persuading each other, or speaking to each other full stop. It is foolish to believe a whiplash U.S. withdrawal would further engender these talks and changes.

Eliz, Los Angeles

Elizabeth, Monterey Park, U.S./CA

So this woman is not perfect and is not pretending to be. After seeing and hearing Hilary almost elevated to sainthood and Obama hailed as the second coming, its quite refreshing to find there is someone who admits to their own faults. Let's be honest people - if something or someone sounds too good to be true, then it/they usually are.........

Linda, London, England UK

Ron Paul supporters caused a 20 min traffic jam on the I-5 this morning by holding up a massive sign on an overpass.

Three cop cars were also out thee trying to get them to leave. When I finally got through, cops and banner were still out there.

Wasn't planning on voting for Ron Paul anyway, but if i had been, that stunt would have lost him my vote.

D H, Orange County, California

Ron Paul is never going to be president. Deal with it, move on.

Megan, Windham, ME

I am confused. I thought Americans wanted to END The WAR???
Isn't that what the past election showed? Isn't that what the polls showed? A vote for hawkish war-loving McCain will serve to continue the war, add to the 4000 + dead soldiers, add to the million + dead Iraqs, add to the insane deficit, and further alienate us from the rest of the sane world. Is war the answer to our problem? What is being accomplished there? The U.S. is trying to build 14 military bases so we can permanently be there. What is the end goal? I don't think there is an end goal. WHO will end this stupid war? WHO? Many of them are lying to get elected.

c, athens,

Every federal elected official takes the oath to "...preserve, protect and defend the Constitution..." Ron Paul is the ONLY one who stands by that promise. During twenty years in Congress, his every vote has borne that out. Downsizing government, a new tax system, getting feds out of education, healthcare, social security, undeclared wars and a host of other unconstitutional pursuits are issues for today! Just who do you think will perform these tasks without question? Or do you care?

It's Ron Paul for President, or strap on your parachute...it's a long way down in a short time, with any other candidate.

Al Moore, Spartanburg, SC

Flippin heck! You americans do get very right-wing & over eager about everything!

Sense of perspective please people - nothing wrong with abit of restraint.

VB, London, UK

The only true Republican presidential candidate is Ron Paul. If you are uncertain, do some research on him and compare him against the others. He is the only one who truly has America's best interests in mind.

Rachel, Alabama,

It's critical to appreciate the pivotal role that our own border security plays in our "war against terrorism", keeping in mind that "Amnesty" is anathema to border security. A Nation without enforceable borders will not long survive as a Nation. Mitt Romney is exceedingly strong on each of these principles; while his opponent, John McCain, ( who conducted himself like a petulant child in the recent Republican debate ) has proven that illegal immigration is an issue on which he can NOT be trusted. Don't be misled by McCain's "Clintonian-Lies" concerning Romney's record.

Greg Neubeck

Greg Neubeck, Lynn Haven, FL

I will vote for Mitt. I would have preferred Fred but what can you do? If McCain wins the nomination then I will write in Fred in the General. I will not hold my nose and vote for McCain. That will never happen. If the GOP put up McCain then they have decided that the democrats should get to win this one.

I could vote for Huckabee too. I love the FairTax. But I think Romney has a better chance to win.

steve the other, Tulsa, OK

At least when you have a choice of leader you have some control over whose 'grudge list' will be activated. In the UK, where leaders are appointed by a small number of dependents and cronies in the Government, we have a PM who has a grudge against the rest of humankind.

Frank Upton, Solihull,

McCain will not get my vote. McCain or a Democrat, what's the difference? Since he would both damage our country and our party for years to come, I'll vote for the Democrat. Rather they get all the blame since they have never gotten it right anyway. He does, however, have a pretty wife, although he dumped his crippled first wife for this one. I guess it helps when you're trying to advance your political aspirations. Caught red handed being a liberal.

Mike Taylor, Palm Bay, Florida

Your article's title is quite misleading. The McCain's resenting Bush's people smearing their very young daughter is something any parent would feel.

His first marriage fell apart from the strains of his having been a prisoner of war and tortured for five years. That is hardly his fault or Cindy's fault. They have been married for decades now, so it's hardly like he is jumping in and out of marriages.

