McCain: Can Obama 'help your family?'

Posted: Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:05 AM by Domenico Montanaro
Filed Under: Ads

From NBC's Mark Murray
A day after his campaign announced it was airing its first positive TV ad in weeks -- even though there were signs that there wasn't much money behind the ad, given the campaign's silence on where it's running -- the McCain camp is back up with a new negative TV ad.

As with the Britney-Paris ad, it calls Obama "the biggest celebrity in the world" (despite McCain's own appearances in "24" and "Wedding Crashers" and a TV movie about him), and it also hits Obama on taxes and spending.

The campaign says the ad be cycled into its buy in CO, IA, MI, MO, NV, NH, NM, OH, PA, VA (NoVA) and WI.

The script:
ANNCR: Is the biggest celebrity in the world ready to help your family?
The real Obama promises higher taxes, more government spending. So, fewer jobs. Renewable energy to transform our economy, create jobs and energy independence, that's John McCain.
JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

*** UPDATE *** Obama spokesman Bill Burton emails this response to McCain's latest ad: "Is the biggest proponent of George Bush's tired, failed policies ready to bring about change? Another day brings another dishonest attack from John McCain. While Sen. McCain knows that Sen. Obama has proposed cutting taxes for 95% of American families, what he's not telling us is that he wants to give $4 billion in tax breaks to the oil companies, continue giving tax breaks to corporations that ship our job overseas, and provide no direct tax relief for more than 100 million middle-class families. It's time to retire these old policies and bring new energy to America."

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Comments

Yet another completely dishonest ad from the "Straight Talk Express". He's become a complete disgrace. And to think I supported this guy in 2000.

BL, Cincinnati OH (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:16 AM)

"...there were signs that there wasn't much money behind the ad..."

Who needs money to run ads when you guys will run them for free?

Attack, attack, attack...negative, negative, negative...don't you have anything nice to say about yourself, John?

Pete - Albany, NY (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

I really feel this celebrity stuff will eventually backfire on Mccain.

Obama 08

dvm258 Ft. Lauderdale, FL (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

the question is can McCain's leadership team that is running the platform he is parroting Rick Davis, Charlie Black, Randy Scheunnemann (Comm for Lib of Iraq), Phil Gramm (enron loophole, banking deregulation), Harry Sargent (defense contractor lobbyist and Mccains plane rental service)

will these men take care of your family like they have for 8 years?

because these men who are McCain's "inner circle" and leaders of this campaign team, who wrote his platforms, will be his "inner circle" in the White House.

dl, Exeter, NH (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

I think a great ad (from a 527, not the direct Obama campaign), would be clips from McCain on 'Wedding Crashers', '24', and his hosting job on Saturday Night Live. The 'Creepy Husband' bit with Amy Poehler would be priceless.

End it with 'Who's the celebrity?'.

Maybe that will end this celebrity nonsense.

Rodney Hopper, Waxahachie, TX (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

Obama cowardly runs away from John McCain since has refused any townhall debates with John McCain as promised. Obama lost the townhall debate with Hillary Clinton. Obama knows that McCain is very strong on a one to one debate . Off-TELEPROPTER and away from Axelrod's script, Obama is revealed as the empty suit and a light weight.

NBC / WSJ poll shows : McCain 53 % to Obama 19 % as McCain is the best Commander in Chief .

The Truth Hurts (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

Lame, as usual.

McCain has nithing to offer but slime

Pathetic (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:17 AM)

I will answer his question, yes, Obama will help my family, McCain simply won't.

McRage is an idiot. He wants to define who Obama is for us...news flash for McRage.

I know exactly who you are, you are a walking billboard for a Bush 3rd term. I realize this, that's why I am voting for Obama...thank you very much.
McRage needs to stop wasting his time on talking about Obama and tells us about his sad self. What will he do for America? His campaign folks needs to be fired, what losers!

