And Romney goes after McCain...

Posted: Monday, January 28, 2008 2:25 PM by Mark Murray

From NBC/NJ's Erin McPike
SANFORD, FL -- The hits just keep on coming.

In a continuation of their back-and-forths, Romney blasted McCain on the economy -- and wanted the Arizona senator to know that he has no interest in becoming McCain's running mate.

“There’s another guy running on our side, Sen. McCain -- he’s a good man, he’s a hero -- but his views on the economy, well, I think are sort of summed up by his own statement that it’s not really something he understands that well. He’s said that a couple of times,” Romney said. He added that McCain “indicated that when he chose his vice president, it would have to be somebody who really understood the economy. Well, I do understand the economy, and I’m not going to be being any vice president to John McCain, either. That’s not going to happen.”

Romney’s been blasting McCain's economic knowledge on the stump and with reporters in the Sunshine State in recent days. But he’s so far steered clear of attacking him in paid advertising (with Web ads as the exception). That’s a change in course from how the campaign was operating in several of the other early states –- Iowa, New Hampshire, and Michigan.

Even before 7:00 am ET, Romney came out swinging against McCain today: At a gas station session with reporters that the campaign added late Sunday to today's schedule, Romney addressed what he considers to be shortcomings in McCain's record. Those boiled down to three bills Romney considers flawed. They are McCain-Feingold, which he said has made the impact of money on politics worse; McCain-Kennedy, which he tagged as an "amnesty bill"; and McCain-Lieberman.

Romney said he scheduled the session at a gas station to "underscore the fact that Sen. McCain's McCain-Lieberman would be a very expensive bill for the people of Florida." He explained, "By our calculation, a family of four would have to spend about an extra 1000 dollars a year when McCain-Lieberman became law, and again that's because gas would rise in price approximately 50 cents a gallon and natural gas would rise about 20 percent."

Though McCain had sought to change the dynamic of the race on Saturday by turning the dialogue to the war in Iraq, Romney called it “yesterday’s news” on Sunday, after having said Saturday that he knows McCain “desperately” wants the focus to move away from the economy. Romney has also made the retort that “every news organization” that has looked at McCain’s comments has found them to be wrong.

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Comments

Good Point Susan,

McCain says he knows nothing about the economy, and then says in the debate only a month later that he has no idea where the quote came from. If he can't remember what he says for a month, I don't want him making decisions for our country regarding anything!!!

Whala, Chandler, AZ (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 4:57 PM)

It looks like McCain is taking a page out of his friend Bill Clintons campaign handbook.Say anything to win, distort any record,by the time they find out we will be in another state.To think that i was going to vote for this Yo-Yo.It is the same old Washington game.We need to throw them all out and put Statesmen in.We need more outsiders that will do whats right for the country instead of their over inflated egos.It is time for patriots every where to stand up and fight for what makes America great.Strong Military,Balanced Budgets,And equal opprotunity for all.It saddens me to see someone who i thought had integrity, sell out for 57 delegates in Florida.I will now vote for Romney and any other outsider that is willing to put the nation first.

kevin in idaho (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 5:04 PM)

Romney could have pointed these three audacious bills out earlier, but wasn't going to rub it in McCain's nose until McCain started lying about his record and everyone caught him on it. McCain loves to run for office and he does it well - just don't expect honesty coming from his mouth. "Straight Talk" derailed a long time ago.

Ed Bollinger, TN (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 5:33 PM)

For those of you that are Rush Robots, did Rush defend McCain when George Bush attached and lied about McCain in the primaries back in 2000?

TEC-Spring-TX (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 5:43 PM)

I have been looking at them all, I really like what I see in Romney, Everyone has been attacking him so it looks as if they may be thinking he is much better them they are.I have read one of his books, he has my vote. Because there no one else I would vote for.McCain can't remember one day tell the next what he has said.

Suzi Ga. ( sent Monday, Jan. 28, 5:45 pm) 2008 (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 5:50 PM)

Suzi Ga. ( sent Monday, Jan. 28, 5:45 pm) 2008 (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 5:51 PM)

McCain is a bitter, old LIBERAL!!!! No wonder he gets so much attention from the press.