One thing John McCain is is honest. It's been about twenty years since the US had an honest President, so I hope he wins the Presidency, and I'm a Democrat.

p.s. I've about had it with the jealous snarkiness of the British.

janet, Boston,

I'm voting for Paul because Mitt is for an unconstitutional same-sex marriage amendment having spearheaded the effort in Massachusetts despite what people in the U.S. think.

Huckabee and McCain are both globalists that seek a North American Union merger similar in fashion to the EU which has crippled the economy and pride of Europe, driven up the cost of living, all but killed the sovereignty of European countries, etc.

Paul is the only conservative left in the race, besides Alan Keyes, that seeks to reduce the size of the Federal Government, promote the rights of States, reduce spending, cut taxes, promote a strong national defense, secure the border, and adopt a non-interventionist foreign policy that protects the sovereignty of other nations in the same right as the United States.

George, Houston, Texas

What part of "we want to end the war in Iraq" don't these politicians understand? Obama, Clinton, McCain all have one thing in common - they're all funded by AIPAC, which means NOTHING WILL CHANGE.

Josh, New York,

ent (Athiest from Urbana, who's praying that McCon(sic) doesn't get the nomination).......who are you praying to?

Ann, Fergus Falls, MN,

I'm an atheist but I'm praying that McCon doesn't get the nomination. Conservatives, you must pick Romney. A vote for Huckabee is a vote for McCon!

ent, Urbana, Illinois

IF MCCAIN WINS WRTIE-IN MITT ROMNEY (General Election)...
If you have any integrity you will never vote for McCain or a Democrat…
Wait a minute… They are one-in-the-same…
I always vote for myself rather than vote for McCain or a Democrat...

James Butler, Mesa, AZ

I will be voting for Mitt! McCain is not a conservative. He is WRONG on lots of issues!

Beth, Vallejo, CA

It took four of the WORST economic years with Jimmy Carter as President to get eight of Ronald Reagan. So I say if the Democrats win with Obama...bring it on! I would rather the country see a democrat in action and FAIL (ie. BIG gov't, more taxes,socialized medicine,...) What a joke the Democratic party has become!

I guess we forget history and why America was established--to escape the monarchies of Europe and outrageous taxes! It's okay America has monarchies like the Kennedy's or Clinton's--all laws of socialism apply to the peons except the elite! Taxation on savings and earnings should be abolished. Get rid of the IRS. The Boston Tea Party was a fight over a half percent tax! Luckily they didn't have nukes back then or civialization would be gone!!!

Kelly B., Denver, Colorado

If McCain gets the nomination of the Republican Party, voters will have the choice of choosing between Vladimir Lenin (Hillary Clinton) or Joseph Stalin (John McCain) as our President. When Fred Thompson pulled out of the race, Conservatism in the Republican Party died. We now have a socialistic republic with both parties turning to socialism as their main platform.

David Tucker, Powell, United States/Tennessee

Had enough of "elected" officials that can not give a srtaight answer to a straight question and drip with excuses for why things can not and have not been fixed. I Do Not agree with his views or opinions. I want America First, Safer, and dare I say represented by more stable, mature, honest citizens. Say NO to McCain.

Kathy, Sierra Vista, AZ

A grudge list?? How utterly Clintonian...maybe there IS NO difference between the McCains and the Clintons afterall.

Lauraine, Brier, WA

McCain is so yesterday.

Ron Paul is a far more decent man, clearer headed and more principled, Oh and he only married once 51 years ago.

Did you know he could run a 9.8 100 yard dash in his day?
Yes, Ron Paul also helped 4000 babies come into this world.

Save the constitution from the banker financed money thieves, VOTE RON PAUL 2008

Carl Schattke, Campbell,, California

I am a conservative demo that usually votes for a republican in the presidential races. NEVER will vote for McCain. illegal immirants are ruining cities across the midwest. THEY MUST GO. McCain is out of touch.

kathleen, davenport, iowa

J Wesley - before criticizing people's grammar, pay attention to your own. You said "your" but you should have said "you're".

Graham, Santa Barbara, CA

Flaws...a lot of FLAWS for them both - husband and wife.
I will never vote for McCain.

