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April 21, 2008
Posted: 04:45 PM ET

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FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:

Money talks, and these days John McCain is getting an earful. And it's not good.

McCain raised $15.4 million in March. Barack Obama raised more than $41 million in March, and Hillary Clinton raised $20 million in March.

Overall, McCain has raised one third of the $240 million Obama has raised and less than half of Clinton's total. The Los Angeles Times reports that Obama has raised more in small donations than what McCain has raised in his entire campaign.

McCain's advisers and some Republicans insist he'll have enough money to run a competitive race in the general election, but not everyone is convinced.

One thing working in McCain's favor is the Republican National Committee, which is overwhelmingly outraising the Democratic National Committee.

The Republicans have about $31 million in the bank, compared to $5 million for the DNC. Also, after his party's convention in September, McCain will probably opt for public funding of $84 million to run his general election campaign.

But that figure likely will pale compared to what Barack Obama might be able to raise with his network of about 1.5 million donors. Another problem for McCain is that several traditional Republican donors have been leaning Democratic thus far in the race. For example, the securities and investment industries have given nearly $7 million to Obama compared to $3 million to McCain. And, the real estate industry has given close to $6 million to Hillary Clinton, compared to $2.5 million for McCain.

Here’s my question to you: When it comes to money, how can John McCain catch up with the Democrats?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?

George writes:
It's not about the money, Jack. No matter how much money John McCain has he will never be the president of the U.S. this election. People have made up their minds that things are going to change, and they are going to be the ones who make that change happen.

Jeff writes:
The only way he can catch up with the Democrats’ money is by catching up with the conservatives.

Jacob writes:
Jack, McCain doesn't need to. He is beating the Democrats in nearly every head-to-head poll in swing states…The Democratic Party is losing another impossible-to-lose election.

Henrie writes:
Jack, He will never catch up with Obama. I make a $50 donation every month to Obama and have been since January. It is just like a monthly bill in our house.

Vinnie from New York writes:
Jack, He can call his friends from the Keating Five Scandal.

Dana from New York writes:
He doesn't need to. Cindy's got millions… she can afford to bail him out.

Annie from Atlanta writes:
Wait until the general election, Jack. Those staunch Republicans with or without deep pockets will "hold their noses" and money up. They would never consider doing otherwise. He'll do just fine.

Mary from Connecticut writes:
McCain won't have to worry much. Obama says most of his contributors are "regular folks" giving small amounts of money. Soon it will be a decision of gas money or money for Obama, and I'm not walking to work.

Filed under: Election Funding • John McCain


mitchell martin ark.   April 21st, 2008 2:20 pm ET

he could ask obama for a loan.

garrick   April 21st, 2008 2:21 pm ET

hi jack
thats easy his wife can loan the money ,like Hillary loaned her campaign or he can ask Obama how he raises money since he likes working with Dem.
clearwater,fl

Joe in DE   April 21st, 2008 2:22 pm ET

He may have to ask his wife. Seriously, he will get quite a lot of money now.

James in Cape Coral, FL   April 21st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Jack,
If McCain need's more money to compete with the democrats then he should consider asking his big oil buddy George W. Bush for some financial assistance. Besides, if Bush want's his foreign policies to continue past his two terms then his best bet is to help McCain in any way he can.

Cynthia   April 21st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Plain and simple – he can't.

Keith, Irving Texas   April 21st, 2008 2:23 pm ET

He can ask his wife, Cindy, to give him a loan. Other than that, he can't, Jack.

Larry from Georgetown, Tx   April 21st, 2008 2:27 pm ET

At the rate the democrats are self-destructing, he won't need too. Besides, the swift boat people will help him a lot and the current way things are going between Obama and Clinton they are gathering a lot of information.

Jamaal Kansas   April 21st, 2008 2:28 pm ET

He Can't only reason he has raised more money last month is because the democrats keep fighting when there is a clear nominee it is over for mcshame!

Troy   April 21st, 2008 2:28 pm ET

When it comes to money Jack. I know who wears the "pants" her name is Cindy McCain, the real bread winner....When it gets down to the wire i'm sure ol hubby will roll over and say ...Honey I need you....Where's the Soldiers at? If McCain is a Soldier what do we call Bush..oh yeah OUR PRESIDENT...Go Gas Prices.....

Raul from kentucky   April 21st, 2008 2:29 pm ET

He won't

Tom, Avon, Maine, The Heart of Democracy   April 21st, 2008 2:30 pm ET

His wife would have to make a donation. Bush has given the entire nation Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and driven us to drink so she must have the bucks rolling in.

dorothy delong   April 21st, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Jack, I dont think he will get as much funding as the Democrats..His wife could give him a loan seems funny they dont file their taxes together. What would the tax records look like if Hillary and Obama would have done the same? Dorothy Lucasville Ohio

J.D. in NH   April 21st, 2008 2:32 pm ET

According to the current stats, he's ahead of Clinton but will never catch Obama. Democrats are putting their money where their hearts are this year, and Obama is the object of their affection and their dollars. I don't see how McCain could ever match Obama's tidal wave of small donors. Maybe the wife could let him have a few bucks.

Raul from kentucky   April 21st, 2008 2:35 pm ET

He might have enough money if he makes Romney his running mate. Maybe Hillary can give him some money too. She has been helping him so far in the polls.

Iris in Saugatuck, Michigan   April 21st, 2008 2:37 pm ET

John McCain doesn't have to worry about raising large amounts of money at this point. Senators Obama and Clinton might be raising a lot of cash right now during the primaries, but they are spending it as fast as they can raise it. As long as Hillary remains in the race, the huge sum that Obama raises will be long gone once the general election campaign gets underway.