A fiscal conservative voting for Romney (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 6:01 PM)

I just received a call ripping Romney. Way to show your true colors McCain. Things get tight and you resort to politics as usual. McCain is what is wrong with Washington, can you imagine him as President? Scary thought. Tomorrow I will cast my vote for Mitt Romney. When the topic of the economy comes up in the White House, I want our President to be the smartest person in the room. That person is Mitt Romney.

Tom, Wellington, Florida (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 6:12 PM)

I find it amusing how Sen. McCain, frustrated by comparision ads in other states, almost chided for not "attacking" Mr. Romney in the last debate by pundits, listened and became the new person airing TV attack ads in Florida. Notice, Mr. Romney isn't doing that any more on the tube. I want someone in the white house that's not a part of the current problems in D.C. So, look at the current "leaders." That's not Obama, that's not Hillary (nor her husband), and that's not McCain. (All current senators...) I believe in what Mitt is saying: Washington is broken, and we need someone who has a history of fixing things, to start asap. Mr. Romney, you have my vote...! (I am so glad that Mr. Romney has gone on record today saying that he will not be a running mate with McCain in any way...)

Reid, WA (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 6:44 PM)

A few words of advice to Romney and McCain - Stop fighting and be nice! Because whoever is the nicest guy will be able to charm about 75 percent of us democratics over to your side those of us who do not want Obama in the Whitehouse! The Media is so Anti-Hillary and so obviously helping the Republicans win the next presidency by Dissing her and Shamelessly promoting Obama ! The man is so blinded by his Rock Star statis and Afro sista's and Bro's salivating over the sight of him ,that he cannot see the hammer that is coming to pound him down where he belongs! At least this is what my co-workers are all buzzing about- and they are 95 percent Conservative (white- upper middle class snobs)

angela, pittsburgh Pa. (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 6:45 PM)

Wakeup... perhaps you need to wake up and learn a thing or two about venture capital. Look it up. Romney helped build jobs at Bain Capital. Simple as that.

Mike, yes Ron Paul is a doctor, so he knows about medicine...like what to prescribe for which ailment. How does that help him be a good president? if you are alluding to healthcare, it's more a matter of understanding insurance and the economy that about medicine.

Tammy- you know dems that would vote for John McCain- well that's no surprise- he acts like a dem. You know dems that would vote for Huck? Same deal. That's not saying much. Republicans don't want a liberal. Huck is only conservative socially. I'm sure the dems don't like that part about him. Dems don't want Romney because he's the best GOP choice and the worst for them to have to compete against in November. Thanks for proving the point.

I agree with the rest of you. John McCain has proven him to be the schmuck of the GOP contenders. He has a timebomb temper and starts lying about EVERYTHING the second he started seeing Romney become competitive with him in the polls. So much for no "negative" campaigning (he's the worst) and the "straight talk express"- it's clearly derailed several times just in the last week!!! Hopefully Florida voters are smart and vote accordingly.

Kira, Utah (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 6:50 PM)

The polls show McCain and Romney in a state race that is too close to call.

Mitt Romney and John McCain accused each other Monday of harboring liberal tendencies, a charge bordering on blasphemy in the increasingly caustic campaign for the Republican presidential nomination.

Who do you predict will win the Florida Republican Presidential Primary?

http://www.youpolls.com/details.asp?pid=1645

.

Jeff, Austin (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:02 PM)

The media really doesn't care for McCain or Romney.

they love gotcha reporting and stirring up the pot. They like money.

romney has momentum and the media wants uncertainty. they have done it to the DEM and the GOP.

McCain rhetoric is a joke. He know he is in big trouble and so does guilini and huckabee.

Don't be surprized to see one of those jump on the MCCAIN ticket as a VP.

Romney is far more talented and capable. McCain and Guilini are once again a joke trying to fool us THE PEOPLE into thinking their conservative.
Their really DEMOCRATS!

Not that it really matters. Just like to blog.

What would be really special is a GOP and DEM ticket. A crossover. It has been done before in US History.

The American people are polarized. We need less of a 2 party system and some real unity.

Several weeks after Sept 11 we had lots of unity and spirit. Now people are being devilish.

either way, Romney can do the job better then the rest of them

Brent (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:03 PM)

What does McCain hope to gain from this? Does he think in the age of Internet that people aren't going to fact check him on this? I'm sure this was done in 2000, but you can be sure it's done even more so today. Welcome to 2008 McCain!