Patricia, Ft Lauderdale, Florida

Romney has my vote

F heckenberg, cleveland, Ohio USA

Ron Paul is Americas only hope. Someone who actually adhears to the constitution.

Bobby Hall, Newark, NJ

Mr. McCain is the weakest Republican frontrunner since Mr. Bob Dole. He doesn't have a chance against Obama. Hillary is so flawed Mr. McCain has a good chance against her. I can't see how the Democrats could possibly pick Hillary... but I hope they do. Many Republicans are going to sit this one out since no candidate has represented us since before President Bush.

Cranston Snord, San Francisco, CA

What's the redican right?

Pablo, Atlanta

Paul Neuman, Atlanta, GA

Biggest problem with the Democrats is that they see things through a Clinton 'prism'. Which is worse? Oh and if you want to reference Naval ranks it is notated "LTJG".

Matt, San Diego,

McCain is not a conservative and represents the country club wing of the GOP who also hated Reagan. Illegal immigration is a huge issue in America and McCain is is pro amnesty. We will vote for Mitt.

Lance Hinek, Bishop, CA

The last conservative in the field is the one that the media and Washington elite are ignoring. Ron Paul is the most consistent Constitutionalist still in the running. Don't let the media choose your President for you.

Peter Scheer Jr, Hurricane , WV

McCain's poor-me victim act does not work with me. Stand straight and talk to us like a human being---not like a wannabe general.

Brian Androw, chicago, Il.

Mitt Romney is our only hope to maintain credibility, tact and class in the White House.

Lauren , Manchester, NH,

We would not vote for McCain if he were the only Republican running. We are in our 70's, have been Republicans all our lives. We are not church-goers and McCain is the worst possible person to be president.
The Republican party in Washington state is really a mess, they do not reflect the majority of Republicans whatsoever.

Vivian & Wallace Fox, Vancouver, Washington, USA

Firstly, use spell check before posting and just because you have an opinion doesn't mean you know what your talking about. That's one of our biggest problems today. For too long, people have been told to speak their minds - and their minds are not much speak about. Less talk, more thought.

J. Wesley, Emmitsburg, MD

i dont like ANY of the candidates of either party. and i will not hold my nose and vote for hillary clinton. i had enough of them back in the 1990's and dont want another 4 or 8 years watching bill's sexploits on tv every night.

madeline, shelby, nc

To Ged Bryant...
If you leave your Presidential vote a blank space, you are giving your vote to the democrat candidate...ANYBODY, even McCain is better than Hilary or Obama...If he only does 20% of what he says he will do, that is better than ANY Democrat.

Gerri Costa, Sr., Sequim, Washington

Hey Biffula in Forth Worth- who took the budget surplus and flushed it- the Dems or the GOP? But for some reason, you think the Dems spend money like drunken sailors. Wake up already- the GOP is wrecking the country.

erik, NEW YORK,

Vote for Mitt Romney!
Tom G. Statesville,Nc.

Tom G., Stetsville, North Carolina

So who is on her grudge list? I was expecting a whole bunch of embarrassing revelations. The story doesn't deliver the goods, as we say.

Pity.

Peter Tatiner, Highland Park, USA/NJ

Reading all these comments reminds me why I am happy to be a Democrat and proves just how ridiculous and petty the Republcan party is. You all have no one but yourselves to blame- you gladly voted for GWB not once, but twice. Now look where that's gotten you- you can't even stand the frontrunner for your nomination. Sad.

Joe, Washington, DC

I put all blame on the Huckster for all the anguish Republicans are feeling. If that intellectual joke telling lightweight would bow out before Super Tuesday, most of his votes would go to Romney and we'd at least have someone that wouldn't "reach across the aisle" and give the store away.

Steve, Cambridge, MA

I agree with Patrick B. I am a lifelong republican and if McCain gets the nomination it will be the first time since I was 21 that I didn't vote for president (I am 66). Under NO circumstances will I vote for McCain.

James D. Arthurs, Anacortes, U.S.A./Washington

History shows Reagan ran like a little girl when the going got tough.
Osama says that's the day he found out America would run from a fight.

