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Did McCain answer a 3 AM call?

posted at 9:55 am on September 25, 2008 by Ed Morrissey
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CBS News reports that John McCain suspended his campaign as a response to a call from Henry Paulson to rescue the bailout plan, which would have headed for defeat without his leadership. Bob Schieffer reported this morning that McCain flew back to Washington to help reach a compromise that would allow Republicans to support a form of bailout, and that without his help, efforts to resolve the crisis would have collapsed:

I am told, Maggie, that the way McCain got involved in this in the first place, the Treasury Secretary was briefing Republicans in the House yesterday, the Republican conference, asked how many were ready to support the bailout plan. Only four of them held up their hands. Paulson then called, according to my sources, Senator Lindsey Graham, who is very close to John McCain, and told him: you’ve got to get the people in the McCain campaign, you’ve got to convince John McCain to give these Republicans some political cover. If you don’t do that, this whole bailout plan is going to fail. So that’s how, McCain, apparently, became involved.

He has gotten what he wants, he’s going to have this meeting, kind of a summit today with the president and Barack Obama. I’m told that the leaders of both parties are getting close to having some kind of a bill. The question, though, is whether rank-and-file Republicans, especially, are going to vote for this.

This makes quite a bit of sense for those of us who have followed the trek of this bill on Capitol Hill. Republicans had rebelled against the idea of a bailout, mainly on principle, not wanting to use taxpayer money to subsidize market stupidity. McCain, being the party leader now, needed to provide leadership and also to work a bill into something that would be more palatable for Republicans in Congress to support, even with reluctance.

It also puts an interesting light on his offer to Barack Obama to return with him to Washington. Having been told of Paulson’s request, McCain decided to return — but then offered to have Obama return with him in order to make it an election-neutral decision.  McCain even offered to suspend the campaign.  Obama refused, and McCain went back by himself. Bush then summoned Obama back to keep Democrats from backing away from a bill they have supported over the last few days.  If McCain can succeed in getting changes in the bill with the points he has been making from the campaign trail, he can put his own stamp on this bill and have yet another example of his work as a crisis manager and bipartisan reformer.

This is a case of life imitating art, if one can describe campaign ads as such.  Hillary Clinton’s campaign put out an ad stating that Obama wasn’t ready to answer a 3 AM call during a crisis.  This call may not have literally come at 3 AM, but clearly Obama wasn’t ready to lead.  McCain, on the other hand, understood the nature of the call and responded appropriately.

Update: I’ve been having troubles with WordPress in embedding this video; you can watch it at the Newsbusters in the first link, or here at Eyeblast if it still won’t embed properly.


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The petulant children in Washington need Daddy to step in. McCain is the adult in this race. He’s ready to lead. Obama is a man-child.

D0WNT0WN on September 25, 2008 at 9:57 AM

Im surprised CBS would report this….hmmmm

patrick neid on September 25, 2008 at 9:58 AM

the problem is when we’ve had this kind of ‘leadership’ from president bush, its always to expand the scope of the federal government, ie the medicare drug plan…basically more socialism.

whenever I hear the word bipartisan I immediately assume republicans are bending over for democrats, and thats what this sounds like. its not going to get rid of the CRA or SOX, so whats the point, other than more power for the government?

right4life on September 25, 2008 at 9:58 AM

Well, this fits right in with the narrative Dick Morris is predicting

jp on September 25, 2008 at 9:58 AM

If I remember correctly,,,,didn’t Obama say that he called McCain first. I don’t believe it.

mindhacker on September 25, 2008 at 9:59 AM

One thing is clear here . . . McCain is a gutsy, tough leader and Obama is a frightened little wimp that is incapable of facing fear and uncertainty. It took Bush to force Obama out of his hole, now let’s see what profound, ambiguous words he’ll give us.

rplat on September 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM

I sure as hell hope McCain does NOT rescue THIS plan.

Surely somebody up there has to be smart enough to keep the economy from crashing without rewarding incompetence.

Elizabetty on September 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM

The Mother of All Bailouts has many fathers. As panicked politicians prepare to fork over a trillion dollars in taxpayer funding to rescue the financial industry, they’ve fingered regulation, deregulation, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the Community Reinvestment Act, Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, both Bushes, greedy banks, greedy borrowers, greedy short-sellers, and minority home ownership mau-mauers (can’t call ‘em greedy, that would be racist) for blame.

