Archive - July 26, 2008 - The Page by Mark Halperin

The Page

Politics up to the Minute

McCain Uses Obama's Cancelled Troops Visit Against Him in TV Ad

In toughest attack ad yet, the presumptive GOP nominee rips his rival for deciding to skip a scheduled visit with U.S. troops in Germany. "He made time to go to the gym, but cancelled a visit with wounded troops. Seems the Pentagon wouldn't allow him to bring cameras." Watch it above. Read script here. The ad will air in select markets in Colorado, Pennsylvania, and the D.C. market. MORE: McCain also hammers the issue home in an interview with ABC's "This Week." Obama camp responds: “John McCain is an honorable man who is running an increasingly dishonorable campaign." Full statement here. Obama campaign points out that key shot in McCain ad shows Obama meeting with troops. Permalink

Obama Details Iraq, Mideast Peace Plans

The Illinois Senator talks to Newsweek about how he'd make progress in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, what the Iraqis can do to take over their country, the diplomatic force he'd leave behind and more. McCain camp responds here. Permalink

McCain Vows to Back Changes to Disabilities Law

The Arizonan pledges support for a proposal to expand protections for the disabled while speaking to a disabilities forum via satellite Saturday. McCain says that revisions to the Americans With Disabilities Act must leave no doubt it's intended to protect from any discrimination that's based on physical or mental disabilities. "We must clarify the definition of a disability to assure full protection for those the law is intended to serve." Permalink

Obama: "We Don't Buy Our Own Hype"

Sunday NY Times: Obama sits down for an interview with Jeff Zeleny while overseas, rejects criticism that he's acting as if he's already won the Oval Office. "How do I avoid looking presumptuous? I’m very much looking forward over the next three months to going back to Iowa, literally and figuratively, and spending a lot of time in town hall meetings..." Essential reading: Obama's pundit-style analysis on polls and media coverage. Permalink

SENATE PASSES LANDMARK HOUSING BILL

Senators approve the legislation 72-13 in a rare Saturday session. The bill offers up to $300 billion in loans for troubled homeowners and establishing a government rescue plan for mortgage finance giants Fannie, Freddie. Bush is expected to sign it quickly. Permalink

Obama Caught on Open Mic Discussing Vacation Plans

ABC News picks up the Illinois Senator's private chat with Tory Leader David Cameron as they stroll around British Parliament Saturday. Obama tells Cameron he's had no time off, plans to take a week for himself in August. He also muses about the need for time to think in order to avoid mistakes, citing advice from a Clinton White House official. Read the transcript here. PHOTOS: View gallery of Obama in England here. Permalink

Obama's Trip, Energy Focus of McCain's Radio Address

The presumptive GOP nominee uses his weekly radio address to criticize his rival while emphasizing his focus in energy. "With all the breathless coverage from abroad...I’m starting to feel a little left out. Maybe you are too." Listen to it here and read full text here. Permalink

Obama Defends Overseas Trip at British Presser

The Senator explains his international travel during his election campaign at a press conference outside 10 Downing Street on the last day of his trip. "I am convinced that many issues that we face at home are not going to be solved as effectively unless we have strong partners abroad." Watch video of full remarks here. Comes after two-hour meeting with Prime Minister Brown on his terrace. Also met with former PM Blair and opposition leader Cameron. He heads back to Chicago Saturday afternoon. Permalink

Obama Stands By Skipping Visit With Troops in Germany

He tells Fox's Bill Hemmer it wasn't a mistake to cancel a stop at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, saying the Pentagon warned him it could be seen as political. "And at that point, the last thing I wanted to do is to in anyway distract the terrific work that’s being done in terms of treating our troops, by getting it fouled up by a bunch of politics." Watch video clip above. Read interview excerpts here. McCain camp responds: Issues statement by retired Lt. Colonel Joe Repya. Read it here. Obama also tapes interview to air on Sunday's "Meet the Press" before leaving London. Permalink

McCain Fires Up the Grill for Guests Saturday

The Arizonan hosts about 75 political allies and fundraisers at one of his trademark Sedona ranch barbecues Saturday. Attendees are set to be briefed by senior advisers, including campaign manager Davis. Permalink

WSJ: Veep Short Lists Get Shorter

The paper reports Obama reviewed info on several No. 2 prospects and narrowed the field, says McCain is understood to be doing the same. See who they say are the likely remaining contenders here. Permalink

Reed Would Say "No" to Veep Offer

In an interview with Rhode Island's Providence Journal, the Senator tries to tamp down suggestions he may serve as Obama's No. 2. "I am interested in serving in the United States Senate and that interest trumps any consideration of serving as a vice president." When asked if he'd decline the position if offered: "Yeah. But I frankly I don't expect to be offered the position.'' Permalink

Obama Trip Wraps

LA Times: "Obama's popularity as anti-Bush is telling" Politico: "Foreign leaders thrill to Obama" TIME: "Obama's greatest political gain...may come from the respectful reception he has gotten from foreign leaders." Permalink

O CRUSH

Obama dominates the week, winning Mark Halperin's Scorecard tally in every round. Read all about it from the upcoming issue of TIME here. Permalink

Obama's in Demand

Politico reports that most Dems are seeking face time with the candidate -- mostly to boost their own agenda. "Like the lottery winner swarmed by friends and relatives, Obama faces requests for endorsements, fundraising help, and most of all, for the most valuable of all campaign commodities: His time." Permalink