JoAnn in Iowa   April 21st, 2008 2:37 pm ET

McCain can never catch up with Obama in fundraising. No one can generate the money and the excitement and bring new people to the process like Obama does. The majority of voters in this country want something very different from the crappy deal we have been getting from our government. Obama is the only one who can deliver.

AndyZ; Fairfax, VA   April 21st, 2008 2:40 pm ET

He could promise Haliburton, Blackwater and a few other companies making billions from the Iraq war his continued support in exchange for their campaign contributions. (After all he is on record for staying in Iraq for a hundred years.) Oh wait a minute, isn't that against the law? Then how could Bush and Cheney have done it for these past several years? I see a constitutional crisis if the democrats are elected to the white house.

Jonathan from Ventura, CA   April 21st, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Perhaps McCain and do a calender with him in some provocative shots. I am sure people would buy it especially if it had a month with him posed next to a map of Iraq with "100 more years" written up above.

Patricia   April 21st, 2008 2:42 pm ET

The Obama vs. McCain match-up will be interesting in so many ways. Seeing one of McCain's new ads with nothing but his grinning face and the flag and all that heroism was revealing. (Not to mention that he steals a line from both Hillary and one from Obama!) I wonder how long that Reagan throw-back will tug at our heartstrings. About five minutes, I hope.

Regarding money, McCain will never come close to the fund-raising powers of Obama. The feeling with Obama is that it is up to me to make this happen. He's not part of a old school machine in which someone else doles out the money. Obama's expression that "we are the ones we've been waiting for" gets me off my complacent couch and on the computer, sending money. And that won't stop once he's nominated.

Boise

Mike S., New Orleans, Louisiana   April 21st, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Jack, I think it will sound something like "Honey, I need a hundred million dollars. Thanks Sweetie."

hill supporter   April 21st, 2008 2:43 pm ET

its going to be tough to catch up esspecially if Obama and Clinton wise up and realize they can't win without the other on the ticket. I agree with whomever said play the races out see who wins and then the other one should be VP. The people of the DEM party. not the politicians, have spoken and we want them both. I think Obama can be inspiring but I feel Clinton is more of a fighter and will take us home for a victory. Her experience has really shown these last few weeks for sure.

Jim, Cary NC   April 21st, 2008 2:44 pm ET

He'll need a lot of TV ads to overcome the befuddled impression he leaves in press conferences. I think he'll do well with folks who don't watch debates, and badly with those that do. Maybe Halliburton or Blackwater will float him some cash.

Nicki   April 21st, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I don't think McCain is at a serious disadvantage due to money. His poll ratings are holding up and it may actually help with the "frugal govt. spending" theme he as in his campaign. Furthermore, I'm apalled at the amount of money the Democrats have spent so far, and Obama's war chest is ridiculously high. Is there really a recession in this country?

Rosalynd Florida   April 21st, 2008 2:45 pm ET

McCain can't catch on to the wave of money the Democrats have raised and even Clinton is finding it tough to keep up with Barack's people money. This is the American People's lobby at work this time . We want a President for the people in 2009

tom meyers   April 21st, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I dont think he can. But if he goes to the oil companys they will give him some afterall he wants to keep the war going for one hundred more years. tom rockford illinois

Ryan, Champaign IL   April 21st, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Jack, the Pander-Talk Express should have no trouble raising money from the same folks that have prospered under the Bush Administration. A third term of windfall profits while the rest of us bleed at the pump and grocery store should be an easy sell for these guys. If that fails, he can ignore the FEC rules like he has during the primary.

Jenny   April 21st, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Get cindy to float him a loan.

Terry from North Carolina   April 21st, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Jack
John McCain is in serious trouble if the republicans believed in him he wouldnt have a problem raising money. What does it show us that Barack Obama has raised more cash than both Clinton and McCain ? This tells me that Barack Obama will be sworn into the presidency on the white house steps on Jan. 20th 2009.

Mark - Asheville, NC   April 21st, 2008 2:48 pm ET

With the advent of internet attacks, money will not be as important as it was when only TV provided venues for attack ads. McCain will be able to campaign presidentially while his surrogates and right wing groups swiftboat Obama; they have plenty of money, and will know exactly how and when to use it.

David,San Bernardino,CA.   April 21st, 2008 2:48 pm ET

The republican fund-raisers have been laying low waiting for Hillary and obama to fight it out and spend all their money to get the democratic nomination. Once the real campaign begins you will see an avalanche of money coming to McCain while the democrats will be all tapped out. This is a brilliant strategy as McCain will be just like bush and buy the election. As always,money will win out.

Phil in VA   April 21st, 2008 2:48 pm ET

He can't because his finance reform ccap donation at $2,300. If not his rich buddies could have donated more. The American people are on a mission to get rid of fear mongering war waving republicans. So we will contribute as much as we can to get a democrat in the White house.

Michael Lorton, Virginia   April 21st, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Jack: McCain is going to have to "shake a lot of hands" to financially catch up.

Gregory   April 21st, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Gonzales LA

Do the same thing Barack Obama is doing GO TO THE PEOPLE and make an appeal.

Ray Kinserlow   April 21st, 2008 2:51 pm ET

I suggest he start shaking down those megabanks he's going to bail out if he wins.

dennis north carolina   April 21st, 2008 2:52 pm ET

McCain's party is made up of mainly the rich, business leaders and ceos of large companies. McCain will not have a hard time to obtain money but they will not show it until the end thus making him to look like the under dog, Nixon, regan and the bushes always came up wit the money.