But there’s one giant paternal elephant in the room that has slipped notice: How illegal immigration, crime-enabling banks, and open-borders Bush policies fueled the mortgage crisis.

It’s no coincidence that most of the areas hardest hit by the foreclosure wave – Loudon County, Virginia, California’s Inland Empire, Stockton, San Joaquin Valley, Las Vegas, and Phoenix, for starters — also happen to be some of the nation’s largest illegal alien sanctuaries. Half of the mortgages to Hispanics are subprime (the accursed species of loan to borrowers with the shadiest credit histories). A quarter of all those subprime loans are in default and foreclosure.

Regional reports across the country have decried the subprime meltdown’s impact on illegal immigrant “victims.” A July report showed that in seven of the 10 metro areas with the highest foreclosure rates, Hispanics represented at least one-third of the population; in two of those areas – Merced and Salinas-Monterey, Calif. – Hispanics comprised half the population. The amnesty-promoting National Council of La Raza and its Development Fund have received millions in federal funds to “counsel” their constituents on obtaining mortgages with little to no money down; the group almost succeeded in attaching a $10 million earmark for itself in one of the housing bills past this spring.

DfDeportation on September 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM

In related news, Obama decides after the meeting to work on his golf game…

hippie_chucker on September 25, 2008 at 10:01 AM

My fellow Americans — Ask yourself this question. If we face a grave National Security issue and/or attack, how is Obama going to react? That guy is a mile wide and an inch deep. He’d be bloviating nonsense in public, then sucking his thumb in the Oval Office.

marklmail on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

I’m against th e $85,000,000,000..00 bailout of AIG.
Instead, I’m in favor of giving $85,000,000,000 to America in a “We Deserve It Dividend.”

To make the math simple, let’s assume there are 200,000,000
bona fide U.S. Citizens 18+.

Our population is about 301,000,000 +/- counting every man, woman
and child. So 200,000,000 might be a fair stab at adults 18 and up..
So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion that equals $425,000.00.

My plan is to give $425,000 to every person 18+ as a
We Deserve It Dividend.

Of course, it would NOT be tax free.
So let’s assume a tax rate of 30%.

Every individual 18+ has to pay $127,500.00 in taxes.
That sends $25,500,000,000 right back to Uncle Sam.

But it means that every adult 18+ has $297,500.00 in their pocket.
A husband and wife has $595,000.00.

What would you do with $297,500..00 to $595,000.00 in your family?
Pay off your mortgage – housing crisis solved.
Repay college loans – what a great boost to new grads
Put away money for college – it’ll be there
Save in a bank – create money to loan to entrepreneurs.
Buy a new car – create jobs
Invest in the market – capital drives growth
Pay for your parent9s medical insurance – health care improves
Enable Deadbeat Dads to come clean – or else

Remember this is for every adult U S Citizen 18+ including the folks
who lost their jobs at Lehman Brothers and every other company
that is cutting back. And of course, for those serving in our Armed Forces.

If we’re going to re-distribute wealth let’s really do it…instead of
trickling out, a puny $1000.00 ( “vote buy” ) economic incentive that is being proposed by
one of our candidates for President..

If we’re going to do an $85 billion bailout, let’s bail out every adult U S
Citizen 18+!

As for AIG – liquidate it. Sell off its parts.
Let American General go back to being American General.
Sell off the real estate.
Let the private sector bargain hunters cut it up and clean it up.

Here’s my rationale. We deserve it and AIG doesn’t.
Sure it’s a crazy idea that can “never work.”

But can you imagine the Coast-To-Coast Block Party!
How do you spell Economic Boom?

I trust my fellow adult Americans to know how to use the $85 Billion
We Deserve It Dividend more than I do the geniuses at AIG or in Washington
DC.

And remember, The Buddy plan only really costs $59.5 Billion because $25.5
Billion is returned instantly in taxes to Uncle Sam.

Ah…I feel so much better getting that off my chest.

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

If McCain can succeed in getting changes in the bill with the points he has been making from the campaign trail, he can put his own stamp on this bill and have yet another example of his work as a crisis manager and bipartisan reformer.

