WASHINGTON - Republican John McCain, climbing in polls but lagging in money, is negotiating a $3 million loan, and some of his backers are launching an independent advertising effort seemingly at odds with his years of fighting outside influence in campaigns.
The ads, financed by contributions from undisclosed donors, drew a prompt rebuke from McCain. "I condemn them," he said. "They are a violation of everything I believe in."
Campaign aides said they hoped to finalize arrangements within days for a line of credit of about $3 million to help pay for expenses, including ads, mailings, and other means of voter contact. The campaign is also considering whether to take public matching funds, but some aides are concerned that the attached spending limits could hinder McCain if he secures the nomination.
The Foundation for a Secure and Prosperous America, a new group financed mainly by McCain backers, aired an ad in South Carolina yesterday that praised the Arizona senator. McCain was the author of a strict 2002 campaign finance law. His aides said they had no knowledge of or involvement in any outside advertising efforts.
An audio recording obtained by CNN gives an inside glimpse at his sales pitch.
Romney spoke Tuesday at an invitation-only meeting with students, faculty, and alumni of Bob Jones University in Greenville, S.C., a Christian college whose chancellor and arts and sciences dean have endorsed him, to the chagrin of some on campus.
Romney talked mostly about his shared values with evangelicals, according to a report posted yesterday on CNN's website. He was asked about his relationship with Chancellor Bob Jones III, who once called Mormonism and Catholicism "cults which call themselves Christian."
"We've had good, long discussions...We don’t talk about doctrines of churches, all right? Because he says, 'Look, your church is wrong,' and I say, ‘Fine,' " Romney said.
Romney said he has assured Jones that they agree on priorities and that he can win next November, according to CNN.
FOON RHEE
Clinton said she would bring him as her guest to the Iowa Democrats' Jefferson-Jackson Dinner tonight in Des Moines.
Strickland, a former six-term congressman from southern Ohio and ordained Methodist minister, was elected governor in 2006.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
The kit includes DNC bumper stickers, buttons, news releases, and a pair of flip-flops.
The DNC is playing off Romney's Mitt Market, which invites supporters to sell used bicycles, old TVs, and other items through auctionPAL Inc..
As of yesterday afternoon, the highest bid on the kit was $315.
FOON RHEE