Lori in Michigan   April 21st, 2008 2:52 pm ET

He can go beg to his lobbyist friends. Then he will owe them favors and nothing will change in Washington.

Stacy from Farifax, Virginia   April 21st, 2008 3:12 pm ET

He can conveniently "forget" about the McCain-Feingold campaign financing bill that he co-wrote and passed in 2002 until the election is over.
That might help.

Rob, Arvada, CO   April 21st, 2008 3:14 pm ET

I think John McCain realizes now that Hillary joining him in presidential matrimony would be the winning ticket. Is it any wonder why he hasn't announced his v.p. running mate yet? Millions of Hillary supporters would quickly change sides once Hillary announces she will run with McCain as vice. Has anyone noticed that McCain doesn't attack Hillary and vice-versa? I think the democrats are being set up, and some of us are starting to realize this.

DAD in Hollis, NH   April 21st, 2008 3:14 pm ET

He needs to accept public funding, which he helped put in place, and live within its guidelines. He should then focus on his opponents to do the same. This would put the candidates on fair and equal footing and allow the issues to be the determining factor. Otherwise someone is going to be accused of buying the White House. Besides it puts my three dollars to good use…

Dave from Veazie, ME   April 21st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Jack, I would make some suggestions but I'm afraid that someone who works for McCain might be watching. I wouldn't want to give them any ideas that may help them win a re-election for the failed policies of the Bush administration.

Allen L Wenger   April 21st, 2008 3:16 pm ET

All he has to do is secretly promise the military industrial complex that he will attack Iran at the first opportunity. That should bet the money flowing.

Jeff in Seattle   April 21st, 2008 3:17 pm ET

he can catch up on fundraising by cheating around his own McCain-Feingold legsislation... there are reports that process has already begun.

Anna, SW Missouri   April 21st, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I'm sure Bill Clinton and all of his overseas donors will be more than glad to help McCain with money as soon as Hillary is booted out of the Democratic Party. Her only chance of running in 2012 is for McCain to win in November.

Brian, Cincinnati   April 21st, 2008 3:21 pm ET

Short of robbing Fort Knox, nothing. I would have said the Treasury, but we all know there is nothing there but a giant stack of IOU's.

Brian, Cincinnati

George Wilson   April 21st, 2008 3:22 pm ET

It's not about the money Jack. No matter how much money John McCain has he will never be the President of the U.S. this election. People have made up their minds that things are going to change, and they are going to be the ones who make that change happen.

Vinnie Vino   April 21st, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Jack,
He can call his friends from the Keatting five Scandal...

C.I., New York

Dan, Chantilly Va   April 21st, 2008 3:24 pm ET

He has two very good options. The first is to get in bed with Big Oil like most of his fellow Republicans. The second is to declare himself as an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ and then start listing off groups of people who are going to hell for their sinful ways. Ultra-right wing conservative churches are really good at raising money.

Scott L. - Wichita, Kansas   April 21st, 2008 3:25 pm ET

You know, Jack, there was a reason why the president endorsed him.. Bush is really good at fundraising, and a little help from George won't hurt until it's spun out of control by radical anti-Bush-ites

Oh, wait... That happened a few weeks ago...

Mike S from Illinois   April 21st, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Once the Dems loose the clinton supporters, Johnny Mac will begin getting money....

Marcus mt.olive   April 21st, 2008 3:27 pm ET

the question should be "where do the democrats get all this money"

Jon from Austin, TX   April 21st, 2008 3:27 pm ET

McCain could start by making a clear, sound stance on how he would handle the problems our economy faces. If the conservative large businesses and special interests feel that they are comfortable with his economic ideas, they will be more willing to help fund him. Since he keeps flip-flopping on some of his ideas, I think it is hindering his funding.

Mike Steuer Bedford N.Y.   April 21st, 2008 3:28 pm ET

It's time pundits realized that money's effect on political campaigns has lessened dramatically. The nearly cost-free exposure that the internet provides makes fundraising so much less of a factor. Twenty years ago, Romney would have wiped McCain out in the primary and a penniless guy like Huckabee could never have competed.

Michael Houston, TX   April 21st, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Easy Jack, once the nomination process is over, call Hillary and get her donors information. At this rate, she just might even be on the ticket with him.

Terry, Chandler AZ   April 21st, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Catch up Jack? Are you kidding? I have a better chance of catching up to Bill Gates than McCain does to catching uo to the Dems.

Bill, Quarryville, PA   April 21st, 2008 3:35 pm ET

I'm sure his rich republican friends will find a way.

Karl in San Francisco, CA   April 21st, 2008 3:37 pm ET

The neo-con-military complex should be able to give him everything he needs. It's their only hope to continue their outrageous profits. When the oil and Halliburton barons leave the White House, if McCain isn't the replacement, they are all in deep trouble.

Mike, Ohio   April 21st, 2008 3:38 pm ET

Hopeful he won’t. The people see he’s flip flopping on the issues, for instance, the economy. He told the American people they we’re on their own in the housing market and I guess his staff or someone reminded him that, that view wouldn’t fly.....Three days later he changed his tune. He’s flip flopped more times already than the Republicans accused John Kerry of flip flopping in the ‘04 race. His donors see it and so will everybody else in the end. He just says what he thinks the voters want to hear like most politicians, He’s typical. He walking a fine line trying to appeal to Independant voters in the middle while courting the Republican right at the same time.