I wonder if McCain and the republicans will make sure McCain’s role is under emphasized to avoid the inevitable claims from the left that this was a political setup.

neuquenguy on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

The 3:00 AM call came and went to Obama’s answering machine.

TooTall on September 25, 2008 at 10:03 AM

Unless Obama can secure a few million or billion for his puppeteers, he’s not interested.

Obama is only in this for himself and the people he’s connected to.

And really, what more can he do? He has no idea what to do to help the situation, he’s uneducated and inexperienced in economic matters.

The only thing he can do is to do the Chicago thing – get some graft for his people.

NoDonkey on September 25, 2008 at 10:03 AM

It also puts an interesting light on his offer to Barack Obama to return with him to Washington. Having been told of Paulson’s request, McCain decided to return — but then offered to have Obama return with him in order to make it an election-neutral decision.

It does indeed.

Spirit of 1776 on September 25, 2008 at 10:04 AM

The fact that McCain was called in to help rescue the bailout does not affirm that the bailout is a good idea or that the voters will see it that way.

BigD on September 25, 2008 at 10:04 AM

Priceless,who could predict the 3:00AM ad,
would happen before Obamas first debate!

Wait a tick,I bet Maverick e-mailed or texted Hopey,
and Changey probably did’t want to answer it,and
thats why he’s starting to have a hissy fit over
the debate postponment!haha.

canopfor on September 25, 2008 at 10:05 AM

Obama at 3:00 A.M.:

Let me go back to sleep, and don’t bother me when I do get up and eat my waffle.

Buy Danish on September 25, 2008 at 10:05 AM

Huh. Paulson must not have Barry’s number.

Akzed on September 25, 2008 at 10:05 AM

Bob Schieffer, is probably the most fair MSM journalist around.

The old kind from the good ole’ days. How times have changed.

I love his latest book.

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:05 AM

Bob Schieffer must be on course to lose a bundle if this bailout is not approved.

meci on September 25, 2008 at 10:05 AM

I am so bi-polar about McCain…

Shamnesty
McCain-Feingold
Climate crisis
Soft spine on Gitmo
Bad Maverick!

War hero
Strong defense hawk
No earmarking
Palin
Good Maverick!

The election whiplash is starting to hurt. At least I’ve now had the pleasure of seeing Mav pwn PinocchiObama twice with Palin and now the Paulson bailout.

Flyover Country on September 25, 2008 at 10:06 AM

It also puts an interesting light on his offer to Barack Obama to return with him to Washington. Having been told of Paulson’s request, McCain decided to return — but then offered to have Obama return with him in order to make it an election-neutral decision. McCain even offered to suspend the campaign. Obama refused, and McCain went back by himself.

This is completely in character for McCain — country first — and consistent with O!’s complete lack of character.

In related news, Obama decides after the meeting to work on his golf game…

hippie_chucker on September 25, 2008 at 10:01 AM

C’mon now, be fair. I heard that O! promised to step up the printing of his presidential coins to help fund the bailout. /sarc

Y-not on September 25, 2008 at 10:06 AM

I believe that every last politician will soon have the cover they desire on this. Since the FBI is investigating, I think that they will find some securities fraud, wire fraud, mail fraud etc…..

There are institutional traders involved in this who made the wrong decisions and then tried to cover it up, especially at Bear Stearns, When they tried to fix it, the markets went against them and voila, everyone gets dragged down.

Vince on September 25, 2008 at 10:07 AM

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

Yeah. You’ll never be my accountant.

So divide 200 million adults 18+ into $85 billion that equals $425,000.00.

More like $425 dollars.

lorien1973 on September 25, 2008 at 10:07 AM

Barry was distracted by a mirror he walked by…he is still in front of it, admiring himself.

benrand on September 25, 2008 at 10:07 AM

No.

In actual fact, McCain answered an 8:30 AM call from Obama.

McCain did not come up with the idea to tackle this non-partisanly. Obama did.

McCain then knee jerkingly shrieked I’M STOPPING CAMPAIGNING! I’M GOING TO WASHINGTON! I CANNOT DO THE DEBATE!

Then he cancelled Letterman. But then he somehow had time to get interviewed on CBS.

Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:08 AM

I am shocked, SHOCKED I tell you, that Obama didn’t get the 3a.m. phone call!!!!