Wil Burns, Mentor, Ohio

Does anyone remember that the CLintons stuck with Jimmy Carter, and did NOT endorse Ted Kennedy in the early '80s, when Teddy decided to run for President? Any one doubt that Teddy has been holding a grudgre all this time?

mn, sacramento, ca/usa

Between Reagan and George W., there have been 4 recessions and the 2 biggest stock market crashes since the depression. Please America don't let the Republicans near the Federal budget ever again. They have balanced it twice in 28 years since Nixon. Republicans are incompetant.

Nathan, Melbourne,

Obama will make a good Vice president , but never a president. I like the guy, I will vote for him for the sake of the democratic party, because McCaine is same old, same old Bush.I had some respect for McCaine , but now that he wants to satisfy the radican right just to make to the White House he is same old same old McCaine, a shister that wants to win at any prize. At least Obama will listen to the people when he is in the White House. Hillary Clinton should get the nomination and be president of this great country. She has to stuff to be truly president. But Americans never voted for the person that truly is qualified but they vote for the image.

dora_rice, killeen, TX

If he says "My Friends" once more - my chair goes through the TV!!

missmarple, San Diego, California

The only way out for the USA is Obama!

felix, NYC,

If McCain, is elected president, were going to have four years of this guy talking down to the american people. He figures he's right and everyone else is wrong.
He acts like a typical arrogrant Lt. JG, who wants to fight everyone who doesn't agree with him. His main goal in life is to get even in his mind at any expense. He is a suto-warrior. We don't need to revert back into the 1970's, that is his history.
McCain, should stay in the senate if thats what the people of Arizona want, or retire and enjoy his family and life.

swede, adrian,

The biggest problem with the Republican party is that they all seem to see everything through the Reagan prisim.This is understandable given his ressurecting a floundering party as well as a disenchanted nation.The problem is this,there hasn't been a Reagan in the Republican party running for President since REAGAN.True that McCain is no Reagan but then neither was Bush 41 or 43. Bush 43 certainly cut taxes but then stood by and allowed a Republican Congress to spend like drunken Democrats without so much as one veto. That said,would Gore or Kerry hev been better? True that McCain didn't support the all of the tax cuts,but he support Reagans idea of limits on spending.Romney is certainly saying the right things but his record is hardly conservative.Even if you think there's no difference between McCain and Dem's on domestic policy it's undeniable that he is the most equipt to deal with foreign policy and the war. If we lose this war, economic issues will mean nothing.

David Arnold, Upland, CA

After watching the choices to me there is but, one, Mitt. Hope others and enough have the wisdom to choose him.

Walton W. , Denham Springs, Louisiana

I ushered the Detroit Cobo Hall for Eisenhower, Went door to door in Minnesota snow for Goldwater, was a Young Minnesota Republican for Nixon. I do not vote for Democrats, including Pennsylvania Arlan Specter.
John McCain is a Democrat dressed up in elephant ears.
I will leave the President vote a blank space.

Ged Bryant, Hermitage, Pennsylvania

No way I vote for that guy. I've said all along that he's a liberal in Republican clothing (not that there's much difference in modern times, the Reps spend our money like drunken sailors as well). I'll vote for whoever the libertarians put up. I will never vote for a Dem or a lib like McCain. What are you people in these states that have already had primaries thinking voting for this guy?

Biffula, Fort Worth,

John McCain has had a malignant melanoma, about as serious a cancer as there is. He has had a recurrence. I don't think this unfortunate fact should necessarily be his downfall in his quest for the presidency but it isn't even mentioned in the press. If he's the candidate - his vice president - should cetainly be given serious consideration.

Perhaps people who can afford experimental cancer treatment can be cured or the malignancy held at bay for a longer period of time. I hope Mr. McCain is one of those people.

Catherine Cate, Brunswick, USA /GA

I agree with Ted from Ohio, we have to hold our nose and vote for McCain, but we have to hold his feet to the fire. He better not think that we will stand for an amnesty bill supported by him or some namby, pamby global warming bill.

I put my money on Obama, as the number one liberal in the Senate he is still able to get republicans to come along and, let him try to srew up the Presidency. They will forever blame the black guy. I don't think he will do it.

Sandy, Bedminster, NJ USA

Bush has done grave damage to the country and to the party. Taft, another left wing Republican, former Guv in Ohio, did the same. McCain, like Dole, is the next in line and is even further to the left, his ACU rating notwithstanding, than Bush or Taft, and we are supposed to fall all over ourselves to elect another faux Republican.