Taj   April 21st, 2008 3:42 pm ET

His wife is rich. Rob her account , a couple of banks, deal with lobbyists, use his SS money. How else he will make up?

California Voter   April 21st, 2008 3:47 pm ET

So Jack, are you implying that money buys one the presidency? What happened to Romney?

Colleen Brooks, Charlotte, NC   April 21st, 2008 3:49 pm ET

He can't win–He should drop out! :-)

Anthony Smith   April 21st, 2008 3:49 pm ET

He can follow his Republican buddies like Bush and Cheney by snuggling with BIG OIL and cuddling with Halliburton and no bid contracts...there are alot of greenbacks buried at that Texas ranch. Yeeehahh!

Wildwood Crest, NJ

sarah, indiana   April 21st, 2008 3:51 pm ET

he doesn't need to catch up, if obama is the nominee all sen mccain has to do is sit and wait. obama is unelectable. by the time the republican machine gets done with him he wont even be able to buy a county councilmans seat. mccain doesnt have to buy this election, the democrats,( if they field obama as the candidate in nov.) will be handing it over to him.

Bruce St Paul MN   April 21st, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Money has never been a problem for Republicans, if they are the right kind of Republicans. The oil, reconstruction, and defense industries will protect their interests home and abroad. If they think McCain has to be elected, they will find a way to funnel money into the campaign, whether through contributions or through P.A.C. ads. If they were willing to create a war to get what they want, then getting money into a campaign should not pose a problem.

david   April 21st, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Easy, get a loan from his wife.

Alan B, Minneapolis   April 21st, 2008 3:53 pm ET

All he has to do is wait. Once the Dems have a candidate, the neocons, corrupt CEOs, and right-wing PACs and lobbyists will start pouring in the cash for the dirty tricks campaigns. They know how profitable it is to invest in a weak government with a pliable president. Again.

Anthony-Minneapolis,MN   April 21st, 2008 3:55 pm ET

McCain can't catch him. Its his message and the candidate he is. The only way he could have caught the democrats was if the Republicans came out in full force to fund his campaign. Since Super Tuesday when he clinched the republican nomination, McCain could have had the republican karl rove machine come out and actively support and fund raise for him but that hasn't happened.

If your own party is luke warm to cold about your candidacy as president you are in more trouble than money woes

JS   April 21st, 2008 3:55 pm ET

He cannot, without a loan from his wife, Obama supporters have a push on today to raise a million dollars in a minute, and they probably will do it.JS North Carolina

Susan from Twentynine Palms, CA   April 21st, 2008 3:59 pm ET

The RNC and the Bush machine will come to McCain's rescue with the big money. As long as he commits to treating them as well as Bush did.

In a perfect world, both candidates would accept public financing and we would not have to suffer the endless barrage of commercial politicking that will be going on this fall.

On the other hand, there is a lot to be said for a system that allows all citizens to vote with their wallet by making financial contributions to their candidate of choice. It is far more representative than big donor financed campaigns.

Tom in Texas   April 21st, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Thank God, McCain can't catch up with Barack Obama. There are one million plus people that Obama can call on at any time to contribute to his campaign. I have been contributing $50, $100 or $200 for the last several months. In fact, I have to quit watching Hillary Clinton speak because every time I hear her say something negative or stupid, I find myself logging on to the Obama website to give him another contribution.

Aaron B.; Champaign, IL   April 21st, 2008 4:01 pm ET

We've said it before and we'll say it again: when McCain gets to the convention, the republican wallets will all magically open up... it happens every time.

A Kraft   April 21st, 2008 4:02 pm ET

he cant....no one wants to donate to a losing party who is so out of sync and so corrupted by the bushies and neocons

Pete, Fla.   April 21st, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Money really doesn't matter as much you think. Barack Obama talks a lot about avoiding "Big Washington Politics", but when I see that he is spending triple or even quadruple the amount as his competitors, it makes me feel less connected to him, and all that money reminds me of big Washington business. If a candidate's ideas and plans are good, then they shouldn't need to spend such huge amounts of money attacking their opponent. The only thing that a candidate should need is a couple rallies and a strong debate, not money, to get both their message out and, more importantly, my vote.

Ana (MI)   April 21st, 2008 4:02 pm ET

Switch parties and join Obama.

Barbara Snowberger   April 21st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

How can McCain catch up his funding to the Democrats?

Maybe he should just sleep with his wife and say, "Yes, Dear..."

John - Boston   April 21st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

If he was like John Kerry he would just take a rain check from his spouse.

Mike from Syracuse NY   April 21st, 2008 4:03 pm ET

Jack,
it looks like between them Clinton and Obama have raised $51M in March alone to bash each other. If this drags on until the convention why does McCain need to raise any more? The Dems will have pounded each other to pieces, and have exhausted their donors at the same time. McCain can clean up the pieces.

Dave McDougal   April 21st, 2008 4:04 pm ET

that's east to answer Jack.....those so called democrats for Obama will be so upset when Hillary wins that they will be supporting McCain this fall.

Joshua P. at North Carolina State University   April 21st, 2008 4:05 pm ET

He will have to wait until one of the two democrats have dropped out and folks realize he is running.

Jack, Huntington Beach   April 21st, 2008 4:06 pm ET

Jack, Hillary Clinton can let John McCain have the rest of her campaign
money. After tomorrow's race, she won't need it.

corin   April 21st, 2008 4:08 pm ET

Jack, that is the simpliest question you have ever asked! McCain can always ask Hillary for the money he loaned her back! Then McCain can ask his heiress wife to stop donating to the Obama campaign!