It’s because their racist!!!

/sarc off

IrishGirl17 on September 25, 2008 at 10:08 AM

McCain is making the right move. His speech at the Clinton Initative was excellent.

Mr. Joe on September 25, 2008 at 10:09 AM

It’s looking better and better for McCain as more of this story comes out!

Reaganite84 on September 25, 2008 at 10:10 AM

In actual fact, McCain answered an 8:30 AM call from Obama.
McCain did not come up with the idea to tackle this non-partisanly. Obama did.

You know, that totally explains why Obama had to be dragged kicking and screaming into Washington.

It all makes sense now.

Slublog on September 25, 2008 at 10:10 AM

We must be fair to The Obamassiah. He was much more focused on the rollout of his coin. A Great Panic on Wall Street is simply above his paygrade.

rbj on September 25, 2008 at 10:11 AM

McCain needs to make an ad which reminds people that current senatorial duties are more important than self-serving political campaigns.

“Obambi was more worried about fund-raising for his campaign than solving this financial crisis which affects all of you.”

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:11 AM

Obama took a call at 3:00pm. Even then he couldn’t show leadership because of his pride and, apparently, it was above his paygrade.

Terrie on September 25, 2008 at 10:11 AM

Did McCain answer a 3 AM call?

Which one? The one from Phil Gramm in ‘99 pimping for support of de-regulating investment banks via theGramm-Leach-Bliley Act that McCain voted for? Or was it the 3 AM phone calls from Rick Davis over the past 8 years asking McCain to support his cash rich clients in the mortgage loan industry?

Fletch54 on September 25, 2008 at 10:11 AM

“In actual fact” in actual fact!???? DRywall dosen’t know facts! It just hangs there, all heavy and ugly.

Vince on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

Answering the 3 AM call seems above his pay grade.

petefrt on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:08 AM

Wasn’t Obama’s idea to release a statement? Then go back to his beach front hotel?

lorien1973 on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

This doesnt change my mind. This bill is still a tremendous waste of money, it is still un-American, and any congress person who supports it is unpatriotic. The same with the 29 billion bailout for the auto industry.
Shame on republicans.
Shame on McCain

Barr/Root 08
Elect leadership who doesn’t spend your money like drunken sailors.

paulsur on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

The petulant children in Washington need Daddy to step in. McCain is the adult in this race. He’s ready to lead. Obama is a man-child.

I’m glad you didn’t call BO the more commonly used word for male child.

jgapinoy on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

“Dave Rywall” is really Heather Mallick.

Akzed on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

Why do Obama supporters think image is so much more important than substance?

Loxodonta on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

GOP Gryphon-

You need to check your math.

$85 Billion / 200 Million people (and why are you excluding kids??)
= $425 per person.

NOT $425,000 per person.

Are you British, by any chance? I know our friends across the pond use the word Billion to refer to a million millions instead of a thousand millions. Perhaps this is the source of your confusion?

ClintACK on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

How about all these flailing homeowners get the same kind of deal Obama got from Tony Rezko or Chris Dodd got from Countrywide?

Problem solved, as long as the entire country gets the same sort of graft and kickbacks offered to corrupt, worthless and incompetent, Democrat politicians.

NoDonkey on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

aside fom McCain’s record, he was also needed to shore in Republican support for this bill. Especially by down ticket repubs, who can’t afford to oppose McCain going into the Election

jp on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

The one from Phil Gramm in ‘99 pimping for support of de-regulating investment banks via theGramm-Leach-Bliley Act that McCain voted for?

thats a plus, hate to tell you.

Or was it the 3 AM phone calls from Rick Davis over the past 8 years asking McCain to support his cash rich clients in the mortgage loan industry?

it was getting all that money from fannie/freddie…oops that was Obama, and all that cash from lehman bros…oops that was hillary…

right4life on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

Where’s that paid shill, Tom Shipley, to help re-interpret what is a clear win for McC as some sort of abdication of his campaigning responsibilities?

Jeez, he’s as lazy as his boss. Maybe he’s merely “present” at his workstation. Tom, get back to work spamming HA!

kuhio on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

It all makes sense now.
Slublog on September 25, 2008 at 10:10 AM

Don’t bother DryRot right now, he’s in a high froth and might nip you on the ankle.