Sam Francis was right. The GOP is the stupid party.

Richard L. Hardison, Waynesville, NC,

I am a republican andI will not be one of those that will just "fall in line". Mccain will not have my vote. Why give your mugger a knife?

Patrick B, coral springs, FL

Finally a bit of negative press for Senator McCain. Once he is the nominee, most people will discover much more that they were not reminded of during the primary season. Not least among them will be reminding folks of his involvement in the savings and loan fiasco in the 80's known as the "Keating Five" (of which he was a prominent member).

An unknown portion of conservative voters (of which I am one) will never vote for Senator McCain. That unknown portion will be enough for Senator Clinton to win.... and it will be Senator Clinton. All the hoopla by the press trying to display the Democrat primaries as a contest are nothing more than trying to generate news go gain readers/viewers.

Has it happened before? Well now, let me see. Do the names Gerald Ford or George H. W. Bush (after he departed RWRs conservative path) or Bob Dole ring a bell? Carter barely won and Clinton didn't get 50% of the vote either time. A few years of pain lie ahead for Republicans.

Jim, Cape Coral, Florida, USA

John McCain is not a conservative. He may call himself a Republican. He can refer to himself in any terms he likes. I look at his record. No conservative would ever vote the way he has. Our only hope is that Newt would get in the race. And that is only wishful thinking on my part. So we must support Mitt. And it has nothing to do with the "best first lady" crap. Although how a person lives their personal life does have telling marks on what they will do in their professional or this case political life. If any of these three, Barak, Hillary or John get elected we will all be witness to the time that historians will say was the defining moment in the decline and ultimate downfall of this great country, the beacon of freedom and the hope of all mankind.

Viet Nam Vet, GENESEO, Il.

I'm very confused as to the american interpretation of the word 'liberal'. Is it a derogatory word to imply naivete? Such as, 'the boy was too liberal to understand the problems of modern society'?

I am not a liberal, far from it, but I recognise that there are some great qualities to liberal philosophy. So why do we bastardise the word and make it synonymous with immigrants fornicating in the aisles, instead on focusing on what it means for individual liberty, freedom of speech, individual property and so on?

The word is being used as a 'label' rather than a 'philosophy' - all you have to do is attach the label of liberal to any candidate and you ensure he loses the support of a large swathe of american voters. Hence, the rush here to call McCain a liberal, even though his record suggests a strong affiliation with american conservatism - pro-life, private social security, capital punishment etc.

We could do worse than John.

Des, Dublin,

If we consider, and list, flaws of potential presidential spouses, what about Michelle Obama? And just for pure entertainment value, what about Bubba?

CausticCommoner, Brandon, MS/USA

Does anyone remember the fact that John McCain was thinking of running for Vice President in John Kerry's campaign for President.

Don't forget about McCain/Feingold, McCain/Kennedy, McCain/Lieberman, a no vote to reduce taxes and many more liberal viewpoints. This man is no conservative and will not get my vote!!!!!

Les Hoffman, Newton, KS

As far as the 2000 SC primary goes, the L.A. Times did a lengthy investigation and could find no proof that the alleged calls were ever made. Sounds like another McCain lie.

Vote conservative; vote Romney.

dawn, Montague, New Jersey, U.S.A.

Andrea, McCain is not running against Bush. Romney is the other choice, and we can trust him a lot more than McCain. Remember that Bush ran as a Moderate?

M, Coastal, NC

McCain is a war hero. He is also a temperamental man with his own "grudge list" and no overwhelming sense of loyalty - not to his first wife, not to his party and (considering some of his legislation) not to his countrymen and women. It is possible to act heroically in one circumstance and yet not be fit for another responsibility - and you gotta wonder - why are multiple marriages, dumping your sick wife and abusing drugs a huge issue when it's Rudy or Newt or Rush, but slipped under the carpet when it's the McCain family?