Corin
Washington, DC

Karen - Branson MO   April 21st, 2008 4:08 pm ET

He needs to be more creative.

Dennis Zackerman   April 21st, 2008 4:09 pm ET

There is no way in hell that McCain can come close to Obama unless he spends his wife's money. And I guess its her money because the McCain's are apparently filing separate income tax returns so that he doesn't have to release her income information.
Zack in Brevard, NC

MIKE A, CHARLOTTE,NC   April 21st, 2008 4:09 pm ET

john boy better start calling people that are ripping off america for contributions, (haliburton, blackwater,oil companies,etc.) otherwise they'll get the boot in november too. then who will they ripoff? it rolls downhill.

Jenny from Nanuet, New York   April 21st, 2008 4:09 pm ET

He can't..

Donna from Florida   April 21st, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Honestly, I'm impressed with the lack of funds he has raised. With few funds, he got the Republican nomination. Comparatively, with fewer funds, he may become the next President of the United States. Seriously, in an economy such as ours, the less a candiate spends, the more attractive he/she becomes.

Nelson, Knoxville TN   April 21st, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Jack, two options 1. Cindy McCain is worth more than $100m. She can loan her husband just as the Clintons loaned their campain.
2. Tell President Bush to give him part of the billions of dollars that we are told are being used to fund Iraq but are not really reaching the men and women over there. I hope these can help him.

Sharon Minnesota   April 21st, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Money can't buy my love................ He won't need a lot of dough if Barack Obama is nominated because all of Clinton supporters will jump ship and that won't cost a plug nickel.

Jerry   April 21st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Get his rich Republican buddies to kick in some coins. Do as all the other Republicans do, take bribes and promise them big tax cuts.

Herman LA, CA   April 21st, 2008 4:13 pm ET

As heiress to her father's stake in Hensley & Co. of Phoenix, Cindy McCain is an executive whose worth may exceed $100 million. Her beer earnings have afforded the GOP presidential nominee a wealthy lifestyle with a private jet and vacation homes at his disposal, and her connections helped him launch his political career - even if the millions remain in her name alone. Yet the arm's-length distance between McCain and his wife's assets also has helped shield him from conflict-of-interest problems.

Ask his wife for a loan

Obama 08!!!

Ann California   April 21st, 2008 4:14 pm ET

By himself he can't. But wait, what do I see in the distance? It's a plane, it's a bird , it's super-wife!!!!!!

Bill Oh Really   April 21st, 2008 4:15 pm ET

Jack, McCain won't need much money if he runs against Obama. Obama's past will do the trick. This is no spin.

Arnold,WV   April 21st, 2008 4:16 pm ET

It will be tough for McCain to keep pace with Obama for the General campaign,Maybe some of those billionaires that are backing Hillary and were so dead set on defeating Obama will contribute to the McCain campaign instead.McCain has not had to raise that much money yet but it will come later.

Don Bezler   April 21st, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Jack, If Mc Bush is going to give Bush another turm McBush should
get more money from Bush.

karen Charlottesville, VA   April 21st, 2008 4:17 pm ET

That's easy, Jack. Just let Hillary be the democratic nominee. I'm a life long Democrat but I'll send a check for $2,300 to McCain the second HiLIARy gets the nomination. She is the worst candidate ever fielded.

big_puppy roselle,nj   April 21st, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Jack- McCain need not catch up he should just throw in his hand and forget to run saving himself and campaign some money.

Mark, Berwyn, PA   April 21st, 2008 4:18 pm ET

Simple. He can name Hillary as his VP nominee and get all that cash she has raised for the general election that she will not be running in....

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   April 21st, 2008 4:19 pm ET

John McCain doesn't need money. He has Hillary Clinton campaigning for him.

Mike from Cincinnati   April 21st, 2008 4:23 pm ET

He'll have trouble catching up, Jack, although the deep conservative republican pockets will try to come through for him, I'm sure.

The real distinction to me, though, is what the money means. In the primary, Clinton has been trying to portray Obama's high level of spending as being negative. However, given that Obama's money has come largely from small donors, 1.3 million of them, I look at his spending in Pennsylvania as being simply the voices of millions of average Americans hungering for change. McCain will not be able to point to his sources of funding and say that.

Esther Cuyahoga Falls Ohio   April 21st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

ask his wife for a loan

Jeff from Alabama   April 21st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

The fact that he is in the position of having to catch up in fund raising shows how the Republican party is hurting after these years of Bush in office. Folks do not want to donate to a party whom they feel is out of touch with the real world. Democrats 08!!!

Ed   April 21st, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Jack I think John McCain will start getting more money as the convention approaches.The republicans will rally around him.Obama(if he is the democratic nominee ) seems to get money out of thin air but McCain will do just fine in my estimation.

Jeanne- Greenville,SC   April 21st, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Borrow from his wife.

Veronica in Richmaond, VA.   April 21st, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Jack, he could ask his wealthy wife, Ha,ha,ha, she could "loan" him some money

Sonja   April 21st, 2008 4:43 pm ET

McCain should have no trouble raising money from all the rich Republicans who want him to continue the Bush tax policies.

Chuck in Alabama   April 21st, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Jack, He's saved millions on research thanks to the two Dems giving him all the tabloid trash he needs and if the media stays the course with Hillary, he won't have to worry about the bean count.