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

Barr/Root 08
Elect leadership who doesn’t spend your money like drunken sailors.

Elect?
Are you so foolish as to think Barr will ever be elected for anything?
A vote for Barr is half a vote for BO.

jgapinoy on September 25, 2008 at 10:14 AM

avoid the inevitable claims from the left that this was a political setup.

neuquenguy on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

WHAT?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!?

See, this is where wimpy Republicans lose… worrying about how the liberals are going to spin true leadership.

Can you imagine Ronald Reagan worrying about how liberals will respond to his bold leadership agendas and decisions?

Take note AllahPundit… this is why pussy footing around, worrying, analyzing about what the liberals response will be is so disgusting to me.

If you forget about trying to impress your liberal girlfriends, your head will clear up real nicely.

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:14 AM

ClintACK on September 25, 2008 at 10:13 AM

He isn’t the only one to do it. I think it’s forgetting that you don’t put 12 zeros in there, it’s 12 places.

lorien1973 on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

Nice sentiment, but by any chance do you work for the US Government?

85 Billion, or 85 x 10^9 divided by 200 Million, or 200 x 10^6 is only 425 dollars each… not 425 THOUSAND dollars each…

Now, if you were talking 85 TRILLION you’d be onto somthing, but that would totaly break the bank.

Romeo13 on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

lorien1973 on September 25, 2008 at 10:07 AM

are you sure that what it =’s….may want to redue your own math……lol

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

Dave Rywall-

One of the funniest aspects of this last day has been the extraordinary outcry that the true show of leadership was Senator Obama’s call to McCain’s campaign offering to put out a joint statement.

Could you possibly do any more to push the McCain campaign’s theme: Talk vs Action?

ClintACK on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

mistyped million for trillion….

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:16 AM

subsidize market stupidity

If Congress would get to work for a change and do their job instead of bickering and taking vacations for the past decade, this whole situation might have been avoided.

Congress must be made to realize that what they DON’T accomplish affects the country. It forces our free markets to do what they can to keep the economy moving and shortcuts and corrupt practices result.

I think Clinton was right (although CYA was probably his motive) in his interview with Maria Bartalomo (sp) when he said that without alternative investment options (energy, etc.) mortgages was all that was available for the past 10 years.

We should have 6 year term limits on all Congressman. Get in, do your job for 6 years and move on! While we’re at it how about a 6 year Prresidential term with no re-election. Serve one term, quit running for re-election for 3 years of your first term and get to work!

Mr_Magoo on September 25, 2008 at 10:16 AM

Saw Beckell on Fox. He was stuttering! But he had the gall to say that this bill OBAMA’S! So, now they are making the move to claim this bill and the whole idea to solve this is THE ONE’S. But what if that version gets slapped down and needs McCain’s red pen to correct it? Hmmmmmm? This is just beyond sane for Obama and his stooges to now be doing the 3 a.m. two step. If McCain does not use this to hammer him then all of the good that could have come from this will evaporate. Knowing McCain, he will not use one bit of this to campaign for why he is qualified and THE ONE is pretend.

freeus on September 25, 2008 at 10:16 AM

Chris Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee:”I have heard from Obama numerous occasions these last couple days. I have never heard from John McCain on the issue.”

MAVERICK EXPRESS TOOT TOOT

Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

angry people………rrrr…..

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

I’m glad you didn’t call BO the more commonly used word for male child.
jgapinoy on September 25, 2008 at 10:12 AM

McCain is the adult in this race. He’s ready to lead. Obama is a boy.

That’s right I said it. I’m considered a racist anyway because I’m not voting Obeepo so no big deal.

The day I stop using common English words because of PC is the day I castrate myself and pledge allegiance to Kim Il-Sung.

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Now, if you were talking 85 TRILLION you’d be onto somthing, but that would totaly break the bank.

Romeo13 on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

the government can ‘bail out’ that too…just a little more money, a little more inflation….voila!!

right4life on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Chris Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee:”I have heard from Obama numerous occasions these last couple days. I have never heard from John McCain on the issue.”

Obama supporter makes Obamacentric comment.

SHOCKA!

Slublog on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Schieffer seems to be a fair guy. But never underestimate the MSM to screw McCain after that little positive note.

jencab on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

cant a guy dream……..