Al Knowles, AR (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:05 PM)

It is amazing how many Limbaugh and Hannity fans are on this site! You guys all look alike, think alike and hate alike! I guess this is why Women prefer us Liberal men? Liberals make better Politicians and lovers because we do not sit around listening to Quacks on the radio and fox ! We converse and debate instead of sitting around crabbing and griping and getting fat! Get a life guys and maybe you'll get lucky instead of unhealthy??

George Paul Buffalo NY (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:07 PM)

The character Hawkeye Pierce of Crabapple Cove, Maine was a peace loving man who despised being at war and was a hard working surgeon. Maybe someone who was oh, I don't know, EXACTLY like...Ron Paul? Hawkeye, I think you screwed up on what candidate you are endorsing.

Americans for a President who doesn't suck (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:12 PM)

Mitt's position is that he won't accept an offer to run as John McCain's vice-president? Don't worry Senator McCain. Just like every position that Mitt takes, he'll flip-flop on it after further consideration.

"I'm Mitt Romney and I approved and disapproved this message."

Scott, Milwaukee, WI (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:17 PM)

The last two polls from Florida released this afternoon have Romney surging and looking better versus McCain. Link: http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2008/01/romney-and-mccain-going-all-out-in.html

Daniel, NY (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:36 PM)

Well, it is obvious. McCain has given us a look into what he is willing to do to become president. He will blatantly lie through his straight talk teeth to us citizens and hope we dont see through it. He isnt going to be sleeping tonight wondering if America is on to him. Based on the comments here, I think we, and hope most people have it figured out...I am switching over to Romney, an honest person is the best thing our country needs domestically and internationally to get us back on track. Not a war hero looking for future wars and who lives for power, not service. Romney,,please win....

Eric Nicholes (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 7:39 PM)

Have you looked up Romney's economic plan? It's more specific than anyone's in either party. Do your own research. Look up the bills McCain has authored-- they are all liberal in stance. Some of you guys sound like you haven't gotten to know the candidates very well.

Talk about buying votes-- lying, push poll calls, calls to hispanics misleading them about Romney & Castro. What a bunch of dirt-- the pig, McCain is rolling in and I bet he is enjoying it. He's smirking.

Come on FLORIDA. Vote for the best candidate with the best overall record in managing, leading and inspiring thousands-- not just sitting on a committee.

Jen, Iowa (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 8:45 PM)

I'm just one Republican voter but I'd like to share something with anyone who may read this in Florida that is going to be voting in tomorrow's GOP primary.

And when I tell you this please note that I have spoken to many, many, many fellow Republicans who feel the same way as I do

I WILL NEVER VOTE FOR JOHN MCCAIN IF HE IS THE GOP NOMINEE.

NEVER...........I'D SOONER CUT MY HAND OFF THAN USE IT TO VOTE FOR MCCAIN!!!!!!!!!!

That's right Florida. I am a republican who will stay home in November even under the threat of Hillary rather than vote for Mccain.

So I hope those of you in Florida think about the right thing to do and vote for Romney tomorrow.

For the sake of this nation....please do what you know must be done and tell Mccain to go f--- himself!

Paul D. (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 8:56 PM)

I am now very clear on who is the true republican! Anyone who didn't vote for the Bush tax cuts is not a true republican! Win it tomorrow MITT!!!!!!!!!!!

James L. Wilson, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 9:18 PM)

I'm a recently retired veteran, served in Afghanistan, was in the Pentagon on 9/11. As an officer and also a squadron commander, integrity was always a key piece. Integrity to our nation, integrity to those whom we serve, integrity to those we serve with. McCain had integrity years ago, and we apprciate his service in Vietnam. But he lost while he was in Washington. He has little integrity or honor in his so-called "straight talk" to the nation; he lies. He says he honors our men and women in uniform, but is willing to commit them to an indefinite war in Iraq, and ready to commit them to more wars once he's in office. I agree we must stay till a resolution, and disagree with set timelines; but McCain is no interest in a final resolution as the war is his bread and butter.