Tracie from Memphis, TN   April 21st, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Simply said: He can't.

Tracie
Memphis, TN

Rob Winnipeg Canada   April 21st, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Jack,
popular support – think that's going to happen? I mean he is inspirational, energetic and charismatic.

Rob Winnipeg Canada   April 21st, 2008 4:50 pm ET

hillary could give him a hand.

Elena Maffei   April 21st, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Easy, if Obama wins all of a sudden McCain will get a windfall.

Linda, Oregon   April 21st, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Dear Jack,

John McCain, when it comes to raising money, cannot catch up with Senator Obama. If Clinton were the opponent...no problem...for McCain...he'll have it made. Simple as that.

Jean   April 21st, 2008 4:53 pm ET

I doubt he can raise a lot of money from the "American voters", most I have talked to DO NOT want him as the next President.

Anthony Garritano   April 21st, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Jack:
He won't need it. The Democrats throwing their support behind a know-nothing candidate like Obama is like giving the election to McCain. Now if Hillary gets the nomination, he's in for trouble.

Angela   April 21st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Well – the right wing 501's will run ads for him. Trust me, the Republicans will come through, either directly or indirectly.

Chris from New York   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Have Bush change parties to a Democrat. The money will start gushing in!

John from Chicago   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

McCain scares me. He is a hothead that wants more war.

McCain will catch up in money because he appeals to the rich corporate sellouts, Big Oil, and corrupt CEO's ... they will donate to him to be able to keep robbing the Amerian people.

Krista, San Diego, CA   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

He can't. His supporters are the minority.

Krista

San Diego

Gigi in Alabama   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

He can always lean hard on all those well-heeled Republicans that are getting all those tax breaks. I'm sure Exxon, Halliburton and the like will be glad to bankroll him.

Ronald Holst   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

No not mow I have it from a reliablr sorce that he was plaing on browwing some from Hillery but just like his plan to help out the economy oooops

Ruby Coria, LA. CA.   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Jack, I do think that once thing get stared the republicans are going to pour, like the saying "when it rains it pours." Have you heard Karl Rove speak?, they can't wait.

Bill in PA   April 21st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Jack,
Senator McCain has access to more money than he could possibly spend! You think the PACs will have any trouble raising whopping amounts of cash? Come August and September the PAC cash will roll in in amounts that will stager the imagination. The Republicans are the party of the very very wealthy and they enjoy their control of both branches of the federal government. You think for a moment they would risk loosing it and the third too? No, Jack when it comes to money Senator McCain has only to keep on message: make the tax cuts for the very wealthy permanent and keep Iraqi oil safe for the multinational oil corporations.

John, Blaine, Tn.   April 21st, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Jack, John McCain won't come close to the Democrats in his attempt to raise money. This country is in a absolute nose dive. Case in point.
The war, port and border security, education, declining wages, jobs, deteriorating infastructure, special interest and corporate control, poor leadership, government agencies you can't trust, a government that has it's nose in everyone's business, drugs pooring into this country via the broken bordres. Who in their right mind would give money to someone that can't even talk about these serious issues !

R. Lopez in South TX   April 21st, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Why should he catch up with the Democrats monetarily? The Republicans didn't have anyone else to put up against Obama so they picked a sacrificial lamb

Darren J.   April 21st, 2008 4:58 pm ET

As long as McCain follows the current Conservative script, and continues to keep the Oil companies happy. I'm sure the record profits enjoyed by Bushs' buddies will be funneled to the campaign to keep bleeding the American Middle Class Dry.

Allen   April 21st, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Why would McCain need any more money? All the GOP needs to do is tell all their sheep to vote for McCain, and what could that cost?
Allen
Hartwell, GA

Mac, Tampa FL   April 21st, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Oh this one is so easy!

All he has to do is wait for the DNC to implode and nominate Barack Obama. There are lots of us dissatisfied Democrats who will be more than happy to contribute to his campaign!

ralph butler   April 21st, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Well Jack,

That's an easy one. All he has to do is hit his wife up for a few million whenever he runs short, since it appears that she is the bread winner in that family.

Rudy Pittsburgh, PA   April 21st, 2008 5:01 pm ET

He should pick McMoneybags Romney as his VP or a conservative woman. If Hillary does not win and McCain has a woman for VP than I would be happy to vote for that ticket.

Rudy
Pittsburgh, PA

Eric B. of Indianola, Iowa   April 21st, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Jack I got two words for this: He Can't!

Plain and simple.

Mary Herbers   April 21st, 2008 5:02 pm ET

I say tell him to borrow 20 or 30 Million dollars from his extremely wealthy heiress wife ( ditto for Hillary Clinton). The economy is going down the tubes and our politions are spending hundreds of millions of dollars for a job that pays less than one million???? It's no wonder the rest of the world thinks Americans are stupid- WE ARE!!!!

Mary Herbers, Dyersville, Iowa

Ravi from Maryland   April 21st, 2008 5:03 pm ET

He could campaign for Hillary Clinton. If she wins, contributions will dry up to include only those lobbyists tied with her and that persistent Wellesley alum. I know I won't be donating a cent to a Hillary Clinton Presidential campaign. Hell, I'd even donate my vote to the GOP.

Ramon Morales   April 21st, 2008 5:06 pm ET

Jack,
The issue of raising money is subordinate to how it was raised. Don't we want a candidate who proved he raised the most money by aggregating the contributions of "little people" Wouldn't this give the new President enormous freedom from the typical big money types collecting favors.

With 1.3 million donors and counting Barack Obama would be the favorite candidate of the people.