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:18 AM

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:14 AM

Dude, you don’t think that we have to be cognizant of how the other side will spin it, and be prepared to respond accordingly?

Buy Danish on September 25, 2008 at 10:18 AM

Yes,Maverick anticipated the 3:00AM call,
but didn’t wait around for days waiting for the
3:00AM call!!

He’s working way ahead of the 3:00AM call
trying to get it done!!

Meanwhile,back at Team GaffeBiden/Hopey-Changey,
their debating whether the 3:00AM call is the
real deal,or better yet,they can sit on their
fat #ss’s and wait for a poll to come in as to
what the American liberals would like him to do!!

canopfor on September 25, 2008 at 10:18 AM

Aaaahhh!

It just hit me!

This is what Palin referenced to in the interview with Couric last night and Katie didn’t seem to know where that came from!

This: “I find it interesting that everybody is asking McCain to help with this bail out debate and not Obama.”

Bingo!

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:19 AM

Chris Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee:”I have heard from Obama numerous occasions these last couple days. I have never heard from John McCain on the issue.”
Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Well there ya go, one of the main architects in the FF debacle has spoken.

Now all we have to do is figure out why anyone would listen to him.

Hope and Change…by discussing the problem with a guy who engineered it.

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:20 AM

Well, this fits right in with the narrative Dick Morris is predicting – jp on September 25, 2008 at 9:58 AM

Link please.

ManlyRash on September 25, 2008 at 10:21 AM

Obama did get the 3am phone call from Harry Reid to stay away while the real men (Reid didn’t include himself), Bush, Paulson, Bernake and McCain did the hard lifting.
This is being perfectly played by McCain and Bush. McCain sets up Obama to suspend the campaign and come to Washington to actually do the work that the American people hired them to do, as Senators and leaders. Obama said, I’m a thinker not a doer, and let me know when you’ve finished, and I’ll let you know whether I give it a thumbs up or thumbs down. Pres Bush sees this opening and literally summons Obama to the WH to discuss the bail out. But Pres Bush does it in such a way, calling Obama as part of the ‘leadership meeting’, that it instantly appeals to Obama’s arrogance and narcissim. He can’t refuse because now he is a ‘leader’. And it takes away at least two days of Obama’s preparation for the debate, which now looks iffier, because as part of the ‘leadership’, debating the bill, how can he just abandon the nation to take part in a debate that can be rescheduled when time is less pressing?
Thus Pres Bush has shown more grace and support for McCain’s candidacy and positions, than Sen. McCain ever showed for George W. Bush’s candidacy and positions, while McCain was in the Senate.

eaglewingz08 on September 25, 2008 at 10:21 AM

Chris Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee:”I have heard from Obama numerous occasions these last couple days. I have never heard from John McCain on the issue.”

Obama supporter makes Obamacentric comment.

SHOCKA!

Slublog on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Here’s how the convo went.

Obama: Has the FBI contacted you yet? Man, you gotta give me a heads up when they call. Got it?

Terrie on September 25, 2008 at 10:21 AM

Chris Dodd, chairman of the Senate Banking Committee:”I have heard from Obama numerous occasions these last couple days. I have never heard from John McCain on the issue.” -Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:17 AM

Dodd is at the epicenter of the crisis, you dummy.

ManlyRash on September 25, 2008 at 10:22 AM

Barr/Root 08
Elect leadership who doesn’t spend your money like drunken sailors.
Elect?
Are you so foolish as to think Barr will ever be elected for anything?
A vote for Barr is half a vote for BO.

jgapinoy on September 25, 2008 at 10:14 AM

This is a prime example of a person whose indivduality has been brainwashed away by the two party establishment. He has no idea that no matter which of the two he votes for, he is voting from preselected candidates, and that he has made no choice of his own.

paulsur on September 25, 2008 at 10:22 AM

I’ve been surprised by the crowd the last fews days about this. This is actual one of the few times that government action is the only way out. If the Fed and Treasury don’t do this, we are looking at something that rhymes with recession.

The fixed-income markets are suffering from a “liquidity black hole” where falling prices do not bring out more buyers, but generate even more sellers, who chase the market lower, bringing out yet more sellers. (Flight to safety)

In this case, the problem is critical because of the sheer magnitude of the mortgage market and the fact that collateralized debt pools are rated and traded on what is basically a single credit rating model, which has given everyone a “sell signal” at the same time.