B. Linton, Burlington Co, NJ

The dilemma is: Can McCain be trusted to appoint conservative judges? He can't be trusted on any other matter. No, my conscience tells me 'NOT McCain." He would have to repudiate his own positions on taxes, the border and immigration, and his general canoodling with the likes of Kennedy, Feingold, and the Left.

pokenhorn, flint, mi, USA

It amazes me how many Republicans are so emotional in their outburst against John McCain. Hey folks, aren't the Dems the ones who make their political choices based on emotion. I posit that the Repubs would have been better off if McCain had been elected in 2000.
1) He would have fought Iraq but have brought more troops in at the beginning - This may not have shortened the war but it would have stopped the looting which hardened many hearts against the Americans at first
2) He would have fought against earmarks and not been afraid to use the veto. You would not have seen runaway spending under a McCain administration - that's one of the conservative principals he follows. Remember when fiscal constraint was a conservative policy. The voters did.
Finally, we all hate McCain-Feingold and McCain-Kennedy, but what about our spendthrift President Bush? Didn't he sign campaign Finance? Didn't he support and ask for Shamnesty? Why do we like Bush and hate McCain - beats me

Andrea Rotondo, Farmington, Connecticut

The Power and the Glory! Well I suppose sometimes it doesn't hurt to have a "whisky President" or a flawed first Lady. Get it all out in the open. I still think however that the Dream Ticket for the Republicans would have been someone of the Reagan pedigree - Bonzo III - who we know was the architect behind the subprime fiasco. Still for what it is worth, if it has to be Republican, McCain is the man. My money is with Mrs Clinton.

Stephen Pain, Odense, Denmark

***Republicans, do not cut off your nose to spite your face***???

Sorry, but we don't vote for someone because "he's a republican". We vote because of his (or her) beliefs. They must be conservative viewpoints, or they're wrong. John McCain is waaaayyyy wrong.

Hal McCombs, Jasper, Alabama, USA

Adults make choices from the options life offers, then work to make sure the options are better next time a seleciton must be made.

Not many grownups here, it seems.

If McCain is the nominee, conservative Americans will be asked to decide whether they prefer 4 to 8 years of Supreme Court and other Federal judicial appointments by him or Hillary Clinton.

Any questions?

Ted, Akron, Ohio, USA

It's now becoming clear just how afraid you liberals are of McCain. Now he gets my vote.

Duncan Renaldo, Seattle, Washington

After the nasty smear campaign by the Bush machine in the 2000 SC primary, Senator McCain probably paraphrased Gov. George Wallace,

"I was out-bushed
and I will never be out-bushed again."

Turn the clock forward to 2007, and McCain was opposed by a handsome version of Danny Devito's character, Larry le liquidateur, in Other People's Money, of a Wall Street type who tries to take over a small New England company.

McCain discovers that the same Bush machine has adopted Mitt le liquidateur as their surrogate and has the support of talk radio.

Moderates are sick and tired of the Bush machine and talk radio. The only way to beat the Bush machine (or Clinton machine) is to go for the jugular.

Andy, Tampa, Florida,

So the headline claims Cindy has a grudge list.

I read the article - am I missing something? Where is that grudge list? What - I guess we are supposed to assume she indeed keeps grudges and is anxious to get even with her perceived enemies. She just keeps the list close to her vest, right?

kpryan, MtHood, OR USA

"Acknowledging that McCain had made many enemies in Republican ranks.. [t]he only person my husband can trust is me.”

Wow. A paranoid figure is McCain. A quality common to all horrific leaders. Co-dependency too? He cannot possibly trust his own judgement.

I give up
:headdesk:

Brian Androw, chicago, Il.

She willnever be first lady because her husband is a Democrat and he will not be elected. he rhusband has sold the 1st Amendment down the river with his McCain/Feingold Bill and he aslo was selling the nations sovereighnty down the river with his McCain/Kennedy amnesty bill. He is bought asnd paid for by the elite who control this country.

Peter Courtenay Stephens , Hayes, Virginia

Ok, John McCain has a younger and attractive wife, good for him. Ok, she was taking pain killers at one time and became addicted to them. Lots of Americans have been that route and can relate to it. She cleaned up her act and I haven't heard anyone say she is currently taking drugs, so give the woman a break. She is a businesswoman and can relate to the kind of problems many businesses are experiencing. This is good. My gut feeling is that she will be twice the "First Lady" that Hillary Clinton was in that position. Since the traditional Republican establishment is not enthused by McCain's success, she is correct in the statement on trust. Winning them over will be a major task for McCain if he is elected and he may have less trouble from the Democrats. His choice of Vice President will be critical to his success. A McCain/Romney ticket would be hard to beat. Should be an interesting process to watch?