Joe   April 21st, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Hey post this Jack, cause he wont. To tell you the truth he has no chance. Hi Wolf, I love you man. Jack keep it real man, your the best!

Luke Scott - Ohio   April 21st, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Jack, he can't. People are tired of the same republican games, either way it goes, a democrat will be in office, I hope its Hillary Clinton!

Claire   April 21st, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Turn into a liberal black woman.

Steve Cramsie   April 21st, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Easy. Become Obama's running mate.

ron nicolaysen   April 21st, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Still hoping Bloomberg will enter, and then they can ALL play money catch-up.

merle Fristad   April 21st, 2008 5:13 pm ET

He doesn't need to raise it at all. He can just have his pal Karl Rove steal the election for him.

Linda Richards   April 21st, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Jack,
Even Cindy doesn't have that kind of money. As I see it, he can convince Warren Buffett to adopt him or fire up the printing presses. Linda, NJ

Charles   April 21st, 2008 5:14 pm ET

One word "BINGO"
Charles T. Coates Upper Marlboro MD.

joe   April 21st, 2008 5:14 pm ET

He could try playing some bingo...

Joe ,NJ

James W. Blevins   April 21st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Frequently, past behavior does not predict future performance. Republicans have almost all of the money in this country. When the time comes, McCain will have far more money than the democratic candidate.

Jim, Craig, CO

Jessica, Fairfield, CA.   April 21st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Through an act of God.

Jesse   April 21st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

The question isn't whether he can keep up in the fall, the question should be whether he'll be able to pay back all the fines he should be incurring for breaking campaign finance laws in the primary. McCain has opted into public financing, but has continued to spend beyond the limits it imposes. But to answer your question, maybe he'll be able to use another loophole in the law he wrote to keep up in finances.

Euphemia, Ireland   April 21st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

..................his wife silly!!!!!

Erik from Missouri   April 21st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Since a McCain Administration will essentially be a continuation of Bush's policies, he has an excellent fund raising base with the richest 1% of Americans that have benefited the most from the current administration. Bush has created an environment where most of us have little to give. However, my monthly contribution of $10 to Obama will continue when he is the democratic candidate. With limits on contributions, McCain will be hard pressed to match 1.5 million people like myself.

Lenore Z.   April 21st, 2008 5:16 pm ET

What it would take for McCain to raise money like the Democrats?
Change his hard-line war position, promise to get us out of Iraq soon, promote his climate-change initiatives loudly, and perhaps offer a better healh-care plan.

Brian H   April 21st, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Oil, Oil, Oil. He will find a way.

Kevin from Falls Church, VA   April 21st, 2008 5:16 pm ET

He can't. If running against Obama in the fall, though, McCain can hope to tear him apart for not taking the public funding that Obama vowed to do early last year.

Amy in Woodstock, NY   April 21st, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Maybe him and Hillary can do a reality TV show together. They can call it "The Past that lost to the Future."

Levi   April 21st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I just wish people would get off the bandwagon of change. McCain is the one changing this election. He's neck and neck with both Democrats in the polls, yet he doesn't have nearly as much money. For once a presidential election may actually be based on who the best person for the job is. Not who has the most money. Obama for change? I think it's Obama for doing the same old thing of wasting millions of dollars telling lies. McCain is going to be fine with or without the money, he's simply the best man for the job.

Chris Garay   April 21st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

Wow. People who comment here are incredibly dim-witted. And to think that some of these simpletons may actually be registered voters, it makes one blanch.

Cynthia   April 21st, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Not by coming to Selma, Alabama and giving a speech at the Emond Pettus Bridge where MLK and other civil rights leaders marched. Especially considering the fact that he voted against the MLK holiday in Arizona. Who understands his logic?

Mike   April 21st, 2008 5:52 pm ET

He doesn't need to match Obama or Hillary in funds. He's already tied them in most polls and 1/3rd of voters for Hillary Clinton and Barack Hussein Obama said if either of their candiate doesn't win the Democratic nomination that they will vote for McCain, not the other candidate. So that leaves McCain with a 15-25% lead on both of them in real numbers. These are numbers that matter, not donations, fortunately.

Don-Canada   April 21st, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Hey Jack!

Just a note on this hiring of "Talking Head" Tony Snow. It looks like CNN is giving the General Election to the Democrats & is trying to shore-up its Conservative viewer for the next administration "voice of dissent" Rating Grab.

Good Luck on looking for your new job. Maybe MSNBC will stay unbiased. Better get your resume in.

Jerry   April 21st, 2008 5:53 pm ET

This is one reason McCain needs to pick Mitt Romney for VP, he is good at economics and most of all "fundraising". McCain cant go wrong with Mitt if he wants to win the election.

mike - WA   April 21st, 2008 5:53 pm ET

Guarantedd that if the Clintons are nominated he will see big buck$ coming his way.

John M   April 21st, 2008 5:53 pm ET

The money will be flowing in when it is needed. The Republicans do not need to donate any at present.

Rumor has it after at least 3 reported and televised instances of flipping, Obama will be wearing his middle finger as an insignia instead of a US flag pin.

If this is so, the Republicans will just have to show this on TV a couple of times and Obama is done for.

So why does McCain need contribution. He has enough already.

Felix   April 21st, 2008 5:56 pm ET

The only way that John McCain can catch up to the democrats is if he gets a dollar from his donors for each time he says "My friends".

greg, utica new york   April 21st, 2008 5:56 pm ET

McCain will catch up (and then some) if Hllary gets the nod/Barak doesn't. The registered "independents" that have thus far been in Barak's camp (i.e. me and many others I know) will do whatever it takes to defeat Hillary.