Anyone who has short term money tied up in Auction Rate Preferred securities (both municipal and taxable) knows that market liquidity for short term securities is almost nill, even though the underlying portfolio of fixed-income securities are performing.

Hopefully, just passing legislation will “reboot” liquidity in the fixed-income market.

From a market psychology perspective, just announcing a plan (not the actual buying of securities) will provide a huge lift to the fixed-income market, it will make it safe for large cash positions to return to the market, which in turn should quickly raise the trading values of of these fixed-income securities. The result will be that banks and investment banks to “market to market” their positions at a price much closer to par, relieving pressure on their capital ratios.

Then banks and investment banks should be allowed to return reporting their fixed-income positions on the books using credit performance measures and not mark-to-market like equity securities.

There are damn good reasons for accrual accounting, and the concept that balance sheets should not reflect market volatility, but the fundamental health of a company’s cash flows is a major one.

phreshone on September 25, 2008 at 10:23 AM

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:15 AM

Check the batteries in your calculator, then the ‘0′ key pad.

Get back to us with your final report.

fogw on September 25, 2008 at 10:23 AM

my crayons are all too small to write with….guess i’m done now…

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:24 AM

DfDeportation on September 25, 2008 at 10:00 AM

Great post. As a Phoenix resident, I have seen it first hand. Can you say “Bank of America?”

I’m very skeptical of how much this bailout will accomplish. If it gets the banks lending again, who is borrowing. My house can’t be sold so I can’t buy another one. I can’t even refinance with my house worth half of what it supposed to. About all I will do is buy a new car at some point in the next couple of years.

Watch a new flurry of credit card offers to come out from the banks so our personal debt can skyrocket. Three years from now we’ll all be whining again.

Mr_Magoo on September 25, 2008 at 10:24 AM

Oh well! If Chris Dodd said that he’s heard from Obama numerous times the last few days it must be true. What, were they conversing to find out who really made more money frm Fannie and Freddie? He dosen’t say what they talked about. Maybe he called Dodd to find out what kind of DRywall to put up in his mansion.

Vince on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

This is a prime example of a person whose indivduality has been brainwashed away by the two party establishment. He has no idea that no matter which of the two he votes for, he is voting from preselected candidates, and that he has made no choice of his own.

paulsur on September 25, 2008 at 10:22 AM

preselected candidates? And you have the audacity to call other people brainwashed?

MarkTheGreat on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

Obama: Has the FBI contacted you yet? Man, you gotta give me a heads up when they call. Got it?

Terrie on September 25, 2008 at 10:21 AM

Ha ha.

Buy Danish on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

.
.
The JUNIOR Senator from Illinois, Barack Obama, probably knows himself better than we do. He KNOWS he would be no help, as he has few qualifications to be President.

But WE THE PEOPLE, are paying the Senators $160,000,000 a year, PLUS their staffing costs to get this situation fixed for the GOOD of America.

People, John McCain wants to help and do his job, Barack Obama DOESN’T. Our choice is CLEAR.

originalpechanga on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

Then he cancelled Letterman…

Dave Rywall on Sept 25,2008 at10:08AM

Dave Rywall: I’m glad he cancelled Letterman,as you are
aware Letterman isn’t Republican friendly!

And,btw,are you still posting from the
“Bridge to NoWhere”!

Signed: What did you call me,a few posts ago,
oh ya,Captain Internet!

canopfor on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

I’ve been surprised by the crowd the last fews days about this. This is actual one of the few times that government action is the only way out. If the Fed and Treasury don’t do this, we are looking at something that rhymes with recession.

It is not the federal government’s responsibility to protect us from recessions. Recessions are a natural part of the economic cycle in a free market system.
If you like goverment involvement in free markets you might like the People Republic of China. They constantly manipulate their markets for thier own greed. Just as our federal government is attempting to do now.

paulsur on September 25, 2008 at 10:27 AM

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:19 AM

Great catch. Was the interview taken before Mccain announced he was suspending campaign? That explains why Palin had to hold back. I think the Mccain campaign folks are hampering her natural style a lot. They should let herself be herself.

promachus on September 25, 2008 at 10:27 AM

But WE THE PEOPLE, are paying the Senators $160,000,000 a year, PLUS their staffing costs to get this situation fixed for the GOOD of America.

originalpechanga on September 25, 2008 at 10:25 AM

$160million a year? Good God, did they vote themselves another raise?