Michelle Zee (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:18 AM)

How about McCain's appearance at the Sturgis Rally? Wasn't he a celebrity among them? Shouldn't this be covered in the media as a counterpoint to this ad, with a mention of the type of rally that Sturgis is -- and how Cindy McCain was treated by her husband? Can you imagine if Obama had been there, saw what McCain saw, and said what McCain said? Why not cover this? And why don't I end all these questions with another question? Why isn't the media quicker, per your point, to drill down on how McCain has lived the life of a celebrity for years, doesn't drive his own car, and probably can't remember when he last filled it with gas?

Lynette, Irvine, CA (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:19 AM)

Put your depends back on you old geezer.

paddy,sd,ca (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:21 AM)

Wow! Would you guys on First Read point out, for the sake journalistic integrity, THAT IS AD IS LIE?!! They are literally LYING to people; they don't even care to try to cleverly 'spin' what Obama's policies are anymore! WTF?!!

This add is a LIE!! Everything about it blatantly false!

John McCain: The Condescending, insulting, irreverent guy from Washington . . . who offers NO CHANGE to believe in. He offers change to be FEARED!!

Matthew (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:21 AM)

Can Obama help my family? No. He opposes all domestic fuel collection, he opposes nuclear energy. Both issues take a large percentage of money out of my wallet. On the other side of the coin, he's going to raise taxes, and if you think it's only on the 'rich', then you better think again. All of those taxes he's going to raise will trickle down to the 'non-rich'. So purely on economic issues, Obama would do nothing positive, and a lot negative, for my family.

Sam Ellis, Houston Tx (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:24 AM)

"Is the biggest celebrity in the world ready to help your family?"

I guess it's too much to ask the McCain campaign to do an ad without becoming the green-eyed monster!

N.V. (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:24 AM)

McDunce has had how many years to help and what has he done, become a goose stepping lock stock in barrell with the dunce in chief. How pathetic of a POW.

Terry, Disabled Vet, Des Moines, IA (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:25 AM)

I guess if you have to lie your way to the White House it's considered the American Way.

It makes me sick to my core!!!!!!!

So much for McCain being a stand-up guy.

Teresa, OH (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:25 AM)

Is McCain the right person for your family?
McCain Thinks We're Better Off Than We Were 8 Years Ago - But Worse Off Than We Were 4 Years Ago (Huh?)

McCain: Americans Are "Better Off" Under Bush Economics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cDJxDUgpLlc&eurl

DNC Ad: Sen. McCain are we better Off?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFDc4M_PMNk&feature=related

McCain : No Change From Bush
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GPzIrxZ0QA&feature=user

banko (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:25 AM)

"The real Obama promises higher taxes, more government spending. So, fewer jobs."

Are they even trying anymore? This is typical GOP knee-jerk reaction stuff!

Try Again (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:26 AM)

John McCain has no credibility on these issues. During 8 years of Bush and 12 years of a Republican Congress , in which John McCain was a major player, fiscal responsibility went totally out the window, deficits soared to record levels, government spending rose at a rate not seen in 40 years, and energy prices have gone up more than 300%. John McCain was right in the middle of it as a major congressional leader and a supporter of Bush. He has no legs to stand on when it comes to leveling such accusations against Barack Obama.

jbentley, Chicago, IL (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:26 AM)

And the republican response will be, as always ... Mock, disparage, ridicule, distort.

Obama 08

NoMcCain (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:27 AM)

THAT IS AD IS LIE?!! They are literally LYING to people.

I agree.. You in the media - went along with Iraq and thousands died - Ours and there’s. I would have thought you guys would have learned. McCann is getting a free ride on so many levels.

On the stump he looks worn out and frazzled.

Do you value a close race more than you do your country?

Ken Macleod (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:28 AM)

I don't see how Obama can lose with Paris and Britney now on his side. The blond ditz routine that Paris puts on is just an act, right? No one could be that stupid. And Britney is single mom, a big voter segment that should support Obama. Having the two of them up on the stage during the Democratic convention would bring even more star power to the Democrats. These two women are perfect to represent the Democrats and Obama.