I'd rather have someone in the White House that I don't agree with than someone I personally can't stand or trust.

Delaware   April 21st, 2008 5:58 pm ET

Pennsylvanian get out on 4/22/2008 and vote in all the contest local election and presidentiatial primary. If you do not vote you do not exercise your right and you cannot compain about the government you'll get in November. You vote can make big difference. get out and vote Democratic.

LB, Dallas, TX   April 21st, 2008 5:58 pm ET

It really doesn't matter. If McCain wins then the Dems will all say he stole the election.

John from NJ   April 21st, 2008 5:58 pm ET

He does not need to – These two Dem's have done most of his work for him – all he has to do is rerun their commericals attacking each other

NickNas   April 21st, 2008 6:05 pm ET

Jack

Very simple. At the rate he an Hillary have been teaming up on Obama in order to keep THEIR way of Washington going he will do just fine!

Hillary is Broke and her supporters don't send cash. They just seem to make noise. You can BET that Obama supporters will not send her their " going out to dinner" Money like we have for Obama. I for one won't send her one red cent and it is quite possible I speak for the majority of his 1.3 MILLION $upporters.

Roger in Exile   April 21st, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Too many Republicans think that Hillary lovers will jilt the Dems en mass when our lovely lady crashes and burns. Wrong. I'm the strongest Hillary supporter around and trust me – Obama is light years ahead of McCain in my view.

Rob - Houston, Texas   April 21st, 2008 6:10 pm ET

He won't need it!

He is that good!
Good luck Dem's. Your gonna need it.

Randy   April 21st, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Everyone seems to be forgetting that Obama has said that he would except Public Funding if the Republican candidate would. Once Obama is named the Democratic nominee, then McCain will opt for Public Funding and push for Obama to do the same. If Obama excepts, they both have the same amount to spend. If he doesn't, then McCain gets to bring up that Obama didn't keep his word. That plays into McCain's hands either way. If Hillary becomes the nominee, it doesn't matter. Hillary will only become the nominee if the Super Delegates hand it to her, and enough voters will be put off by that that they will either vote for McCain or simply not vote.

Stormr   April 21st, 2008 6:11 pm ET

Money isn't everything. Compare the amount of money the democrats and PACs spent 4 years ago – vs what the Republicans spent. I don't know the numbers, but I bet they spent a whole lot more – esp when you look at all the PACs, and TV networks and media that was pushing for them. When the right side realizees what they will end up with if they dont vote – they WILL vote.

Rocky   April 21st, 2008 6:11 pm ET

McCain will be able to do one thing that Obama won't, he will be able to stay true to his word from one year ago and have a campaign which is publicly financed. I am an Obama supporter but if he doesn't stay true to this, if he opts to go back on his word then I will likely lose much of my support for him. The thing that makes him different is that he does seem like he wants to do things differently, but if doing the most politically advantageous thing is his choice instead of conducting the first fair campaign we will have seen in a long time, that diffuses the honesty of many of his claims. He will lose much esteem in my eyes.

Jo   April 21st, 2008 6:14 pm ET

If Obama wins the democratic nomination, many democrats will vote for McCain. He won't need more money! Just more dmocrats!

John from Louisville   April 21st, 2008 6:17 pm ET

He can borrow the money from his wife. She is loaded or his good friend George Bush.

Nick, Iowa City   April 21st, 2008 6:17 pm ET

Well said, Felix.

tylar   April 21st, 2008 6:18 pm ET

Who does not know the answer to that question. Hillary was once ahead by over 20pts. People are saying that because the underdog can't knock out the once for sure nominee. The very fact that a virtual unknown has come from so far behind to front runner status should be embarrassing for Sen. Clinton. She should win Pennsylvania but not by a landslide.

Quentin   April 21st, 2008 6:25 pm ET

Jack, McCain is going to be unable to come close to Obama's fundraising..... The typical Republican has went into hiding after electing their last mistake – and since they are hiding, so is their money. The errors of the Bush administration are coming to haunt John McCain due to the possibility of a continuation of Bush's policies...... Look out republican's – the tables have turned......

Phil   April 21st, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Money isn't always bad. Money can also speak to who the wider, majority of people are supporting. Thus giving them more of an advantage to advertise their views and eliminate their opponent. On the other hand, if your just being supported by a small few who have tons of money, then you can just be representing those people view point. The hand writing is on the wall for McCain, his inability to raise money shows that more people are supporting the democrats.

Brian   April 21st, 2008 6:31 pm ET

Amazing Jack,

99% of the responses are again anti-Mccain, anti-Repbulican. Funny how viewers consistently echo your liberal bias. If you were anywhere near independent the breakdown of responses would reflect the national polling, yet they don't even come close. They know Daddy hates Republicans, and they all want daddy's love. At least FOX news doesn't hide their bias.

DC Insider   April 21st, 2008 6:41 pm ET

After a long bruising democratic primary season, the last thing voters want to see are more ads from Clinton or Obama -- this will not hurt McCain at all

Andrew   April 21st, 2008 6:41 pm ET

Jack, the real question is: how much of the $41 million that Obama collected in March is for the primaries and how much is for the general election? If all the money that the media reports Obama has collected was for the general, then, yeah, McCain would be in serious trouble. That's not the case, however, and only some of this money is for the general. So, the funding gap is not as large as your headline or article make it sound.

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