AP: “McCain defends reaction to Clinton jab”
The AP on Wednesday ran the following story on Senator McCain’s response to the issue of Hillary-at-Hilton-Head… here are quotes:
When asked whether he thought the woman’s comment was funny, McCain said he reacted that way because he wanted to move on.
“I can’t dictate what other people say — that’s not my business,” he said. “Nor is it an appropriate role for me to play in a gathering at a restaurant, and if anybody thinks that I should, then I think they have the wrong idea of what gatherings are all about.”…
McCain said if the American people watch the entire exchange posted online between him and the woman, he’s sure that would be good enough for them, “even if it’s not good enough for CNN.”
McCain’s South Carolina campaign manager, Buzz Jacobs, said in a statement that Sanchez’ comments reflect poorly on him and on CNN.
Hours later, the McCain campaign was using the controversy to raise money for his candidacy.
Campaign manager Rick Davis e-mailed supporters, saying, “We are asking you to help us fight Rick Sanchez and CNN and stand with John McCain. Please make your most generous contribution from $25 up to the maximum limit of $2,300 to the only candidate who can defeat Hillary Clinton.”
McCain laughed Wednesday when a reporter asked him if he thought the tactic would help his campaign.
“We ask for money all the time,” he said. “I have no idea of its effect. I know that I continue to do what’s right, and I’m sure in the eyes of the American people I do what’s right, and I treat my opponents with respect.”
For the full AP story, click here.
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