MarkTheGreat on September 25, 2008 at 10:28 AM

Then he cancelled Letterman…

Dave Rywall on Sept 25,2008 at10:08AM

And replaced him with Olberdouche.

How friggin obvious can you get?

fogw on September 25, 2008 at 10:28 AM

Danish,
You are missing the point.

Reagan didn’t sit around and analyze how his opponents are going to respond to his actions.

Rather, he made decisions that he was totally comfortable with, ie, the right decisions and then worried about the push back when it happened.

I always read your point of view in here as they are usually great.

But you revolting to my point, demonstrates that we have systemic leadership problems among our side, starting from the top down.

In this sense the liberals have already won vis a vi their intimidation.

IT’S TIME TO GROW A PAIR!!

Mcguyver on September 25, 2008 at 10:28 AM

If you like goverment involvement in free markets you might like the People Republic of China. They constantly manipulate their markets for thier own greed. Just as our federal government is attempting to do now.

Yeah, so LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT, you commie pinko!

/s

Slublog on September 25, 2008 at 10:29 AM

Dave Rywall on September 25, 2008 at 10:08 AM

I so cannot wait for October 3. It’ll be like Christmas. Everybody, here is the bet I made with Rywall. I had to negotiate with him because the little ferret didn’t have the balls to bet eternal banishment. So I let him off with two weeks:

If Obama is not ahead of McCain by 10 or more points nationally [on October 3] according to Rasmussen polling you lose the bet and we don’t hear from you until October 18.

If Obama is ahead of McCain by 10 or more points nationally [on October 3] according to Rasmussen polling I lose the bet and leave HotAir forever. Agreed?

ManlyRash on September 24, 2008 at 8:46 PM
—————————————–

DEAL.

Dave Rywall on September 24, 2008 at 9:03 PM

ManlyRash on September 25, 2008 at 10:29 AM

Chris Dodd,Barney Frank,
the dynamic duo,need to
RESIGN ASAP!!!!!!!!!

canopfor on September 25, 2008 at 10:29 AM

phreshone on September 25, 2008 at 10:23 AM

Wow. Didn’t understand a word you said, but wow.

Bottom line? Does this mean the value of my house will go up quickly so I can refinance or sell and buy again? That’s what I am interested in and what the “general public” wants to know. I don’t think anyone “out there” is explaining how this will help Joe & Jane Public.

Mr_Magoo on September 25, 2008 at 10:30 AM

hell.. a depression is better than this bail out..

DaveC on September 25, 2008 at 10:33 AM

I’m a bit concerned that Mac canceled his gig on Letterman; this campaign is supposed to be about celebritizing yourself, not about talking the issues up close and personal with average Americans.

I’ll bet McCain has never even visited Tavern On the Green either. *stunned*

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:33 AM

This is encouraging news, but it would be extremely helpful if the Republican, or “conservative” pundits would get over themselves and help to get the message out.

Are you hearing me, Bill Sammon and Charles Krauthammer?

anniekc on September 25, 2008 at 10:34 AM

GOPGryphon on September 25, 2008 at 10:02 AM

I like it. That’s some socialism I can actually believe in.

BadgerHawk on September 25, 2008 at 10:35 AM

Bishop on September 25, 2008 at 10:33 AM

Probably doesn’t eat arugula, either. Or shop at Whole Foods. Or drink chardonnay with a nice wedge of baked brie.

ManlyRash on September 25, 2008 at 10:35 AM

Please call/email your comgressmen today and tell them to say no to the $29 billion bailout for the auto industry. We can not afford two bailouts in a week.

paulsur on September 25, 2008 at 10:36 AM

ManlyRash on September 25, 2008 at 10:29 AM

Good deal. It would be nice if Dave went away for a couple weeks, but I don’t want to see him dissapear forever. I certainly don’t want to see you gone. Gooooooo McCain!

BadgerHawk on September 25, 2008 at 10:37 AM

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