Vet 85, Washington DC (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 9:48 PM)

the three stooges- bush romney and mccain
all three want to continue iraq war indefinitely
flip-flop flip-flop flip-flop flip-flop
keating 5 keating 5 keating 5 keating 5

republicans love iraq more than the middle class of America, so therefore republicans must hate AMERICA

millions of middle class families lie in ruins while the wealthy just lions and tigers and bears oh my

leon houston (Sent Monday, January 28, 2008 11:19 PM)

i watched McCain on a few interviews after the Presidents speech and his answer were the same I got the backing of all these politicians to say they can handle the economy so i will follow there judgement.now thats straight talk...Listen my friend now the war and the possiability another 911 well im and expert.bs...well my friend you the same old party that has done ous more harm and help put this country in a sorry state.I at one time supported you but not now..My Friend your not a straight talker..So i wont be a straight supporter of yours...You cant talk realisticaly about the economy, You cant answer with out nameing 50 indorsements which are bs and people who have been in politics to long...I think you should go down with the sun and in the morning when the sun rises it will be a new change.

Russ Maine (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 12:24 AM)

Right on, Cory and Carol! Is Romney perfect? Of course not. Is he the best individual for the job? YES! He is the most presidential of all the candidates. And that is why democrats are pushing for McCain...McCain is a good man, and America owes himn a debt of gratitude for his courageous military service...But the only republican who can beat either Hillary or Obama is MITT!

GO ROMNEY!

john, salt lake city, UT (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 12:47 AM)

Nothing looks more pathetic than two liberals trying out Ted Kennedy the other. Just die, GOP, you're a disgrace !

Gene Raleigh, NC (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 12:57 AM)

Democrats won't vote for McCain, and neither will conservatives. I'll never forgive him for all his horrible bills. The press calls him a maverick. What is a maverick? Someone who leaves his party and principles at the door.

Ed Blackham,Las Vegas, NV (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 2:45 AM)

Romney Rising!!!

McCain's lies have ruined his reputation. Will your vote enable more lying politicians? Mine did not!

Ben, Vegas (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 7:08 AM)

We need to get back to the basics that made this country Great. Why not Ron Paul? Over 70% of PAC money from US Army, Navy, and Air Force is being delivered to Ron Paul...why wouldn't you help??

Barry, Raleigh, NC (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 8:38 AM)

We need to get back to the basics that made this country Great. Why not Ron Paul? Over 70% of PAC money from US Army, Navy, and Air Force is being delivered to Ron Paul...why wouldn't you help??

Barry, Raleigh, NC (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 8:43 AM)

Kira in Utah,

Perhaps you are unaware that running a surgical practice like Dr. Paul's is a multimillion dollar business venture not unlike that of any CEO. He doesn't just show up at the hospital and take care of whoever is there. He runs a highly profitable business with a staff and makes marketing decisions, etc. the way any other company in America does.

The other thing I think you should think about is that it is obvious to all who read your posts that your sole purpose is to attack other posters, which does nothing but show what kind of insecure person you are.

Observer (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 11:59 AM)

Some of you keep bringing up the argument that Romney is responsible for some people having lost their jobs. I am sure that that is true. What you don't factor in is that when companies go bankrupt, ALL of its employees lose their jobs.

Romney turned around companies on the verge of disaster. While that happened, some people lost their jobs until the company regained its health. The alternative was for ALL the people to have lost their jobs.

Instead of blaming Romney for layoffs, you might want to cast your blame at the incompetent CEOs that got their businesses into so much trouble that they had to be rescued by Romney....

Also, many of Romney's successes were total start-ups, such as Staples. These were not restructured companies on the brink of doom, but ones that were built from the ground up.

Helen, Seattle, Washington (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 1:03 PM)

McCain is finished in the republican party! He better hope that all of those illegals that he wants to give amnesty to can vote for him. I think that we should send McCain, Crist and all of the illegals to Arizona, where the people there obviously believe he's wonderful, and put a border fence around that state and leave them there. McCain has told so many lies in the last few days, but Crist doesn't seem to mind. Boy it's been a big wake up call for Florida this week. Mitt Romney is the honest candidate with conservative values, economic expertise and experience to lead the republican party to Washington in the general election. His polling numbers nationally for the republican nomination finally overtook McCain this past week, and it's no wonder why! Go Mitt!

J.O. , (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 1:13 PM)

Lot's of people forget, when Kerry got the nomination during the last election, McCain offered to be his running mate. It sounds crazy, but it's true. That, the company he keeps in Washington, and his voting record should make it clear that he should not be the Republican candidate. I don't have anything against him, I'm just not buying what he's selling.

Michael McCarthy Nashua NH (Sent Tuesday, January 29, 2008 2:29 PM)

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