Kathleen Potous, Cleveland OH (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:28 AM)

I'm glad that he at least mentioned something he would do. The lady's voice sounds kind of creepy.

Billy, MI (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:29 AM)

At least you guys are reporting the facts along with his attack ad:

'As with the Britney-Paris ad, it calls Obama "the biggest celebrity in the world" (despite McCain's own appearances in "24" and "Wedding Crashers" and a TV movie about him)'

http://thepajamapundit.com/

the Pajama Pundit (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:29 AM)

How do the voiceovers sleep at night with the lies, negativity and sarcasm? Either they are really good readers/actors or they believe the lies that are scripted before them.

Kim W Va Beach, VA (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:30 AM)

And what exactly is it that you,John McCain, have done for my family during the past 26 years? Supported George Bush and his insane,illegal,policies? Yea, they've been a big help to us. Colaberated with big business, i.e. oil, insurance,lobbyist,drug company. Your idea of the economy is trickle down economics. In our family we call it "piss on you economy". Thanks.

Leni,Michigan (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:31 AM)

Didn't John McCain claim that the Maverick character in the movie Top Gun was based on him? I think he is "the one" who wants to be seen as a celebrity. The ad lies. John McCain is going to continue Bush's tax plan giving huge tax breaks to wealthy people like him and very little for the rest of us. Barack wants to even the scales.

Show Me State (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:32 AM)

Can anyone tell me one lie about Obama that has come out of the McCain campaign? (Richard, Washington State)
___________________________

Here you go, Richard. Another negative, lying ad from the McCain campaign. If you want lies from his own mouth, McCain has recently said that "Obama would rather lose a war than win an election" (blatantly untrue and almost libelious, IMO); he has said that Obama is against nuclear energy (untrue: Obama is for nuclear energy as long as we have a safe way to handle the waste); he has said that Obama will raise taxes (Obama will actually lower taxes for those making under $250,000). There are many more examples--these are just a few. Thanks for askin'.

Beth, Denton, TX (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:33 AM)

I don't believe that nuclear is the answer either. I am including some links to articles about France's recent issues with their nuclear power plants.

I am not an experience blogger, so I am asking for your help to spread the word about this.

Thank you!

http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/0,1518,564826,00.html

http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Two_nuclear_leaks_in_two_weeks_trigger_security_and_safety_reviews_in_France

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gavin-d-j-harper/concerns-raised-over-fran_b_115266.html

http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/07/18/europe/leak.php

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/2454654/French-nuclear-leak-prompts-urgent-security-review.html

judyc, phila, pa (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:33 AM)

Sen. John McDesperate will run our Country further into the ground should he be elected president.

Sen. Obama said it right: The republicans are really good at negative ads, they're just not good at governing!

America let's elect a president who uses his brain not one who simply sits on it!

Obama 08

Donna-Charlottesville, VA (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:33 AM)

Yes, he will, thanks. Bush and McCheese couldn't care less about my family.

Bush only cares about his own family, and McCheese can't remember what a family is, let alone which one is his.

MI Chick (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:33 AM)

It's a sad day for democrats when President Clinton can't swallow his pride and do what's right for the party and the country.
Dennis (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 9:47 AM)

I agree, but don't you think committing suicide is a little extreme?

Used to Support Bill (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:33 AM)

What about the reporter McSurge kicked out of his townhall meeting? Here we go again! This is why Keith O. is the answer to MSNBC's "fair" reporting.

MIA in Miami (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:34 AM)

Rodney, another good 527 ad (OR an Obama ad, I guess):

Show thet backdrop crowd scene the RNC ads keep showing from Berlin, then disolve to the crowd scene of McCain's at Sturgis. Slowly disolve back and forth a few thims, then tag with "I know which celebrity I would want helping MY family:

Buzz (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:34 AM)

How's that deal with the devil working out for you, John?