Dr. Patrick Rodgers, Irvine, CA

ndy does not have to worry. McCainiac will never be elected President. He can go back to being the backstabbing RINO in the Senate like he has been for years. He is just a vindictive, mentally instable old man unfit to be Senator, much less President

Jack, Bogalusa, La

I appreciated the opportunity to read your article on Cindy McCain.

The last few weeks I have wondered why we were not hearing from Cindy. If her husband becomes the President she will be First Lady of the Land. How that could happen in this day and age without the public hearing from her or about her seems strange. I look forward to learning more.

Thanks!

Karla Bruen, Pleasanton, CA

I started reading this as a "slam". However, political considerations aside, I would have no problems accepting her as a "First Lady".

Mike Farrell, Cagayan de Oro, Philippines

Whatever failings Cindy had over the theft of pain killers, is completely wiped away by her decision to adopt that girl from Mother Teresa's orphanage. That to me shows real character. I think she'd make a great first lady.

Ciaran Ryan, Brisbane, Australia, QLD

McCain can't win, that's why the dems want him so bad. Not a dime's worth of difference between Obama, Clinton and McCain. So that leaves Romney.

Dianne M, Arroyo Grande, CA USA

McCain accused Bush of the "illegitimate black child" smear of phone calls, and continued to do so even after Bush refuted this claim and opened all his records of calls to McCain to look at. That's the kind of Republican nominee horror show we are likely to get!

Lisa, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.

Ms. McCain seems to be a very loyal and supportive spouse. Anyone would be proud of her and her accomplishments. Until we walk in other people's sandals it's best not to pre-judge. I wish Mr. and Mrs. McCain the best, either as President or as Senator. There is no success without sacrifice in life--it's never as great as it seems. I wish them well.

Peter Tharp, Millbrook,

Interesting that the liberal US mainstream media have not brought any of this up about liberal John McCain while the same time they were railing about Guiliani's marital/family issues.

Grundoon, Michigan, US

I respect John McCain's service to the country... I was a big supporter of his in 2000, but not any longer. The straight talker is gone, and he's a shell of the man he once was. Now he's just a politician to me. He's right when he says that Washington changed him. I don't recognize the Senator that I once loved. I see a man who is no longer his own.

Jerry M, Minidoka, ID

Why should I as a Conservative Republican vote for John "Liberal" McCain?

I WON"T. Not even if he is the GOP Nomination! Period.

If a liberal is going to take control of the White House, I"ll be darned if I elect a liberal "republican" to do the same type of damage a liberal democrat will do.

Sorry "McAmnesty" no vote from me!

Josh, Kansas City, Missouri

Who really cares about John McCain and the Republicans. The Democrats have this one nailed.

Bruce, Hendersonville, NC

Frankly, Mrs. Romney would make a much better First Lady - she didn't do the drug scene, isn't into making a fashion statement and really seems more genuine and doesn't seek the paparazzi.

ezryder, Denver, CO

John McCain is a democrat in republican clothing. If that wasn't enough, he's surly and arrogant. He looked like an ass in that California debate. Mitt Romney is more than qualified to be President and he's a class act to boot. I'll never ever vote for John McCain!!!!!!!

Meg, atlanta, goergia

Have Your Say

What, and end up on her grudge list? Not on your life

Big Ed, Pensacola, FL

Mr. McCain - you could have been a near perfect candidate but your liberal mind set will not allow you to bring our party together. You cannot be trusted because you have not earned that capacity. Sad for me and for our country. We are in for a difficult four years.

I've prayed for God's intervention which would allow President Bush to serve another term in office.

Mark A. Haskins, Lincoln, ne

Wow. She overcame severe drug addiction, survived a stroke and saved a little girl with a birth defects from a Third World orphanage. I wish more people were as "flawed" as Cindy McCain.

Tom Jank, Los Angeles, California, USA

How come so many of our politicians have so much bagage?

Pete, Duncan,

What exactly did John McCain do for our country? It wasn't during the Vietnam War! What did he do for our country during the Vietnam War? Who's life did he save in that war?

