More on the low political state of the Republican Party, with party leaders talking about the need for candidates to distance themselves from Bush. But boilerplate like the following doesn’t bode well for Democrats:

Republican leaders said they were looking to Senator John McCain of Arizona, the likely Republican nominee, as a model whose independent reputation appears to allow him to rise above party in a year when the Republican label seems tarnished.

Advertisement

As even casual readers know, the myth of McCain independence has long been exposed. He’s been an enabler for Bush, particularly on the war, and fallen meekly in line on beloved Republican issues throughout the primary season to pander to the base. But if national media continue to depict him as a different sort of politician, many voters will assume it to be so.

UPDATE: Headline of the day. McCain is now willing to set a withdrawal deadline for Iraq. 2013. Five years from now.

Advertisement

Also, here are 10 issues worth probing on McCain.

Also, a potential 70-seat House deficit for GOP after elections?

Advertisement

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Disorder in the court race Next article Not on Countrywide’s side UPDATE