? (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:35 AM)

yet another lame ad that could be deemed as racist. As a white person i think they are trying to say that obama isn't "like us" an that he wont take care of "our" families.
If its not racist then its on the same line as when McCain said obama would rather lose a war to win a election.

Delaware GOP, Ting, Booted 4 Secretly Supporting Obama
http://sensico.wordpress.com/2008/08/05/deleware-gop-ting-booted-4-secretly-supporting-obama/
or
http://sensico2.blogspot.com/2008/07/my-blogs.html

camie (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:36 AM)

McShame is so lame. I'm still trying to figure out what he is running for. we sure know what he is running against. 70% of America

Ralph Malph (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:36 AM)

When is the media going to start DEMANDING DETAILS from John McCain?

What does "Renewable energy to transform our economy, create jobs and energy independence" mean?

Senator Obama has given DETAILED speeches about foreign and energy policy. What is John McCain's plan? Is ANYBODY going to ask?

P.S. Since our economy is losing jobs NOW as a result of Bush policies, what is John McCain talking about?

Nashville_fan (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

YES he is ready to help my family!!!! A $1000.00 rebate check would help with our heating bill this winter...

OBAMA 2008

Caroline (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

I am also appalled at the constant lying of the McCain Campaign.

They ought to be seriously ashamed of themselves. But they aren't.

Barack was right. They are ignorant. And further more I know these ads are geared toward low information voters. And that is worse. Putting folks down and insulting their intelligence is just plain WRONG. I hate to see us hard working Americans being disrespected.

OBAMA, 08—

Truly caring, intelligent, resourseful, thoughtful, respectful and nice.

Andrea, New York City (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

I wonder if the oil company employees who 'contributed' to his campaign (via their boss' reimbursement) are happy with how the $$has been spent. Quite silly.

iowan (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

Can BAarack Obama help your family?

Yes. He. Can.

MariaW (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

McCain is out of touch with reality, old, senile man, who shoul be retired!

nina , los angeles, ca (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:37 AM)

This is it??? This is what we get?? This is the honest debate? This is the Maverick? If anyone thought there was an bit of the Mccain of 2000 left, this proves there is not. He has completly sold out to the Bush-Rove team. THis is what happens to a person when you sell your soul.

gman (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:38 AM)

Obama will not raise MY taxes. I make less than $200,000.00 per year. Whose taxes is he talking about raising? John and Cindy McCain's for sure!!!

What is worse, tax and spend or spend and spend, and spend and spend, on a war that was based on a lie?

Obama 08

Judy (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:38 AM)

McCain has done nothing in 26 years. The question is can McCain help your family? Answer is he hasn't so far. I guess he is saying thing will be different this time. You had your chance!

rob cary nc (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:39 AM)

These celebrity ads are so, so lame. Seriously, lame. McCain is lame.

tom, NY (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:40 AM)

McCain may not have all the answers, but he is a leader, unlike Obama. He has done nothing but flip and flop. He is not ready.

Alex , Germantown, MD (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:41 AM)

The GOP and the RNC are offering zero. They've got nothing to offer the nation but character assassination of an exciting, inspirational politician of vision. A vote for McBlinky is an irresponsible act of citizenship, a negative act. But then you can't put pearls before swine and expect much.

subgruvet, ok (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:41 AM)

Run negative ads...Keep National Press away...talk to the bikers about your wife. All bad news for McCain. Olbermann showed McCain on stage in ND. Another sign of that "D" word Dementia. Warning...Warning...John's health is not good. It shows in the way he walks, talks, thinks.

Ron Indiana (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:42 AM)

Too bad no one points out McCain has been in "Wedding Crashers," "24", hosted "SNL," etc...

luckily Obama smacking at him right now in Indiana:

http://strategy08.wordpress.com/2008/08/06/obama-is-hitting-mccain-much-stronger-today-in-indiana/

Dan, New York, NY (Sent Wednesday, August 06, 2008 10:43 AM)

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