What honor is there is lying so disgustingly about his record? His friends are Kennedy and other liberals. His record over the last 10 years is almost purely liberal for the critical issues.

He was disgusting during the last debate. While Romney made convincing arguments and brought 'proof' about the so called timetables...McCain viciously slipped in snide comments afterwards in the debate. The talk about being Reagan's 'foot soldier' made me sick. I'm sure President Reagan would be sick about him as well.

Why is it that McCain wants to give all unscreened illegal Mexicans amnesty? Unscreened for disease, for criminal history. Their benefit to US society is highly unweighed by the costs and the crimes they create by a ratio of more than 10 to 1.

Dennis, Dallas, TX

Whatever: you have to give this great lady credit. We have seen her on Fox News every day of the campaign, sometimes fighting to keep her eyes open. She is an asset, and still beautiful!

John Carty, Medellin, Colombia

Anyone who participates in a rodeo in any manner or fashion is not compassionate (or smart) enough to hold such a position of power as "First" Lady.
McCain just lost my vote, after learning that his wife was a "rodeo queen." Give me a break...

Susan, Orange County, CA

I don't care if his opponent wears boxers or panties. NO ONE is qualified to stand on the podium with John McCain. His positions that cause the far right to dislike him are the same positions that attract him to the far larger group of moderate Republicans and Democrats. The man is electable. I know two Democrats who say they hope JM is not the Republican candidate because then they would have to vote for him. How many Democrats have you heard say that about any Republican?? Republicans, do not cut off your nose to spite your face.

Bruce M. Prior, Tucson, AZ

McCain is the only Rep. who could win after these years of sleazy Republican shenannigans. I voted for GW the first time, I was fooled by him. I agree with the GOP on most social issues, but they have become the party of the rich. Never once during these debates have they mentioned helping the working poor. It is all about tax breaks and more tax breaks.Maybe the Dems. wont do anything about the corruption and all the lobbyists either but at least they acknowlege it. My problem with McCain is that he flipped on the tax cut for the rich. He had it right the first vote.

P. Strand, Hampton, IA

He is definitely not fit to be the President
Romney is the best choice

R.Neely, Casco, MI

This is part of the damning thing about this campaign. McCain's personal life is a mess. I don't respect how he dumped his first wife for this model. Romney's family looks perfect. Yet McCain has the better pro-family record. Isn't there anyone who can be both?

Steve, Boston, MA

I'm in the republican ranks and none of these things ar related to the fact that I will never vote for John Mcain.

Arthur Johns, Elsie, mi

Frankly, I have always thought it would be best if the UK would stay out of this country's business.

Jack Murphy, Jacksonville, USA / Florida

Wow. Thanks for your honesty. Now I am positive I don't want Cindy McCain as the First Lady. Unimpressive to say the least. I don't mean to be heartless, but all of the "mistakes" she has made were "used' against her in 2002. Sounds like straight talk is a bad idea.
I'd rather have Bill as First Lady in the WH.

Eric, Mesa, Arizona

An angry president and first lady will ruin this country.

mary doubrava, bedford, tx

Dear Mrs. McCain,
Please add me to you grudge list forethwith. I am a long time Republican supporter who absolutely agrees with Ann Coulter.

I may not be able to bring myself to actually cast a vote in favor of any Democrat, but I sincerely believe that John McCain, as president, would do far worse damage to this country in the long term than any Democratic presidential candidate.

At least with a Democrat, we would have an opportunity correct the mistake in four years.

Kelly, Austin, Texas

I love John McCain. What he did for our country and the way he is running his campaingn is honorable. What he does in the bedroom and with who is not my business. As it was also not my business what capacity Bush served in the military. I'm voting John McCain as my next president. And I'm speaking to everyone I know as to why John McCain should be our next president. So far I'm gotton 100 people to agree with me and I'm still talking and still counting. I will stand by this man who is in love with America. He will protect her and I need someone to make me feel safe.

Paula, Pflugerville, USA

Really could care less about his personal life, the fact that he's actually a LIBERAL does. So sorry John no vote from me.

Dick Sicario, Las Vegas, NV.,

So, what's the point of the story? Who's on Cindy's hit list?

Benny Hanna, Chicago,